Happy Birthday…

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by Hannah (BitterSweet)

…Dear BitterSweet!

Unbelievable but true, my baby has outgrown its diapers and training wheels, moving up in the world as a full-fledged toddler with four full years under its belt. No longer so uncertain on its feet, this humble little blog always surprises me at how strong it can be- And what sturdy support it has to fall back on when it isn’t. Not for a second did I imagine that it would still be around today, that I would still feel a passion for logging my crafts and recipes, putting my work on public display. Though the basic concept and look has changed significantly, it’s still the same creation beneath it all, and I still return to it for the same reason I always have and will: Because of you. My readers. I said this before but I’ll say it again, because I simply can’t stress how crucial a role you play in keeping BitterSweet alive and kicking. No matter if you’re one of my silent lurkers or vociferous regulars or fair weather blog buddies, I love you guys. Thanks for lending an ear, speaking up, helping out, and making the blogosphere a community where I feel safe and accepted, free to say it like it is. You guys rock.

But enough with the serious talk, I have some pure silliness to share! After saving up the most absurd and ridiculous searches that led some misguided folk to the blog, I finally have a plethora of bizarre search terms to give you a good laugh. Without any editing or further ado, My favorite picks from year four are…

what should we eat to become black eye
i crochet so i don’t kill people
to tie up his hose
pictures of real life canibalisim
how to make cocoa leaf into cocaine powder
pizza with a face “don’t eat me i love you”
melty pudding porno
lumpy separated pudding wrong error
malicious bunny
fuck +frosted

….I sure wonder if these people ever found what they were looking for. Perhaps not as crazy as previous years (I wasn’t checking as much, truth be told), but still worth a decent chuckle, right?

But you know, it just wouldn’t be a birthday party without presents, so I’d like to give you one! Actually, I’d like to give two of you lovely readers out there a Cup-a-Cake individual cupcake holder! Perhaps not the most exciting present, but I’ve had them rattling around in my baking drawer for ages, and I just don’t think I’m ever going to use them. Both are in pink, never before used… But if you play your cards right, I might just send them off with a trial run cupcake inside… You know, just to make sure they work properly. If you’d like one, just leave me a comment by midnight (EST) of February 16th, and tell me what you want to see in the coming year BitterSweet. More/less… reviews, recipes, weird stories, craft patterns, photography tips? Something I haven’t tried yet? Don’t be afraid to just shout it out!

But really, four whole years… They do grow up fast.

113 thoughts on “Happy Birthday…”

  1. Awww HAPPY BIRTHDAY BITTERSWEET! You’ve been one of my very favorite blogs since the beginning. No one can compare to you when it comes to amazingly unique recipes and always stunning photography. I’m so glad that you are still loving blogging, and I hope you keep it up and continue to love it for many, many more years!

  2. Happy Birthday! That’s quite a while to be around.

    Personally, I always appreciate more recipes…. and would love if you could include their nutritional content also.

  3. Happy blog birthday!

    I love your blog just the way it is, but if there were anything I’d want to see more of, it would be awesome recipes!

  4. Happy Birthday! I would love to see more recipes and photography tips! Your recipes have always worked perfectly for me — something I can’t say about other blogs’ or even cookbooks’ fare. Hope that this wonderful blog is around for another 4 years! :)

  5. Congrats on the Blogversary! (If that’s a real word…) I cracked up hard at the “I crochet so I don’t kill people” search term as I’ve said it to a few people who have rudely interfered with my crocheting in public.

  6. Ha, love those search terms!

    Happy Bloggy Birthday, your blog has been one of my faves since I found it, your food and crafts are always so inspiring! I’d love it if you would share more of your crafty creations :)

  7. Happy birthday! Four years is so impressive. I hope my blog makes it that far. Blogging is definitely an ever-evolving addiction for me as well.

    Here’s to four(plus) more!

    I always love reading the weird search times by which people find my blog. I have to wonder..,what were they THINKING!

  9. Hooray for four years — congratulations!
    I wouldn’t change a thing about Bittersweet; just keep sharing your culinary undertakings and musings with us for another great year!

  10. Congratulations! Your blog is just perfect the way it is with stories, patterns and recipes all interspersed with your great writing. Here’s to many more blogging years to come!

  11. Happy blog bday! That’s really awesome! I always am excited by your recipes for unusual ingredients, because you always make something unique…and selfishly, I’m digging the alternative sweetener recipes best!

  12. Happy birthday! I think I am excited to see more stuff with caramel. I can never seem to find the right caramel to satisfy my craving!

  13. HAPPY BLOG BIRTHDAY!
    you are a wonderful blogger! I love your writing style and your passion! Keep it up!
    I love love love your crafts. I wish I could see more of them or have some more freebies! I hardly see a post about your crafts, and a craft pattern search brought me to your site!
    I always love your recipes, even though I can’t cook as much as I would like to anymore (curse dorms)!
    I find the photography tips interesting, and I would like to see more ebooks. I really need to buy them! :D
    <3

  14. Hey Hannah,

    Those comments are stupendous! Brilliant. I love your photos and recipes most, but that’s just me…

    Loving the blog,
    Rosie

  15. Congratulations!! I love the blog just as it is, really.
    Also, “i crochet so i don’t kill people”? That wasn’t me. Really. Ahem.

    Could that cupcake be gluten-free? <3

  16. I can’t believe it’s been 4 years! You’ve come a long way since I first heard about you on Lime&Violet.

    I love all of this blog’s content but if I had to pick something I look forward to seeing more than anything else… I couldn’t. But I could pick 2. :o)

    I really enjoy the behind-the-scenes bits of writing. I especially love the stories you tell, either the real stuff or the creative bits when introducing new yarn critters.

    Thank you so much for all of your hard work!

  18. Happy birthday! All I want for your birthday is more search terms. Melty pudding porno? F*ck + frosted? Oh, man. So good!

  19. Happy Birthday! Congratulations on the big 4! Your posts are always fun and interesting to read and with beautiful photography. Keep up the great work! :-)

  20. Oh, cool :) Happy birthday, Bittersweet :) I wish I could say I’d been here all those four years, but I’m trying to catch up, and I’m having a blast at it. Just keep doing what you’re doing–no more or less of anything. It’s a pleasure to read, because you’re one of the few food bloggers who actually write really well, and your posts are enlightening and amusing. Here’s to another four years, and more :) Cheers!

  21. gratz!

    i think your blog has a great mix of subject matter but personally i’d like to see more on your behind the scenes photo stuff, and bread recipes youve tried out :P something thats always fun to read is daring bakers challenge, you always manage to make the post interesting and captivating to read. and if you could post the melty porno pudding recipe that would be awesome too.

    good luck!

  22. I’ve really enjoyed your blog. Thanks for posting such great stuff and so frequently! I especially enjoy the recipes, though, so if you’re looking for feedback I’d say, keep ’em coming! I’d particularly like to see some vegan fondant action. My gut tells me you can work wonders with the stuff.

  24. Happy birthday!

    Has it really been 4 years? Wow. I remember i started reading your blog a little before your second birthday. Two years. Awesome! I would love to see more crafts on your site. I don’t know how comfortable you are deviating from crochet, but it would be interesting to see your tries! (:

    Thanks for everything!

    -Farihah (:

  26. Hi Hannah, I love the blog as it is- the perfect combo of laughs, stories, gorgeous photos, crafts, and recipes. The one thing that would be awesome is food photography tips, as I am a newbie and your photos are what I look at for guidance amd inspriration.

    By the way, if I win that supcake holder, send it with something gluten-free….

    Thanks and keep blogging and rocking,
    VEGirl

  29. Happy blogiversary! I want to know your photography secrets! You always produce the most amazing quality images and posts.

  30. happy blogaversary, wow 4 years is practically a lifetime in the blog world! i adore bittersweet, so i hope there are MANY more years to come!

  31. I’d kind of like to see some of that melty pudding porno … Or just some more really cute crafts! Your stuff always inspires me to get off my butt and work on my latest project that’s been cast on for two months. Thanks for doing such a great job. You put so much work into this, it must be a second job for you.

  32. Happy Birthday!

    The blog doesn’t need anything more. It’s great the way it is. I love the craft tips, though. Maybe you should try knitting. If you like knitting. I love it. Did you know you can knit licorice cables? I don’t know if you can crochet them, it’s probably worth the try.

  33. Happy Birthday, blog! 4 years is amazing!
    I’d love to see more craft posts. I originally found your blog via your absolutely amazing crochet: your beautiful recipes just happened to be a fabulous bit of icing to it all for this dairy-free soul!
    Here’s to seeing you in another year for a 5th anniversary!

  35. Bon anniversaire à toi,
    Bon anniversaire à toi,
    Bon anniversaire à BitterSweet blog,
    Bon anniversaire à toi!

    I could have sung it in English, but I went with French so therefore it is more interesting. Congrats and a happy 4th, and thanks for the search terms to give me some fun ideas to do this weekend.

    I’d really love to see more photography tips/lessons. I love the recipes and stories, but I’d keep coming back if you posted nothing but food photos. They brighten my day with their awesomeness.

  37. Happy birthday, BitterSweet blog! Wow, 4 years did go by quickly, didn’t they? I love this blog exactly as it is and wouldn’t change a thing. All I hope is that I’ll someday get to try your angel food cake! I’m patient, though; no rush. :)

  38. Happy Birthday!
    I am relatively new to your blog, but I have to say I love your recipes. Your tofu paneer is a now a staple in our menu repertoire.
    Keep up the great recipes!

  42. Wow, Hannah, happy birthday to your blog! Amazing. Your recipes only get better and better! I’d love to see more of your creativity at work, whether in the kitchen or through crafts (but must admit I do prefer the edible creations). And given my current restrictions, savory recipes are preferred. ;) What does it say about me that I don’t know what that cupcake holder is??

  43. Happy Happy Blog birthday! Your blog is amazing and your pictures are out of this world. I like whatever you post here, so if you go on in the same way ,I like that :-)

  44. I love it all, but I want to see the recipes and reviews continue for sure! And we can only hope another cookbook will be on the way in the future :) I also enjoy the e-books. I made my first batch of ice cream in my new ice cream maker and it was amazing! Thanks, Bittersweet Blog!

  45. I’ld love to have those pink cupcake holder… even more with a taste from your cupcake!
    Your pictures are always amazing, recipes are delicious. So pleaes keep being a true inspiration!

  46. Happy Blog Birthday! I love me some recipes so I am always happy to see plenty of those, especially yours since I know they are pretty much guaranteed to have superb results! But being an animal lover I also like reading about, and seeing your puppy. :)
    -K

  48. Happy Blog-o-versary!

    Thank you for such a lovely blog!
    The only thing I could want more of is perhaps more refined sugar free recipes? And, more of your search terms!!!

  50. I teach a beginners textile arts in an inner-city public middle and high school in San Francisco. The kids here have incredible issues they bring “on their plates.” You name-it – any worst case scenario imaginable and unimaginable – they’ve experienced it.
    Sometimes, they’ve joined the once-a-week class because I’ve asked them to; I don’t know them and they don’t know me, but who cares…come in!
    So crocheting is well-liked by most all of them, as it’s easy to begin with, and you’re using your fingers.
    But whenever I’ve pulled a couple aside to show them your flicker page, with the pix of the handmade items; they get excited. OOOooo’s and Aaaaaah’s and Oh, lookatthat! So we’ve made a few items from your page, and are now requesting the one that gets the most amazed reactions: the little tub w/suds. It’s THE BEST! Any chance of getting even just kinda vague directions? If not, you’re still the most inspirational “maker” out there!
    Thank you for the years of accumulation and sharing.
    Ms Guzman, San Francisco, CA

  52. Happy Blog Birthday, Hannah. Your recipes and photography are my favorites so I would vote for more of the same. I’m a vegetarian wannabe and find lots to choose from here. I feel healthier just reading your blog – ha!

  53. Happy Birthday! Feliz Cumpleaños! I’m so glad these past 4 years have been so great for you! I know that even though I don’t comment often, I really do enjoy seeing all your posts. One thing I’d like to see more of is possibly reviews of any kind. Reviews always help me out when it comes to final purchasing or using thoughts. Thanks so much ♥ (@StephanieVelezR)

  54. Happy birthday/blogiversary! I really enjoy the recipes, photos, and needlework (and have recommended all to a bunch of people). Maybe something I’d like to see is a suggestion or two for what to do with the leftover ingredients after a recipe is done. I hate to waste good stuff.

  55. Congratulations Hannah on four years of great recipes, beautiful photography, and an ever expanding following! I’ve been enjoying seeing more savory recipes from you recently, I hope you continue the trend in the next year :)

  56. Happy birthday!! I would love to see more delicious recipes incorporating alternatives flours (Eg spelt), and liquid sweeteners (Eg honey) instead of sugar.

  57. Happy Birthday Bittersweet!!

    I have to admit that I fit mostly in that “silent lurker” category, but I just wanted you to know I’m an avid reader and that I love your recipes, patterns, and words of wisdom. Keep up the awesomeness!

  62. hooray, happy birthday BitterSweet! this blog is most definitely a delight through and through, but i think i especially enjoy your wry and charming storytelling. congratulations on all you’ve accomplished!

  64. Happy 4th Birthday Bittersweet! I am a big fan of the blog Hannah and althoe I’m not a Vegan I try to make everything without eggs. Thank you so much for sharing so many of ur experiences with us! Wld love to see more recipes and photography tips! Wish you many more blog birthdays!

  67. Congratulations! Here’s wishing you many more years of happy blogging.

    I am a big fan of your blog, and what I love most of all are your cute and creative crochet patterns. The simple and delicious vegan recipes are my second most favorite thing about this blog. Thank you for sharing as generously as you do.

  68. Congratulations on four years (that’s like 25 in blog years)! I would just be happy if this blog continues to stick around, but since you asked for a wish list:
    –more desserts
    –techniques
    –directions and recipes on the cool, fancy stuff you do (like for the daring bakers’ challenges)
    –fewer product reviews
    Here’s to many more years!

  69. Congrats! Bring on the cakes, bars, cookies, etc. And if they’re things that can be made a day ahead…all the better!

  71. Happy birthday, BitterSweet! This blog is an inspiration! I love the clean layout, the photography, the writing, and the creative content! In year five, I’d love to continue seeing your crafts and reading your baking stories. Keep up the great work!

  72. I also just wanted to add that I found this site last year by doing a google image search for “tofu pup.” I’m so glad I did!

  73. Congrats on 4 years, really great! I’m so glad that I found you last year, I have really enjoyed reading your blog.

    You have really amazing sweets, but your selection of savory dishes never fail to blow me over. You have some really creative and unique ideas to offer to the dinner menu, and I wouldn’t be mad at ya if you posted more! :)

    Thanks for the giveaway, too!

  75. Well happy, HAPPY Birth Day Bittersweet! I actually LOL at those search strings…too funny. and sad, a little bit.
    Love your recipes, love your crafty posts, and even the crazy/silly stories, so whatever you want to share, I’ll keep reading! (I’m partial to your amazing dairy-free savory recipes though).

  76. Happy Birthday, dear blog…happy birthday to you! :) And congrats to you for having enough steam (and recipes, hehe) to keep it going strong for 4 years.

    I’d really like to see some raw recipes this year.

  78. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I can’t wait to see what the next 4 years bring! :)

    I love Bittersweet as it is, and can’t wait for more recipes, stories, and drool-worthy photos.
    If I had to add one thing, I’d love to see more crafts!

    <3

  81. I was drawn to your site by your crochet patterns and found it a lucky coicidence that you had wonderful vegan recipes. I would enjoy more of all you do. You have a wonderful site. Thank you!

  85. Happy birthday, BitterSweet!

    I would love to see that elusive macaron recipe! You already have a wonderful balance of reviews and recipes and things. Just keep doing what you’re doing!

  87. Happy blogiversary!!! I can’t believe it’s been 4 years already, I’ve been around for most of the ride. I’d love to see more savory baked goods pop up on the blog, savory pastries and the like. I mean, who doesn’t love justifying filled-bread for dinner? :)

  89. More recipes – especially really unusual or health-oriented ones! I’ve really dug the product reviews, too.

    & if you had new things in mind to try, I’d be game. New is never bad.

  90. Happy 4th Birthday, Bitter Sweet! I love your blog just the way it is, I love your writing style, your great sense of humour and the best thing of all is that your recipes and photos are always amazing and inspiring! Thank you for sharing your wonderful blog and I’m looking forward to celebrating with you for many more years to come!

  93. Happy birthday bittersweet blog ! I would love to bite your lovely cupcakes if I could ;) Keep going with your wonderful recipes Hannah. I just love them !

  96. There is no better vegan food blog to get my mouth watering than Bittersweet! I’ve loved your recipes, advice, techniques, creativity and stunning photography from the minute I found it and I want to see more, more, and even more of the same! Your inspiring creations never cease to amaze me!

    Happy Birthday, Bittersweet!

  97. Happy Birthday! Your blog is awesome and I am so glad I found you years ago. Though it doesn’t seem like that long or maybe I am getting older.

    Definitely more photography tips!

  98. Happy birthday! I seriously wouldn’t know what to do without your blog and your book! Thank you for sprending so much time on updating bittersweet with all your amazing posts.

  100. Especially love the recipes and would like more craft patterns also. Or just everyday stuff. No matter which way you go, your blog is enjoyable to visit and I’m glad you take the time to stick with it.

  101. Happy 4 years!!! I love reading your blog, and I especially love your photography, so I would never say no to seeing more of your wonderful pictures!

  102. Hooray for a Bittersweet Birthday! Did I ever tell you I was bummed when I was looking for a blog name, because bittersweet was taken?! Those are some mighty fine lookin’ cupcakes there!

  103. I just came across your blog today and wanted to wish you a happy blogging birthday. Looks like I have some back reading to do now… Wishing you all the best in your 5th year :)

  104. Happy fourth year!! :D (also the day before my 18th birthday!)
    I love your blog, although i’m not sure how I stumbled across it…
    I would love to see even more photography, and tips! I love your photos and how they capture your beautiful treats and meals! :D
    Keep up the magnificent cooking, baking, crocheting, writing, and whatever else you choose to do i’ll be here to see! <3

  106. Happy Birthday, dear sweet Bittersweet! My idea/suggestion would be to have some postings in themes. Cluster a few days, or a week and make it all about “whatever”. I find people always really respond well to a series of posts. I would enjoy it. I also would really enjoy owning a Cup-a-cake. Believe it or not, I don’t own one and am the owner of Cake Flower Vegan Bakery. I’m sure my kids would appreciate some way to tote around one of Mommy’s extra delicious cupcakes, without being smooshed;-)

  108. Happy 4th birthday!
    I love how you do your blog, I’m not a vegan so I tend not to read the reviews that much. But I can imagine that vegans would love those reviews.

    ps your post made me realise that my blog turned 4 a few months back ;)

  109. I have been reading this blog religiously for about 3 years. I have been vegan for 2 years thanks to all the inspiration this blog has given me! More stories, recipes, and photos please!

  110. congratulations on 4 years. in general i like the mix of posts you have. though i would like to see more craft patterns – especially knitting and crochet. your creations are just sooo cute – it makes me want to go out and create but i have no idea how.

  111. happy birthday bittersweet! I have been a reader for most of your 4 years and it is hard to imagine you improving on perfection. I like recipes and crochet patterns so more of them please!

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