Whoosh. That's how I feel about 2014. I always take the last 2 weeks of each year as a chance to disconnect, so you haven't seen much of me around these parts. If I had my life together, I would have made recipes for you in advance, but between Christmas shopping, traveling to see family, and spending quality time with friends, it didn't work out that way. However, I'm happy I spent my time Christmas party-ing and road-tripping. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
I hope my croissant recipe saw you through. Have you tried them yet? Don't be scared! I received a lot of questions, and have since clarified the instructions because some found the folding process confusing. Let me know if you have any more questions. At worst, if you mess up the recipe, you'll end up with crescent rolls instead of croissants. Still delicious, trust me.
I need to update you on a few things. First things first: My cookbook is available for pre-order HERE!
Ok, fine, it's been available for pre-order for a long time, but I'm just now telling you about it because I didn't want to be all pushy. We moved the publishing date up to February 2nd so that you have time to buy and give it as a gift for Valentine's Day. The book got named one of Amazon's best upcoming releases, and that makes me so happy.
This book, you guys, it has my heart and soul in it. I started writing it years ago. Spending 6 solid months of dedicated hard work on it this year to wrap it up has been the most rewarding thing I've ever experienced. Some day, I'd like to write a post about the process of writing a book, because if you have that little spark in your heart, I want to encourage you to do it! You don't need fame and fortune to write a book. You need a good idea and a great work ethic. I got my book deal when I was barely cracking 100k page views a month on this site. Seriously. But I believed in the idea of Dessert for Two, worked my butt off, and now it's in print! I took all of the photos in the book (even the ones with me in it; hello, awkward), and for better or worse, the publisher agreed to it all. It's not just recipes; it has a small-batch baking guide, tips for using up the rest of ingredients, and personal stories. Like, really personal stories. That makes me a little nervous, but anytime I thought about deleting a family story to maintain privacy, something stopped me. If you've ever met a Southerner, you know that we love to tell stories.
Another thing that makes me so happy I might pee? You will be seeing me on QVC January 21st promoting my book! I'm going to do more live television for you, because I'm so good at it (kidding)! Seriously, guys, I love live tv. I feel like you can't prepare for it--you just go out there with a big smile and have a good time. Recorded television gives me back sweat. So, be sure to tune in and catch me with David. Yep, THE David of 'In the Kitchen with David' of QVC. I know we're going to have a great time! I think I'll be on for 10 minutes or so, so don't be late! I'll update you with the viewing times as it gets closer. I'm headed up to QVC headquarters for training next week, and I'm sure I'll have more details after that.
Last but not least, I want to say THANK YOU. You guys have made this year so dang special for me. I can't believe I get to do this as a full-time job, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity. It's all because of you. If you see me in real life, I want to give you a hug. And since I do this really weird thing when hugging people, and wrap one of my legs around them, you can't pass that up. See example above.
I hope you guys have lots of plans to make 2015 the best year yet. I hope you have the courage to chase after the things you really want in life this year. I hope your happiness knows no limits, and your blessings basket is overflowing. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help make that happen for you.
Much love and cupcakes,
Christina
P.S. Can we please kick off our shoes and dance outdoors more this year?
P.P.S. I need a tan.
Karen says
Enjoy your blog tremendously! I have ordered your book and will share it with my granddaughters who are learning to bake. It will be fun in the kitchen -- many thanks to you!
Aloha, Karen
Katrina @ In Katrina's Kitchen says
I am so darn excited to hold your book in my hands! Proud of you my friend!
Lisatberry says
Congratulations...I love your concept of smaller batches and can't wait to get the book.
All the success to you this year and yes to dancing outside shoeless...no to tanning!!!
Doug says
Searching Amazon.co.uk didn't work, searching google.co.uk: https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=%22dessert+for+two%22+christina+lane&newwindow=1&safe=off&es_sm=93&source=lnt&tbs=ctr:countryUK%7CcountryGB&cr=countryUK%7CcountryGB&sa=X&ei=x5qmVJOQE4zcaqrngZAG&ved=0CBYQpwU&biw=1680&bih=925 turns up a link to the book on Amazon.co.uk - something's not working properly.
Doug
Maryea {happy healthy mama} says
Congratulations on all of your successes! I am putting your QVC appearance on my calendar! How exciting. :)
Stephanie @ Girl Versus Dough says
SO MANY APPLAUSE EMOJIS.
The cover of your book alone is jaw-dropping and drool-inducing. I can't wait to see the fruits of all that hard work you put into it! And QVC?? Giada best watch out. ;)
Erika says
So much congratulations my dear! I'm so happy for you and excited for your book. We are going to get together in 2015. I feel it. :) xoxo
Erin | The Law Student's wife says
YIPPEEEEEEE!!! Best. Year. Ever.
Liz @ Floating Kitchen says
So happy for you luv. Can't wait to see all the amazingness in 2015!! HUGS (leg optional)!
ashley - baker by nature says
You are, in all seriousness, the cuteness most awesome thing ever. I loved reading this post - twice - because it's so warm, heartfelt, and authentic. I can't wait to get my paws on your book, Christina. Wishing you a Happy New Year!