Family traditions have earned a soft spot in the households of many during the holiday season. Many of our employees and customers alike have shared with us their Christmas traditions from cutting down and decorating a tree the Friday after Thanksgiving to making gingerbread men ornaments. Company president John Latham fondly remembers how his grandmother, Evelyn Latham, made popcorn balls for each grandchild each Christmas.
As a family-owned company, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds also is rooted in tradition. One of the special aspects of traditions is they can be altered to fit a specific generation. Without even knowing it, Willard and Evelyn Latham made a home filled with tradition. Their former house – on an Iowa Century Farm – remains home to Latham Seeds.
The Latham Team started a new company Christmas tradition in 2009 when Latham Seed Company and Latham Hi‑Tech Hybrids came together to form Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds. Right after Thanksgiving, we put up a tree in the office lobby. Each Latham employee hangs the ornament with his/her name on it, and then a holiday potluck follows. This potluck is like no other!
There was such an abundance of food at this year’s potluck, we set up a “buffet” line in the hallways for desserts, salads, hot dishes and soups. We enjoyed everything from homemade white chili to ravioli bake, scrumptious cheesy potatoes and the BEST M&M cookies! Now these were the type of cookies that you would want to stuff your pockets with when you walked by!
The experiences the Lathams creates for their employees are similar to the memorable experiences we all work to create for our customers. It truly feels like a family event as we are decorating the office, trimming the tree and lining up for food. Company culture is one of the most important parts of being part of a team, and I find it satisfying to know Latham Seeds has holiday traditions like this one.
Today we are sharing with you the Crockpot Chicken & Noodles that was brought the potluck. Let me tell you, this is a must-try recipe!
Crockpot Chicken & Noodles
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless frozen chicken breast
2 cans cream of chicken soup
1 stick of butter
2 15 oz cans of chicken broth
24 oz frozen egg noodles
Directions
Cook chicken, soup, butter and broth in crockpot on low for 6-7 hours. Take chicken out and shred. Put chicken back in; add noodles and cook on low for 2 hours. Stir a few times while cooking.