It’s the end of the first month of the new year and, curiously, I have been thinking about last holiday’s food. There was no big holiday celebration. The expectation of a big holiday gathering amidst a food-laden table didn’t happen. Instead, we stayed home and celebrated as a family. The customary food though was there but pared down just enough for everybody.

I worked on the last day of the year and came home early. I immediately noticed the absence of lingering aroma from food slowly simmering over the stovetop. The aroma was not there simply because the holiday food was catered and still had to be delivered. It certainly was different.

My holiday food were all laid out when we sat for dinner. I felt more nostalgic and happy seeing the main course, side dishes, dessert, and fruits and bubbly drinks. Seeing my whole family gathered around the table made me even more happier.