Reflecting on 2017: Navigating Life’s Challenges, Finding Joy, and Our Top Culinary Creations
As we arrive at the final week of 2017, there’s a unique sense of calm and anticipation that settles in. This precious week between Christmas and New Year’s has always held a special place in my heart. It’s a cherished time for quiet reflection, an opportunity to look back at the journey traversed, to process the experiences, and to appreciate the moments that shaped us. Simultaneously, it’s a period brimming with renewed hope and excitement for the fresh beginnings that the new year promises. It’s ideal for deep thought, planning, and setting ambitious goals, offering a welcome respite from the bustling holiday season that precedes it. This particular week truly rejuvenates the spirit, providing a serene space to breathe and prepare for what lies ahead, and I absolutely adore it for all these reasons.
Every year, I eagerly look forward to compiling a ‘Best Of’ post for the blog. It’s a wonderful tradition that allows me to revisit all the delicious dishes I’ve cooked, the moments I’ve shared, and the progress made. However, 2017 proved to be a somewhat unconventional and challenging year for me personally. Looking back at my first post of the year, which surprisingly wasn’t published until February 1st (a delightful recipe for Strawberry Almond Oatmeal Bites), I distinctly remember how this year began. It was a period of recovery for my little one, my husband, and even our beloved family dog, all of whom were recuperating from surgery. While I typically strive to keep this blog a ‘happy place,’ focusing predominantly on food, healthy eating, and positive energy, maintaining a candid perspective is important. To be truly honest, this past year presented a series of significant difficulties. From numerous trips to the hospital for various family members to enduring the massive impact of a hurricane in September, it felt like one challenge after another. For a long time, I found myself in a state of denial, simply trying to push through each day. However, the emotional and physical toll eventually caught up, and I’ve been actively working to navigate through the complex feelings and overwhelming exhaustion that have accumulated.
Then, on November 2nd, a profound sorrow entered our lives with the passing of my beloved grandfather. Even typing those words now feels incredibly heavy and final. Those who have followed my blog for some time likely know the unique and deep relationship I’ve always shared with my grandparents; they have been an integral, constant presence throughout my entire life. My mother is an only child, and my grandparents have consistently been close by—whether living with us, in the apartment below us, two doors down, or just down the street. Their proximity and involvement in our daily lives were unwavering. Growing up, my parents owned a restaurant and worked incredibly long hours to provide for our family. During those times, my grandparents stepped in, becoming primary caregivers. As anyone familiar with the restaurant industry knows, I spent much of my childhood either in the back booth of the restaurant, lending a hand during busy periods, or at home with my grandparents. While I sometimes wished my parents were home more, there’s no doubt that my grandparents provided unparalleled care and a loving environment, filling a crucial role in the best possible way. I wouldn’t trade those precious memories and that unique upbringing for anything in the world. Their influence shaped me profoundly, instilling values and creating a foundation of love and support that I cherish deeply.
Navigating the landscape of grief is a new and incredibly challenging experience for me. The only other significant loss I’d faced was that of my baby brother when I was just 12 years old. While his passing was terribly sad and shocking for our family, being so young undoubtedly made it easier, in some ways, to process at the time. Looking back now, especially as a mother myself, I carry a deep sense of regret that I didn’t fully grasp the depth of my mother’s pain and what she was enduring. So, grief, in its current form, truly feels like a formidable beast. For the past seven weeks, I’ve felt as if I’ve been living in a thick fog, trying to find my way through it. Living an hour away from my immediate family has, at times, intensified this feeling of disconnection, leading to moments of panic when I don’t feel physically close to them, or to the memory of my Nonno. I am actively working through these emotions, striving to find ways to feel connected despite the distance. I miss my Nonno immensely, his presence, his wisdom, and his unconditional love. In addition to this profound loss, my grandmother’s health has been steadily declining for quite some time. She has been living with dementia for years, a condition that I believe has technically progressed to Alzheimer’s disease. My mom has taken on the incredibly demanding role of my grandparents’ primary caregiver for several years now. This year, they all made the decision to move into the same house, a change that brought some logistical ease, allowing everyone to be under one roof, even as health challenges intensified. Beyond my own family, my husband’s parents, both in their 80s, have also faced significant and ongoing health issues this year. The cumulative weight of these family health struggles and the profound grief has been tremendous, impacting me on every level.
This, in essence, is a candid snapshot of my life right now, and it explains my recent absence from the blog. There have been moments where I’ve felt adrift, unsure where to direct my energy or how to regain my footing amidst the emotional demands. Yet, this past week, a familiar and much-needed spark has ignited within me—a flicker of excitement, a surge of energy, and a renewed sense of determination that I’ve deeply missed. It’s a feeling of revitalization that I welcome wholeheartedly. My hope is to gradually re-establish a regular cooking routine and share those culinary adventures, whatever they may be, here with all of you. I am particularly eager to get back into the consistent practice of meal planning, a system that proved incredibly effective and beneficial for me earlier in the year, simplifying our weeknight meals and ensuring healthier choices. Furthermore, I’m keen to share more about what I’m reading, as books have offered both solace and escape, and I’ve delved into quite a few captivating titles recently. Beyond elaborate recipes, I also want to share more of my everyday meals—those real-life dishes that might not always be perfectly styled for photos but are wholesome, delicious, and practical (for a more frequent peek into these daily culinary moments, you can follow me on Instagram).
With that update shared, let’s transition to a more delightful topic: my favorite recipes from this past year. Despite the challenges and the reduced time spent in the kitchen, there are definitely a few standout recipes that I created and thoroughly enjoyed. These culinary highlights serve as a testament to finding joy and comfort even in difficult times. If you have a favorite among them, or perhaps a dish you tried and loved, please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts!
Here are my favorites from 2017:
Dragonfruit Smoothie
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Our vibrant Dragonfruit Smoothie quickly became a sensation for its stunning color and incredible nutritional benefits. This visually appealing drink offers a fantastic way to boost your body with essential vitamins and hydration, making it a perfect pick-me-up any time of day. Its naturally sweet and refreshing tropical flavors are a true delight, proving that healthy can also be absolutely delicious and Instagram-worthy.
Garden Salad with Shrimp and Bacon
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This Garden Salad with Shrimp and Bacon is a guaranteed way to reignite your love for salads. It’s generously packed with an array of crisp, colorful vegetables, offering a delightful crunch in every bite. The addition of succulent shrimp and savory bacon provides a satisfying protein boost, ensuring you feel full, energized, and utterly content after enjoying this healthy and flavorful meal.
Greek Yogurt Egg Salad with Smoked Paprika
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Our Greek Yogurt Egg Salad with Smoked Paprika offers a delightful twist on a classic, making it a favorite for healthy lunches or quick snacks. The creamy texture of Greek yogurt lightens up the traditional egg salad, while a hint of smoked paprika adds an unexpected depth of flavor and a touch of warmth. Serve this versatile dish with crusty bread, your favorite crackers, or a vibrant assortment of fresh vegetables for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Cajun Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry
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For those busy days when you need a quick yet incredibly flavorful meal, our Cajun Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry is an absolute winner. Designed as a perfect 15-minute meal for one, this dish is a fantastic low-carb, high-protein option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The bold Cajun spices perfectly complement the succulent shrimp and tender cauliflower rice, creating a satisfying and zesty stir fry that’s both healthy and utterly delicious.
Stuffed Poblanos with Turkey & Black Beans
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These Stuffed Poblano Peppers with Turkey and Black Beans are a testament to how incredible a simple, healthy meal can be with minimal ingredients. Requiring only 5 key ingredients, this recipe transforms mild poblano peppers into a delightful and nutritious weeknight dinner. The lean ground turkey and hearty black beans create a flavorful filling, offering a light yet satisfying dish. Plus, any leftovers are fantastic for a quick and healthy lunch the next day, making it a truly versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Mediterranean Farro Salad with Arugula and Chickpeas
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Our Mediterranean Farro Salad with Arugula and Chickpeas offers a vibrant and wholesome taste of the Mediterranean. This hearty vegetarian dish is bursting with fresh flavors, satisfying textures, and nutritional goodness. The chewy farro, peppery arugula, and protein-packed chickpeas are complemented by bright, savory ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, a flavorful side, or a fulfilling main course that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Kale Soup
with Sweet Potatoes
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When the weather turns cool, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of our Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Kale Soup with Sweet Potatoes. This one-pot wonder is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing your slow cooker to do all the work while infusing rich, savory flavors. The hearty Italian sausage, nutrient-dense kale, and naturally sweet potatoes create a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying meal that’s both healthy and utterly delicious. It’s truly a feel-good dish for any chilly evening.
Layered Taco Dip
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A true crowd-pleaser, our Layered Taco Dip is the ultimate appetizer for any party or casual gathering. This vibrant and irresistible dip features multiple delicious layers of classic taco flavors, from seasoned cream cheese and savory beans to fresh salsa, shredded cheese, and crisp lettuce. Easy to assemble and always a hit, it’s perfect for dipping with tortilla chips and guarantees happy faces all around. This recipe brings together textures and tastes for an unforgettable snack or starter.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
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Our Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe offers a wholesome and delightfully comforting meal, perfect for embracing the flavors of the season. Sweet, tender roasted acorn squash halves are generously filled with a savory, flavorful stuffing, creating a dish that’s both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying. Whether served as a vegetarian main or a hearty side, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce, providing a nourishing and delicious experience for any autumn or winter table.
As we close the chapter on 2017, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and understanding throughout this challenging year. Your presence in this community, whether through comments, shares, or simply reading along, means the world to me. Here’s to embracing new opportunities, finding strength in our connections, and creating many more delicious moments in the year to come. Thank you for being part of this journey!
Explore our favorite recipes from previous years:
- 2016 – Top Recipes & Experiences
- 2015 – Most Popular Recipes
- 2014 – Our Favorites Collection
- 2013 – My Favorites and Yours
- 2012 – My Top 12 Favorite Meals
- 2011 – A Look Back
- 2009 – Top 5 Favorites
- 2008: Part 1 – Top 10 Favorites & Part 2 – Top 10 Favorites