Enjoying the Harvest

When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living.

– Tecumseh

As I write this letter, it’s a warm, mid-September day, nearly 90 degrees. It’s hard to think about winter, which seems so far away. Although I’ve never particularly “warmed up” to winter’s chill, I do love the togetherness, the food, and the decorations. Autumn, on the other hand, is perfect to me. The earth trades in hues of greens for a blanket of oranges and yellows and reds, a lingering smell of harvest wafts through the air, and family gatherings overflow with tempting dishes made with food from the garden. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities during the warmer parts of the day and later cozy up by the fire in the cooler evening. This issue of Grit straddles these two seasons and captures the warmth, togetherness, and comfort that we all look forward to in both.

Food is undoubtedly one of the first things that comes to mind when we think about this time of year. The harvest and preservation days are behind us, and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of our labor. Throughout this issue, you’ll find many recipes for a wide variety of occasions – from German chocolate cake to hearty soups and stews to warming applesauce with a touch of bourbon. These recipes are about more than just food; they’re about sharing what we have and connecting with others.

We can also find ourselves preparing for giving and gatherings. As we enjoy the harvest and what we can prepare from it, we can give thanks, both for what we have and for the people we have in our lives; appreciate the journey we’ve been on through the year; and share our bounties, tables, and love. In my culture, true wealth isn’t about having the most stuff, but rather about what you can give to ease others’ burdens. We have a few fun ideas in this issue of Grit to bring some joy to friends and family.

Put together some recipes-in-a-jar, lovingly wrapped with a card attached; share the gift of life with the wildlife in your area; or simply learn more about what it means to be a good neighbor to those around you.