Reflecting on 2018: A Year of Growth, New Beginnings, and Culinary Highlights

As I sit here, penning these thoughts, it’s hard to believe that another year is drawing to a close. While it’s a sentiment often repeated, the feeling that time accelerates with each passing year is undeniably potent. It feels as though the world spins faster on its axis, leaving me constantly striving to fully embrace and cherish every single moment. This past year, in particular, has been a whirlwind of profound personal growth, unexpected challenges, and immense joy, culminating in a reflective appreciation for how far I’ve come.

I’ve entered that peculiar phase of life where the thought of growing another year older brings a slight dread. I truly admire those who gracefully embrace the aging process, but I confess, it’s not always easy for me. Yet, my 30s have undeniably brought a newfound comfort in my own skin that I wouldn’t trade for anything. It’s a wonderful stage where I feel empowered to confidently step out to the grocery store in sweatpants, completely makeup-free, without a second thought. I find myself laughing more readily at my own foibles, admitting fault with grace, and observing feelings like jealousy and anger with a detached, logical perspective. Perhaps most importantly, I’m learning to understand and accept my anxieties, transforming them from overwhelming forces into manageable aspects of my being.

Embracing Motherhood and Overcoming Hurdles in 2018

2018 was a year defined by its share of significant ups and downs, but none more impactful than the arrival of our precious baby girl, Harriet. The first few months were a period of excited anticipation and meticulous preparation for her grand entrance. Before I dive deeper, a heartfelt shout-out and immense gratitude go to my wonderful blogging friends who showered us with love and support by hosting a truly delightful virtual baby shower to celebrate Harriet’s impending birth. Their thoughtful gesture meant the world to me and truly set a warm tone for her arrival.

Battling the Beast of Insomnia

While the anticipation of Harriet was joyous, it also coincided with a period of immense personal struggle. My energy for the blog during this time was understandably low, and things took a challenging turn approximately a month before Hattie was born. I began to experience intense, chronic insomnia, which quite literally consumed my life. If you’ve ever navigated the relentless cycle of chronic sleeplessness, you’ll undoubtedly understand the profound impact it can have. There were countless nights where sleep eluded me entirely, not even for an hour, leading to days filled with an exhausting fog and an ever-present anxiety about the approaching night. It was a vicious, self-perpetuating cycle: anxiety about not sleeping, which in turn prevented sleep, only to heighten the anxiety.

The situation improved slightly after Harriet’s birth, as the demands of a newborn naturally keep you awake. However, the insomnia beast, as I came to call it, never truly vanished. Even when I had the rare opportunity to rest, sleep often wouldn’t come, adding another layer of exhaustion to the already demanding journey of new motherhood. It was a truly awful and relentless period.

I share this experience because, unfortunately, it significantly overshadowed a large part of my 2018. However, I’m incredibly happy to report that thanks to the guidance of some truly wonderful doctors, the adoption of a new mindfulness practice, and some much-needed modern medicine, I’ve been doing remarkably better over the past few months. Most nights now, I successfully “conk out” and enjoy restful sleep. The constant feeling of being a “walking mombie” has thankfully faded, replaced by renewed energy and a much clearer mind. This recovery has been a pivotal part of reclaiming my well-being.

Memorable Family Adventures and Seasonal Joys

A Sunny Summer in Kelowna

Despite the challenges, summer truly flew by, and we certainly made the most of it. The weather was nothing short of fantastic! I can barely recall a single rainy day, though I’m sure we had a few, making every outdoor moment a delight. In August, we embarked on a wonderful week-long trip to Kelowna. It was an idyllic escape, filled with laughter and memorable experiences by the lake. We spent our days swimming, building sandcastles, and soaking up the sun. One of the highlights was the joy of picking fresh, ripe fruit directly from the trees – a simple pleasure that brought so much joy, especially to Oscar.

The Charm of Autumn and Holiday Blurs

By the time fall rolled around, I was more than ready for preschool to start up again. There’s a certain comfort and productivity that comes with having a bit of routine, and Oscar absolutely thrives on the fun and interaction with his friends. The past few months, from the crisp autumn air to the festive holiday season, passed by at an incredible pace. Thanksgiving and Halloween seem almost like a blur now, though the memory of Hattie’s adorable pineapple costume remains vivid! I wish I could dress her up in it every single day – she was absolutely adorbs, eliciting smiles from everyone she met.

Tropical Escape: Cancun with Kids

As November concluded, we indulged in a fantastic 10-day vacation to Cancun, staying at an all-inclusive resort. It had been an astonishingly long time since my last visit to Mexico – not since I was 18 years old! The experience was truly amazing. Being enveloped by the refreshing ocean breeze and the soothing humidity was pure bliss. And the food, oh, the food was simply exceptional, offering a delightful array of flavors and culinary experiences. Etienne and I typically lean towards more adventurous travel, preferring to explore new places every couple of days. However, I must admit, the sheer ease and convenience of a resort that caters to every possible need and want made traveling with young children incredibly stress-free and enjoyable. It was a wonderful opportunity to relax, reconnect, and create beautiful family memories without the usual logistical complexities.

Gratitude, Inspiration, and a Look Ahead to 2019

And so, here we are, fully immersed in the holiday season, with 2019 peeking brightly around the corner. Before we officially close the chapter on this eventful year, I want to extend a colossal THANK YOU to each and every one of my dedicated readers and my wonderful fellow bloggers. Your unwavering support, encouraging comments, and kind words mean more to me than you could possibly know. This blog has evolved into such a beautiful, creative outlet for me – a space where I can share my passions, experiences, and culinary adventures. Knowing that you are on this journey with me fuels my inspiration. I am genuinely excited and wholeheartedly ready to pour even more of my energy, passion, and creativity into this space in the coming year, bringing you fresh content and delicious recipes.

Now, as a final celebratory send-off to 2018 and a warm welcome to the new year, I am thrilled to present to you the top 10 most beloved and highly-trafficked recipes from my kitchen throughout 2018. These are the dishes that resonated most with you, my incredible community, and they represent the heart and soul of my culinary creations this past year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Your Favorite Flavors of 2018: The Top 10 Recipes

1. 10. Orange Carrot Cake

   A perennial favorite, this vibrant Orange Carrot Cake combines the classic comfort of carrot cake with a bright, citrusy twist. Its moist crumb and tangy cream cheese frosting make it an irresistible treat for any occasion, proving that healthy can also be incredibly delicious.

   

2. 9. Anniversary Cake for Two

   Perfect for intimate celebrations, this Anniversary Cake for Two offers all the indulgence without the overwhelming leftovers. It’s a beautifully portioned dessert, ideal for couples celebrating special moments, making any anniversary or date night feel extra sweet.

   

3. 8. Apple Cinnamon Gin Fizz

   A sophisticated and warming cocktail, the Apple Cinnamon Gin Fizz became a go-to for many. Its crisp apple notes, spiced with cinnamon, and the refreshing fizz create a delightful beverage, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

   

4. 7. Tiger Tail No Churn Ice Cream

   Inspired by the classic Canadian ice cream flavor, this No-Churn Tiger Tail Ice Cream brought a nostalgic treat to homes everywhere. Its distinctive orange and black licorice swirl makes it a fun, effortless, and incredibly creamy dessert that requires no special equipment.

   

5. 6. Baby-and-Me Banana Waffles

   Designed for both little ones and adults, these Baby-and-Me Banana Waffles are a wholesome and delicious breakfast option. Naturally sweetened and incredibly soft, they’re perfect for introducing solid foods to babies while offering a satisfying meal for the whole family.

   

6. 5. Halloween Cake Pops

   These festive Halloween Cake Pops were a hit, combining delicious cake with creative, spooky decorations. They’re a fun project for the holiday, perfect for parties or as a sweet treat for trick-or-treaters (or yourself!).

   

7. 4. Baby-and-Me Banana Muffins

   Another fantastic recipe catering to the whole family, these Baby-and-Me Banana Muffins are incredibly moist, naturally sweet, and free from added sugars. They’re an ideal snack for busy parents and a wonderful, soft bite for babies exploring new textures.

   

8. 3. Sweet Potato Fries with Dill Dip

   Crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, these Sweet Potato Fries served with a refreshing Dill Dip quickly became a household staple. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional fries, packed with flavor, and the creamy dill dip adds an irresistible zest.

   

9. 2. Gender Reveal Cupcakes

   These charming Gender Reveal Cupcakes offered a delightful way to share exciting news. With a surprise filling, they’re not only delicious but also add an element of anticipation and joy to any baby shower or family gathering, making the big reveal extra special.

   

AAAAND, drumroll please – my number 1 recipe for 2018, proving its timeless appeal, is AGAIN…!

11. 1. Healthy Smash Cake!

    Taking the top spot once more, the Healthy Smash Cake continues to be a runaway success. Perfect for a baby’s first birthday, this cake is thoughtfully crafted to be delicious, photogenic, and wonderfully wholesome, ensuring a guilt-free and memorable celebration.

    

Here’s to a truly wonderful, inspiring, and delicious 2019!

Cheers!