As the year draws to a close, I've been contemplating what message, if any, I should leave behind. After spending the past few days reflecting and jotting down my thoughts, I found myself struggling to articulate exactly what I wanted to convey. If I couldn't make sense of it, I didn't want to burden you with my confusion. However, amidst this uncertainty, one thing remained clear: I have plenty of panettone to share.
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This year has brought many highlights. After nearly two years of effort, my book finally hit the shelves, and a revised edition of my cookbook, which celebrates its tenth anniversary in March, is set for release in the spring. Additionally, I had the joy of reconnecting with family members whom I hadn't seen in ages. And enjoying balmy 90ºF weather in November was definitely a pleasant surprise.
One of the standout articles I stumbled upon this year was "How to Beat Decision Fatigue." It shed light on the staggering number of decisions we make daily, estimated at 35,000, with a significant chunk dedicated to food choices—about 226, though in my case, it could easily quadruple or quintuple. (And don't even get me started on the mental gymnastics involved in purchasing a plane ticket!) It begs the question: Is all this mental exertion worth it?
As I look ahead to the new year, I've made a resolution to simplify my decision-making process. The past year wrapped up with a whirlwind of travel for my book tour, offering me the incredible opportunity to meet many of you in person. And it wasn't just me who was struck by the warmth and enthusiasm of the people hosting these events—it was evident in their welcoming hospitality too.
During a recent podcast interview, it dawned on me that I've been blogging for nearly two decades now. What began as a platform to share stories and recipes, ranging from the whimsical (like haiku about Italian candy) to the more poignant reflections after the loss of a dear friend, has evolved over time. While some things have changed—like finally implementing a printing option for recipes (thank you, Emily!)—I still find myself grappling with the technical aspects, often feeling overwhelmed by the constant updates and new features.
Yet, amidst these challenges, I consider myself incredibly fortunate. When a recipe fails to impress or I encounter a mishap in the kitchen, or even struggle with the technical side of things, I'm reminded of the stark reality faced by so many who lack basic necessities like food and electricity. It puts my trivial concerns—like a lopsided tart crust or a missing apostrophe—into perspective. So, as the year draws to a close, I find myself filled with gratitude for the simple blessings, like having food on my table, and for the unwavering support of everyone in my life, including you, my cherished readers.
French Toast, known as Pain Perdu or "lost bread" in French, doesn't require much decision-making. So when I received a surprise gift of various types of panettone, I decided to keep things simple and whip up some French toast using a portion of my newfound treasure. It's a fittingly uncomplicated way to close out the year.
While flipping through TV channels in a hotel room during my book tour, I stumbled upon a snippet featuring the formidable Judge Judy, Judith Sheindlin. She was adjudicating a dispute between two individuals who had carried their quarrel onto social media. In her characteristic no-nonsense manner, Judge Judy swiftly interrupted their bickering and quipped, "And I thought social media was supposed to bring people together!?" Despite the cacophony and occasional disagreements, I'm grateful that we're still connected, standing strong together even after all these years.
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Panettone French Toast :
- - 2 large eggs
- - 6 tablespoons whole milk
- - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- - 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- - Pinch of salt
- - 4 thick slices of egg-enriched bread (such as brioche or challah)
- - Butter (for frying)