If my blog were a child, it would be entering the third grade. I probably say this every year, but I never would have dreamed in a million years that I would still be blogging 8 years after I started. For the first 8 months I had my blog, if I got 50 page views in a day I thought I was hot shit. But you know who my biggest fan was of my blog? Tony. I know many of you have blogs and your husbands never read it, but he read every single post, would tell me if I misspelled something or if my grammar was wrong. He would text me notes at work and say “that picture you took of your soup turned out great!”
Speaking of photography, while this blog has grown, long time readers I appreciate you sticking with me when my food photography looked like this:
I would be shocked if anyone even attempted any of my recipes from 2008-2009! And why did I think I had to get right up in the food?! In December 2010 I got the biggest Christmas present – a Nikon D3100. And I knew the only way we were able to afford it was because we had set aside $1200 for a car repair, only to get a second opinion on it and it was determined it was only a $100 repair, and everyone pitched in to get it for me. I just watched the video of me getting it, and I cried all over again, even though it was nearly six years ago! I also miss hearing Tony’s voice.
It’s still the camera I use today when I am at home. The only thing I did was buy an auto focus 35 mm lens for about $150 a couple years ago. Thankfully, not only is my food photography better, I actually have people tag me on Instagram or send me emails telling me that they made a particular recipe – love!
This blog has let me vent when I needed to. Was my lifeline when Tony was sick and I didn’t have a social life – you guys WERE and still are my social life for the most part. And I am thrilled that I have met several of you in real life, some several times (hi Mel – hi Kris! – hi Mara! hi Christina!), but it’s like meeting an old high school friend that you haven’t seen since you graduated. Because we formed such a personal bond via the computer, meeting in real life was no big deal.
So much has changed and stayed the same. I still love blogging just as much as I did when I started. I no longer care how many readers I have or even if the blog grows, because it doesn’t really matter in the whole grand scheme of things. I view it as a personal visual journal, that I will be happy to share with my future grandchildren at some point. I am sure I’ve written this before, but my grandma had a journal. I was thrilled when I found it after she died, only to read entries like this:
“It was chilly tonight. Baked a chicken. Played Bridge.”
My future grandchildren will know basically what I’ve eaten every day for 2,920 days and counting! And they may discover that I like to use the word amazeballs and I may swear like a truck driverfrom time to time.
So in honor of my blogaversary (is that even a word?!) and because it’s tomato season, I am going to give away TWELVE 16 ounce jars of my homemade pasta sauce/baja fresh salsa/lasagna soup combination (four of each) Unfortunately this will be for U.S. readers only. Kelly from Canada won my BBQ sauce and seasoning back in August, and I have a feeling it got stuck in customs because of the glass jars 
Just leave a comment on how long you’ve been reading, even if it’s been one week or five years!
And thank you to everyone who takes a little time from their day to check up on me and my little corner of the World Wide Web. I appreciate it more than you’ll ever know.
My Momma is coming over today for a BBQ. Making grilled pork roast, corn on the cob, garlic green beans and grilled rosemary new potatoes. Yum! Make it a great day!
Eight years…Happy Blog Birthday. I have been reading since March of 2012. I remember going back and reading your blog from the start. I just loved all the little stories and Tony’s sense of humor. I remember how he named a hernia Eerrrign or something like that. You guys have made me laugh a lot over the years. So happy you have come full circle and you are working at the place where you did the photo shoot. I still love that photo and I really think you should wear red more. It suits your sassy personality. Thanks for all you do. Have a great weekend!
Happy 8 years Biz!!! And congrats on the new job, I’m glad you are loving it!! I think I’ve been a reader since I was living in Houston, so that would be 4-6 years. I remember I was starting low carb and looking for recipes, and you were in a middle of a low carb challenge. I was hooked! Keep blogging away and I’ll keep reading 🙂
I have been reading you, um… forever? At least five years (I started reading you when I was actively blogging, and still pop in to check on you even though I stopped writing in 2012), maybe longer. I don’t even know how I ended up here the first time! Blogger is a windy place, lol.
Hi Biz….
Not sure how long I’ve been reading, I just know I love starting the day with your stories ?
Happy Blogiversary, Biz!!! I’m glad you’re still blogging – I look forward to reading your posts every day. I hope we get to meet in person some day, but am glad we “met” through blogging. I found your blog when I was still coping with my diabetes diagnosis (I guess that part never ends, really) and it was encouraging to find a fellow foodie who was doing the same. Thank you for 8 years of wonderful recipes, humorous and heartfelt writing, and friendship! Here’s to many more!
P.S. – So happy you are loving your new career, and that it’s going well! 🙂
I have been reading for about a year but feel like I know you well. Your common sense approach to life and food make me smile. I also appreciate the struggle with weight…I have lost 60 pounds and have maintained that loss for a year. I love your variety of recipes!
I have been reading for at least 5 years, Biz. It’s been amazing to see how much your life has transformed – up, down and sideways. 😉 Throughout it all, your positive attitude has remain constant. Congrats on the anniversary and thank you for sharing your journey with us.
I feel like I have been reading you forever- introduced by our dear friend Janine to your site. I love your recipe. Your bread recipe is our go to on the regular now that the weather is getting cooler!! Congrats on the anniversary!!
Hi Biz!! Congratulations on 8 years of blogging. I have been reading your blog for at least 6 years. My mom is diabetic and I found you by looking for recipes to help her. Good luck with all your future endeavors!
Happy Blogoversary!
I have been reading your blog for 3 years – just before you went for the photo shoot at the place you are now working! Your blog has given me lots of ideas for meals, one of which is using left over potatoes with eggs for breakfast, and I love your pictures.
Happy Blogoversary, Biz! It is hard to believe your blog is already starting third grade. Before you know it, we’ll be playing Pomp and Circumstance and watching it walk across the stage and receiving its diploma.
I do have one question, though. Looking through the comments from Abbe, Ally, Amanda, Amie, Andrea, Angel, Angela, Anna, Ashley, Barbara, Bonnie, Brandi, Carol, Carolyn, Catherine, Cindy, Debbie, Diana, Fran, Joan, Kathy, Mary, Nikki, Sandi, Teresa, and Your Prettier Sister . . . did I miss the “No Boys Allowed” sign somewhere at the entrance?
Morning Charlie! Other than my buddy Larry from New York, you are the only other “boy” I know who reads the blog!
Congrats! I’ve been reading your blog (religiously!!) for about a year and love it. I follow several blogs, but this is the first time I’ve ever commented.
Hi Biz, Congrats on your 8th anniversary of the blog! I don’t remember how I happened onto your blog, but I think it was about four years now. I don’t read many blogs, but I do love reading yours for some reason. I guess because you keep it real!
Happy Blogiversary. I totally get it…at first I was like I AM GOING TO BE THE BEST BLOGGER EVAH. And now I just write. It’s therapeutic, it’s ME. I started reading up a couple years ago, can’t believe it’s been that long!!
Hello! I’ve probably been reading about 4 years or so, happy blogaversary! Here’s to many more!
At least 5 years. Have no memory of not reading your comments and recipes everyday. I always enjoy what you post.
Congrats on 8 years of yummy food!! I’ve probably been reading for about 4-5 years and I still look forward to seeing your many bowls of lasagna soup!
Happy Blogaversary!! I think I’ve been reading for over 4 years now. Always been one of my favorite blogs, and love that you’re a neighbor, too! 🙂
Happy anniversary 🙂 I think I’ve been reading here for about as long as I’ve been reading any blog – 3 or 4 years!
Hi Biz,
I have been reading your post for about 6 years I’m not even sure how I found it. You are now on my favorites list on my computer, and I look forward to reading your blog every morning. I feel like you are so positive and it helps me to have a positive attitude everyday. I am so glad you followed your passion such a brave thing to do! My family loves your buffalo chicken chili we have made it several times. Good luck with your new adventure I will tune in everyday to see how its going!
Well the trick to get responses is to give something away LOL. Took me forever to scroll here.
Happy bloganniversary. You have given me so much reading pleasure and I am happy we “met” even though there’s an ocean between us.
I have never seen that video before, it’s so sweet!
I am really not too sure how long I have followed your blog. I found your blog while looking for a homemade pancake recipe. I know I didn’t start writing any comments until Tony was sick. I am so excited that you had the fortitude to quit your job and follow your passion! You go-girl!
I’ve been reading for several years – probably 4 or 5. I think I relate to you because we share many of the same struggles. Congrats on successfully making it 8 years, and to at least 8 more!
I have been reading for close to 3 years, but I barely came out of the shadows and started commenting a few months ago. You have inspired me to be more creative in the kitchen and you are the primary reason I got a Fitbit. I had never heard of it before I started reading your blog. I know I’m only one of the many you’ve inspired to get “bizzy” in the kitchen. This is a great piece of the web and I’m thankful to you for keeping with it. Happy 8th blogiversary!
Hi, think I have been reading your blog for about a year. Always interesting, keep up the great work!
Happy Blogaversary!! I have been reading your blog for 5-6 years. I look forward to reading your blog every morning!!
I think I’ve been reading the entire time. I’ve been back in CA for 6yrs and I was in Canada for 2. I started reading when I was in Canada. I remember when Tony had the wound vac and when Hannah got a car!! When we met in real life, it totally felt like I knew you.
Hello there! Congratulations on your anniversary! I found your blog a few years ago. I was on Weight Watchers just like you and started reading blogs like yours for some motivation and inspiration. Since then I’ve been reading your blog daily.
i found your blog more than five years ago, and have been a fan every since. I pretty much eat lunch at my desk every day and read blogs, yours being the first I go to. Every one of your receipes I have made has been a winner. Congratulations on your anniversary.
Hey, Biz,
I think it was 5-6 years ago that Jeff/Tony told Tom about your blog and I’ve been following since then. He was so proud of you and this blog; he was telling Tom how many followers you had, etc. <3 mp
Great post! Congrats on the milestone.
Congrats on your blogiversary! I can’t even remember how long I’ve been reading, but it’s been quite a while. At least 6 years? I love your writing and I wish I could cook like you, your food looks amazing!
Wow, 8 years!!! Here’s to many more, just love reading your blog every morning! ??
Happy 8th Anniversary of your blog Biz. I’ve been reading for over 4 years. I seriously drool over your pizza party Fridays!
Happy Blogiversary!! I’ve been reading for a while now. I really have enjoyed trying out some of your recipes in the past year.
I have been reading a for a few years! I love your blog, and I would love to win this prize package 🙂 Congrats on 8 years!
I made the photo round-up! Golly, how long have I been reading….6 years or so? Congrats on 8!
oh geeze. I think I’ve probably been reading since I started my blog back in 2012! but I feel like it’s been forever 🙂 I’m very thankful for the connection we’ve developed through the blogging world 🙂
I’ve be reading for about 5ish years. I start my morning with you and coffee…was so bummed when you tried blogging only 3 days a week. I look forward to hearing your adventures and am always rooting for you! I secretly hope one day you’ll come around to onions and am thrilled when you occasionally give them a try. Would love to win the tomato products and I already know I love the lasagna soup as I have made it many times. Happy Blog Birthday!
I really don’t know how long I’ve been reading your blog. It’s been awhile now. I always use your pizza dough recipe.
I’ve been reading your blog about four years. Your recipes are so creative and easy to make. My sister is diabetic so I turned her on to your blog. I love how you give shout-outs to other bloggers’ recipes. I started reading and following a lot of the ones you mentioned and have gotten even more great recipes.
I have been reading for about 2 or 3 years now. I love how creative you are with what you have on hand. I admittedly am not as big a red meat fan as you are but I enjoy trying some of your recipes. My favorite are your muffin and granola recipes!
Happy Blogaversary, you are doing a beautiful job~Carolyn @ Cabot Creamery
My best guess is early 2010 I started reading.
I have been reading about 4 years I think, I look forward to reading you and I feel like I know you!
I found you a loong time ago.
I am a creative, overweight, food obsessed “wish I could quit and do something different” pet lover with diabetic husband who loves Chicagoland and needs to remodel so we have some in common!!
Livinh in the hot and humid Deep South
I read all the time, around 6 years and love it all, your food, your style and your blog
Keep on keepin on!
Following about a year. Like that you make real food yet are controlling and losing weight. Yeah!!! Congrats on 8 years.
I found your blog originally thru Shelley and I have read every entry. Love you my friend xxooxx and congrats my life is better with you in it!
You know…eight years is a long time to do anything. I hope I can keep at it and I feel the same as you about blogging. I think I’ve been reading you for 3-4 years and it never gets dull. Often you are the highlight of my day. And I mean that! Looking forward to 8 more!
I have no idea how long I’ve been reading. I think probably almost the whole time. My own blog started pre-2007, and for awhile I was looking for other blogs to read. And yours is the one that *stuck* for a long time.
Let’s say 7 years?
I’ve been reading your blog more years than I can remember. You are my favorite & look forward to your blog each morning. Good luck on your new job.
I started reading your blog about 4 years ago. At first I was reading for the recipes but I started to love how real you were. A lot of bloggers paint a very picture perfect version of their life and eating habits, so I found it really refreshing to have someone admit when they messed up their diet and ate junk or a recipe totally bombed! And told about it in 4-letter words that I would use talking to a friend!
I watched your grace and strength on dealing with Tony’s illness and eventual death and was able to use some of how you coped and pressed forward to help me with losing my father 2 months ago after a 1 and 1/2 year long battle with cancer. The way you bring in gentle memories of Tony and always think of him but still move forward with your own life has been a role model for me in the devastation over losing my father.
I hope you keep blogging for many years to come!
Happy blogaversary…..8 years wow!!! I think I have been following you for about 3 years….not really sure on that. Your blog is the first one I read in the morning….have to see what you had for breakfast and have copied a few of them, but find I must eat before reading your blog…..I get so hungry!!! You take such good pictures, you could be a food stylist too! So glad you got the job of your dreams….you will have fun doing what you are doing and do it with gusto!!!!
I’ve been reading forever. I looked up my first comment once and I believe it was back in 2008 But I’d been reading a long time before I commented And it’s one of the few I still read! I really loved it when Tony would guest blog. He was so funny. All the best to you
About 3 years!
Hi Biz-
I’ve been reading since 2010. I remember when you got the camera for Christmas. Hanna was still in High School!
I’ve dying to try your baja salsa. I’ve tried to win it a couple times
Congrats on the anniversary! I’ve been reading since 2009 and still one of the first blogs I read everyday!
Happy blogaversary! Can’t remember how long I have been reading- three or four years, maybe. I love catching up on your posts every morning with my coffee!
Cheers!
Happy Blogaversary Biz! 4 Years or near there! So happy I came across your blog, it’s been so long I can’t even remember how, but I’m glad! Wishing you many more blog years for all of us to enjoy in the future! Hugs!!
I can’t even remember how long I have been reading your blog…life. I might have picked it up on Shelley B’s blog. I love reading it each morning when I get to work. I sent DVDs to you when Tony was in the Children’s area at a hospital one year till his room opened up. Travel to Chicago several times a year for work, so one day I hope to meet you!
I have been reading your blog for about 5 years. I love to read about everything you do. Hugs,
I remember when everyone pitched in & gave you the camera! I had no idea I’ve been reading that long! Happy Blogiversary!
I’ve been reading about a year I guess. I commented early on, not my norm, and you were very kind to me. I always think of that when I read you.
Holy crap, Biz! Based on you getting your fancy camera, I’ve been reading for at least 5.5 years!!! How is that possible?? Do you know how many pounds I’ve lost and gained in that time? Yeah, me neither…I don’t really want to think about that. Instead, I’ll think about my “fake friend” Biz and how much awesome she has blogged over the years!! Hugs!
I have been reading your blog for over 3 years. I love your recipes and look forward to reading your daily posts.
No idea how long but at least 5, right? Congrats on 8 years and so much progress!
Congrats!!! I’ve been reading around 6 years or so.
I don’t know how long I’ve read but I know the first time I reached out was to comment on the name of your dog and my connection to the farmer he was named after. Congrats on your blog anniversary! We definitely need to meet up when I’m back up home.
I think it’s been a bit over a year since I started reading your blog, and it’s one of the first things I do every morning! It’s very entertaining and the photos are especially yummy looking! Thanks for the daily pick me up!
Think I have been reading your blog for 3 plus years…love your recipes and your attitude. Cried buckets when Tony died, and have cheered you on as you struck out to get your new career…keep blogging, I would miss you terribly if you stopped!
4 years! You’ve been my entertainment through my long and boring 12 hours shifts. Cheers to 8 years!
At least 5 years! Time is flying and I look forward to reading every morning!
I think I have been salivating over your recipes starting with your early years. I grew to love your relationship with Tony and was so sad with his passing. You hooked me on hot sauces!! I can’t wait to hear about your future culinary adventures!!
Best,
Bonnie
Happy Blogiversary!!! I’ve been reading practically since the beginning (and even if I wasn’t there right at the start, I went back and read your archives back then). I remember trying to emulate your “close up” food photography – it seemed good to me back then, but wow, you’ve really stepped up your game in that aspect. I, however, have not. 😉
Glad I know you, glad we finally met, loved the bonus of meeting Hannah and Jacob, and I’m looking forward to seeing you all again!
I was looking for weight loss blogs and was directed to your blog shortly before Tony got sick the last time. I remember reading your post that he has been placed on hospice and felt extreme sadness for you (someone I have never met) and even told my husband about the situation! Love your blog and all that it has evolved into since I have been reading! Hope to meet you in person one day!
Hmm… 5 years maybe? And I’ve so enjoyed reading your posts. I’m jealous of your ability to so openly share your feelings. Thank you. 🙂
I must have been reading for at least 5 years now — your photos pre-DSLR really weren’t that bad! Give yourself some credit! I hope I win this raffle because you blog ALL THE TIME about the pasta sauce, baja fresh salsa, & lasagna soup!!! Congratulations on your 8 year blog anniversary!
I have been reading your blog I think from day one! I feel like I know Hannah, and I have three girls and can relate …when Tony passed my heart broke for you…when Skippy Mom passed I found out from you and my heart broke again. Real feelings and friends a built in many ways! I am glad I found you….in addition with our you I would not have a pizza steel…nor would all my siblings and friends..it was a great tip!! I too love pizza!!
Happy 8 years!! I have been following for 2-3 years now. I found you while searching for WW recipies and I check back daily looking for new blog posts not only for recipes though but just to see how things are going.. I like following you in on instagram as well to see some pics even sooner! =)
I’ve been reading for about 5 years I think … love following your food & adventures.
Happy blogaversary!! I’ve been reading for about 3 years now!! I feel like I know you very well. If you’re ever in Phoenix, I’ll take you to some great places to eat. Come out for Spring Training!!
Oh…an anniversary…I hope you are truly able to celebrate!! I stumbled upon you about 2-3 years ago and have truly enjoyed reading each and every entry (even the difficult ones when Tony was ill, which just prove how short life is and we never really know what tomorrow will bring). Did a big gulp when you quit your job earlier this year, laughed and realized what a small world it is when you started the farm market jobs (as one location was in my daughter’s neighborhood before she left Chicago in January this year) and then…the new job at Chopping Block…..I have been in the store several times as it was in said daughter’s previous Chicago neighborhood. I would have loved nothing more than being able to meet you and take a class their that you part of the staff! Keep living life…..
Biz!!! I can’t believe it’s been 8 years, you deserve a million congrats on that one! I can say that I’ve probably been reading for almost that long! I’m so glad that we have gotten to meet and know each other over the years and look forward to getting together soon. 🙂
I don’t remember how I found your blog. I just know it has been years LOL. It’s amazing how time flies…
I don’t remember how I found your blog. I just know it has been years LOL.
I discovered your blog about four years ago. Your personality and honesty came shining through and I was hooked!
Happy Blogiversary Biz!! I started following your blog the day we met in New York for the Extended Stay cook-off!!
ummm.. I’ve been reading your blog since day 1 – LOL
I love the earlier food photography – ha ha!!! Happy Blogoversary!
Hi Biz! I’ve been reading your blog for at least 7 years. It’s the only blog I read, and I look forward to it every day.
I still remember walking at the park and reading when you told us Tony had passed. It made me cry like a baby.
Hugs and love.
Sonia
Hi! I’m not sure how long I’ve been following your blog. Maybe almost a year?? But I feel like it’s been much longer because you are so genuine and down-to-earth. Love, love your blog.
Happy Birthday to your blog!
It’s crazy how long we’ve been blogging… I started reading your blog shortly after I started my own blog in March 2009! And I hadn’t read one single blog when I started my blog, which now seems very weird to me… You are one of the few bloggers that I “know” from the early days that is still blogging… And I truly feel I know quite a bit about you and consider you my friend, even though we have never met “in real life” (whatever that phrase means…).
Hope we’ll both continue blogging forever! 🙂
Andrea
Andrea’s Wellness Notes
Hi Biz, At least 3 years, maybe more…. time flies…. I don’t usually comment, but I do read every day. …and sometimes live vicariously through you 🙂 I take care of my 4 little grandchildren (under 7) and before my elderly my very elderly aunt(94)……
I would love to start to blog, but have no idea where or how to begin! I am a WW member and lost 100 lbs and gained almost all back :(….Now am trying to do this all over again. I enjoy reading and making some of your recipes! Hanging in there! 🙂
Oh goodness…how long have I been reading? 7 years? I don’t even know. Not too many comments lately (D keeps me busy!) but I do read every day, and love following along on Instagram too. 🙂 plus, your salsa is AMAZING. <3
I have been reading your blog for a very long time. Probably 5 years! I feel like I’ve gone through your happiest and saddest days and you continue to amaze me how strong you are. You’ve not only inspired me but so many others. Keep up the good work!!
I’ve been reading about you since the beginning…I’m obsessed with cooking blogs and yours has always been one of my favorites :)❤️
I believe I have been reading your posts for approximately 4-5 years now. It could be longer, time does fly by fast! Have a great Labor Day BBQ with mom and kadults!!
Not from the git-go, but I’ve been checking in for two or three years. Good times, bad times, I’ve been there with my cup of coffee. Keep doing what you love!!!!!
Hey Biz — I have been reading your blog for a few years now. Not really quite sure how long. Yours is one of my favorites!!
Mary
I don’t know how I found your blog but I look forward to reading it everyday. I never thought I could be so invested in someone I didn’t know are may never meet but that’s not true. I cried when Tony passed and I celebrated your remodeled. I loved it when you stepped away from your job to find work in your passion and was so excited with this new venture. Congratulations on your blog anniversary.