‘Tis the season of baking and I did my share last week!  One of my favorite recipes I make every year is apricot almond shortbread bars, they’re always a big hit at our Christmas party and my go-to recipe if I ever get invited to a cookie swap. 

This recipe originally appeared in Bon Appétit in December 2005, and I made it when it first was published. Over the years I’ve modified it slightly, subtracting the almond paste, adding orange zest, and also doubling the recipe to make a full cookie sheet.  You can find the original recipe here.  The following is my version of apricot almond shortbread bars: 

Read the rest of this entry »

Hello everyone, I look forward to this party every year, and I’m so glad you’re here.  We’re continuing along with the Holiday Home Link Parties, and today is all about crafts!  For the occasion, I created two simple DIY ornaments, one with a little glitz, the other more rustic and natural.  Here’s the first ornament I made this past weekend, a mini mirrored starburst. These are easy to create with just a few supplies from the craft and grocery store.

Read the rest of this entry »

There is little that’s more miserable than battling with an infected computer, gah.  Oh the time and energy wasted, and shaking of fists in the air!  I cannot wait to pick up my new (wicked fast) computer later today and get back to business.  Many thanks to all of you for commiserating with your tales of hard drive failure, I feel much less alone in my frustration.    

The post I was trying to write before my computer was sabotaged was a simple invitation.  I came up with this idea when I was jogging through my neighborhood the other day.  I realized there are so many quirky little things I’ve come to love about my town, and no doubt you have your favorite things too.  That’s what I love about the blogosphere and our community – it’s reading and being inspired by what all of you have to say.  I imagined a day where we all share the best things about where we live, sound fun?  

So let’s have a party!  It’s a ‘favorite things in my town’ kind of party.  No need to live in a small town though, you big city peeps need to give us the scoop too!  Where are the coolest places to go?  This is your opportunity to photograph and write about a few of the favorite things you see from day to day that make your world a better place.  Show us that building you love, or wraparound porch on the house around the corner, the best place for java, tastiest spot for lunch, or a store in your town with amazing finds. 

You’re invited to share your favorite things about where you live! 

Won’t you join me?  

It’s right here, next Wednesday.  One week from today.  August 31st ! 

I hope you’ll link up with a post about your favorite things in your town.  And if you’re the mom of little ones still in car seats, the drive thru Starbucks totally counts.

.