Celebrating Five Years: A Culinary Journey with Climbing Grier Mountain

Join us on a truly special journey as we commemorate five incredible years of Climbing Grier Mountain (CGM) – a beloved food and lifestyle blog that has blossomed into a vibrant community. This milestone isn’t just about the passage of time; it’s a celebration of every adventurous recipe, every shared travel story, and every moment of personal growth experienced along the way. Get ready to explore the heart and soul of CGM, rekindle your culinary inspiration, and delight in the memories we’ve created together.

For half a decade, CGM has been more than just a platform for sharing recipes; it has been a personal diary, an artistic outlet, and a dynamic space where culinary exploration meets life’s grand adventures. From concocting innovative dishes in my kitchen to traversing breathtaking landscapes across the globe, this blog has provided countless opportunities for self-expression, fostering wonderful friendships, and embarking on a profound journey of self-discovery. Each post, each comment, and every interaction has contributed to the rich tapestry that CGM represents.

The path hasn’t always been smooth. There were moments of doubt, instances where I felt like throwing in the towel after pouring so much passion, effort, and yes, even tater tots, into this endeavor. Yet, remarkably, every time I neared my limit, a new oven door, a new opportunity, or a fresh wave of inspiration would emerge, reminding me why I started. This resilience, born from the very act of blogging, has been one of the most unexpected and valuable lessons.

Blogging for the past five years has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the present. It taught me to release the grip of past regrets and the anxieties of future uncertainties. I learned that comparing my journey to others is a fruitless exercise, and that every story holds multiple perspectives. Most importantly, CGM has underscored the power of being present – truly immersing myself in the “now.” This is where genuine change and growth flourish, where moments of pure joy unfold, and where motivation, humor, setbacks, and triumphs all reside. It’s this shared present that connects us all, reminding us that we are, after all, fellow travelers on this incredible journey of life.

So, as we reflect on these vibrant five years, I extend a heartfelt “WE” to you, my cherished community. Without your thoughtful comments, enthusiastic tweets, inspiring Instagram tags, and touching emails, Climbing Grier Mountain would simply not exist. Your engagement has been the fuel that kept this creative engine running. Below, you’ll find a curated compilation of our collective highlights, featuring five favorite savory recipes, the most memorable travel moments, and even beloved recipes crafted and celebrated by YOU!

Are. You. Ready. To. Dive. In?

Our Culinary Journey: Top Recipes and Flavors

Top Five Savory Recipes: A Feast for the Senses

My passion for savory food knows absolutely no bounds. Offer me a generous plate of loaded nachos, perfectly fried chicken, a juicy gourmet burger, or a basket brimming with crispy tater tots, and consider us friends for life! Over the years, I’ve had the immense pleasure of creating some truly innovative and deliciously adventurous dishes. It was fascinating to discover which savory creations resonated most with you, our loyal readers. These are the top five recipes that consistently had you coming back for more over the past half-decade, proving that bold flavors and comforting meals are always in style:

Chicken Caesar Burger with Parmesan Crisps: A gourmet twist on a classic, offering a delightful crunch.
Prime Rib Naan Nachos with Horseradish Cream: An irresistible way to transform leftovers into a decadent meal.
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Enchiladas with Harissa Red Sauce: Fusing exotic spices with a beloved comfort food.
Sweet Potato Tacos with Chipotle Cream: A vegetarian delight bursting with vibrant flavors and textures.
White Chicken Pizza with Gorgonzola & Pears: An unexpectedly harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.

Top Five Dessert Recipes: Sweet Success Stories

You might think after discussing my unwavering love for savory dishes, dedicating an entire section to desserts would seem contradictory. But let me assure you, my sweet tooth is just as formidable! One of my personal goals for 2015 was to conquer my notorious “black yeast thumb” (a polite term for a lack of baking prowess), and I genuinely believe this year, in particular, took the cake – literally! And so did you, my wonderful readers, with your enthusiastic embrace of these sweet masterpieces. A dramatic drumroll, please, for the top dessert recipes that stole our hearts:

Dark Chocolate Cake with Cherry Pop Rocks Covered Truffles: A playful explosion of flavor and texture.
Vanilla Baked Doughnuts with Cadbury Ganache Icing: A delightful indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Banana Cake with Dark Chocolate Frosting & Salted Caramel: A rich, comforting classic elevated with gourmet touches.
Bourbon Honey Ice Cream with Brown Butter Crumble & Fresh Peaches: A sophisticated scoop perfect for any occasion.
Ricotta Cake with Fresh Berries: A light, airy, and elegant dessert showcasing seasonal fruits.

Top Five Giggle Juice Recipes: Stirring Up Joy

I’ve often thought I should design “Giggle Juice” t-shirts – who’s with me on that? There’s an undeniable magic about a well-crafted cocktail that simply brightens the world. It reminds me of a clever sign my friend Liz once photographed: “No great story ever started over a plate of greens.” Truer words have rarely been spoken! So, in the spirit of great stories and even greater sips, here are my top five most popular cocktail recipes that consistently sparked joy, endless giggles, and left everyone eagerly anticipating another round:

Mango Mint Peach Sangrias: A refreshing fruity blend perfect for summer gatherings.
Blueberry Bourbon Cooler with Fresh Mint: A sophisticated and cooling bourbon-based delight.
Grapefruit Margarita with Ginger Salt Rim: A zesty, tangy twist on a beloved classic.
Mango Mule with Crystallized Ginger: An exotic and spicy take on the popular Moscow Mule.
Cherry Ginger Bourbon Fizz: A vibrant, bubbly cocktail with a delightful spicy kick.

Top Five Tot Recipes: The Ultimate Tater Tot Obsession

Mark my words, someday, my friends, I will realize my dream of having a dedicated tater tot cookbook gracing bookstore shelves. Until that glorious day arrives, I’ll continue to pour my heart into crafting “tot-tastic” recipes that tantalize our taste buds and celebrate the humble tater tot in all its crispy glory! My personal favorites, which also happen to be wildly popular with you, include some truly inventive and comforting creations. In my humble opinion, the world unequivocally needs more tater tot love. Am I right? #Tots4Life!

Sweet Potato Tater Tots with Sriracha Aioli: A vibrant, spicy twist on the classic, perfect for dipping.
Asian Barbecue Sticky Tater Tots with Toasted Sesame Seeds: An irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy.
Chorizo & Tater Tot Stuffed Poblanos with Chipotle Cream: A hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal.
Spiced Apple Tater Tot Crisp with Honey Whipped Cream: A surprisingly delicious dessert that redefines the tater tot.
Bourbon & Bacon Tater Tot Casserole: The ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Beyond the Kitchen: Travel, Achievements & Community

Top Five Travel Moments: Wanderlust and Unforgettable Journeys

After spending the past month immersed in the delightful chaos of moving into our charming century-old house, Mr. B and I have been experiencing a profound sense of wanderlust. The mere thought of unpacking yet another box makes me long for distant shores and new adventures. We’ve been incredibly fortunate over these five years to explore some truly far-flung destinations and, equally, to live in a state (Colorado!) that offers the perfect oasis for a refreshing staycation, providing a much-needed balance between exotic escapes and local gems.

Japan: Our trip this year was an undeniable highlight, a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and futuristic innovation. It was also our thrilling first experience skiing internationally, a memory I yearn to recreate again and again.
Biarritz, France: This enchanting destination was pure magic, overflowing with exquisite wines, buttery croissants, stunning beaches, and exhilarating scooter adventures along the coast.
Vieques, Puerto Rico: Speaking of beaches, some of the most breathtaking in the world are just a stone’s throw away in Vieques, Puerto Rico, offering serene beauty and unparalleled relaxation.
New York City: This year, I witnessed a life-changing concert in the Big Apple – if you haven’t seen Jason Isbell perform live, you absolutely must experience it now.
Yurtcation in Colorado: Perhaps one of my most cherished travel moments, however, happened right here in Colorado: spending an unforgettable night in a yurt with six of my closest friends, beneath a canopy of brilliant stars. Simply priceless.

Top Five Achievements: Milestones on the Blogging Journey

Discussing personal accolades has always felt a little out of my comfort zone. Growing up, I naturally gravitated towards cheering on others, finding immense joy in lifting people up. I’m typically the one who loves giving gifts, but receiving them often makes me want to find the nearest corner to hide in. However, today, as we celebrate this five-year milestone, I’m making an exception. I’m taking a moment to acknowledge some incredible accomplishments, because in my wildest dreams, I never imagined that my blogging journey would lead to such extraordinary opportunities:

Television Appearance: My very first time on TV, passionately discussing Climbing Grier Mountain on “Colorado & Company.”
Contributing to Coca-Cola Journey: Writing as a contributor for such an esteemed publication was an incredible honor.
Featured in Print: Discovering my face, and my words, in a local print magazine was a truly surreal and exciting experience.
Hosting a Brunch Event with Food Should Taste Good: Collaborating with a fantastic brand to host a memorable brunch was a delightful opportunity.
Becoming a Sabra Ambassador: Partnering with a brand I genuinely adore, Sabra hummus, has been a deliciously fulfilling role.

Top Five Blogging Experiences: Connections and Growth

As a dedicated food and lifestyle blogger, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to encounter and experience some truly unique situations. What makes these moments and experiences so profoundly wonderful, however, are the incredible people within the blogging community with whom I get to share them. These connections have enriched my life and my work beyond measure. From laughter-filled conferences to insightful retreats, each experience has shaped CGM into what it is today:

First Blogging Conference in Austin: I’ll never forget my very first blogging conference in scorching Austin, Texas, where we stayed in a condo above a lively bar on 6th Street. #condocurse – a memorable, if slightly chaotic, initiation!
Iowa Cornquest & Meredith Corporation Visit: From there, I ventured to Iowa to delve into the fascinating intricacies of farm life and had the privilege of visiting the renowned Meredith Corporation, gaining invaluable insights into the food media world.
Girls’ Ski Weekend at Deer Valley: Next, I made my way to Deer Valley, Utah, where luxurious skiing and exceptional dining created my ultimate happy place – a perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.
Intimate Blogging Retreat in Southern California: I then traveled to Southern California for an intimate blogging retreat with a fabulous group of fellow bloggers. We shared laughter, traded ideas, and found renewed inspiration in each other’s company.
Touring Sabra Headquarters: Last but certainly not least, touring the Sabra headquarters this year was an absolute dream. People, I truly love hummus, and this company is, without a doubt, two snaps around the world fantastic. Lemon hummus for life!

Thank You & A Special Giveaway!

As I mentioned throughout this retrospective, I truly could not have achieved any of this without you, my incredible community. From the deepest part of my heart, thank you, thank you, thank you for every comment, share, and moment of engagement. To express my profound gratitude and celebrate this five-year milestone, I want to give back to the community that has given me so much! YOU have a chance to win a $105 Amazon gift card! Get. Excited. Because this is just a small token of my appreciation for your unwavering support and enthusiasm over the years.

To enter this special giveaway, simply leave a comment below telling me: what is your absolute favorite kind of birthday cake? I can’t wait to read your delicious responses!

****THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! CONGRATS TO #20, Shirley!!*******

Giveaway details: One lucky US resident winner will receive a $105 gift card from Amazon. The winner will be chosen randomly from the comments and will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize. This giveaway will run from Wednesday, August 5th to Sunday, August 9th at 9 pm MST. Good luck to everyone who enters, and thank you again for being part of the CGM family!

Now, let’s raise a toast to five more wonderful, crazy, tater tot-filled years ahead, brimming with new recipes, exciting travels, and shared memories!

Conclusion: Explore these curated CGM treasures, creating delicious memories and inspiring your continued culinary and life adventures. Here’s to many more years of Climbing Grier Mountain!

Five Year Blogiversary: Top Five CGM Recipes and Moments