What if the way you spent your New Year’s Day could define the tone of your entire year? In the heart of the Carolinas, we believe just that. Southern New Year’s Day isn’t just a celebration—it’s a tapestry of superstitions, traditions, and stories that bind families together and carry the wisdom of generations forward. Whether you’re savoring black-eyed peas for luck or gathering around the dinner table to share stories of family history, every moment is steeped in meaning.

In my book, Unlocking Carolina’s New Year’s Day Superstitions, Traditions, and Delicious Recipes (available now on Amazon), I dive deep into the unique blend of culture, history, and cuisine that makes the Carolinas shine. But today, I want to take you on a journey—a personal exploration of my family’s rich legacy, the untold stories of resilience, and the flavorful traditions that have shaped my life.

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A Legacy of Survival: The Dawkins Family Story

My family history reads like an epic novel, with twists and turns that take us from Ireland to Mexico and back to the Southern soil of North Carolina. My sixth-generation great-grandfather, James Dawkins, emigrated from Ireland to the United States before the Great Irish Potato Famine of 1845. His journey wasn’t just about survival—it was about taking a stand.

James Dawkins fought in the Battle of Churubusco during the U.S.-Mexican War, as part of the legendary Saint Patrick’s Battalion. This group of mostly Irish immigrants switched sides to fight for Mexico, drawn by parallels between the plight of Catholic Mexicans and their own struggles under British rule. Their defiance is commemorated in Mexico to this day, with statues of their leader, John Riley, and songs that celebrate their bravery. James survived this harrowing chapter and returned to North Carolina, where his story became part of my family’s lore—a tale of resilience and conviction.

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From Laurel Hill to Marlboro County: A Southern Tradition of Connection

Fast forward to the North Carolina of the 19th and 20th centuries, where the Dawkins family flourished. My grandmother, Martha Eva Shoemake, was the matriarch who connected us all. Born in Scotland County in 1921, she embodied the spirit of Southern hospitality, her kitchen a haven of love and warmth.

I still remember the squeaky screen door announcing my arrival on Sunday afternoons after church. The smell of collard greens simmering, cornbread baking, and her soulful humming filled the air. My grandmother didn’t just cook food—she cooked memories. Each bite was a lesson in heritage, in making the most of what you had, and in sharing love through nourishment.

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Why Southern Food Is a Story of Survival

Southern cooking isn’t just about flavor—it’s about ingenuity and resilience. Our ancestors made do with what they had, turning humble ingredients into soul-stirring meals. From scraps to sustenance, every dish tells a story.

Black-eyed peas symbolize prosperity, while collard greens represent wealth. Pork, a traditional New Year’s Day staple, signifies progress, as pigs root forward when they eat. In my book, I share not only these delicious recipes but also the cultural and historical significance behind them. These aren’t just dishes—they’re time capsules of our collective Southern identity.

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Superstitions That Shape the Year

“Whatever you do on New Year’s Day, you’ll do all year long.” This saying has been passed down in my family like gospel truth. New Year’s superstitions in the South aren’t just quaint—they’re a roadmap for a prosperous future. From avoiding laundry (lest you “wash someone out” of your life) to ensuring the first guest of the year is a man (for good luck), these traditions are woven into the fabric of Southern life.

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Why This Book Is a Must-Read

If you’ve ever longed to reconnect with the past or create meaningful traditions for the future, Unlocking Carolina’s New Year’s Day Superstitions, Traditions, and Delicious Recipes is your guide. With every page, you’ll discover the stories, rituals, and recipes that make New Year’s in the Carolinas unforgettable.

This isn’t just a cookbook—it’s a celebration of culture, a love letter to Southern resilience, and an invitation to carry these traditions forward. Whether you’re Southern by birth or simply by heart, this book will inspire you to embrace the joy of New Year’s Day in a whole new way.

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Grab Your Copy Today!

Don’t let another New Year’s Day pass without embracing the magic of the South. Order your copy of Unlocking Carolina’s New Year’s Day Superstitions, Traditions, and Delicious Recipes on Amazon and step into a world of flavor, history, and heart. Make this New Year a celebration to remember—and pass these cherished traditions on to those you love.

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Click here to order your copy now and start your journey into the soul of Southern New Year’s!

Unlocking Carolina’s New Year’s Day: Superstitions, Traditions, and Delicious Recipes