Friday Thoughts: A Celebration, Four Questions, and A Few Favorite Things
It’s a really busy, crazy time of year, and I’m not sure anyone has extra minutes to read a silly Friday Thoughts post, but I wanted to check in on just a few things!
First, a celebration
I’ve mentioned this in my email updates and on social media, as well, but I can’t let the moment pass by without saying it here, too: MY BLOG TURNS 18 THIS WEEK!
It’s kind of unbelievable. And I know I’m a broken record, but I am so grateful you are all here. 💗 I wouldn’t still be sharing my most-loved recipes with you if I didn’t have such amazing support. This really is the best little place on the internet (in my humble opinion 😉).
What started as a free, humble, hobby blog on blogspot.com (raise your hand if you remember the mykitchencafe.blogspot.com days 👋🏼) is now a large website that has grown in so many ways:
- The first recipe was published in December 2007 ➡️ now my site has close to 2,000 recipes.
- My mom and sister were the only ones who read my blog at first ➡️ now over a million people visit each month.
- I never dreamed I’d actually publish a cookbook and that people would buy it ➡️ now I do have a published cookbook that has sold tens of thousands of copies.
- I had three kids ages three and under when I hit publish on the first recipe ➡️ now I have five kids ages 21 to 13.
- I was living in Wisconsin when my blog started ➡️ now we live in Idaho (by way of Minnesota and Utah!).
Ready for a few *then* and *now* pictures?
(You guys, I actually remember thinking the close up angle on that lasagna was so photographically powerful 🫣🫣)
I can’t believe my kids think it’s ok to grow up and leave me. 😭 I know 18 years is a long time, but when I see the evolution of how my kids have grown up during the life of this blog…it tugs on my heart strings like crazy.
And now a moment of silence for some of the old logo variations my blog went through before I finally earned a little bit of revenue and hired a professional to do the work. 🤣
I think we should plan a big celebration for the Mel’s Kitchen Cafe 20 year birthday in 2027, what do you think? Like, can we all cram in my kitchen and chat over cookies and hot chocolate? Messy buns and joggers??
Yes, that is my kind of celebration. Thank you for being here, friends. My life is better with you in it. 💗💗
Second, a few questions
- How are you holding up?
- Is your holiday shopping done?
- Do you have travel plans for the upcoming holidays or are you staying home?
- Are you finding ways to enjoy this season outside of the craziness?
That last question is constantly my holiday life goal.
My current status: I have a lot of shopping already done and packages already sent off to family and friends that live away. But there are a few little stocking stuffer-type things to be purchased (and nothing is wrapped yet).
I asked my kids (only two at home this year 😢) which holiday traditions they wanted to continue and which they didn’t care about with the intention to get rid of anything extra that we were doing out of traditional obligation. It was really enlightening! Surprisingly they still wanted to decorate gingerbread (going the Costco gingerbread kit route this year rather than homemade gingerbread like we usually do and feel really good about that).
(Here’s a flashback from 10 years ago to show you just how seriously we take decorating homemade gingerbread creations around here 😜🤣)
We’ll, of course, also make a bazillion cheeseballs to give out to neighbors and friends (last year, I was tired and we opted for an easy, non-food gift…but lots of people expressed displeasure and texted asking when cheeseballs would be back 😜).
And this week, we are going to visit the Light the World Giving Machines and walk around the lights at a fun city-center display near us.
➡️➡️ What are some of your favorite December traditions??
Third, a few favorite recommendations
I know I already published my gift guides for the holiday season, but I wanted to share a few additional recommendations that I’m loving right now!
- With my aging neck and back issues, this tilting puzzle board has been a game-changer. My mom had a version when we visited for Thanksgiving, and I immediately ordered one! We already put together this puzzle on it, and it was perfect.
- Can you handle a couple more game recs?
- We LOVE trivia games, and this general knowledge trivia set is so fun (there are a lot of different sets of these with different themes).
- This game was a hit at Thanksgiving! (I’m gifting it to several families this year.) It’s a cross between Phase 10 and Rummikub with some unique rules, and we’ve been playing it nonstop.
- This flat whisk (that twists into a full whisk) is brilliantly designed to save space in a utensil drawer, but I love it because it also doesn’t scratch nonstick pans. It isn’t quite as sturdy as my wire whisks, so it’s best for thinner batters and ingredients (and it can be used flat or full).
- In my never-ending quest to get enough fiber (literally a full-time job), I was religiously eating chia seeds in my morning smoothies or in yogurt. I recently replaced my daily chia seed intake with these basil seeds (have you heard of them?). They have nearly double the fiber and rehydrate MUCH faster than chia seeds. P.S.: they don’t taste like basil. I usually mix them in a smoothie or in yogurt (when they’re rehydrated, they are much more robust than chia seeds – they have the texture of tapioca pearls in tapioca pudding).
- My sister has been extolling the virtues of bar shampoo for months, and I finally tried it. Wow, it has made such a huge difference in my aging/somewhat-thinning hair! I’ve been using this bar shampoo and conditioner, and appreciate how my hair feels so much thicker and less brittle. I’m late to the game on everything – wish I had started using it sooner!
- I know these jeans have been making the rounds on social media, but I wanted to order them to really see if they lived up to the hype, especially with the more reasonable price. Yep, can confirm. I now have them in three lengths and three colors. They are basically the only jeans I’m wearing right now – so comfortable and while stretchy, they don’t lose their shape and become sloppy throughout the day. They come in four different lengths. I am 5’4″ (shorter torso, slightly longer legs) and I have the 30″ length in Seaside blue (they hit right below my ankles) and the 32″ length in Frosted Blue and Black (just so good with chunky boots).
A quick last note
If you’re subscribed to my email list, you may have noticed over the last few months that I’ve been including a few more short, personal, life update/notes in those emails. They fall at the end of the emails so that people who are just here for the food (totally valid!) don’t get bothered by them.
I love feeling connected to you and what’s going on in your lives, and those little updates give me a chance to hear from you, too (hit reply on the emails, and your response comes right to me!).
Because I’ve been including more of those notes in my emails (and on Instagram), it kind of makes these Friday Thoughts posts feel a bit redundant (which is partly why I’ve been publishing less Friday Thoughts posts). Over the next few months, I’ll figure out a rhythm of the best way (and how much) to share. If you have any feedback, leave it below in the comments! ⬇️⬇️
I have one more new recipe going up next Monday. I think I’m more excited about it than any other recipe I’ve posted this month – it is wildly yummy!
After that, I’m going to take a little time off from publishing new recipes to really soak up some time with my family, but I’ll be back the week after Christmas with a fabulous new appetizer recipe and a look at the most popular recipes this year! (And I’ll definitely be checking in on emails and answering recipe questions in the comments during the break.)
I hope you have the merriest of holiday seasons. I have the privilege of teaching the children at church songs each Sunday. The last few weeks, as I’ve heard their sweet, beautiful voices singing about Jesus Christ’s birth and praising Him for the gifts He freely gives us, I have felt His love so purely and so intensely. I am grateful, now and always, for the unparalleled gift of His birth, life, and resurrection. May His love and lasting peace find you this holiday season. ❤️
Congratulations, Mel! I can’t imagine not having your blog in my life. I’ve been around since 2013 and I found you through my search of Chewy Granola Bars, your recipes don’t disappoint and I visit you every week without fail☺️
So grateful and happy you are here, Shellie – truly!
So grateful for your recipes which I use almost every day! Merry Christmas!
Hugs,
Wendi Bohn
Appreciate you, Wendi!
Merry Christmas! It’s me again- I consider you a friend and have welcomed so many meals/recipes from your site to my home through raising a busy family- they are now in their 20’s- Many Christmas memories from cutting our own tree, Christmas eve services, reading the Bible, and cinnamon rolls….to name a few. Blessing to you and your blog!
Merry Christmas, Cheryl!!
Merry Christmas Mel! My Ghana nativity is still front and center on my mantle every year! I am so grateful for all the ways you have inspired me over the years 😊
Thank you so much, Pam! Merry Christmas!
I’ve been following you for years! My kids grew up on your recipes! WIshing you all the best!
Thank you so much, Cheryl!
I came into marriage in 2012 not really knowing how to cook. You have turned me into a great cook. My husband always tells our kids that they don’t realize how good they have it that we eat yummy food every night. Most of my recipes are from you, and my girls who are starting to bake know to search your site first for a recipe. Thank you so much for doing what you do!
You’re amazing, Courtney!! Thanks for the comment and for being here.
Yes to be big party to celebrate 20 years! I’d drive to Idaho for it! And huge congratulations on 18 years and 2,000 recipes! I am sure I haven’t made 2,000 different dishes in my life, and here you are not only making 2,000 different things, but coming up with all the recipes for them.
My shopping is done (I think), my packages are mailed, Christmas cards sent. And this is not at all normal for me.
One of my favorite traditions is reading this talk. (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2015/12/be-at-peace?lang=eng) After we read it, we listen to instrumental Christmas music and think about Jesus while coloring nativity scenes.
Another new tradition we love is a candle nativity with songs. (I think you are the one that shared it.)
Finally, the last few years I’ve started wrapping everyone’s presents in a different pattern of wrapping paper. I don’t put names on any packages and everyone gets a little square of their paper in their stocking. This way even if it’s obvious what the gift is (puzzles I’m looking at you) my kids can’t be 100% sure that gift is for them.
Thank you for sharing that link, Jennifer! I love hearing other people’s traditions. And we love that candle nativity, too. Ok, that wrapping paper idea is such a good one. Might have to steal it!
I definitely stole the wrapping paper idea from someone else. It’s been so fun. Merry Christmas!
Thank you for recommending that talk!!! Exactly what I needed right now, and what I need for a Relief Society lesson I’m teaching in January!
I’ll let you know how I’m holding up after it hits me that one of my kids won’t be here for Christmas. Also after the primary sings “Go Tell It On the Mountain” for Christmas sacrament. They are real good at the chorus but weak on the verses. I’ve given it my best as the music leader.
Shopping is almost done and wrapping is 80% there. We just have our food shopping, a pick up grocery order for our missionary, 1/2 a project and one batch of caramels left (making 5 types). Laughing that is my “only” list.
I’m going nowhere but my Mom is coming from Idaho to Alberta to visit us before she starts her mission in January.
I’m trying to enjoy the season by getting things done early, taking things off my plate that really weren’t my favourite and trying to help more people.
Oh my goodness, I hear you. Our primary is not as prepared as I would like for singing in sacrament meeting either! But I agree with you…I’ve given it my all, and I’ve learned no one cares what they sound like because they are so cute standing up there. Good luck with all the rest that you need to get done (and as you go through the holidays missing one of your kiddos).
I’m here for the recipes and everything else! I started using your recipes back in 2011 when I was living in Wisconsin and had four little ones, too! I even have an email exchange between us from December 2011! 🙂 It’s been fun to be here for all the changes and see the growth of your blog and your family. Your site is always my go to when I’m looking for a recipe and I always love your game and gift guides, I just know if Mel recommends it, it’s going to be good! I still have nightmares at times from when your son broke his jaw at a wrestling tournament. My two high school boys decided not to wrestle this year and I admit I’m not too sad about it……thanks for all you do to bring so much goodness to the internet/social media. Enjoy the holidays with your family, two at home will be a different experience, but hopefully still wonderful. On my to do list over winter break is to make those hot cocoa cookies!! Oh, and I just added the shampoo/conditioner bars to my amazon cart, I’ve been thinking about trying them out and you just convinced me to give them a try!!
Ah, thanks for being here, Lexie!! And for your kind words. It feels so validating to have others share in the same worries I have (like, WRESTLING….oh my, I am having the best holiday season not having to stress about high school wrestlers – it’s our first year in 10-12 years not having a wrestler…but then, I also oddly miss it…so I guess the lesson here is that I am hard to please, haha).
Merry early Christmas! Being perfectly honest, I’m not holding up the best this year. I was laid off in October and while we’re lucky to be able to stay afloat through unemployment and my husband’s income, the uncertainty and tough job market are definitely putting a damper on things. My job isn’t my identity, but the rejections still eat at your self-esteem, you know? We at least had previously decided that we weren’t doing any traveling for the holiday season, so we haven’t had to cancel any plans. And since we’re in FL, we have a lot of visitors scheduled for the winter (including my mom for Christmas).
We are doing our best to enjoy the simple parts of the season like watching movies by the light of the tree and going out to see light displays. We’re trying to look at the upside of this, which is that we’ve asked multiple family members to simplify exchanging gifts this year – we’ll still buy for our nieces, but limited or no exchanging with other adults. In addition to the financial pressure, it relieves some of the time and “mental load” pressure. Spending time together is what we care about most these days. So to actually answer your question, we only have one or two more things left to buy. Oh, maybe three – we decided today that our dog needs a soccer ball. 😀 I’ve just been so busy with job searching and appointments that I haven’t started my usual baking yet, and now I have the urge to make even more cookies, thanks to your new M&M and hot cocoa cookie recipes!
I love Friday thoughts in whatever frequency or format you choose to share them in!
Making my Christmas dinner list now, and so far 3 of your recipes are on the list!! Thanks for helping to make the holidays so yummy!
Also, merry Christmas! (I’m barely surviving, having an off year). But planning my meal makes me feel better!
Thanks, Brianne! And I totally get having an “off” year…I really struggled the last two (maybe three) holiday seasons. A huge lesson for me to give myself some grace. You are doing GREAT.
Happy 18 years of blogging! I have been following you since almost the beginning. I felt an instant connection to you since I live in Wisconsin so I felt like we were neighbors even though you were a couple hours away. My kids were also the same ages and your youngest 2 at the time. How is it possible that so many years have passed? I was not much of a cook back then which my kids can’t believe. I credit you with so many wonderful recipes that made me the cook I am today! Thank you for sharing your life with so many of us over the years.
Thank you for sharing the additional things you love. I added the shampoo and conditioner bars to my amazon delivery. I am always on the lookout for something to help my fine thin hair. Also, the basil seeds. I spend so much energy trying to get enough fiber and protein each day. But there is always room for your wonderful desserts!
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas, Mel and family!
I was more tired last year with Christmas (food) gifts too, so I only made your peppermint fudge and my husband made your candied pecans. This year, I made a few more things, but people were definitely were asking about the pecans this year. Why do I even make anything else? Give the people what they want, right?! We’ll see what people comment on after they eat some goodies! I’m betting the pecans are the favorite again… 😜
Love the Friday Thoughts, but it’s always fun to hear from you whether here or in email.
Thanks for letting us tag alongside your blogging journey! I’ve been around about 15ish years (hard to remember quite what year) and only had 2 boys at the time, but now have 6 boys and 1 girl. Time surely flies!
Haha, yes, give the people what they want. 🙂 Those pecans are pretty stellar! So glad you are here, friend.
Just ordered the shampoo and conditioner bars for my sister for Christmas. You always have great recommendations!
I hope she loves them as much as I do!
Love your thoughts! I’ve been around since 2010 when my oldest was a new baby and I was looking for easy yummy recipes. My 3rd child, oldest daughter is 11 and often says on that’s a Mel’s! We love Mel’s! Thanks for sharing your yummy recipes and being a trust and true stopping point! Merry Christmas
Thanks for sharing that, Kelsie!! Really, really grateful you are here.
I’ve been cooking from your blog/website for at least fifteen years and I can’t imagine how much of a learning curve everything was. Blogging was so new and photography on the blog held a different expectation than now. Sometimes I miss the simplicity (of everything in the world) but I’m glad you’ve continued to grow this space and help me feed my family for my whole marriage. Making your cranberry cheesecake this weekend for a party and I can’t wait to eat it! Merry Christmas!
I miss the simplicity, too, Rachel! Thanks for sticking around despite the growth and changes. Hope you love that cranberry cheesecake!
18 years old? Wow!! I officially found your blog when I was looking for a non-alcoholic fondue recipe. But soon realized I was already making some of your recipes, such as the baked sweet and sour chicken (given to me by my sister–another avid Mel fan).
Speaking of fondue… it’s still one of our favorite Christmas traditions! Sometimes it shows up on Christmas Eve, sometimes on Christmas, and even sometimes afterwards, but it’s always part of our tradition! I grew up in Salt Lake City going to my Grandma’s house every Christmas Eve. It was a huge gathering (lots of cousins!) with a gorgeous dinner, amazing gifts, the nativity, and a visit from (the real) Santa Claus at the end. Christmas Eve at Grandma’s was a foundational tradition that I built my life on! Since I live in Texas, away from family, I wanted my own kids to have a tradition that they looked forward to every year on Christmas Eve. One year, we went to Sea World Antonio on Christmas Eve and realized the weather was perfect and the crowds were thinner. It’s become another favorite Christmas tradition. Sometimes we go earlier than actual Christmas Eve, and we might go later this year–we haven’t decided yet–but we’ll be there! (On a side note, our first year, we stopped at the McDonald’s drive thru for a quick Christmas Eve dinner to be gobbled down on our way back up to Austin. I cringed thinking about Grandma and what she would make of our meal… but then realized she would just love that we’re all together and celebrating the season. 🙂 ) One more Christmas tradition… My husband loves to bbq and does “bbq plates” for neighbors and friends each year. People get excited and will even ask me ahead of time when we’re doing them so they can be sure to be home. He likes to experiment with new recipes and this year will be including “Texas Sushi” (his own creation–sushi rice, seasoned, with a thin slice of steak on top) and pork belly cinnamon rolls. Bacon-wrapped asparagus is always included–an old favorite. Sometimes I add cookies to the plates to sweeten it up a bit.
Thanks so much for all you give, Mel! You’ll be part of our celebration when we eat fondue, pass out Hot Cocoa Cookies with the bbq plates, and in many other delicious moments!
Merry Christmas! I started following you back in 2011 when my youngest was 6 and I had a houseful. Now she’s serving a mission and my house is quiet with everyone gone. Fun to relive that time through your older pictures. Your name is a staple in our house – the whole time my kids were growing up and I’d make a new recipe someone always asked, is this Mel’s? Thanks for being a part of my life all these years. I love your Friday posts. They are my favorite.
Oh man, TIME FLIES. I hope your daughter is doing well. Thanks for being here, Keri!!
Merry Christmas! I still enjoy the Friday posts and hearing what is going on with you and your family.
Out Christmas is a bit busier this year as our oldest gets married next week (how did I get this old?).
I was the song teacher to children in our church several years ago, and later, I was a class teacher, and I am convinced that the songs children learn teach them much more than any lessons they hear from a teacher in church.
The Germans have a word for a song that gets stuck in your head, and it translates as “ear worm,” and when I had those callings with the children, the songs were truly ear worms. I ask you, how often does something said in a talk or lesson become an ear worm the way songs do?
Thank you for your emails – I wasn’t aware of the additional thoughts from you after the recipes, and I will go back now and look for them.
Best wishes to you and your loved ones this holiday season, and thank you for the wonderful recipes you have shared with me and my loved ones.
I don’t usually comment (I think this is only my second or third time). But, I just wanted to say how much I appreciate your work to bring wonderful, delicious meals to my family! I only discovered you a couple years ago. I wish I would have known about you sooner. My sisters and I refer to you as our friend Mel and talk about what recipes we are making. Whenever someone asks about a recipe I make I say I got it from my friend Mel. We have never met (maybe one day), but (other than my sisters) you are the best friend I could have! *insert heart emoji*
As for Christmas, I am almost done. Now that my husband and I have older kids (22 down to 13), it seems more chill. Honestly, except for the 13yo, they would all be thrilled with gas cards to Maverik. 🙂 My husband and I buy our own Christmas presents for ourselves. This year I bought myself a Bosch mixer. And, of course, I had to get it while it was on sale and use it immediately. I hadn’t bought one previously because my husband had a Kitchen Aide (his contribution to the marriage ;). I should have bought one a long time ago. I love it so much!! We have had two funerals in our ward recently (one an older brother, the other a young sister, very sad). I was able to make your fluffy dinner rolls with ease in my Bosch. Everyone raved about them!
Thank you again for all your time and effort!! May you and your family have a most joyous Christmas!!
Thank you for taking the time to comment, Natalie – I appreciate it! Your comment was so kind, and I am so, so happy and honored that you and your sisters love the recipes. Honesty, reading things like that makes me feel like I could blog forever because I LOVE knowing that the recipes I’m posting are becoming favorites for others. It just fills me with all sorts of joy. And honestly, equal to that joy is the happiness knowing you have a Bosch mixer and love it!! I honestly don’t know how I’d live without mine, and I want to bear my testimony about it to everyone!! Yay!!!!! So happy for you. Merry Christmas, Natalie!
I need more basil seed info because chia seeds are the worst. Like, the texture WIGS me out. But, fiber! Do the basil seeds blend into a smoothie enough that you don’t even notice them? Can I be healthy AND be weird about textures??
Puzzles! I have a regular, under-40-years-old-person puzzle board, but maybe I need a tilting, mid-40s-year-old-with-arthritis-person puzzle board?
Friday Thoughts are the best. Thanks for recommending pretty much everything in my kitchen.
Hmmmm, I think you’ll still be less than thrilled about the texture of the basil seeds. They hydrate better (and don’t get stuck in my teeth like chia) but the texture is definitely THERE. Softer than chia, but they still don’t blend up completely smooth. And yes, you can definitely be healthy and have texture issues, haha. I get that! There are other things that weird me out completely.
Merry Christmas, Mel! So grateful for the time and passion you put into bringing us dependably delicious recipes! Our Christmas season is more relaxed than our fall months were and I am here for it! God bless you and your family.
Merry Christmas Mel. I have been reading your blog since the beginning. Can’t believe how long ago that was. I have used so many of your recipes to feed my family. You have been a blessing to more people than you can imagine. I wish only a peaceful, healthy, happy 2026 for you and your family.
Teresa, I just adore you and am so grateful you are still here. Thanks for your comments and friendship over the years!
Sweet Mel! You’re adorable and I LOVE your Friday Thoughts emails! (I don’t get on Instagram too much!) I LOVE your recipes, too! Best on the web! Seriously! I wish you a most wonderful Christmas, full of the joy of your family and our savior. ❤️
The kindest words….thank you, Lynne!
Keep up the Friday thoughts, I love them!
I am not ready for Christmas, but close! This year we are doing things different with a couple bigger family gifts and just a couple gifts each besides that. Stockings have been extra hard for me this year. But I want to get it all done so I can shift my focus and slow down.
I love your recommendations (and gift guides!), so please always keep sharing. You are so real and the stuff you recommend is always so great! Adding Phase 10 tiles to my cart right now.
Congrats on 18 years!! I have been around for about 15 of those years! Long enough that your recipes have been a staple for the majority of my marriage (and we hit 20 years next week!). Everyone in my family knows who “Mel” is! 😁 Speaking of recipes, I am off to make the Hot Cocoa Cookies, and this year we are doing your cheeseballs for neighbors for Christmas too!
Stockings are ALWAYS hard for me, too – I get that! So grateful you are here after all these years, Chantel. I hope you love the hot cocoa cookies (and I just made our cheeseballs today – so glad to be done with that!).
Merry Christmas! I love your thoughts and recommendations! I’m feeling cheery as I’m giving my last final today (no I’m not done shopping, but we’re not going anywhere and I should have more time next week). I just bought the quince “bella stretch relaxed straight jeans” and I love them! But now I’m wondering if I should have gotten the wide leg instead? I’m sure their similar (these have a fairly wide leg as well), and I love the fit and feel. I should order more. I might try the trivia game as well — we’ve been hit and miss with trivia games, but my family loves trivial pursuit. Thanks for being a virtual friend and I hope you guys love Christmas and that your missionaries love it too!
Yay to being done administering finals! That’s interesting about the other Bella jeans! I might have to try the straight fit, too!
Hi Mel. I love literally everything you post. Thanks for the update! I have 4 kids 5 and under and this year, their gifts were bought and wrapped before Thanksgiving. It has been so nice to not have gifts hanging over my holiday season head. How am I holding up? I was doing great until my 2 year old suddenly got quite ill yesterday. She has a barking cough and I’m praying it’s c croup and not pertussis. I’ve never dealt with either, so they both scare me. Especially since I have a 7 month old. A quick note on your church calling – I’m glad you’re primary chorister, although I do think that coming up with an entertaining singing time each week makes it a rather demanding calling. But at least you don’t have a food related calling.. when you post about being in charge of girls camp food or making caramels for a bunch of ladies at a class (I’m sure that was some sort of RS demo) I wonder if your gift with food becomes a curse. “Who should be in charge of food for the ward party?” – “Let’s ask Sister Gunnell!” Be honest here – do you get tired of being asked to do food things at church and in your community? I know you like cooking, but still. Anyway, I love your guts, merry Christmas!
I know food is your thing, but we have loved doing a neighborhood food drive instead of neighbor gifts. That way we are helping people that don’t have enough and not getting extra calories we don’t need. 😊
YES. My parents neighborhood does this and last year they raised over $7k for the food bank. Trying to get that going in my own neighborhood.
That’s awesome. In late November one of our neighbors sends out a little invitation “in lieu of neighbor gifts, let’s get together for cocoa and cookies on Monday and donate food to our local food bank.”
So many people need help and we can make a difference. No stress about what to buy for neighbors.
We live in a very small area (not really a neighborhood)…don’t know if this would gain traction, but I love the idea!
Merry Christmas, Mel! I have followed you for a few years now and your cookbook is my favorite! I know that I can make any recipe of yours for the first time and serve it to guests with no worries! My four kids are all adults now, three are married, and only two will be here for Christmas this year. I miss them all being little. Sometimes, the ache is nearly overwhelming, but what fun it has been to see them become adults! They remain my joy! I am nearly done shopping, and almost everything is wrapped. Packages are all on their way. The cards and notes are written and sent. Now I will mainly sit back, relax, and enjoy the lights and decorations. I will be thankful forever for the gift of Jesus and all the blessings He has brought into my life. Wishing you joy!
You sum that up so well, Kellie! The pain of having kids grown up but also loving to see them in these new phases. You are well prepared for Christmas and I hope you can enjoy every remaining minute of the month. Love your testimony of Jesus.
Holding up-yes, each year a little better
Not done shopping
Havent wrapped
Starting a new tradition of a bake off decoration of some sort
Plus trampoline park for the fun of it.
Staying here. Hailey and Elliott are coming.
But the day after Christmas break is over, Blake and I are going to DC as our Christmas/surviving life gift. It was one of Spencer’s options for his parent senior trip. So better make that happen
Thanks for being real and awesome.
You being so much good to the world
Love you, Heather. So happy you and Blake are taking that trip.
I love your Friday thoughts emails!
Thanks, Melissa!
I remember when you were temporarily living in a hotel room in Minnesota. How close to the beginning does that put me? And didn’t you have extended family that had a food blog? I think that’s how I found you. Anyway, congratulations on 18 years!! Love you!
Oh my goodness, Stacey…you HAVE been around a long time if you remember that. I try to block that six months of my life out of my memory. Haha. It was rough. That was back in 2012!
Mel, I love your Friday thoughts! I love everything about you!!! I have been following you since the beginning!! You have helped and blessed me in so many ways! Thank you!! Currently I am a mission leader and I have used all of your recipes and help for serving large groups!! You saved me with your posts about girls camp and family reunions!! I will come to your 20 year celebration and eat cookies in your kitchen! That would be so fun!! My one question: how are all your farm animals? I loved your posts and about them, they were so fun. Thank you, thank you! Have a Merry Christmas!
Thanks for the comment, Janette! I have so much respect and admiration for mission leaders after sending a couple kiddos off on missions. You’re amazing! We’ve actually simplified our farm quite a bit. I thought we’d have pigs and donkeys forever, but we’ve rehomed both those animals. We still raise a lot of beef cows and chickens – they just aren’t as exciting for Instagram content. Haha. I was the saddest one at not having pigs and donkeys anymore, but it is a time and season thing…my kids are growing up and leaving me and the two I have at home are older and the animals aren’t as “fun” for them as they used to be. Anyway! Trying to embrace all these phases of life.
Basil seeds? For fiber? Whaaaat?
Now more than ever I feel my life revolves around fiber, protein and water intake. 🤪 Oh and keeping track of how many steps take a day too. 🤣
18 years Mel? Congratulations! I don’t remember when I found your blog. Somewhere near 2012 I think. I fully attribute you to teaching me how to cook properly and bake a decent dinner roll and everything in between. Your preference on good chocolate for dessert items. Then there was my meatball era. 🤣 Still ongoing. Just not as often. My fave is the skillet lemon turkey ones so bright and fresh! I’ve even prepped those for road trips when I know I’m gonna have a kitchen access. They are just the absolute best. Followed by the Lemon Chicken and orzo soup. (I swap out the orzo for wild rice). It’s also my road trip prep dinner. Just at home. I’d eat it every week 52 weeks a year. 🤣 I think I like lemon. 🤷
Have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!
I know, the basil seeds are a surprise! I had no idea I’d talk about fiber so much in my 40’s. Haha. Also, thanks for making me laugh out loud at the ‘meatball era’ Love hearing your favorites!! Thanks for being here, Andrea.
Dear Mel, I like your Friday thoughts. Thanks for those. I have family coming for two weeks this Christmas, with older kids and teenagers, so it’s hard to predict food needs. I have four of your recipes made and in the freezer, but I also have six or seven recipes ready to prepare should the need arise, and I have just put the cranberry-jalapeno dip on the list. (How have I missed that one?) Truly, your efforts have blessed my life. I hope your family has a great Christmas.
Oh wow, Julie, sounds like you’ll be doing the hostess thing for a while over the holidays! Sounds like you are wisely prepared!! I hope you are able to enjoy that family time.
I like reading the updates in the emails as well as the more rambling Friday thoughts. They don’t seem to be redundant just because it seems like they are never a repeat of what you’ve added onto an email.
I’ll have to try those basil seeds! You’re right it is a full time job to make sure there’s enough fiber in the diet!
I’ve been using shampoo bars too and LOVE how they make my scalp and hair feel.
Thanks for that feedback, Tanya! And seriously, those shampoo bars have done wonders for my hair!
I’ve been following your post since the early days. My kids always joke that all our best meals come from my “best friend, Mel”. I love reading your posts and making all your recipes. We’re doing a 12 days of Christmas baking countdown with our favorite bars and cookies from your site.
I’m definitely ready for the joy of Christmas, but am ill prepared in the present department. Thanks for letting us, as readers, grow with you and your family. It has been a joy to be a part of.
Thank you so much, Janay – I consider all of you dear friends (even if that sounds weird!). So grateful you are here on this journey with me!
I love reading your posts and also love your recipes! Actually planning to make your two new cookie recipes this weekend 🥳 I get overwhelmed with emails but I always make sure to read yours. Wishing your family a blessed Christmas season!
That means the world to me, Janelle. Thank you! Merriest of Christmases to you!
I remember finding your blog shortly after I started mine. I’ve been a loyal follower all these years (15? 16?). My blog fizzled out quickly. So glad yours is still going strong all these years later!
So honored you are still here, Diane!! Happy holidays!
Mel – I have been here since close to the beginning and make SO many of your recipes on rotation. Thank you for being a friend in my kitchen! Happy Holidays!
Julie
Thanks for being here, Julie!!
Mel, so grateful for your food blog! Been here from the beginning! You helped me gain confidence in learning how to cook and raising my family. You’re like a best friend. Have the Merriest Christmas.
Thank you so very much, Kim – for the sweet words and for being here after all these years!
Someone asked me the other day if I was ready for Christmas. I answered with a loud “YES!” I haven’t finished shopping and my decorations and tree weren’t even up at the time, but I was definitely ready for Christmas time. The stuff isn’t the fun part for me. Just the Spirit of the season.
Amen to that, Christie!! Love your enthusiasm. Merry Christmas!
Congratulations! What an huge accomplishment. I just recently found you but have fallen in love with your style and content.
You are the real deal in this world of fake computer everything. Please stay true to you.
What a blessing,
Susan Kerr
I’m so glad you are here, Susan!
Thank you for sharing. I have been following your blog for years and always look forward to trying a new recipe. Merry Christmas
Thanks for being here, Katherine!
I can’t wait for the 20 year party. Count me in!!
SWEEEETTT. Stay tuned. 🙂
I was laid off in October so I’m still reeling from that (I’m 62 but not wanting to retire 🥺) and trying to find cheerful moments in my day. The holidays are helping with time in the kitchen (hello cookies and homemade chex mix) stuffing the grandbabies stockings and lighting my 20 Christmas candies. Thank you for the cheerful emails, Mel and may the Lord bless you richly!
Just commenting to say I love you and your recipes have blessed my family for years. You truly are a gift. My kids are growing up as well and it has been much harder than I expected, while at the same time being so proud of the people they are becoming. Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family.
Thank you so much, Emily – Merry Christmas to you! Your kids are lucky to have a mom so invested in them at home and as they grow up.
Merry Christmas to you & your family! 🤚I remember the blogspot page, and I love reading your Friday Thoughts. My oldest turned 18 this year & we’re doing all the college things, not sure my mama heart is quite ready for that. My next one will be 18 next year, so I’ll be doing all over again. But so very thankful.
Not sure we’re quite ready for Christmas yet, still in a busy season with all the activities. I love your idea of asking your kids what traditions/activities they want to do. I think I need to do that with my crew.
Thank you for sharing with us, Mel. Forever thankful for finding your blog.
Oh, that is a huge transition to a new phase of life with your oldest, Jessica. It’s exciting…and also strange as it shifts family dynamics forever to have kids leave the house. Thank you for the update…love, love hearing about all of you.
Congrats, Mel! In Judaism, 18 is the numerical value of Life. It’s great that you’ve been able to do this for so long!
I’d like to see the Friday thoughts on the blog. I prefer to go to your blog and search for recipes than to get a select few in my inbox each week. I do follow you on Instagram, but of course we can miss things on that app.
And the Four Questions are for Passover, but we’ll let it pass this time, lol.
Thank you for being a ray of sunshine in the blogosphere, and for your honesty about raising kids (I’m about your age and my (3) kids are in the same age range as yours) and aging.
Merry Christmas, Mel! Thank you for bringing tradition and joy to our family. My oldest will be 18 next year and I am really feeling that pull to when they were babies, but also adoring the adults they are becoming. Life is beautiful!
I hear you on all of that, Melissa! It’s a very bittersweet time as a parent. Love your guts.