With Thanksgiving we officially usher in the season of food centered social gatherings. Whether it's a work party, family reunion or a friendly get together with your girls friends, opportunities for sharing in friendship around tantalizing treats abound! And these events feed much more than our tummies... the holidays are filled with warmth, joy and love, and if we allow ourselves to truly … [Read more...]
The Magic of Christmas Traditions
A trip around the neighborhood marveling at the thousands of lights that remind of us of the brightest light of all... Fresh baked cookies and hot cocoa greeting me as I come home from school... A sea of poinsettias... Luminarios... The Christmas season is filled with magic, none greater than the wonderful anticipation of Christmas morn when we celebrate the birth of our … [Read more...]
Sabrina’s Christmas List
About ten days ago, my 6 year old Sabrina decided it was time she sat down to write her Christmas list. After all, everyone was asking her what was on it so she felt she needed to have an answer. She found a quiet spot and gingerly applied herself to this exiting task. She stayed close to where I was but did not share anything about what she was writing. Now that she is learning to write … [Read more...]
Fruits Déguisés
These delicious treats can be found in the finest of patisseries all over France this time of year. They were always a favorite of mine growing up and my mom, siblings and I had so much fun making dozens and dozens of these for our annual open house. I now enjoy making these with my girls. This is a super simple "no-bake" recipe that even young kids can master quickly and the results... … [Read more...]
The Magic of Christmas
It’s Christmas Eve 1970. I’m 8 years old. It’s a cool and delicious night in Paris. We’ve just come home from midnight mass. The fire crackles in the fire place. The tree sparkles with hundreds of lights. The stockings are hung and awaiting Santa’s coming. The smell of Mom's hot cocoa tickles my nose. My favorite Christmas carol "Away in a Manger" is playing. This song has a way of wrapping … [Read more...]
Healthy Gift Baskets for Everyone
Gift baskets are a simple yet sophisticated way to let someone know they are special. There truly is a gift basket for everyone. My personal favorites offer healthy fares. Below are a few examples. Enjoy! Numi Organic Tea Flowering Gift Set My aunt gifted me one of these wonderful sets last Christmas and I have greatly enjoyed it. Not only are the teas delicious, but the presentation … [Read more...]