Embracing the New Year: Reflections on 2015 and Irresistible Grain-Free Double Chocolate Almond Coconut Cookies

The past couple of weeks have flown by in a whirlwind of activity, leaving me barely a moment to sit, breathe, and truly relax. From bustling goodbyes to embarking on new adventures, life has certainly kept us on our toes. It feels like just yesterday we were bidding farewell to Juan’s fellow interns, followed by an early Monday morning bus ride on December 21st, hurtling towards the vibrant heart of New York City. We were dropped off right in the iconic Times Square, ready for another unforgettable experience in the Big Apple. Our week-long escapade, from that Monday until our return to Washington D.C., was filled with the delightful charm of the city, even if it meant soaking in a fair share of drizzles. Despite the grey skies, the energy, the sights, and the unique allure of New York truly made for an enjoyable and memorable trip. I’m already looking forward to sharing more details about our second journey to NYC in a dedicated post very soon.

But for now, with just one day left until 2015 draws to a close and the promise of a new year sweeps in, I’m taking these precious, quiet moments for a deep breath and some heartfelt reflection. As I look back, 2015 has been a tapestry woven with a multitude of experiences – moments of pure joy, unexpected sadness, exhilarating excitement, the blossoming of new life, and regrettably, the quiet somberness of loss. There are countless threads I could pull, endless details to focus on, but as this eventful year culminates, I choose to direct my gaze towards the abundance of good and beautiful things that have graced our lives.

The Power of Gratitude: Healing and New Beginnings

One of the most profound events of the past year unfolded on December 25th, 2014, when I very nearly lost my dear mother to an unexpected heart attack. That terrifying day remains etched in my memory, a stark reminder of life’s fragility. Yet, today, a year later, I stand in awe and immense gratitude. My mother is not only healthier than she was before, but she has embraced her new retired life with an inspiring zest and a fresh, can-do attitude that fills me with pride. Her recovery and renewed vigor are truly a testament to resilience and a constant source of inspiration for our family.

Beyond personal health, 2015 also gifted Juan and me with four incredible months living abroad in Washington D.C. This period was centered around his internship at the prestigious Organization of American States, an experience that broadened our horizons and enriched our lives in countless ways. Exploring the historical monuments, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse culture of D.C. together created a treasure trove of memories. While we carry a tinge of sadness about leaving the charm of the capital city, we hold onto a strong belief and hope that we will find our way back here again in the near future. This chapter of living abroad was not just about professional growth for Juan, but also a significant period for my own evolving career. I dedicated substantial time and effort to developing my skills as a freelance writer, food blogger, and photographer. It brings me immense joy and a sense of accomplishment to witness the initial fruits of this labor finally beginning to ripen, transforming passion into tangible progress.

Indeed, when I reflect on everything, from my mother’s remarkable recovery to our enriching experiences in D.C. and the growth of my professional endeavors, there is an overwhelming sense of abundance. So much love has surrounded us, and there is simply an immeasurable amount to be thankful for. It’s a powerful reminder to always look for the blessings, even amidst life’s inevitable challenges.

Navigating Uncertainty with a Spirit of Trust

Despite the gratitude, life, as it always does, continues to present its share of uncertainties. Next week marks our relocation back to Buenos Aires, which means yet another apartment hunt will commence. Career-wise, a couple of promising options are on the table, but the exact path forward remains delightfully, or perhaps dauntingly, unclear. In situations like these, where the future is a blurry canvas, it’s often far too easy to succumb to doubt rather than to cultivate trust. It’s tempting to focus on what we lack, to voice complaints about the missing pieces, instead of appreciating the incredible things we already possess.

However, through the many lessons 2015 has offered, I’ve come to a profound realization: we almost always have more than enough; we merely convince ourselves otherwise. This past year has taught me that it is only when we genuinely begin to acknowledge and appreciate the abundance present in our own lives that we can truly begin to become a blessing to those who are truly in need. This perspective shift has been transformative, influencing our actions and our outlook significantly.

The Joy of Giving Back: A Meaningful Christmas Tradition

Inspired by this understanding of abundance and the profound impact of giving, Juan and I started a beautiful Christmas tradition this year. We dedicated a day to baking a generous batch of delicious cookies and preparing an array of comforting ham and cheese sandwiches. With our homemade provisions, we then walked around Washington D.C., distributing food to the homeless individuals we encountered on the streets. This wasn’t entirely new for us; last year, in Buenos Aires, we had initiated a similar act of kindness with my friend Mechi, and we were eager to continue this heartwarming tradition. Juan and I share a deep conviction in the spirit of giving, believing firmly in the power of small acts of generosity to make a significant difference.

The Saturday before Christmas, braving the crisp, chilly winds that swept through the city, we went out with open hearts, handing out the food to anyone who wished for it. The smiles we received, the brief moments of connection, and the simple act of sharing warmth in the cold, filled us with an inexplicable inner glow. It was an experience that truly warmed our hearts and reminded us of the simple yet profound joy that comes from extending a hand to others. It reinforced our belief that the true essence of the holiday season, and indeed life itself, lies in compassion and selfless giving.

The Perfect Sweet Ending: Grain-Free Double Chocolate Almond Coconut Cookies

Speaking of the food we shared, I absolutely must tell you about the particular cookies we baked for our Christmas outreach: these incredibly delicious Grain-Free Double Chocolate Almond Coconut Cookies. They were an absolute hit! So many of the people who tried them, from our friends to those we met on the streets, couldn’t stop raving about how good they were. Our dear friend Bruna, in particular, loved them so much that she carefully wrapped two in a piece of tissue, determined to bring them home to savor later. Their popularity was truly heartening, proving that a simple, homemade treat can bring immense pleasure.

What truly makes these cookies shine, in my opinion, are the generous chunks of rich, dark chocolate folded into the dough. These bursts of intense chocolate, combined with the subtle nuttiness of chocolate almond butter and the unique texture provided by coconut flour, create a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. The dough itself is wonderfully moist and chewy, providing the perfect canvas for the melted chocolate pockets. These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also a fantastic grain-free option, packed with rich flavor, and boast a wonderfully crazy good texture. They were, without a doubt, a huge success – the perfect sweet note to cap off an amazing and eventful year, and an equally perfect treat to usher in a new one. Their wholesome ingredients and decadent taste make them a delightful indulgence that everyone can enjoy, embodying the spirit of comfort and joy we wished to share.

As 2015 gives way to a new chapter, I extend my warmest wishes for a very Happy New Year to each and every one of you. May 2016 bring you abundant joy, health, and endless sweet moments. See you in 2016!

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