Hope for a peacefilled 2016

2015 was a most pitiful year....can we all try and be the very best we can be in 2016? 

Stop thinking about yourself, think of others first. 

Be thrifty, share what you have. 

The world can not go on with hate and fear.

Be kind and loving. 

Every single one of us on earth.

This year's Stollen

I went off on a spree this year and changed the flavor and fillings for my annual Stollen. This one is more Italian flavored than German. I think it is also the best one I've ever made and I've made hundreds. Baking at 7,000 feet is a challenge and I altered my original recipe to compensate for what I perceived as faults in previous attempts. The newer ingredient list is as follows, Italian diced glaceed fruits, raisins, sliced dried apricots and pine nuts! But the best additions of all are the grated peel of an entire large navel orange and Fiori di Sicilia! Amazing transformation of flavors. 

Merry Christmas one and all.......

Merry Christmas everyone

This is the photo that I used for my card this year, it was taken a couple years ago and I still think it is the prettiest wreath we've done in years. I wish you all the very best at this holiday season and ask that you join me in a wish for peace on earth.