January 2026 – Life Lately: New Year, Still Working
What’s Up, Fellow Foodies?
New year, same me? I’m not a big believer in New Year’s Resolutions. They may work for some, but they never have for me. Instead, every new year I make a new vision board. I have so much fun with the process of finding the images and arranging them and to see the finished product. There’s having the goals in your head mentally or written down, but I think it’s a whole different thing to see the images on a daily basis. Let me know what’s your mentality around goals for the new year.
What I Shared This Month (internal links):
- Starting to prep for Ramadan, I shared my ashta recipe which you can find here. In case you don’t know what ashta is, it’s a clotted cream that’s used as a filling and topping in many Middle Eastern desserts. It actually can even be eaten on its own with a bit of attar or honey and fresh fruit. It’s so incredibly versatile and delicious.
- The other recipe I’ve shared this month was for my mom’s Lebanese version of atayef. It’s made a few different ways, including being fried, but personally I much prefer the version I’ve shared. So if you want traditional atayef for this Ramadan, check out the recipe here.
Life Behind the Blog (personal update):
Life is life-ing. My daughter is growing curious, feisty and wanting to get into everything. Needless to say, she keeps me very busy. I’m still working full-time, while running this blog. I have a major announcement but can’t reveal it quiet yet as things are still falling into place and I don’t want to jinx anything. But man oh man, I can’t wait to share the amazing news!
Quick Tip of the Month:
Not a food tip, but don’t compare and give yourself grace. With a new year, we all feel like it’s a new beginning. Take it a day at a time and give yourself grace in every facet of your life. Most importantly, don’t compare yourself to others. We’re all on our own journey and at our own pace. That’s what makes it all beautiful.
What’s Inspiring Me (seasonal preview):
Right now, it’s all things Middle Eastern with Ramadan right around the corner. We’re talking ashta, pistachios, attar and so much more. Also, balancing that with sweets, specifically chocolate and cute desserts for two with Valentine’s right around the corner. Plenty of inspiration to draw from at this time of the year.
Coming Next Month:
In February, look out for:
- Some IG exclusive recipes that I’ll be making as a series
- A new Ramadan dessert recipe
- Two new spring dessert recipes
- One of my Lebanese favorite breakfast items
- A new tip/guide article
From My Kitchen to Yours:
That’s a little peek into my kitchen (and life!) this month. How are you prepping for either Ramadan or Valentine’s Day?
Let me know in the comments. Until next month, wishing you happy baking from my kitchen to yours. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for early access to spring recipes, helpful tips, and exclusive behind-the-scenes moments! 😊
