When it comes to hospitality, for author, yoga teacher, and C+C writer Melanie Dale, it's a family affair. Join Ashlee and Katie as they talk with Melanie about one of her essays in YIGC, "We'll Be Your Family on Christmas Eve," and get the scoop on her annual Christmas Eve party. From what her parents taught her to what she's passed on to her kids, Melanie shares her tips for leaving a legacy of hospitality. Find out which ingredient in her chili recipe is straight out of a horror movie, her worst dinner party ever (oof, the smell!), and how she pivoted from Christian nonfiction to middle grade paranormal fantasy with her new book, GIRL OF LORE!

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Melanie Dale has written a handful of books; listen to this bonus episode to find out our Favorite Books of 2025.

For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.

Show notes:

• Pre-order You're In Good Company

• Pre-order Girl of Lore by Melanie Dale

• Melanie's website

• Melanie on Instagram

• Melanie's books

• Melanie's Coffee + Crumbs essays

• Halloween contest win #1

• Halloween content win #2

• Chelsea's bacon crackers (add red pepper flakes for a little heat!)

• Coffee + Crumbs on Substack