Can it really be almost February? Seriously, time is flying way too fast!
I apologize for slacking off with blogging. By mid-December, I was totally buried in work, between some exciting new projects, working on two books simultaneously and our food cart. Then, just as I was successfully juggling everything and making great progress and head-way, I got some darned flu-like virus that was going around. Seriously, the timing sucked! I never get sick, but, apparently, that didn’t seem to matter to the virus. Plus, I am a terrible patient. I have no idea how to just chill, rest and take it easy. I had no choice in the matter though, and came to realize that I was going to have to rest and relax if I wanted to get better. My body was not moving off the couch, no matter how much I tried to muster up the energy, except maybe to walk 10 feet to the kitchen to refill my tea pot. And the silver lining in all of this? I got to really, truly, relax and enjoy my kids’ winter break with them, just chilling, playing games, hanging out, doing a little sewing, and seeing movies. I had a blast, and wouldn’t trade that time for anything! I forget sometimes that it’s okay to give myself permission to just relax and have some fun.
So my theme for this year is fun. And taking time to smell the roses. And getting outside more. In between all the work projects. Thankfully, I really love what I do! If I won the lottery tomorrow, I would keep doing everything that I do (but with a very plush bank account, no less). Oh, one can dream; )
So, moving forward, I am super excited about this year. There are all kinds of fun and exciting things brewing. For starters, my Vegan Pizza book will be released this Fall! I can’t wait to share all of the delicious pizza recipes with you. We’re working hard now on all of the edits before it goes to print. Then, next up, I’m coming out with a line of gluten-free, vegan cake and dessert mixes. I will share more details as I have them. Right now we’re working on the packaging, and I am over the moon with excitement!
I’m also working on my vegan casserole book, which will come out Fall of 2014. Lots of healthy, delicious twists on everyone’s favorite casseroles (plus lots of new ones too). Now I just need my taste-testers to move back home, so I don’t have to eat them all myself.
So that’s what’s cooking around here. I am now back to regular blogging, because you know what? I really do love to blog, share recipes, and visit with all of you. Thank you for taking the time to come visit. I know how busy life can get, and I just want to say thanks!
xo Julie
p.s. in case you’re wondering what the chocolate chocolate chip cookie photo above has to do with this post, it is a recipe that I am working on and will share soon. They are so good, and can be made gluten-free or with regular wheat flour. How’s that for a convertible recipe?!
Sarah
I’m sorry you were sick, but really, I’m not. I’m glad you got to savor the rest and enjoy your kiddos. Congrats on your casserole book–I know it will be delicious!
Julie Hasson
Thank you Sarah!
Kristina
good to “see” you, welcome back!
my Grandpa Z always said to stop and smell the roses… and GOSH do I miss him so! … I stop and smell the roses, literally and metaphorically, just for him. blogging is that fun thing you get to do for you, so if you are too busy with LIFE, that is a good thing!
I cannot wait for your casserole book. cannot. wait.
Julie Hasson
Your grandpa Z was a smart man Kristina!
James
Welcome back Julie! Talk about exciting news! I think we’ll have to find a way to get your dessert mixes over here haha. Absolutely loved testing for your pizza book; can’t wait to have the recipes in a book rather than having bits of paper all over the house! And, of course, we’re always available to try our casseroles 😛 Again, welcome come: can’t wait to try that cookie recipe. James
Julie Hasson
Aww, thanks James!
Mattheworbit
Great to have you back, Julie, and that batter looks delectable.
Glad that you had some time over the break to relax – you work yourself so hard! I have to admit this was the first time I’ve had a proper break at Christmas, and for the first time in my life, I learned to relax – and to enjoy it! Woah, what a life changer that was ;).
Really looking forward to that pizza book – it’s about time we had a kick-ass pizza guide, and from testing, I well remember how incredible tasting the results were! Looking forward to the casserole book too!
stay safe and happy!
matt
Julie Hasson
Thanks Matt! I bet you are working very hard yourself there, with your incredible new baking business: )
Livvie
I’m so sorry you were sick, but that you’ve gotten better! 🙂 I have your pizza book on pre-order and I stalk amazon ALL the time to see when the casserole book comes out 🙂 GF or non gf, i know your food will be so yummy 🙂 and I’m glad that you’re recipes are easily convertible as well!
Julie Hasson
Thanks Livvie! I am so very excited about this pizza book, and can’t wait until it’s out. Thank you for pre-ordering it!
doe mora
Glad you’re back! I’ve actually marked my calendar to be on the lookout for your book. I adore casseroles and think they (along with the crock pot) are under-adored. I need a new cookie recipe and patiently await this one. 🙂
Julie Hasson
Thank you Doe!
urbanvegan
Missed you Julie. Yes, let’s hear it for FUN. Glad you’re on the mend. And can’t wait for your new cookbooks to come out. xx
Julie Hasson
Yay for fun! Dynise, I so wish you were coming out for the blogger’s conference. Just think how fun it will be!
I am eagerly awaiting your new cookbook too: )
xoxo