2012 Superlatives and Looking Ahead to 2013

I cannot believe this is my THIRD year-in-review! Have I really been blogging that long? I also can't believe that a new year is upon us. Is 2012 really over? I hope all of you have had a few shining moments this year! 2012 had wonderful moments for us and there were also some challenges. I just spent an hour reading all of my posts this year and it was so much fun to relive the year through pictures.

Let's take a quick look back, shall we?

Best Foodie Success/Experiment:

Instead of selecting a successful recipe, I think I have to give this award to my Whole30 Experience this spring. After participating in a Whole30 month, I saw many, many positive changes in my body, energy levels, and general well-being. You can go here to read my recap post after I finished the 30-day challenge.

 

I am actually planning to start another Whole30 tomorrow! You can do it with me! It's absolutely free and you can get all the information you need by visiting this website. You don't have to start January 1- you can start on whatever day you select. I mostly stuck with the Paleo lifestyle after I finished my Whole30, but over the past 2-3 months, I have found myself being lazy and letting old habits slide back in. So I am using this Whole30 as a "reset" for myself.

 

 

Best Trip/Travel Experience:

This one would have to be my trip to Orlando in August for the International Zumba Convention. This was an experience like no other. I would say it was even borderline overwhelming. I don't think I have ever seen so much neon in one place! I had so much fun with friends, and I learned so much. I am definitely hoping to do this again! If you are a Zumba instructor, you should definitely consider going to Convention in the fall.

 

 

Most Emotional Post:

Tis one would be a tie between:

This post, when I made the decision to change jobs...

and

This post after the Newtown, Connecticutt Shootings.

Enough said.

 

 

New Veggies Added to the Repertoire:

Brussels Sprouts (love them roasted!)

Artichokes (How have I not written a post about artichokes? These are one of my new 2012 favorites. I will have to write an artichoke post.)

And Bok Choy! Love this one- it makes such a quick meal or side dish, depending on how you prepare it. Here is a quick meal idea.

 

 

Favorite new Food Gadgets:

1. Julienne Peeler. This little gadget helped me to make zoodles. Easy and delicious. Especially when topped with meatballs!

 

Click here to find out more about Zoodles.

 

2. Steamer Basket. How did I never have one of these? Great for making artichokes and other veggies.

Use this to make mashed cauliflower!

 

3. This set of trays from Pampered Chef.

They hook together, and are GREAT for preparing pan-fried chicken, veggies, etc. I like to put egg in the first tray, crumb coating in the second (almond flour, coconut flour, flax flour), and then use the tongs to put into a hot skillet.

 

 

Well, that's a quick look at 2012. Those are just a few of the things I blogged about this year. Thanks to all of you for reading, and I hope you will stay with me as we move into 2013! Have you set any goals for this upcoming year?

As I mentioned earlier, I am starting a Whole 30 tomorrow, and I am really excited about it. I wouldn't say I am making resolutions per se, but I do hope to stick with the Paleo lifestyle as much as possible. I would also like to do a better job with decluttering and keeping my house clean and organized. And of course the hubby and I are working hard to try and save money. We would really like to move to a bigger house sometime in the next year or two. This includes not eating out as much! We will be doing a "mostly eat-in month" this January.

 

My friend Diana over at The Chic Life hosts Eat-In-Month at her blog each January. We usually do this every January. It is a great way to save some money and eat healthier after the holiday season. Since I am doing a Whole 30, eating in is a great way to stay on track.

 

Happy New Year to all of you out there!!! I wish you the best of love, luck, and health in 2013!!!

 

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