Christmas Day has come and gone.  Despite missing my brother something fierce, I enjoyed the holiday very much.  There’s a lot to say about the day (and the days preceeding), but typing on my father’s ergonomic keyboard is trying my patience more than it should and such a post will have to wait for another day.

I will say that I believe we have found a new tradition….  We ditched the classic ham dinner and instead bundled up and hit the road in my parent’s RV, headed toward the coast.   We found a wonderful little fish and chips joint there on the main highway- The Newport Cafe, where we grabbed take-out and dined in the RV before hitting the shores and taking-in the sights.  (Sights, which included 16-22 foot waves and delightful skies.)

I hope each of you found a new joy and enjoyed familiar comforts on your day- whether or not you celebrate the holiday. :-) 

I shouldn’t be sitting here.  I have so much to do.   Yet, I need to get caught up on my blog and news reads (some of which are infuriating me, such as this one…  and some of which are lighthearted, and heartwarming. )

I have prepped a triple batch of oatmeal cookies (to be made into oatmeal choc chip, oatmeal walnut raisin, and oatmeal coconut).  I have also prepped batches of choc chip, choc chip walnut, m&m, and a quadruple (yes, 4X) batch of peanut butter.   Fudge must be made along with more rice crispie treats.   Need to prep and bake brownies and cupcakes. 

But… for the first time in history- the presents are all wrapped… 

I’m nearly ready…  I brought booze.  Looks like I’ll actually get to enjoy it tonight.  (Dad has never had a White Russian before….  We’ll remedy that. :-)  )

And, Scott…..   We miss you already.

Season’s Greetings to all!

Tonight’s dinner was divine. So what if I didn’t eat until just before ten PM?

So, I made the most decadent (and easy) ‘clean-out-the-fridge’ soup tonight. Basically, it was created with chicken broth, diced chicken tender (minus the coating), rice, black beans, a tiny can of corn with peppers, tomato paste, water, spices… topped with tortilla chips, shredded cheddar, shredded aged Monterey Jack (it’s dry- like romano), sour cream, salsa, and jalapeno peppers. Mmm. Mmm. Mmm.

Served with a bloody mary (spicy…and my second of the night) and I am one very warm and toasty girl.