My dad’s birthday was December 20th. He always said as a kid, his parents would pull a present out from under the tree and say, “Here you go. Happy birthday.”

My youngest granddaughter was born on my grandmother’s birthday: December 15. Luckily, she was born in a time when birthdays are big deals. We celebrated her for two days…three if you count her early gift: a new kitten (rescued from animal shelter) named Snowflake.

With Thanksgiving being “late” this year and our kitchen remodel that included delivery and set-up of new appliances, I needed help getting in the holiday spirit.

I was inspired to put up our tree after spotting my son’s senior cat napping under his.

And being invited to read a book at our library’s Holiday Story Read-Aloud was inspirational, too. This year, I picked The Snow Angel, a lovely story about generousity and kindness. When I was done, my granddaughter passed around candies adorned with goose feathers.

And living next door to “Holiday Central” brought some cheer, if not my competitive spirit. Kelly volunteered to include her home in the annual Holiday Open House tour sponsored by the local branch of Soroptimists International. I was tempted to get a sign that reads: DITTO, but I didn’t. Sigh.

My granddaugher, Daisy, is coming to help me bake cookies and treats to share with friends and family. As promised, here’s the recipe she made at Thanksgiving. Everyone loved it. I hope you do, too.

Wherever you are and however you celebrate, I wish you a beautiful holiday filled with tasty treats, love, and goodwill. Thank you for hanging with me this year. Thanks for being both readers and friends.

Deb

Coming Jan 2, 2025: Happy New Year!!