Merry Christmas Eve, Reader.  I've had a week full of ups and downs, mostly ups.  Last night, I hosted my restaurant staff at the house.  We laughed, we ate, and we ended up in a sauna. My team works so hard for me, and it felt good to work hard for them. 

Tonight is Christmas Eve, and I'll be creating the magic of Santa for my kids.  We'll be leaving out the carrots for the reindeer, and my husband will leave ashy boot-prints from the fireplace to the chimney. They believe in it all so much, and I find myself excited to feed their enthusiasm.

Tomorrow for Christmas, I'll be cooking again for my restaurant guests.  I'm serving holiday deviled eggs and chestnut tiramisu, amongst other things. As much as I'm tired, I'm looking forward to spending time feeding our neighborhood.

Cliché as it is, giving to others from a place of gratitude doesn't tap my energy supply at all.  I'm fueled by it. As we get closer to the end of the year, I look forward to using this energy in every way I can.  I've never felt so simultaneously tired and energized in my life.  Giving begets giving.  I wish you this same feeling this week.  Merry Christmas to you and yours. -Em