Yeah, Sorcha is correct. We Southerners know that black-eyed peas AND cornbread are the absolute essentials for a prosperous year. In Mississippi, it is a deep-grained tradition. Over the years, there have been many clubs where I have performed on New Years Eve, and, at midnight, they serve everyone black-eyed peas and cornbread. One who chose not to partake was looked down upon as though he were a heathen dog.

My Dad kept this tradition every New Years Day, and included another. He would always work on New Years. He believed that this would insure plenty of work throughout the whole year.

khandu