I guess that like Hiroshima, the drastic measure of Sherman did end a terrible war. And, after all, he did leave the black eyed peas to start a delicious tradition. 

However, in my family, we still do not get a warm fuzzy feeling when old Sherman's name is mentioned. 

Still, I do like my black eyed peas, and insist upon ham for Christmas so we have a ham hock to pop into the slow cooker to flavor them. It's an inexpensive and delicious way to start a new year. I didn't know why until now, It was just one of the rules I follow with love of the family heritage, As a steel magnolia would say, "I just follow the rules. I don't make them."  In this case, my grandmother was right.

Happy New Year! Let's make this one count.