Sorry, folks. I’m down for the count this week with an ear infection/perforated eardrum.  So, in the spirit of television clip shows, I’ve compiled a few posts from the past year to hold us all over until I’m (hopefully) better next week.  And yes, lesson learned.  Keep a post or two in reserve for times such as this…

Holiday Baking

Cookies were on my radar last November, it seems.  Photography may not have been, however.  What was I thinking?  I need to make these Candy Cane Shortbread Squares again, just so I can retake the picture. Yikes!

My Salted Caramel Sandwich Cookies turned out far better, don’t you think?  A tad dark, but not nearly as embarrassing.  And the whole thing is so Christmas-y.  And equally delicious.

And the Ginger Oatmeal Cookies, which were a brilliant combination, need to be made again. Just because they were yummy!  (and so I can retake their picture, too…. *sigh*)

Drawing a Crowd

Setting aside holiday baking for now, I’m always amazed by what draws people to my blog.  This post about blessing our friends’ new home with a traditional basket of bread, salt and wine (and a few goodies) consistently brings people in.

As do these yummy double chocolate muffins.  My family would say that I just do not make them enough.  They are crazy simple and so very good.

Another that has been bringing traffic lately is this hearty, post-Easter ham and bean soup.  Now that the cool/cold weather is here, I understand the appeal of this stick to your ribs, nourishing bowl of warming goodness.

Actually, a bowl of that would be good today.

I am going to go take some more medicine and inhale some essential-oil garlic, kale and sriracha noodle bowl laced steam now.  I’ll be back next week with a new recipe.  In the meantime, I’d love to hear what posts have inspired you.  I’d also welcome comments on my (non DSLR) photography.  I think it’s improving, but there’s still much to learn.