Season’s Greetings!
With the holiday season in full swing, I thought I’d take a few moments to share my thoughts on the past year. 2012 has been a busy and exciting year for me, and many of you have been by my side along the way. This year more than ever, I have felt much love from the food blogging community and everyone who takes the time to read my blog posts and try my recipes. I am blessed to be surrounded by such great friends!
2012 started out with exciting news for my husband and me… In January, we found out that we would be welcoming a baby into our family in October. Our lives were about to change drastically, and we couldn’t have been more excited. We spent the coming months preparing for our little girl – picking out names, painting the nursery, and washing and folding lots of tiny little clothes.
Just as we were nearing the end of my pregnancy, my sous chef Yellowdog injured her knee, and we had to take her for knee surgery. Fortunately, her 8 week recovery coincided with the last 8 weeks before my due date. Yellowdog and I spent lots of time snuggling, taking it easy, and relaxing together. She has since made a full recovery and is healthier than ever. I smile every time I see her bounding down the stairs or chasing a frisbee in the yard. My furry baby is happier than ever.
On October 15th, our little girl, Madison, was born. My hubby and I instantly fell in love with our little girl, and we couldn’t be more smitten. Since then, we have been trying to soak in every moment with her. I am constantly amazed by how much she has grown and changed in the two short months that she has spent with us. We are gradually settling into a new routine together. I have spent considerably less time in the kitchen, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I don’t want to miss out on all of the baby smiles, snuggles, and play time together.
After a busy year, I am especially looking forward to Christmas. Over the next few weeks, I will be taking a bit of a break from blogging. I am going to be spending time with my family, enjoying our first Christmas with little Madison. I will be back with new blog posts and fresh recipes in the New Year. I hope that a bit of a break will help me to find a renewed energy and excitement for cooking, baking, and sharing the recipes that I am making for my family and loved ones.
This holiday season, I hope that you, too, can take a step away from it all and simply cherish time with friends and family. Take time to enjoy the season and soak in every fleeting moment.
Merry Christmas from my family to yours… May you have a blessed year in 2013!
Jen wishing you, Darron, Yellowdog and Madison a fabulous 2013. I can’t wait to see what you get up to! XO
Love that pic Jen! Enjoy the holidays with your family – see you in 2013 :)
What a lovely post and a beautiful family Christmas photo. Madison is growing so well and I love the look on Yellow Dog. Nice to see your husband :) and you are looking awesome Jen.
May you and your family enjoy a very blessed Christmas. Enjoy this time with those you love the most.
A well-deserved break, too, Jen! Sending big hugs to all! xoxo
What a lovely photo and even lovelier sentiment Jen; wishing you and your family all the best. Happy Holidays to all of you.
Madison is a cutie! Love the family picture. Happy Holidays!
What a beautiful photo of you all! Have a wonderful holiday, and cherish every moment and memory :)
Oh my gosh has it been two months already!? I am so very happy for you all. Wishing you and your beautiful family a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
I can’t believe that I’ve been away from your blog all this time and didn’t know you had a baby!! Congratulations and Merry Christmas to you and your family Jen.
Merry Christmas, Jen. Enjoy your break with your family!
You look wonderful Jen! What a sweet family photo. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year. Enjoy a bit of unplugged time :)
It’s been such a pleasure getting to know you even more this year. And to see your family grow has been so joyous! Hope you have a happy and healthy holiday season.
Love this letter, Jen, and what a fabulous photo. Happy Holidays and hope to see you soon!
I’m a little behind, but Merry Christmas! :) Loved this letter, and I’m so happy for you and your family – sounds like you had a great year. Can’t wait to see what you come up with in the new year!
Just ran across your blog and I am so excited and ready to try out some of your recipes.