As 2024 draws to a close, I reflect on a year filled with both challenges and triumphs here at Garden Feast. It’s been a year of growth—both in the garden and in the kitchen. We’ve weathered storms, quite literally, but also reaped the rewards of hard work and perseverance. Let’s take a moment to look back on the key highlights of this memorable year.
Overcoming Challenges: A Year of Resilience
Without a doubt, the defining moment for my family’s 2024 was losing our home in a fire in October. It has been a tough time, especially during the holidays, and I feel like everything is in flux. I have wanted to write about it but every time I start, I cannot finish. So, maybe it is that we do not need to share everything, as we process the traumatic event.
Thankfully, through community support, family resilience, and a focus on rebuilding, we made it through that rough first phase and now planning on rebuilding in 2025, God willing. While the experience left its mark, it also gave us a renewed sense of appreciation for our home, our loved ones, and the simple joys of life. Above all, it has made us more aware of the faithfulness of God at all times, and the peace that comes when we put our full trust—all in— in Him.
This photo still shocks me, and I find myself looking at it, as if by doing so, it would all sink in. It has not. Not sure it will ever be.
Nature’s Spectacle: Magic in the Sky
This fall, between the northern lights and the moon, we got some rare sights in the sky. These were awe-inspiring sights; a reminder of the incredible beauty that nature has to offer. I captured the moment, reflecting on how moments like these put everything in perspective. The aurora borealis was not just a spectacle of colors in the sky, but a symbol of nature’s wonder that nourishes the soul.
The Garden: A Bounty of Blooms
The growing season in the garden was nothing short of spectacular. My cut flower garden flourished, producing an abundance of vibrant blooms that brightened up every corner of the space. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a garden come to life, knowing that every flower represents hours of care and attention. This year, the flowers didn’t just brighten the garden; they made their way into countless arrangements, each a reflection of the season’s beauty.
Culinary Adventures: New Recipes and Sourdough Success
This year, I continued my culinary exploration, trying out new recipes and expanding my kitchen skills. From hearty stews to fresh salads, there was no shortage of inspiration. But the real triumph came in the sourdough department. After months of practice, I can proudly say my sourdough game has reached new heights. The loaves were crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside—exactly what I’d been striving for. It’s been such a rewarding experience to get better at this craft, and I look forward to continuing to share more of my sourdough journey with all of you.
Looking Ahead: A New Healthy Living Link-Up
As we step into 2025, my focus is on rebuilding our home and getting back to a sense of normalcy.
I’m also excited to share a new initiative I’ve been working on—a Wellness Weekend Blog Link-Up. The idea is to create a space where fellow bloggers and readers can share their experiences, tips, and stories about living well. From gardening to cooking to mindfulness, this link-up will be a place to connect and inspire one another in our journeys toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. I’m thrilled to see how this new project will grow, and I can’t wait to get started.
In 2024, we’ve celebrated resilience, beauty, growth, and creativity. Thank you to all of you who have followed along, supported, and shared in these experiences. As we look to the future, I’m excited for what’s to come and look forward to continuing this journey with you all. Here’s to a peaceful, joyful, and bountiful 2025!
Until next time!
Mondays - Sweet Tea & Friends, Hearth & Soul Community, You Are The Star, Love Your Creativity Link-Party // Tuesdays- Nature Notes // Wednesdays- Let’s Have Coffee, Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop,Homestead Blog Hop, Happiness is Homemade // Thursdays-Thursday Favorite Things // Fridays- Farmhouse Fridays, Five Minute Friday Crazy Little Lovebirds