Wednesday, That's it, I'm done

 My third batch of caramels turned out perfect.  I had to get these done to get them shipped.  Also the Linzer cookies, which are so good.  I think the last two cookies I made are some of my favorites.  If I had to list cookies, I would say, #1 Peppekakkor, #2 Linzer, #3 almond crescents. You will notice I make them last.  If I made them first they would be all gone before I even got my trays made.  As it was I had to make another batch of Peppekakkor, because well.....

These are Lil sis's favorite.  Just use a wedding cake cookie recipe, but add chopped almonds instead of pecans or walnuts.  Also replace vanilla flavor with almond extract.   Shape into crescents. place in fridge to get cold and then bake.  This is so they will hold their shape. Roll twice in powder sugar.  The first time the sugar will be absorbed by the butter, and then the second time it will cover.  So good.  Addicting in fact.That's it! I am done baking.  Then hubs last night when I finally got the last of the dishes in the dish washer, wanted to know if I had made any raisin filled cookies yet?  I just gave him the look.

Have to, HAVE TO,get in the shop today.  Really all very easy things to do, just have to do it.  Then I must make cookie trays up and I have to get gifts wrapped. So happy I made a stew yesterday and have leftovers so I don't have to cook dinner.

Things I need to accomplish:

1. put check out for paper boy's gift

2. patch two pairs of pants

3. fix a dog coat

4. replace zipper

5. minor alterations on two dresses

6. call clients

7. make up cookie trays

8, Do some laundry

9. deep clean the kitchen

10. wrap presents

Now I know I have been asked and some of you are thinking, why do I put myself through the expense and time of baking at Christmas?  My answer is LOVE. It is my way of saying you are impotent. Important enough for me to go about this effort.  My kids love it, it brings them joy.  I love the memories it brings me of my mother and my aunts and my grandmother.  I love the traditions of making all the old recipes.    Can one say reindeer meat? It is listed in one of my great grandmothers recipe cards. I swear coffee in almost every baked good?  I bake for nostalgia.  I think giving something from your kitchen is giving from your soul.  It is a lot of work?  Yes!  Is it worth it? Yes!

 I need to get into the shop and go switch the laundry over.

 

Have a great and productive day staying positive while you are in the negative. 

Kim