WREATHMAKER

Just a few photos of Christmas decor around the house: A bathroom vignette: Mercury glass in the living room:

At this time of year, Tartan seems so appropriate. I am joining Mary at Little Red House with a few photos of Tartan around my dining room. Thanks, Mary!

A few weeks ago Pat from Back Porch Musings created a post using Lenox Holiday . It appealed to me, and I thought I’d try something similar, using that as inspiration. This is my humble effort: The cake is the fruitcake I bake every year.…(we happen to like fruitcake!) I have been a follower of Pat’s blog for a long time, and appreciate her beautiful photos, and the poems she often quotes.

On Sunday we saw a wonderful live production at the church our son and Daughter-in-law attend. It was called “One Quiet Night” and deals with the hectic pace at this time of year, and what it can do in families. That Mom was totally frazzled! Eventually, she realizes that she needed to celebrate the real meaning of Christmas. I can certainly relate…can you? Our granddaughter had the part of one of the children in the family, and did a great job. We were so proud! She plays the part of the eldest daughter. So today, my wish for you is that you enjoy the season for it’s real meaning, and let’s not let the shopping, decorating, cooking, etc., get in the way!

This is my favorite shortbread recipe. It was handed down to me many years ago. The secret is to make sure it is kneaded for a long time. SHORTBREAD 1 LB. BUTTER 4 CUPS FLOUR 1 CUP FRUIT (BERRY) SUGAR 4 TBSP. CORNSTARCH In electric mixer, beat sugar and butter until very smooth. Add cornstarch and flour and mix until mixture begins to clump together. Remove from mixer and knead until cracks form, (see photo) Roll out about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick and cut out. Prick with a fork. Bake at 250 degrees for 1 hour or until cookies are firm and there is a faint touch of brown on the bottoms. Decorate as desired.

Here are a few more photos of the home tour we went on yesterday. This jolly snowman was on a shelf in the mudroom pictured below. What a cheerful mudroom! There was a whole wall of red cabinets across from this bench. Oh, to have all that storage space! The bureau in the main entrance had this display. The "desserts" were really cute, actually sherbet dishes with a large football mum, with a strawberry in the center. They looked just like whipped cream. Another nice table vignette ...popcorn anyone?