It's Your Year - 2011. Claim it.

I do not make New Year resolutions for I believe that each hour and each day is a new year in which to resolve many things. Each day we can turn a new leaf and start all over as sure as the sun will rise and set.

Here are some of the things that I am continuing to work on in my life. Life is not static so the order is constantly revolving.

• Forever praying - to be a better person. And, to make the lives of those I come into contact with - physically, virtually, personally and professionally, a little brighter, even if it just to make them smile.
• Surrounding myself with people that I love and support unconditionally and those that feel the same way about me.
• Never taking anything or anyone for granted.
• Distancing myself from those who hate me and my family. I keep begging God for the grace to forgive. I am tired of being hurt.
• Following my passion. While I may not be able to achieve all I would like to, at least I can say that I've tried.
• Living in the moment. Enjoying the here and now.
• Being thankful, for I am richly blessed.

What are some of the things you are working on?

May the New Year and all your days, be as bright and cheery as this flower. And may the light shine ever so brightly especially amidst darkness as it does in this photograph. Peace and blessings.

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Happy Holidays Everyone!

Wherever you are, whatever you're celebrating, whom ever you're with and whatever you're doing - have a great time. May your holidays be filled with lots of love, joy and laughter and let's also pause long enough to remember those less fortunate and those of our friends and loved ones who are no longer with us. Happy Holidays Everyone!

For some Punch de Creme to have with your cake, click here.

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Book Release - Tastes Like Home!

It's finally here. My book. There is so much I want to say, there's so much I could say, but right now I just want to thank all of you. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your support. Thank you for your encouragement, and for some of you, thank you for your patience.

Without you, there would be no book. It was written for you. This is your invitation to join me in revelling in the tastes of the Caribbean!

Read about the book here and how you can purchase it. Please, share this post with your family, friends and all those interested in Caribbean food.

Do join the book's Facebook page.

I'll update you with details of book signings etc. in the near future.

Have a great weekend everybody!

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An Idea Worth Repeating

Four ingredients are all that is needed to make Pommes Anna, a simple, yet elegant side dish. Potatoes, butter, salt and pepper come together and create a crisp and creamy mouthful that's sure to please all potato lovers.

The first time I made and serve this dish, I noticed that people were enviously looking at those who still had pieces of the crust on their plates - nibbling and savouring each morsel. Now I know that it is always a good idea to serve holiday meals communal style, after all, it is about being together, sharing together and eating together. However, I don't think that it will hurt if some of the dishes are made and served individually, such as these Mini Pommes Anna. This way, everyone gets their own stack of crusty and creamy potatoes.

I say that this is an idea worth repeating because I first saw these mini delights over at Bakers Royale. I thought it such a great idea, hence my repeating it here.

No cast iron pan needed for this recipe, you make these beauties right in your muffin pans! Get the recipe here. Please note that I significantly reduced the amount of salt than that stated in the recipe.

THIS WEEK ON ABOUT.COM

Coconuts, as you know, are used widely in Caribbean cuisine. Learn more about using this ingredient in its various forms - fresh, canned, powdered and desiccated. Depending on which form you are using it, the application can vary.

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