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!