Holiday Traditions

Christmas parties!

This was a Young Womens' gathering of girls from church. We played the most fun game and learned another "magic" trick which was killing all the girls because they couldn't figure it out.

THIS IS THE BEST PURCHASE WE'VE EVER MADE

according to me, but I think my family would agree:

a bread maker!!

As you can see, it makes HUGE loaves! We got one for our wedding from my most excellent boss and his wife (thanks, Evans!) and then it went M.I.A. when we moved to NH 2 years later. Man, what a loss!

So we got a tip from a friend (thanks, Caroline!) on this type, which is what I wanted, after having one just like it; I couldn't remember the name (i think it's Japanese), but with my friend's suggestion, I found it on Amazon and they shipped it the day!

We have LOVED eating and giving away our two favorite loaves: Italian Rosemary Bread and Apple Oat Cinnamon bread. I just put in the liquids, flours/salt, oil or butter and turn it on. 2 hours later (thanks to Rapid Rise yeast) we have a HOT loaf to take someone or cut into.

It has been my favorite things to give away because I don't know ANYONE who doesn't ADORE a hot loaf of bread! During Thanksgiving week, we have away one a day as Thankful Loaf. Now they are Christmas Loaves.

Cookie Swap!

These beauties were the highlight because they were the most unique cookies at this particular Cookie Swap: Carrot, Orange, and Walnut Delights with Cream Cheese Orange Frosting

Recipe thanks to Culinary Mystery Author, Josi Kilpack, Lemon Tart

If you want the recipe, email me: robynb68@gmail.com

Cookies are soft, not too sweet and uniquely flavored

Watching Christmas movies

and the First Presidency & Mormon Tabernacle Choir broadcast (of our church leaders) Decorating our tree, house, and putting up lights

Having dear friends come to dinner, who are becoming like family to us here in Texas (we love you, Long family and Steve!) and using all our Christmas plates and bowls--yea!! I've realized that I love this festive tradition. I love cooking delicious recipes, deluxe goodies, and having wonderful friends & conversation together in our newly arranged dining room with red and green bowls and plates, fancy napkins with napkin rings (that match of course) and lovely goblets covered in a ring of holly that I picked up, quite unexpectedly at the Dollar Store. I'll admit it, I may be a food snob, but I'm not a decorating snob. If it looks good at a yard sale or Dollar Store, it will good at my house. Our GIGANTIC wreath on the house, covered in light, shiny red ornaments, and big velvety bow came from a yard sale in our neighborhood our first year and just makes the whole front of the house sparkle!

Nestling and snuggling in our beds...