I know it’s a busy time of year for everyone, so I’m going to keep this short and sweet. I want to wish all of you happy holidays (!!) and also share a photo I hope makes you smile.
Do you have any holiday traditions in your family?
When I was younger, we would line the stairs with stuffed holiday bears, dogs, snowmen, and more, and Mom would take our annual “Holiday Stair Photo.” I was reminiscing about that the other day and came across this gem of a photo (see ‘Then’ photo below). What’s that you say? Yes, I know – between the missing tooth, stylish holiday sweater, and stuffed animals, it is glaringly apparent I was one of the cool kids.
Naturally, this find inspired me to create a reenactment that represents my life these days. So, please enjoy this “Then and Now” photo. Indeed, we really do have this many beans and other pulses in our home. In fact, we have more. Dreams. Come. True.

I think the Then and Now photo probably speaks for itself (or maybe leaves you speechless, as it were). But, here is another one, just for good measure. Heirloom beans, ingredients for some of my favorite recipes, and bean calendars, oh my!

Happy holidays, everyone. 🙂 May the upcoming year be one of health, happiness, and beany wonderfulness!