November, you left us too soon. But thanks for the great memories, including another wonderful concert with The Mavericks.

We really love this band, and we were particularly jazzed to see them at The Golden State Theatre, which was built in 1926 right in the heart of Monterey. I adore historic buildings, and I was so happy to see this one thrives as a popping entertainment venue. Plus, adding to the fun, we booked a room right across the street at The Monterey Hotel. A little rain couldn’t dampen our spirits—it is California, after all, and rain is always welcome.😉

The next day, we moved to The Centrella Hotel, a charming, historic AirB&B in nearby Pacific Grove.

After checking in, we explored the neighborhood’s beautifully restored homes on our walk to Lover’s Point—a place Paul and I remember fondly from our scuba diving days. Even with the dramatic skies of an approaching storm, it’s a gorgeous spot to view Monterey Bay.

Lovers Point loved by birds too.

Lovers Point rock wall and jetty.

Lovers Point stormy sky and cypress.

As we usher in the holiday month of December, I thought I’d share my new favorite cookie recipe that my granddaughter Rya and I made last week, along with some yummy books—my go-to escape when the demands of the season feel a bit overwhelming.

Chewy Molasses-Gingersnap Cookies*

Ingredients:
½ Cup Butter, softened to room temperature
½ Cup brown sugar
½ Cup white sugar
1 egg
½ Cup molasses
1 Cup white flour
1 Cup whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2½ tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cloves
(additional sugar for coating)

Directions:
~ Preheat oven: 350-degrees
~ Line cookie sheet with parchment paper.
~ Cream butter and sugars until creamy.
~ Add egg and molasses. Mix well.
~ Combine dry ingredients, then slowly pour into wet mixture. Mix until everything is combined.
~ Wrap dough in clear plastic wrap and place in refrigerator for 30-60 minutes.
~ Roll dough in 1” balls then roll in plain sugar and set on cookie sheet.
~ Bake for 10—13 minutes, until cookies begin to crack.
~ Cool on a rack. Store in sealed bag.

*adapted from a recipe by Jessica Hoffman

If you haven’t read Small Towns Big Hearts, you only have a short while left to grab it. Look at this wonderful review:

“Each book in this series depicts real people and the importance of living life and solving problems! We are all touched by challenges to overcome. Some of us fight to accomplish what is sent our way!” – Amazon reviewer

Grab SMALL TOWNS BIG HEARTS for only 99¢ HERE!
Free to Kindle Unlimited Subscribers

With Love Montana, my newest box set, will revert to its regular price after the holidays. Don’t pass up this bargain. I’m grateful for this incredible review, too:

“Many of my very favorite Marietta stories and characters are included in this box set. Debra Salonen always writes incredible stories. My favorite sentence that I’ve ever read in a Marietta book is included in this box set. Owning this box set is like a child having free reign at the toy store, or maybe the library. This nine-story box set is a phenomenal read and a phenomenal value. My rating: 15+ STARS” – William Harris 

Buy WITH LOVE MONTANA for only 99¢ HERE!
Free to Kindle Unlimited Subscribers

And here are two dazzling books by Day Leclaire. Each is only 99¢ at the moment. Enjoy!!

HOW TO: Hide a Baby
The Salvatore Brothers, Book #1
by Day Leclaire

Luc: Grace has been my assistant for nearly a year. But I didn't know how much I wanted her until she pretended to be my wife!

Only 99¢ on Amazon!
Free to Kindle Unlimited Subscribers

HOW TO: Bare Your Bride
The Salvatore Brothers, Book #2
by Day Leclaire

Matteo: Hanna and I met and married in one night. Now I have to convince her to turn one night into a lifetime!

Only 99¢ on Amazon!
Free to Kindle Unlimited Subscribers

I’d also like to invite you to Tule’s 12 Days of Christmas celebration on Facebook. The line-up is pretty awesome and knowing these generous and creative authors, the treats/prizes will be fabulous. I’m wrapping up the festivities on Christmas Day. Oh, my!

Please join us here: www.facebook.com/groups/TuleBookClub

Happy reading,
Deb

Coming Next:

12/14: Christmas reads and more!!!
12/28: A New Year = New Reading Opportunities…and travel plans