My Favourite Card of 2013

I am quite fond of many of the cards that I created in 2013. In fact, so fond of them that I sent less then a handful. Maybe that will change in 2014. I'll be organized and have everybody's card pre-addressed by month of birthday or celebration. Not likely, but it does give one incentive to continue producing cards.
This card was based on a Sketch from Sassy Cheryl and I love how it turned out. A different colour scheme and a different type of card then I would normally make. It's a keeper!

I am linking up to Challenge #196 Sassy Cheryl's Digi Challenge Blog. Time to get back in the "game".

Ice Storm

Just then you have a million things to do to get ready for Christmas, this happens....

We had a tremendous ice storm in Waterloo Region, which resulted in the power being out at my place for almost 12 hours. At least I was able to get the gifts wrapped and when faced with a dreary evening of sitting in the darkness, our power was restored. So thankful to have it back.

It was a very restless day. The dogs couldn't go in the backyard as the branches of the mature trees were cracking and dropping all day. It was quite a spectacle and the sidewalks were impassable so everyone got a little cabin fever.

Maybe I should have asked Santa for a chain saw for Christmas.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

The Christmas cookie tray is not complete until these guys make an appearance. They always look so festive and seem to be the first to go. Unfortunately, this year, I made a mistake and quadrupled the shortening and only doubled the other ingredients. I was able to go back and amend the recipe but ended up with 11 dozen of these beauties which meant I had to unwrap 11 dozen Hershey kisses.
I made 37 dozen cookies for my Bake Sale and they went like wildfire.
Here's the recipe in case you decide to make them yourself. Just pay attention when you're adding the ingredients. LOL!

Peanut Blossom Cookies
1/2 cup shortening
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/3 cup white sugar
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
2 Tbsp milk (or less)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
white sugar for rolling

Beat shortening and sugars. Add peanut butter and beat until light and fluffy. Add egg, milk and vanilla. Stir in dry ingredients. Shape dough into 1 inch balls and roll in granulated sugar. Bake 8 to 10 minutes until slightly browned. Remove from oven and immediately press unwrapped Hershey Kiss into cookie. Let cool completely until chocolate has hardened. Cookies will crack.

I am entering this in the Sassy Cheryl's Show Me Thursday post because that's what I've been up to this past week.

Cute Christmas candy wreath

I've been having problems with my computer so I haven't been able to blog lately. Hope its sorted out now because I have lots to show you.
I went to a meeting for work the other day and the Consultant for our group had left these adorable Lindor wreaths at our places. I already knew she was a talented baker and decorator but I didn't know she was crafty, also, AND she has a Shilouette. I recognized it right away from the tags. I always appreciate a hand-made gift. I know the caring and thoughtfulness and time that goes into each one plus as you know, I have a particular weakness for Lindors.
Thanks Jenn.

She also made these adorable Red Velvet cupcakes. I'm a sucker for holly. These were made from rolled fondant. I think I may have to beg a few lessons down the road.

Outdoor Arrangements

Once again it's that time of year when I purchase my beautiful outdoor arrangements from the Living Outdoors store in Cambridge. It has a beautiful gift shop attached to the greenhouse with many unique and decorative items as well. They're open year round but I usually just go there for the holiday season. I must be sure to check them out during the other months as well as I am always pleased with what the designer comes up with.

My photos don't show the sparkle and detail but you get the idea.