Top 5 Posts of 2016

It’s been quite a happy week in between Christmas and New Year’s for me, and I hope for you, too.

You may have noticed I took a little blog break to enjoy some quality family time. I love blogging, but family dinners, holding a newborn and playing tea with a toddler takes precedence. I hope you’ve been able to take some time off, too!

Believe it or not, it’s that time of year where we see what the most popular posts of 2016 were on think fruitful. So, here are your favorite eats, reads and features from this past year!

1. $6 Lunch in Raleigh

I’m so excited that you readers enjoyed this one.  I love an inexpensive local lunch, and I guess you guys do, too. Check this post out if you’re a Raleigh-Durham resident or just stopping in for a visit around the lunch hour.

2. Stir Fry

stir fry

I don’t know about you, but it was practically the year of the stir fry at our house. And I was so pleased to get to share our basic, weeknight winner recipe on the blog. It’s healthy, easy and so filling.

3. Fruitful Home: Dining Room Chairs

dining-room-chairs

This year, we bought a new custom dining room table, which means that we need all new dining room chairs. So, I shared some of my top pics with you guys and got your feedback. What will we end up buying? Only time will tell, but I’ll be sure to post about it.

4. Made in NC: Crude Bitters & Sodas

We had a very special Made in NC feature this year with one of my favorite local artisans and mixologists, Craig from Crude Bitters & Sodas. He shared all about how he got into the bitters biz and even gave away a bottle of his flavorful cocktail/beer/soda topper to a lucky reader.

5. Pork & Black Bean Stew

I made this recipe a few times this year because it’s so easy and tasty. If you’re a fan of slow-cooked pork, black beans and wonderful Mexican flavors, then this recipe is for you!

Cheers to 2016, and I’m looking forward to lots more fun posts in 2017.

P.S. Stay tuned for my 2017 food resolutions!