Another Year..

It's almost the end of the year. I know. I know. I haven't shown my face much, but I have a good excuse. Sometimes I have to write for a living. Sometimes I have to write around editor schedules, which I finished just in time giving me an opportunity to do a little holiday cooking - - and even put a hint of holiday touches in the house. 

Chocolate Crinkles are easy, and especially work well if you make the cookie dough the night before. There are several recipes, but the one with vegetable oil and cocoa powder is the easiest.

Candy isn't just for kids. This white chocolate bark is topped with healthy goodness like "craisins" (dried cranberries), chopped salted pistachios, and slices of dried apricots. I can't take credit for this one, as it is a Barefoot Contessa favorite. She uses white chocolate and I took the easy way with premade easy-to-melt white candy bark.

The camera and I don't understand each other so these aren't the best snaps, but here are a few holiday touches around the bungalow. Yup, I hand carved two of the snowmen, and the little houses are known as Putz, a decor from the Occupied Japan era. These are just a few in my collection. 

In the mean time, I wish you a Merry Christmas, many Happy Holidays, and a healthy and prosperous New Year.
Thank you my friends for reading me.