I've been on a bit of a mitt making bender of late. Such a pleasure to work on a project that goes quickly. The more of these I make, the more I realize there is such a difference in the wearability of a pair of mitts based on the yarn. That seems silly to say, but until making a lot of them, and wearing them over the years, it didn't strike me how well some hold up as compared to others. It's hard not to buy yarn based on color alone, and I do love a hand dyed yarn, but Brooklyn Tweed's Arbor is a rock star in the durability arena. It is also wonderful for showing stitch definition.
I am continuing to enjoy the heck out of lighting all my candles. What is it about candles and atmosphere? They make a space so cozy. One with a good fragrance, accompanied by multiple non-scented's is how I roll.
On a loosely (go with me here) related topic, Dottie has an amazing Christmas cactus that blooms like clockwork every December. Each year I tell myself I will get one. This tropical that I am wintering over from the front porch is my stand in for that. It's holding up well indoors. So far. The pink in the leaves is unexpected and so nice in the light.
Lemon Ricotta cookies, a pumpkin pie, and Ina Garten's gingerbread was the extent of my holiday baking this year. The cookies are the perfect bite of something sweet after a holiday meal - not too much, not too heavy, and lemon is always a favorite of mine.
This gingerbread is dense and bold. I put extra candied ginger in it and that combined with the rum soaked raisins make this almost have a bit of a fruitcake vibe to it. Popped in the microwave for a few seconds to warm, a generous amount of whipped cream on the side, and you got yourself a wonderful winter dessert.
In case you can't tell I am into full "kicked back" mode. Taking in the last days of the year with leisurely abandon. Wanting to make sure I don't miss out on the last ordinary days of 2023 and any potential moments of bliss.
Helpful links:
We have two Thanksgiving cacti that bloom all year long. One blooms, drops flowers, then almost immediately gets buds again. Not sure if these bloom more than the Christmas cacti, but ours are amazing! Wishing you everything good in the new year!
Posted by: Chris Oliveira | 01/01/2024 at 09:02 AM