2012 has been an amazing, busy, fun, exciting and crazy year. I survived a blog redesign, we moved to a beautiful new home, I joined the Instagram-ing world and I made red velvet cake. Simply Scratch was named by Huffington Post as a Top Ten Food Blogs for both October and November which was so totally amazing! I made a lot of messes, did my share of dishes and loved every minute of it.

2012 in photos

I felt an overwhelming amount of pride watching my oldest daughter pitch in her first of many softball games and then at the end of the season accept an award for most strikeouts! And a giant lump formed in my throat when my husband and I sat at our youngest daughters’ parent-teacher conferences {in her new school} and we were told that we have a very gifted writer on our hands, one of the teachers best she’s ever had in all her years of teaching. I mean what could possibly top that?

I can only imagine what 2013 will bring. I feel all giddy entering my 4th year of blogging imagining all the possibilities. What food will I make? What friends will I finally meet {I’m talking to you Jessica, Rachel, Lauren, Megan, Cassie and Bev!}?

I’m open to whatever… bring it 2013.

Now, let’s celebrate a fantastic year passed and an even more fabulous year ahead… with food!

Okay so wanna know what’s funny. I had to ask my husband if there’s football on New Year’s Day. Yup… that’s how in touch I am with the sporting world. Sure I get into sports when, let’s say, the Tiger’s are in the World Series… but that is as far as it goes for me.

However, I know there are a TON of people who do sit, snack and watch football. SO since I may not know who’s playing whom on Tuesday and I may even question if it’s college or the NFL {because I really have no clue}…  I can at least help you out in the food department. Cool?

Here are my ‘Top 2012’ appetizers from the past year and from here on SS and some of my most favorite blogs!

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Bacon & Gorgonzola Guacamole

Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Chili Butter

Brie Toasts with Basil, Pine Nuts and Golden Raisins

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Beer Battered Mini Corn Dogs with Chipotle Ketchup 

Baked Chili Cheese Fries

Black Bean and Sweet Potato Quesadillas

Cantaloupe Bruschetta with Balsamic of Modena Glaze

Caramelized Onion Spinach Dip {Reduced Guilt!}

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Homemade Kettle Chips with Onion Dill Dip

Rainbow Pizza and Truffle Fries with a Wine Dipping Sauce

Spicy Garlic Chicken Wings with Blue Cheese Dip

Sweet and Tangy Balls

Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Tater Tot

White Pizza Dip

Eat well, drink responsibly and have a Happy New Year!

Xo

~L