Celebrating a Decade of Deliciousness: My 10-Year Food Blog Anniversary Extravaganza!

On March 2, 2021, my beloved blog marked a monumental milestone: its 10th anniversary! Whether you call it a birthday, an anniversary, or a fantastic blogiversary—I call it a reason to celebrate with an epic party! To express my heartfelt gratitude to this incredible community, I’m dedicating the ENTIRE month of March to celebration. Prepare for a whirlwind of exciting giveaways, valuable prizes, and, of course, a continuous stream of delicious, inspiring recipes. Join me as I reflect on this amazing decade-long journey and share the story behind An Affair From The Heart.

From Humble Beginnings to a Flourishing Food Community

When I first dipped my toes into the world of blogging, back when my platform was a free Blogspot site hosted by Google, I truly had no grand vision or clear direction. My technical expertise extended only as far as designing my old MySpace page (remember those days, LOL!). The inspiration struck when a friend mentioned she had started a recipe blog and suggested I do the same to share photos from the parties I loved hosting. The idea resonated, and I thought, “Why not?” It felt like a fun, creative outlet for a stay-at-home mom of four.

My inaugural post was about a delightful Valentine’s party I had thrown for my girlfriends. Over the next few months, I continued to share snapshots and descriptions of the food served at various gatherings. However, as much as I adored hosting, I quickly realized that party-centric content had its limits. A turning point came when several friends and readers began requesting the actual recipes for the dishes I featured. This organic demand sparked a shift: I started incorporating recipes alongside my party photos, and their popularity was undeniable.

It became clear that the recipes were far more engaging than the party snapshots alone. What began as an “entertaining blog with a few recipes sprinkled in” gradually, and naturally, blossomed into a full-fledged food blog. While I still cherish and occasionally share fun entertaining ideas, the heart and soul of An Affair From The Heart now lies in its diverse collection of approachable, delicious recipes designed for home cooks. This evolution over ten years has been a journey of discovery, growth, and immense joy, transforming a simple hobby into a vibrant online destination for culinary inspiration.

Discover the Story Behind My Blog’s Name: An Affair From The Heart

The Heart of It All: Family, Friends & Our Amazing Community

I often pause to reflect on the incredible reach of this blog, and it fills me with profound humility. From those initial days when my only loyal followers were my mom and a couple of close friends, to now reaching millions of people worldwide each month, the scale of it all is truly mind-boggling. It’s astonishing to think that this journey started as a simple, fun hobby while I was a stay-at-home mom raising our four children. This space has become so much more than I ever imagined.

Over the past decade, I’ve had the immense privilege of connecting with countless amazing individuals. Some of these connections, forged through online groups and even at large blogging conferences, have evolved into some of my dearest friendships. These incredible women understand the unique challenges and triumphs of the online world, offering unwavering support and camaraderie. We operate from a place of genuine encouragement, free from competition or jealousy. We simply want to see each other thrive, succeed, and find happiness in our shared passion. This supportive sisterhood is a gift I cherish deeply.

The trust and engagement of this community—my readers, my followers—is what truly fuels An Affair From The Heart. Knowing that my recipes inspire meals in kitchens around the globe, or that my stories bring a moment of joy, is the greatest reward. It’s a testament to the power of connection and the shared love for good food and authentic experiences. As our children grew and we approached an “empty nest” phase, this blog transformed from a hobby into a fulfilling, full-time career that I absolutely adore. The flexibility it offers, allowing me to work from anywhere, is a dream come true, and I have many plans to take advantage of that freedom!

My Favorite Things: A Decade of Gratitude in Giveaways!

To make this 10th-anniversary month truly special and engaging for everyone, I brainstormed extensively and even enlisted the help of my brilliant, supportive friends. My goal was to channel a bit of that “Oprah’s Favorite Things” magic, where I could share items that genuinely bring me joy and reflect who I am. While I can’t quite give everyone a car (oh, how I wish!), I’ve meticulously curated a collection of prizes that I believe you’ll find exciting, useful, and truly reflective of the spirit of An Affair From The Heart.

This March, I’m thrilled to be giving away 11 incredible prizes. Why 11 instead of 10? Well, that’s where my “favorite things” truly begin: 11 is my lucky number! So, ten prizes symbolize each wonderful year of this blog’s existence, each connected to one of my top favorite things. The eleventh prize, however, is a very special one, and I’m asking for your direct participation to win it. Get ready to dive into the details—it’s going to be an unforgettable month!

And for that extraordinary 11th prize, one lucky winner will receive a brand-new KitchenAid mixer! If you’re already the proud owner of this kitchen staple, you’ll have the option to receive a $250 Visa gift card instead.

Your Chance to Win a KitchenAid Mixer: Bake, Cook, & Share!

Participating in the KitchenAid mixer (or gift card) giveaway couldn’t be simpler: all you have to do is make my recipes! Yes, it’s that easy. Whether you’re baking a comforting dessert, preparing a family dinner, or experimenting with a new appetizer or drink recipe from the blog, simply whip it up, take a photo, and email it to me at [email protected] with the subject line: “Here’s My Recipe!”

Entries will be accepted from March 1st until 11:59 PM CST on March 31st. There’s no limit to how many recipes you can make and submit! For each recipe you try, send me a photo, tell me what you made, and share your thoughts on the dish, and you’ll receive an entry to win. It’s a wonderful way to explore new flavors and potentially upgrade your kitchen!.

Bonus Entry Opportunity: Share Your Culinary Creations!

Want an extra chance to win? You can earn a bonus entry for *each* recipe photo you share on social media! Simply post the photo and the recipe title (please do not share the complete recipe) and tag my Facebook page or my Instagram page, making sure to include the hashtag: #AnAffairFromTheHeart. To ensure I see your entry, especially if your social media accounts are set to private, please also send a screenshot of your shared post to my email address. This helps me track all your fantastic creations and ensures every entry counts!

Getting to Know Me: Insights Behind the Blog & Giveaways

Allow me to share a few insights into who I am. These facts might seem a bit random at first glance, but most of them directly influenced my choices for this anniversary month’s exciting prizes. Here are some things about me, in no particular order, that shape both my life and this blog:

• **Music Lover:** I immerse myself in music all day, every day. My playlists are a wonderfully random mix, reflecting a wide range of tastes, but at my core, I’m an unapologetic 80s rock girl. Music sets the mood for everything, from cooking to writing, and brings an undeniable rhythm to my days.
• **Sanctuary from the Noise:** Daytime TV, especially the news, feels incredibly mind-numbing and often contributes to feelings of negativity. I choose not to discuss politics on my blog or social channels; I want this space to be a happy, welcoming, and non-confrontational escape for everyone, a place where we can all find joy in food and community.
• **Sun-Worshipper:** The sun is a profound source of happiness for me. Whether it’s a vibrant sunrise, a serene sunset, or just high in the sky, it’s a guaranteed mood lifter. I fondly recall my younger days in the 70s and early 80s, slathering on baby oil to soak up the rays. While I now know better, that feeling of warmth and light still brings immense cheer.
• **Unique Eye Color:** Growing up, I actually disliked my eye color and longed for blue eyes. Today, they are one of my favorite features! I’ve never encountered anyone with quite the same shade, and it’s amusing how many people have noticed and commented on them since masks became a part of daily life.
• **The Over-Thinker & Quick Decision-Maker:** I admit, I’m a master over-thinker, internalizing things far too much, especially when lacking closure. Yet, paradoxically, I tend to make decisions very quickly. This trait, while seemingly odd, is very true and plays into how I approach both life and the creative process of blogging.
• **My Own Toughest Critic:** I’m notoriously bad at accepting compliments and am my own worst critic. I’m actively working to overcome these traits, understanding that self-kindness is crucial, though as challenging as learning a new language. I’ve learned that sometimes people’s hurtful actions have no explanation, and that pain belongs to them, not to me. Why? Because I give people many, many chances—perhaps too many.
• **Dream Career:** My childhood dream was to be a stay-at-home mom, just like my own mother, and I was fortunate enough to achieve that. Who would have thought that as our nest nearly emptied, I’d discover a full-time career I love this deeply? The ability to work from anywhere is another incredible perk, and I’m eager to explore that freedom even more!
• **Core Joys:** Traveling the world, cherishing my family, and the boundless love of my two boxers are the anchors that bring smiles amidst my most chaotic days. These simple joys keep me grounded and inspire the comforting, family-focused recipes you find here.
• **Passions & Collections:** My love for Mexican food is unwavering, I despise clutter, and my few cherished collections include photos, candles, pottery, and, of course, cookbooks. The dream of publishing my own cookbook one day is a constant inspiration!
• **Simple Pleasures & Philanthropy:** Fresh flowers and clean sheets are my ultimate simple luxuries. If I ever won the lottery (after taking care of my loved ones, naturally), I’d ensure my home always had a huge bouquet of fresh flowers, I’d sleep in freshly washed sheets every night, and I’d donate generously to three charities close to my heart: one for animals, one for veterans, and one for suicide prevention.
• **Culinary Comforts:** Coffee and wine are daily delights. I’ve always loved to cook, but surprisingly, I never used to bake. Now, baking has become a meditative act, a source of peace when I’m nervous or upset. While I enjoy a “girly girl” afternoon pampering session at my daughter’s salon, I’m equally content in a ball cap and a Husker sweatshirt—my love for Nebraska runs deep!
• **The Joy of Giving:** Above all, I adore giving gifts. Witnessing someone’s happiness as they unwrap a beautifully presented gift, especially one that surprises, touches, or fulfills an unspoken wish, brings me immense joy.

And that, dear friends, is precisely why, even though it’s MY 10th anniversary and birthday, I AM the one giving out the presents!

Giving gifts is genuinely one of my MOST FAVORITE THINGS to do!

Throughout the month, each of these fantastic prizes will be highlighted alongside a complementary recipe. This main post will be continuously updated with photos and links to those recipes as the month progresses. The total value of these giveaways exceeds $1400, offering an incredible opportunity to win some truly special items!

In addition to each fantastic prize, every winner will also receive one of my custom-designed 10th Anniversary T-Shirts. These shirts feature one of my all-time favorite Julia Child quotes: “People who love to eat are always the best people.” The charming graphic for these commemorative tees was skillfully created by JAK Designs, and they were beautifully printed by a dear, longtime friend at his print shop in my hometown, Midwest Impressions. (Please note: t-shirt sizes are limited to available stock.)

Cozy Nights In: The Netflix & Cuddle Package

Gift Value: $65

There’s nothing quite like a perfect cozy night at home, which is why I’m thrilled to offer the Netflix & Cuddle prize package. One lucky winner will receive a $25 Netflix gift card, perfect for discovering new series or revisiting old favorites, along with a luxuriously soft Berkshire brand snuggly blanket. Imagine curling up on the couch in your comfiest PJs, under this warm blanket, with a big bowl of popcorn—it’s an unbeatable evening of relaxation and indulgence! As much as I enjoy dressing up and going out, these moments of simple comfort truly can’t be topped, and they often inspire some of my most comforting home-cooked recipes.

What could be better than a movie and popcorn? Perhaps a show-stopping popcorn cake! This delightful POPCORN CAKE recipe was the absolute perfect accompaniment to our Netflix giveaway, embodying fun and sweet indulgence.

A Taste of Napa Valley: Fontanella Wine Experience

Gift Value: $136

My love affair with Fontanella Wine began in 2018, the moment I first stepped foot onto Jeff & Karen Fontanella’s beautiful family winery on Mt. Veeder in Napa Valley. It is, hands down, my favorite wine, and the arrival of a new box always prompts a happy dance, much to the amusement of my favorite FedEx guy! The Fontanellas are unique; they meticulously grow all their own grapes, craft their exceptional wine on-site, and sell it exclusively through their winery and website—you won’t find their exquisite bottles in stores.

As a special anniversary treat this March 2021, you have the opportunity to purchase their incredible wine at a discounted price and have it shipped directly to your door! Simply visit their website and enter the discount code AFFAIRHEART15 to receive 15% off your entire order. The lucky winner of this giveaway will receive two bottles of their highly acclaimed 2019 Mt. Veeder Zinfandel, a true testament to their passion and craftsmanship. (Please note: unfortunately, shipping is unavailable to Mississippi or Utah.)

This luscious Bucatini with Italian Sausage, served in a rich, creamy white wine sauce, is an absolute dream pairing with a robust bottle of Fontanella Zinfandel. It’s a perfect illustration of how delicious food and exceptional wine elevate each other.

Celebrating Flavor with Frank’s Kraut

Gift Value: $48

My relationship with Frank’s Kraut stretches back to 2005, but my history with it goes even further – I grew up eating Frank’s, and to this day, it’s the only sauerkraut I ever buy. My blog features a treasure trove of sauerkraut recipes and a dedicated section for my beloved Reuben creations, which I highly encourage you to explore!

March is a special time for sauerkraut enthusiasts, as it’s National Reuben Month. Every year, I craft a new recipe to honor this classic, and I’m incredibly grateful that Frank’s Kraut has generously joined our anniversary celebration! The lucky winner of this giveaway will receive a fantastic Frank’s Kraut package, including 1 “Celebrate Flavor” t-shirt, 1 jar of classic Frank’s Kraut, 1 can of Bavarian kraut, and 1 can of their regular kraut. It’s the perfect prize for any kraut connoisseur!

Start your day the perfect way and celebrate National Reuben Month with Frank’s Kraut by indulging in this delicious Reuben Breakfast Casserole, made wonderfully easy with crescent rolls!

Irresistible Flavors with J&R Simple Salsa

Gift Value: $124

Tortilla chips and salsa are my ultimate kryptonite—I simply have no willpower when they’re around! It was imperative that this giveaway included an opportunity to savor my favorite snack. I was incredibly fortunate to receive a jar of J&R Simple Salsa mix for Christmas, gifted by its owners and creators, Julie & Rich Kemp. I was instantly hooked and placed an order immediately!

Each of their unique “pails” of salsa seasoning is impressively concentrated, yielding 18 servings. Simply mix it with a can of diced tomatoes, and you’re ready to enjoy fresh, flavorful salsa. Beyond salsa, their Award-Winning Chili Seasoning and a variety of dip seasonings effortlessly elevate any meal or appetizer. Rich, a foodie himself, shares a wealth of creative recipes on their website, which I highly recommend exploring!

J&R Simple Salsa has been exceptionally generous for this giveaway! The fortunate winner will receive an incredible assortment: 1 can of each fantastic salsa flavor, including Mild Green Hatch Chili, Fiesta Medium, Jalapeño Lime, Bacon, and Fiesta Mild. Additionally, the prize includes a packet of their Award-Winning Chili Seasoning, a Guacamole Seasoning, and one of each delightful dip mix: Monterey, Onion & Garlic, Smokehouse, Jalapeño Ranch, and Chipotle Ranch. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor!

These hearty Breakfast Burritos offer a protein-packed and incredibly delicious start to your day. They’re even more satisfying when enjoyed with a generous dollop of J&R Simple Salsa!

Precision Cooking with Thermaworks

Gift Value: $119

Achieving perfectly cooked food every single time is a culinary game-changer, and that’s precisely why Thermaworks is a staple in my kitchen. They are generously giving away one of their acclaimed Mk4 Instant Read Thermometers. Without a doubt, this is the finest food thermometer I have ever owned. Its lightning-fast and incredibly accurate readings aren’t just for perfectly cooked meats; it’s an indispensable tool for candy making, deep-frying, and ensuring precise temperatures in any culinary endeavor. This thermometer removes all guesswork, boosting confidence for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

With a Thermaworks Mk4, you’ll never again have to wonder if your Spatchcock Chicken & Vegetable Sheet Pan Dinner is cooked to perfection. Enjoy moist, tender chicken every time!

The Alluring Aroma: My Favorite Candle Scent

Gift Value: $30

There’s something truly comforting and mood-lifting about a beautifully scented candle filling your home. For years, my go-to was a scent called Volcano, but it became increasingly difficult to find. Happily, I discovered my new absolute favorite: Midnight Citrus! Its bright, refreshing, yet subtly complex aroma instantly elevates any room and brings a sense of calm and happiness. This candle isn’t just a fragrance; it’s a little daily luxury that enhances my home environment, creating a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere, much like a well-prepared meal. I’m thrilled to share this simple pleasure with one lucky winner.

My bright and tangy Lemon Sweet Roll Recipe was the perfect culinary counterpart to share, perfectly echoing the delightful citrus notes of my favorite candle.

A Taste of Home: The Grow Nebraska Basket

Gift Value: $105

It’s no secret that I am a proud Nebraska girl, through and through. While I cherish the adventures of travel, Nebraska will always remain my cherished home. It’s an honor to be a member of Grow Nebraska, a remarkable statewide marketing program launched in 1998 by the visionary Janell Anderson Ehrke. Grow Nebraska is dedicated to fostering opportunities for small business owners and entrepreneurs, enabling them to build sustainable livelihoods right here in “Anywhere, Nebraska.” This initiative champions local talent and products, strengthening our community from within.

Grow Nebraska has generously donated a basket brimming with some of the finest products our state has to offer, many of which you’ve likely seen featured on my website. This curated collection includes delectable Bakers Chocolates, the iconic Dorothy Lynch Dressing, crisp Ely Farms Pickled Asparagus, savory Herbal Gatherings Mustard, the versatile Gary’s QuickSteak WOW Seasoning, and aromatic Arbor Day Coffee. It’s a true celebration of Nebraskan craftsmanship and flavor, and a perfect way to share a piece of my home with one lucky winner.

I lovingly combined two of my absolute favorite items from Runza, a beloved Nebraska institution, to create this comforting and unique Swiss Cheese Mushroom Runza Casserole!

Fresh Blooms Delivered: Flower Delivery from Bouqs

Gift Value: $70

Fresh flowers in my home are an absolute necessity for me. Last year, especially during the challenging times of quarantine, every 7-10 day trip to the grocery store would include picking up a modest bouquet. These simple floral arrangements, placed on my kitchen counter or desk, brought undeniable brightness to what could often be dark days. That practice of enjoying simple pleasures has stayed with me. I now ensure I always have fresh flowers to brighten my space, even if it’s just a $5 grocery store bouquet.

I firmly believe everyone deserves to experience such simple joys. That’s why one fortunate winner will receive a stunning bouquet of flowers from Bouqs, my absolute favorite place to order them. Their commitment to fresh, beautiful blooms and sustainable practices makes every delivery a delight. It’s a gift designed to bring a smile, a touch of nature, and a reminder of life’s beauty directly to your door.

This exquisite Russian Rose Bread was the perfect recipe to share on “Flower Day!” Easier to create than it appears, this beautiful cinnamon wreath bread is an undeniable showstopper that brings beauty and deliciousness together.

Indulge in Self-Care: A Bag of Beauty Supplies

Gift Value: $180

This giveaway is truly beauty-licious, celebrating the importance of self-love and self-care! One fortunate winner will receive a charming Rae Dunn cosmetic bag, playfully paired with “Love Life” socks (because I absolutely adore all things Rae Dunn!). Inside, you’ll discover a curated collection of some of my most cherished beauty products.

This luxurious gift includes travel-sized Kevin Murphy Plumping Wash and Rinse, as well as Repair Me Wash and Rinse, designed to nourish and revitalize your hair. You’ll also find Kevin Murphy Doo Over Spray and Session Spray for styling perfection. For an extra boost, there’s J Beverly Hills Rescue Me shampoo and conditioner, an Elf Kabuki brush for flawless application, and a jar of Rodan + Fields Body Hydration to keep your skin silky smooth. A huge thank you to Kenzie Sabaliauskas, stylist at Oak Salon Studio in Omaha, for donating my favorite hair care essentials, and to Marci Lundquist, Rodan + Fields Consultant, for contributing the active hydration lotion. This bag is packed with everything you need for a pampering experience!

These delightful Homemade Sugar Scrubs make fantastic handmade gifts, but they’re equally amazing for treating dry skin right at home. The lemon variant is particularly wonderful by the kitchen sink! With so many ways to adapt this Basic Sugar Scrub Recipe, it was the perfect self-care recipe to share in conjunction with our cosmetic bag of beauty supplies!

The Perfect Start: For the Coffee Lover

Gift Value: $75

For many of us, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a cherished ritual, the essential way to begin each and every day. That first sip brings warmth, comfort, and the clarity needed to tackle whatever lies ahead. This prize package is curated for those who truly appreciate their daily brew.

The lucky winner will receive a $25 Starbucks gift certificate, perfect for enjoying your favorite handcrafted beverage or discovering a new seasonal treat. To keep your coffee perfectly hot (or refreshingly cold) on the go, a durable Yeti coffee cup is included. And for those moments when you need a little extra kick or a delightful indulgence, two packages of Omaha Bakery chocolate-covered espresso beans provide the perfect sweet and caffeinated treat. It’s everything a true coffee lover needs to elevate their daily routine and savor every moment.

So there you have it! All eleven incredible prizes detailed in one spot! Remember to check back frequently throughout the month to see the new recipes I’ll be sharing that coincide with these giveaways, and to enter daily for even more chances to win. And don’t forget the grand prize: make sure to get your name entered to win that coveted KitchenAid Mixer—by making and submitting photos of my recipes! There’s absolutely no limit to how many recipes you can create and submit. Which delicious recipe will you choose to make first?

This Old Fashioned Sour Cream Coffee Cake was my grandmother’s favorite to make, and it consistently brought smiles to everyone fortunate enough to enjoy a slice.

ENTER TO WIN THESE AMAZING PRIZES!

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Good luck to each and every one of you who enters!

I extend my deepest gratitude from the very bottom of my heart for being here with me on this incredible journey. You, my wonderful readers, are truly the reason I do what I do!

xoxo