The Year In Review

Growing up, my parents subscribe to the Post Standard and Newsweek. I loved the year end editions when they wrapped up the year in review. While, trust me, my life is certainly not exciting fodder for a newspaper or periodical, I do like to think back and reflect on the past year....

This was a year that I got really connected: Twitter (and all the apps), FaceBook, my blog, etc. - sometimes to the annoyance of Jeff and rightly so. I get so into it that I tend to lose track of time and my surroundings. I need to work on finding a balance.

Friends: Well, let's just say it was an interesting year...I certainly found out that a few friends weren't really what they seemed to be. And yet, the love and support that I received from my true friends was just amazing. And I also discovered some new friends/co-workers who really are the "real thing". You all know who you are! And of course, my cyber friends from Twitter - always good for a smile and a laugh!

Family: We are so fortunate to have 3 terrific sons! They have been so helpful to us, especially when Jeff broke his ankle. We also have enjoyed having Jen and Maggie spending time with us. Maggie & Don went with us to Catawba Island in July while Aaron & Jen went with us to North Carolina in October. Such an enjoyable time for us! Dianne, Sue and I had our annual Sister's week at Myrtle Beach in April. I'm telling you, we have such a wonderful time - it is a very special treat! And of course, it's a riot when the whole family gets together! Crazy chaos but fun!!
And finally (saving the best for last), I am so thankful to have a wonderful, supportive husband in Jeff. Everyone has their bumps in the road, especially after 29 years. We made a special re-connection this year....like not taking each other for granted,etc. It's so good to re-evaluate your life and even better when you can make positive changes.

And above all thank you, God for making all things possible.........

Rosemary Breadsticks

Rosemary Breadsticks (Breadmachine)
(adapted from The Martha Stewart Living Christmas Cookbook 2003 Omnimedia)
1 1/4 cups warm water
3 1/2 tsp yeast
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
3 3/4 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbsp + 1 tsp shortening
3 Tbsp fresh rosemary*
1/2 Tbsp freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Place all ingredients in bread machine as per manufacturer's directions. Set for dough cycle. When done, pat dough out into 2 5x12 rectangles on a greased cookie sheet, cover with greased plastic wrap. Let rise until doubled, approx 1 hour. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line baking sheets with oiled parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Slice 1/2" piece off short end of rectangle and carefully stretch the length of cookie sheet making sure that shape is uniform for even baking. Let rise for 10 miutes, uncovered in a warm place. Bake for approx 20 minutes, rotating pans in oven after 10 min. Remove to cooling rack. When completely cooled, can be stored in airtight container for up to 10 days.

*This can be changed to use any of your favorite fresh or dried herbs.

Italian Whiskey Balls

3/4 cup Crisco
3/4 cup cocoa
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp cloves
4 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 Tbsp whiskey
1 cup milk
2 eggs
4 cups flour
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup raisins (soak in some add'l whiskey)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cream together crisco, cocoa and sugar. Add vanilla, whiskey, baking powder, milk, egg ans spices. Mix until well blended. Gradually add flour. Stir in chocolate chips, raisins and nuts. Chill dough for a couple of hours of overnight. Flour hands and roll dough into small balls. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Cool. Dip cookies into frosting and let set overnight.

Frosting
1/4 cup Crisco
1 Tbsp butter
3 1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup cocoa
strong black coffee

Beat Crisco, butter,sugar, cocoa til desired richness. Add coffee til right consistency (almost like a glaze) so that cookes can be dipped to coat.

Will post picture later :-)

Christmas Traditions

~ There is no ideal Christmas; only the one Christmas you decide to make as a reflection of your values, desires, affections, traditions. ~ Bill McKibben



It is so easy to get sucked into the commercialism of Christmas. We are bombarded by ads everywhere ....on the radio, TV, Internet, etc. Christmas has changed so much since we were children. I hear myself saying that just as my parents said that to me. Of course, everyone wants to make the Christmas experience memorable for their family and friends, especially when there are young children involved. And while it certainly is every one's right to celebrate as they seem fit, I hope and pray that everyone remembers truly what Christmas is about. The birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ...while that may seem obvious to some, I think all too many believe that it is just about Santa, trees and presents. My family has always celebrated with all that. I fondly remember sharing popcorn and grape soda with my sons while watching Rudolf, the Red-Nosed Reindeer. And I am a sucker for all the Christmas movies on TV especially on the Hallmark Channel. I love decorating the house (especially with family) making our Christmas cookies (next Sunday) but we also celebrate the fact that Christ was born. My parents made sure I understood that and I passed that on to my sons. They took part in many church activities growing up and still accompany me to Christmas Eve service. I truly believe that my boys still share those values. Due to circumstances, our Christmas tree may have fewer packages this year (as will many families') but the most precious gift is our faith, family, and friends....

~ The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other. ~ Burton Hillis (Better Homes and Gardens)

Christmas in Mexico

This weekend Mexico will have the holiday spirit in full swing. Most of the events will take place on Saturday starting at 9 am with bazaars at four of the local churches. Many of the shops and the library will have refreshments available. Our newest store, Hart & Stone has a great retro feel and yummy food. "Friends of Bob Cratchit" will be strolling the streets as well as carolers. A horse-drawn carriage will be available for those who get tired of walking. At 10 am the library will have a reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Lucienne Henneberry's Studio will be taking photos with the North Pole Elves. At 4 pm parade down Main Street will end at the Cooperative Extension office for the tree lighting. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in the Fire Hall next door for pictures with the young ones. For the older visitors, Mexico Liquors will have wine tastings from 5-7 pm. And so much more to do!!!
So bundle up and come on out and enjoy the day in Mexico. And if you do....stop by the Methodist Church and say Hi! I'll be there with my Mom selling some cute Christmas decorations!!!

Autumn in Mexico

I know that as many of us look out our windows there is snow on the ground and Christmas decorations up but I wanted to get this in before I move onto winter things...

Mexico is lucky enough to have a beautiful community park right on Lake Ontario that has historical significance as well as natural beauty. In the Spring, Summer and Fall there are some really nice community events as well as tours of Casey's Cottage. I love going down there to take pictures.....



I stopped by my parents' cottage on a quiet, sunny Sunday afternoon and took these...