Happy New Year!

It is new years day, the most optimistic time of the year. In spite of the fact that most resolutions never last past the end of January, we have resolved to lose weight, quit smoking, save more, exercise more, and the list goes on.

Yesterday, I read an article by Shape magazine's outgoing editor Valerie Latona who spoke about not fulfilling her bucket list (in reference to why she is stepping down as editor.) And it made me think about my own bucket list or, rather, my lack of one. In the same way that keeping a food journal can keep us accountable, the concept of putting on paper the things you want to achieve in the upcoming years, offers to assist in accomplishing those goals. I also like to think of it as means of exploring my own physical and metal capabilities, and the world , and a way of getting closer to family and friends.

So this year, in place of resolutions, I will begin working on my bucket list. Making the list are learning new skills such as surfing and sailing, traveling to a spanish-speaking country and speaking only spanish, and training for and completing the Napali trail in Kauai. This is a working list so I expect to add to it. And I also expect that there will be good food amidst all of this. In the mean time, I wish you the best in 2011 and look forward to sharing more recipes with you! Below are a few quick appetizers to start off the year; just click on the name below for the recipe.

Cheers!

Natasha

Cheese and Scallion Puffs

Warm Cucumber Salad with Lemon

Stuffed Dates

Salmon and Sweet Potato Cakes

Simple Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Amaretto Apples on Pound Cake