The December 2024 Guide

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Kaleb Wyse standing in front of gold background.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays!

As the year comes to a close, it can be easy to think of things that I didn’t do, either during the holiday season or the year in general. Maybe you’re like me and have a mental running list that doesn’t seem to ever end. I can easily fall into the trap of telling myself I could do more.

Every year, I work on that feeling; instead of feeling burdened or overwhelmed, I like to think of the hope that starts in the darkest days. When it feels like the garden is finally going to sleep, some gifts are under the tree, and the shortest day of the year has come and gone, we start to have something new to look forward to. Every day, even if just by a few seconds, will be brighter than the one before.

In the past, I didn’t see the winter solstice as more than just another random day. Now, I think of it as a reminder that the new year is coming, and I’ll have a chance to enjoy all four seasons once again. A new year isn’t necessarily a “do-over” but a way to keep working on my list instead. I’m dreaming of new trees along my path, thinking of what garden seeds I want to plant, and becoming inspired by the recipes I’ll share on the website and in my new cookbook. The new year promises many new things, including those longer, brighter days.

But right now, I’m excited for Christmas. It’s not the same kind of excitement I had when I was 10. Back then, I’d wake up early on the big day, anxiously waiting for what seemed like hours until Dad had finished with farm chores and we could finally open presents. Now, my excitement is knowing my family will be together for the entire week. We’ll be enjoying food, playing games, watching movies, and doing nothing important… which turns out to be the most important thing. I’m excited to watch my nieces and nephew open some gifts and see that same excitement I remember, too.

This is also an opportunity to thank you, friend, for being here, for following my stories, watching my videos, sharing Wyse Guide with others, and using my recipes. You are a part of my story, making my year one that I enjoy, and I’m grateful for you.

Christmas tree decorated with mushrooms in a living room with a sofa to the side.

Let’s talk about food.

Christmas is a time when I flex my meal preparation muscles in ways I’m not always used to doing. I don’t typically make food for large groups of people, so more thoughtful planning occurs. With my sister and her family visiting, I often end up cooking for eight or more people for most meals.

During the week of Christmas, we have an extended family meal, and our size will increase all the way up to 19. I made two weeknight lasagnas ahead of time and have them in the freezer. They’ll thaw in the refrigerator and then be ready to bake.

Christmas Eve is always a special meal with my immediate family. This year, I think I’ll make a ham and pair it with cranberry chutney, a version of potatoes (maybe au gratin or my recipe for holiday smashed potato casserole), and a salad. I love a big salad and haven’t decided which one I’ll make, but my fig salad, wild rice & pear salad, or garlic & white bean one (without the zucchini since it isn’t seasonal) are on my list.

And since it’s a family tradition, I always have a big batch of crème de menthe ice cream in the freezer. It’s simply something we cannot go without enjoying!

I’ve made numerous batches of cookies and candies that can be plated for any time the craving hits, as well as my brown butter herb party mix. That’s the point of making all of this food! I love to have it ready and use it when the whole family is gathered.

If you’re looking for some last-minute Christmas cookies and candies to make, here are some that are part of our family tradition:

Let’s talk about Kip.

Black French bulldog named Kip standing in front of gold background.

Kip is doing very, very well. He’s super happy, healthy, and full of energy, and he’ll, of course, be a part of all the holiday festivities, running after my nephew and getting lots of playtime. There’ll also be a new toy for Kip that he can promptly destroy as he loves to do. Honestly, his health and joyful spirit feel like the greatest gifts I could ask for this holiday season.

Black French bulldog sitting in a dog bed in the sun with a door in the background.

Cookbook: I recently announced that my first cookbook, There’s Always Room at the Table, is available for pre-order. You can order the cookbook at any time.

Magazine: I recently restocked copies of the 2024 and 2023 holiday magazines if you didn’t get a copy. You can order the print version of the magazine at the Wyse Guide shop.

Do you know someone who would be interested in working with the Wyse Guide team? We’re looking at options to bring some additional help into our circle, so if you or someone you know has an interest in food writing, recipe development, or food photography, make sure to check out the survey!

I hope you have a terrific holiday season this year! And as we head into the new year, I hope I’m the first one to wish you good tidings for the year to come!