. . .for a while anyway.  It's January and pretty cold here in the Northeast.  Technically, we are only 18 days into winter, but we already have had a few snowstorms and a major ice storm.  This nasty, cold weather often makes me want to hide under a blanket with a good book and a cup of coffee (perhaps with a bit of vanilla liqueur added).

I have never been one to participate in many cookie swaps during the holiday season.  I always wondered what I would do with all of those dozens of cookies when my house already is filled with treats.  However, I do indulge in extra baking during this season.  One baking session that was a regular occurrence for a few years was an afternoon of baking with my dad.

My twelve year old son arrived home from school today, entered my home office, and inquired as to why I had a bag of breadsticks in there.  It was a good question.  He knows that I'm not the sort of person to snack on breadsticks, so what was going on?  The simple answer was, "I was working on my photography skills."

Last week my husband and I celebrated Thanksgiving with another couple, who happen to be our best friends.  As it would be an adults only meal, we thought about straying from the tradition dinner of turkey and fixings.  We also decided to try some appetizers that were more creative than cheese and crackers.  With that thought in mind, I let my creative juices flow.

Christmas has been my favorite holiday since I was a little girl.  As a child I am sure most of my excitement came from knowing I'd receive gifts.  However, my love for this holiday has remained strong.  As an adult, I eagerly would anticipate decorating, baking, and shopping.  I loved to take drives and view all of the beautiful lights in my neighbors' windows and yards.  The smile of a young child sitting on Santa's lap would make me smile also.  Christmas music frequently played while I worked or cooked.