Hoppin’ John {and a new year}

 

Happy New Year!!

In the South it’s tradition to eat black eyed peas on New Year’s Day for good luck in the coming year.
You could also eat collards, chitterlings, throw salt over your shoulders or make sure a man is the first person to cross your threshold, AND that there are no dirty clothes in the house.

I know, that’s a lot and more than a little too much. Man can really get carried away with tradition and superstition and the notion of luck.

But back to the black eyed peas. They were all over the grocery stores, on display in prominent position.

This reminded, and inspired to whip something up. I call it hoppin john, although it does stray from the traditional version. But it makes a hearty dish. Eat it a la carte. Serve it as a side or over some rice for a complete meal.

Meanwhile, I’m thinking about what goals I have for 2014. I’m talking about tangible, achievable, accomplishments with a deadline. Not resolutions, those go the way of to-do lists, written with the best intention but misplaced before completed and then forgotten.

This year, it’s about goal setting and taking steady, consistent action until they are reached.

Since all real goals must be written down (because it’s only a wish until you write it down).

Here is one of mine:

1. Stay Bloggin. I will write on a regular basis. I will manage my time wisely and plan accordingly so that I don’t let life’s distractions deter me.

What are your goals for 2014?