“With great risk comes a great reward.” – Thomas Jefferson

Reflecting on a Remarkable Year: Simply Scratch’s Culinary Journey, Family Milestones & Home Transformations

A New Chapter Unfolds: Welcoming Another Year of Memories

As the calendar flips once more, it’s truly surreal to consider that I am now embarking on my 13th year of passionately crafting and sharing recipes right here on Simply Scratch. Just as I have for the past twelve years, I find immense joy and value in commencing each new year by thoughtfully reflecting upon the preceding 365 days, both in my professional endeavors and personal life. These annual posts, often generously adorned with photographs, serve as a cherished digital journal – a dedicated space where I can revisit and savor all the significant and subtle moments that have shaped our journey. It’s a profound experience to look back; when I first launched this blog, our daughters were just 6 and 9 years old. Today, they stand as vibrant young women at 18 and 21. Time truly does fly, and these archives allow me to marvel at how far we’ve come.

This past year has undoubtedly been one of our most rewarding. We embraced new travel experiences, enthusiastically tackled a myriad of projects around our home, and watched with pride as our daughters navigated their paths with courage and grace. They embarked on new adventures, seized opportunities, and continued to evolve into the incredible young adults who inspire us daily.

Culinary Chronicles: A Year of Flavor and Food Photography Evolution

But first, let’s talk about the heart of it all: FOOD!

There isn’t a single day that passes without a deep sense of gratitude for this career. Beyond the comfort of working in my favorite cozy clothes, I have the incredible privilege of managing my own schedule, experimenting with and cooking the recipes I genuinely adore, and then sharing them all with you. What began as a mere side hustle in February of 2010 unexpectedly blossomed into a thriving business – a venture I never envisioned. Yet, it has undeniably opened countless doors and presented us with opportunities we would simply not have experienced had I not taken that initial leap all those years ago. It’s a testament to the power of following your passion.

The past year was particularly dynamic, marked not only by the introduction of exciting new recipes but also by a significant overhaul of many of our cherished older ones. These legacy recipes often required a fresh perspective, whether through updated photography that truly captured their essence, streamlined and more organized instructions for easier cooking, or often, all three. This process of breathing new life into familiar favorites proved to be incredibly rewarding and, dare I say, fun! Witnessing the “before and after” transformations side-by-side reveals just how much my food photography has evolved over the past 13 years, a journey of continuous learning and refinement.

While I typically meticulously track the exact number of new recipes introduced versus older ones updated, this year’s extensive revitalization project made precise quantification challenging. Instead of stressing over specific metrics, I chose to focus on the joy of creation and improvement. What I am thrilled to share, however, are the standout recipes that resonated most deeply with you, our amazing community, becoming the top 10 favorites of the year!

Top 10 Reader-Favorite Recipes from the Past Year

Our Salmon Fried Rice quickly became a weeknight favorite, praised for its delightful flavor and smart use of leftovers. This recipe brilliantly transforms cold cooked rice and succulent shiitake mushrooms, stir-fried with aromatic ginger, garlic, and vibrant green onions, before being tossed with flaky leftover salmon and a savory soy sauce glaze. It’s a perfect illustration of minimal waste meeting maximum taste.

Experience the ultimate tropical fusion with our Piña Colada Margarita. This inventive drink seamlessly blends two classic cocktails into one refreshing concoction. Crafted with smooth coconut tequila, rich cream of coconut, and finished with a lively splash of pineapple juice, it’s the perfect sip for a sunny day or an evening escape.

Elevate your sandwich game with this phenomenal Italian Grinder. This toasted masterpiece features homemade focaccia bread generously loaded with an array of melted cheeses and a medley of authentic Italian meats. What truly distinguishes this grinder is the inclusion of a cool, crisp, and tangy grinder salad served directly within the sandwich, offering an irresistible contrast of textures and flavors.

Our Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant explosion of Middle Eastern-inspired flavors. Tender slices of perfectly marinated and grilled chicken shawarma are artfully arranged over fluffy saffron rice, complemented by a fresh tomato-cucumber salad, crisp chopped romaine, tangy pickles, creamy hummus, and a generous drizzle of homemade Lebanese garlic sauce. It’s a complete meal bursting with healthful goodness.

Discover the authentic taste of street food with our delightful Chicken Street Tacos. Finely minced chicken, seasoned with our signature homemade street taco spice blend, is nestled into warm, toasty corn tortillas. These savory bites are then crowned with a simple yet incredibly flavorful onion salsa, creating a quick and satisfying meal that transports you straight to a bustling taqueria.

Indulge in the quintessential taste of summer with this exquisite Homemade Strawberry Shortcake. This recipe features a wonderfully simple and tender shortcake biscuit, sliced in half and generously layered with a luscious, ruby-red fresh strawberry topping. Each serving is then crowned with generous dollops of airy homemade whipped cream, delivering a dessert that’s both classic and utterly irresistible.

For a quick, flavorful, and minimal-mess meal, our Sheet Pan Andouille Sausage and Vegetables is a true winner. Smoky Andouille sausage, vibrant broccoli florets, perfectly seasoned potatoes, crisp red bell pepper, and sweet onions all roast together on a single sheet pan. Serve it as is, or enhance your experience with your favorite rice, a few dashes of hot sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions for an extra layer of zest.

Recreate your favorite takeout at home with our lighter and incredibly easy General Tso’s Chicken. This Chinese classic balances sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, featuring crispy, tender pieces of chicken enveloped in an addictive sauce. Served over fluffy rice and garnished with sliced green onions, it pairs wonderfully with roasted broccoli or chow mein for a truly satisfying meal that’s healthier than the traditional version.

Our Cranberry Orange Banana Bread recipe yields a loaf that is both incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. Scented with bright orange zest, infused with warm, earthy spices, and generously studded with tart cranberries, each slice is a delightful experience. Enjoy it simply sliced or enhance its richness with a smear of softened salted butter.

The Smoked Salmon Bagel Sandwich has quickly become a new lunchtime staple in our household. Thinly sliced smoked salmon, crisp tomato, refreshing cucumber, delicate micro-greens, zesty pickled red onion, and briny capers are perfectly layered within a toasted everything bagel. The pièce de résistance is a generous spread of homemade garlic dill cream cheese, creating a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite.

Family Adventures & Home Transformations: Building Memories and Making a House a Home

This past year, Pat and I faced an ambitious “laundry list” of home projects, encompassing tasks both grand and small. Fortuitously, Michigan gifted us an unusually early arrival of warm weather, allowing us to venture outside in May and enthusiastically begin tackling our extensive to-do list. I’ll do my very best to capture the essence of each undertaking, recalling the challenges and triumphs along the way!

Cultivating Beauty: Our Garden Sanctuary Transformed

Early last May, I embarked on one of the more demanding gardening projects: transforming the area beneath our back deck. It was a challenging spot, overgrown with a chaotic mix of three or four different ground covers and situated on a somewhat steep and awkward incline. The “before and after” photos above truly capture the immense effort involved. This particular garden bed was actually three years in the making, a labor of love that saw countless weekends dedicated to weeding, carefully planting, then replanting, and simply strolling around, admiring each budding corner. I was incredibly fortunate to receive generous contributions from friends and family; my wonderful neighbor, Jen, shared many beautiful plants from her own garden, which perfectly filled in various spots. Pat’s Aunt Penny also contributed a truly special plant, a living legacy that has graced our family for generations.

Later that summer, our good friends (a huge shout-out to Josh and Melissa!) were renovating their back patio and needed to rehome some landscaping rocks. After two truckloads, and hours of meticulously arranging them, I successfully edged all the garden beds surrounding our home. I am absolutely in love with the finished look! The images above showcase some of the final results of these extensive garden transformations, a true testament to community and perseverance.

A New Waterfront View: Crafting a Cedar Dock

While I was immersed in the garden or browsing local nurseries, Pat was diligently at work in the garage, constructing a magnificent new cedar dock for us. The previous dock had definitely seen better days; it was literally falling apart and had become quite unsafe to stand on. In a rather dramatic turn, as the new dock was being meticulously installed, the old one gracefully succumbed to the water, sinking below the surface. This project was particularly stressful for Pat, as installing a dock was completely new territory for him. You can well imagine the enormous sense of relief and accomplishment once it was finally completed and checked off our list! A massive thank you goes out to our incredible neighbor Dan and his two sons, who generously came over to lend a crucial hand, helping Pat sink the posts and secure the dock in place.

The Perfect Addition: A Custom Cedar Bench for the “Zen Garden”

Once the dock project was proudly completed, Pat immediately turned his attention to crafting this absolutely gorgeous cedar bench for me. Made entirely of beautiful cedar, he opted to polyurethane the top for a durable, natural finish – a decision that made us wish we had chosen a less tinted stain for the dock, a valuable lesson learned! For the legs, he utilized a blowtorch, charring the wood to achieve that striking black color and also naturally sealing it. This charring technique, known as Shou Sugi Ban, not only adds aesthetic appeal but also provides natural protection. This bench is, without a doubt, the perfect complement to what my sister Julie has affectionately dubbed our “zen garden.”

Revitalizing Our Dining Space: A Stunning Table Makeover

As summer drew to a close, Pat dedicated his time to a magnificent project: refinishing our dining room table and chairs. This was a project we had initiated a couple of years prior, starting with just sanding and staining the leaf. Our dining set, originally from Crate & Barrel, is crafted from beautiful mango wood, which had been stained a very dark mahogany color. Yearning for a lighter, more natural aesthetic, I immersed myself in research, exploring various stains that would achieve the desired effect. Pat, with his incredible attention to detail, undertook all the meticulous, painstaking work. To be completely honest, my initial thought was to simply purchase an entirely new set. However, once I witnessed the stunning grain and natural coloring of the mango wood revealed after the sanding, my mind was instantly changed. I am so incredibly glad we chose to refinish; the result is truly breathtaking and perfectly complements our home.

Unforgettable Escapes: Our Travels of the Year

In March, Pat, the girls, and I embarked on a much-needed, blissful 7-day vacation to St. Pete’s Beach, Florida. We were fortunate to stay at the enchanting Beach House Suites by Don Cesar, where our top-floor room offered breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the shimmering Gulf of Mexico. Each morning began on our balcony: Pat peacefully enjoying the rhythmic sound of the waves, and me savoring the same tranquility with a warm cup of coffee, eagerly awaiting the girls to wake up. We spent one memorable day exploring the vibrant John’s Pass, but most of our time was dedicated to swimming in the warm Gulf waters, soaking up the abundant sunshine, indulging in truly amazing food, and definitely enjoying our fair share of Piña Coladas and Strawberry Daiquiris. As evening fell, we’d gather to watch the spectacular sunsets, followed by leisurely strolls along the beach, collecting shells and making cherished memories.

Early in August, Pat and I enjoyed a thrilling 4-day getaway to Las Vegas. We absolutely loved our stay at the Aria (which I highly recommend!), finding the hotel as a whole to be exceptional, particularly our room with its stunning views of the iconic Strip. Upon arrival, after dropping off our luggage, our first stop was, of course, In-N-Out Burger – an obvious choice! We then spent our time gambling, strolling along the vibrant Strip, popping into various casinos and shops, and pausing for refreshing drinks. On the evening of our first day, Pat hit his first major hand-pay of the trip, an electrifying start! The very next morning, he struck another jackpot; he was truly on fire! Then, on our last full day, it was my turn to hit a jackpot and experience my very first hand-pay. We had an absolute blast, making this, without a doubt, our best trip to Vegas ever.

Daughters’ Triumphs & Milestones: Proud Moments as They Soar

Haileigh’s Journey: Academic Excellence and Stepping into Adulthood

Haileigh truly shone this year! She successfully completed her junior year of college at CMU, earning a coveted spot on the President’s List in the fall and the Dean’s List in the spring – a testament to her dedication and hard work. She then returned home for the summer, balancing a part-time job with several online summer classes, strategically working towards early graduation. Her summer was also filled with fun, including attending Tigers games, enjoying various concerts, and a spontaneous weekend trip to the west side of the state with her boyfriend, Tanner.

August marked a significant milestone as Haileigh celebrated her 21st birthday, commemorating the occasion with friends over dinner and ordering her very first legal cocktail – a moment of true adulting!

In the fall, she eagerly began her senior year, determined to fully immerse herself in and savor every moment of her final year of college. This included spirited tailgating events, cherished gatherings with friends, and embracing the vibrant college student life. Haileigh also commenced her pre-student teaching experience and is scheduled to begin her official student teaching this very week. To say we are immensely proud of her remarkable achievements and unwavering drive would be a profound understatement. The coming year promises to be incredibly exciting as she graduates with her degree and confidently embarks on the next thrilling chapter of her life.

Malloree’s Year of Firsts: Graduation, New Career, and College Life

It was an equally monumental year for Malloree! She proudly graduated from high school in the spring, a significant educational milestone. Prior to that, in February, she traveled to Florida to compete in the prestigious DTU Nationals dance competition, showcasing her talent and dedication. With her high school chapter gracefully behind her, Malloree swiftly embraced a new professional journey, securing a job as a baker at a charming small grocery store nearby, where she quickly developed her culinary skills.

Her summer was busy with work, but she also found time for personal passions, attending a concert of her favorite band, cheering on the U of M football team, and even casting her very first vote – a truly empowering civic experience.

In the fall, Mal celebrated her 18th birthday and bravely embarked on her first year at a local college, diligently pursuing a career in dental hygiene. We are filled with immense excitement and anticipation to see where life’s incredible journey will take her next! We have no doubt that only wonderful things are in store for her future.

Towards the end of July, on what felt like the absolute hottest day of summer, we hosted Malloree’s vibrant graduation party. The celebration was deliciously catered and serviced by a fantastic local BBQ joint, featuring a whimsical doughnut board, adorable tooth-shaped Krispie treats, and an abundance of icy-cold beverages to beat the heat. We are incredibly blessed and profoundly grateful to have such wonderful friends and family who braved the summer warmth to celebrate our amazing girl!

Finn’s Adventures & Pat’s Pursuits: Hunting, Hobbies, and Canine Charms

Finn: Our Beloved Companion’s Brave New Skills

Our loyal companion, Finn, also had another truly great year! One of his most heartwarming accomplishments was bravely learning to jump off our boat and swim independently. A few summers ago, he had a rather frightening experience falling off the boat while we were fishing, which made him understandably hesitant to jump in ever since. However, with Pat’s patient and consistent encouragement, gently tossing his favorite ball into the water, Finn slowly but surely regained his confidence and began to leap in! It’s seriously the most adorable and triumphant thing to witness.

Then, in the fall, he embarked on his annual, much-anticipated trip with Pat to South Dakota for pheasant hunting. Finn absolutely adores hunting (and honestly, doing anything at all) with Pat. Beyond his hunting prowess, he also revels in the simple pleasures of pup cups from Culver’s, going for car rides, and playing endless games of fetch. Finn continues to bring us so much boundless laughter and pure joy every single day! He truly is the sweetest, most loving boy.

Pat’s Year: From Hunting Success to Home Projects

Beyond his impressive feats of building all the things, enjoying our travels, and hitting jackpots at the casino, Pat also dedicated a significant amount of time to golfing over the summer and hunting throughout the fall. In late October, his patience and skill were rewarded when he successfully shot an impressive 8-point buck on his family’s property up north. It had been nine years since his last deer, as he often passes on smaller ones in the hopes they will mature further in the coming years. Needless to say, our freezer is now wonderfully stocked, and I am excited to share some delicious venison recipes with you in the near future!

He also made another memorable trip to South Dakota, this time accompanied by his dad, his brother Paul, and two longtime friends, Craig and Mike. Their pheasant hunt proved to be incredibly successful; they not only shot their limit of pheasants but also harvested some sharp-tail grouse and a few Hungarian partridges, making for a truly bountiful trip and cherished memories with loved ones.

Personal Reflections & Shared Joys: Cherishing the Everyday

And when I wasn’t engrossed in cooking up new recipes or tending to our flourishing gardens, I made sure to carve out precious time for myself. This included diving into good books, embarking on exciting thrifting adventures, enjoying leisurely lunches with close friends, giving our front entryway a refreshing revamp, and joyfully resuming my yoga practice. Pat and I also celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary, marking this special occasion with our annual trip to a few of our favorite casinos here in Michigan, which, as always, proved to be a delightful and rewarding experience.

Honestly, what fills me with the most pride this year is the sheer volume of accomplishments we managed to achieve. There was a genuine sprint to get everything ready and perfect for Mal’s graduation party, and we came remarkably close to checking every single item off our extensive list. Once that festive occasion was behind us, we consciously decided to embrace a more relaxed pace for the remainder of the year, allowing us to truly unwind and savor the quieter moments together.

A Heartfelt Thank You and Hopes for the Future

What an extraordinary year it has been! My heart is overflowing with gratitude for my wonderful family, for every moment we’ve shared, and for the invaluable opportunities to create lasting memories with them. Although it often felt like a whirlwind, I truly wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. A massive and sincere thank you extends to each and every one of you who takes the time to visit this blog, try out our recipes, and share them with your own loved ones. Your unwavering support means more to me than words can express. Here’s to anticipating another year filled with delicious discoveries, cherished moments, and continued growth!

From my family to you and yours – we wish you all a healthy, prosperous, and incredibly joyful new year. May 2023 bring you abundant peace, profound love, boundless joy, and endless laughter.