Friday, December 31, 2010

2010 "Foodie - flections"



It is hard to imagine that this is the last day of another decade. I can distinctly remember when it was 1999 and everyone was nervous about the clock striking midnight. Luckily it was a non-event for any type of negative incident. When the clock strikes that magical number “12:00” tonight, we enter into a new decade and year. During this time of year, everyone determines their resolutions, goals and aspirations for the coming year. Some are elaborate and others are simple. It is a time for reflection.

I am energized for 2011. By nature I am an optimistic person and see the glass half full versus half empty. Actually, I like to think that the glass is always full. I am certainly a realist but prefer to err on the side thinking positively. Life is very precious and my motto is to live each day to the fullest.

Many years ago I was hit by a drunk driver. Broke both my legs, almost died, spend two months in the hospital and the crash put me behind graduating college in the typical four year timeframe. (took five years) Needless to say, it was a life changing experience. However, I managed to see the positive side and knew there was more for me to accomplish on this earth. I share that experience as an insight into why I value each and every day.

This year I put energy into my enthusiasm for food, wine and entertaining and sharing my passion through blogging. Blogging provides a platform to document and memorialize your recipes. However, I soon discovered that food blogging is more rewarding, complex, fun, challenging and interesting than originally thought. Through blogging, I have met wonderful new friends, realized a new hobby of photography, improved my writing abilities and tried a lot of new recipes.

For 2011 my objectives are straightforward, uncomplicated and clear-cut. Thought I would share a few with all of you:
  • Live each day to the fullest
  • Cherish my husband, family and friends
  • Leave each day of work knowing I did my absolute best
  • Continue to share my passion for food, wine and entertaining
  • Learn new things, travel new places and meet new people
  • Be positive and live life
In the spirit of reflecting on 2010, I wanted to share my top ten foodie posts with all of you. I am aptly titling my List – “2010 Foodie – flections”:

Friends and Figs

















One of the highlights for me was entering the FoodBuzz Project Food Blog contest. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, taught me things about myself, connected me with great new friends and honed my blogging skills (much more to learn in 2011). Being in my element, challenge number three, throwing a luxury dinner party, was by far my favorite.


Pizza Remix


















What a fun challenge which helped to showcase my creativity while making some delicious pizza flavors for my husband to enjoy in between photo shoots.

Mini Red Velvet Cupcakes

























I am fascinated by small bites, so why not make dessert tiny too. After having my new camera for just a short time, I was still in testing mode but happened to have one of those “money shots”. It was my first prelude to being showcased on Foodgawker and being honored with a Foodbuzz Top 9. It was a good day!

Caprese Bites



















Appetizers are one of my obsessions. Given a choice between a bowl of pasta or several small plates of appetizers – the appetizers win hands down. My goal was to put a twist on the standard caprese bite and kick it up.

Fig Jam Pockets






















These little gems were noted by husband to be one of the BEST cookies I have ever made. Now that is a great compliment.

Shaved Brussels Sprout with Truffle Oil Crostini




















During the month of December I have made this crostini for three different parties and each time, I still absolutely love it. Guests are surprised when I tell them it is Brussels sprouts.

Fried Green Tomatoes

















On my bucket list is to visit several states in the south, so until I get there, I wanted to recreate a bit of the south in my own kitchen. This recipe is a keeper.

Grapefruit Marmalade

























In 2010, canning became quite an obsession. Both the process and the end product are rewarding. It brings me much joy to give these little gems to friends and family. The smile it brings to each person is priceless. That is my reward!

Pecan Cheddar Gougeres





















Give me a savory treat any day over a sweet treat. Like a popover, I could easily eat 3 to 4 of these in one sitting. Note to self: only make a few times a year if possible.

Apple Fritter Poppers





















One of life’s simple pleasures is something fried. It is not good for our health or waistline, but in moderation, not such a bad thing. My husband has quite an affinity for apple fritters, so I created a mini version for him to enjoy.

May each of you have a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year.
Cherish each moment!









13 comments:

  1. Lovely recap! I'd love a few gougeres and caprese bites right now...yum. Happy New Year to you!

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  2. Mmmm fig jam pockets, now those are calling my name. I absolutely adore figs. And those caprese bites are such a great idea! YUM! :)

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  3. great post, love your 2011 objectives list :)

    May this new year bring many opportunities to your way,
    to explore every joy of life
    &
    may your resolutions for the days ahead stay firm,
    turning all your dreams into reality
    and all your efforts into great achievements.
    Happy New Year to you & your loved ones.

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  4. Love the idea of brussel sprout crostini! Thanks for the recap. Happy New Year!

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  5. Those Caprese bites look awesome! I have a recipe similar to that, but yours seem more like a grown-up gourmet version! Happy New Year to you!

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  6. Those are the best looking fried tomatoes that I've seen - beautiful recap! Cheers to new beginnings! Happy New Year!

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  7. mmm...that fig jam pockets look so inviting!
    Happy 2011!

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  8. These are some great recipes! I think my favorites are the caprese bites and the apple fritters. Happy New Year!

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  9. I never knew you experience such a trial...you are a true testament to strength and grace. I loved seeing your collection of favorite recipes. So many tempting and delicious treats. Thank you for sharing this with us. Many blessings and much hope for the New Year!

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  10. That is a terrific compilation of your cooking!
    Best wishes for a delicious 2011 - and achieving your fine objectives.
    LL

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  11. What a lovely year! Can't wait to read more in 2011!

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  12. What a beautiful post, Lisa. I'm so happy that you are now thriving after that horrible accident years ago. I'm happy to now consider you a friend and I can attest to your positive outlook on life (despite the fact that we haven't known each other long). I love your highlights. Did you know that you were the top inspiration for me to start making my own jam? I'm glad that your delicious fig jam is showcased in this post. Looking forward to more of your posts this year. :-)

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  13. I love the recipes you've highlighted...especially the apple fritter poppers...yum! So glad you've survived such difficult times with such a fantastic outlook. Hope 2011 brings you fantastic things :)

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