Here we are, looking 2017 straight in the face.  Can you believe it’s here already?  It seems like just yesterday we were wrapping up 2015 – that I was dubbing it the year of “overcoming fears” and the year that taught me to “stop being afraid, put myself out there, and follow my dreams.”

Minnesota // Fork in the Kitchen

Talk about foreshadowing!  2016 brought its fair share of challenges and change, but it’s also given me opportunities I could have never dreamt were possible.  So bring it on 2017, I can’t wait to see what you have in store for me!

Before we get on the 2017 express train, let’s recap the end of 2016.

The best part (ok, well, one of the best parts…)? MY BIRTHDAY!

If you didn’t learn this about me last year, I love celebrating my birthday.  I don’t just celebrate a day, but an entire weekend.  I went out with friends on Friday night (pizza and dancing… can you think of a better combo!?), to 112 Eatery with my mom on Saturday (you’ve heard about the budino if you’ve been following along at all…), and then out to dinner with my family on Sunday (actual birthday).

After dinner, the party spontaneously continued to a nearby bar to watch a band, and there I met the love of my life.  His name is Gus.

Gus // Fork in the Kitchen

Feel free to follow Gus on Instagram @gus_the_sheepdog_ 🙂

For Christmas this year my family headed down to Iowa to spend the weekend with my grandparents – a first since I was a little girl.

Christmas 2016 // Fork in the Kitchen

My brother brought his guitar and serenaded us, while my Grandma made all of my favorite foods and I learned little tips and tricks for our traditional family recipes.  Oh, and we shared so many laughs and memories.

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls // Fork in the KitchenHomemade Cinnamon Rolls // Fork in the Kitchen

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls // Fork in the Kitchen

As always, I want to thank you for following along on this food adventure with me.  Whether you’ve made a recipe, left a comment, or liked a post on social media – every bit of support helps keep FITK inspired and running.  I so appreciate YOU!

ALSO – keep an eye out in your e-mail for a special eCookbook – the Top 16 Recipes of 2016!  If you aren’t subscribed to receive Fork in the Kitchen’s e-mail updates, be sure to enter your e-mail address at the bar above or to the right for 2016 AND 2015’s best-of EBOOKS!

Happy New Year!