Why Black-Eyed Peas?

Most of us, especially my fellow Southern brethren, will dutifully fix our batch of black-eyed peas for New Year's Day. We've been taught they bring us good luck. But do we know why?

Southern Living says that the tradition dates back to the Civil War. After Union troops retreated from the South after much destruction, only black-eyed peas and greens were left...to serve as animal fodder. Rich in nutrients, these humble foods allowed Southerners to survive.

This idea of family and friends coming together gratefully to look forward hopefully to a New Year continues as we count down to 2012.