It started out as a totally normal week.. Seriously, who hasn’t had days like these? Still, I wonder, can we really “have it all” and is it really worth it? And often I think, something’s gotta’ give. So… anyhooo… After an intense four 8 hour days straight of house shopping with awesome clients, I’m finally…
Lucky finally took Katie and I for our traditional Christmas walk yesterday. It’s usually reserved for the Big Day and typically he has dragged the entire family out with him… but Boxing Day would have to do this year. Phil and Dave were closeted up in the study with a Junior Hockey game on the…
It all looks lovely. It is strange, but some years do tend to feel “more like Christmas” than others. I remember my great-grandmother always used to put a lot of effort into Christmas. Needless to say, the first year she wasn’t around we really noticed the difference. I have known Christmas mornings when I haven’t known what to do with myself, and I think that we feel a little lost if we don’t have something to contribute towards the preparations because it seems like such a nuturing act.
On a side note, I must say I am very jealous of the pheasant photo you’ve posted. We have a few that have been coming into the garden (which I named Felix, Phillip – he’s darker and quite dapper – and Festus). I’ve tried taking photos of them but haven’t had much luck with the results. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen them for several days. One can only wonder… 
Lovely photos. I can’t face anything as rich as scones just yet, but I imagine the cranberries make them a bit bracing.
These look like a great way to beat back the post Christmas blues. Delicious! I love the combination of lemon and cranberry. 
Those scones do sound good. before I came to America i never really thought about cranberries at all. But now they are everywhere! and would be lovely in a scone.. If i ever go grocery shopping again and it seems weeks since i last went so surely an expedition to the shops is looming, i shall get some. Actually I do want to try a cranberry liqueur! and have a few left over for the scones! have a great calgary day.. c
Those scones sound divine! Cranberry, lemon and cream in the same sentence…you’ve got my attention. Hope you had a lovely Christmas!
I can so identify with your feelings. If I do not cook Thanksgiving Dinner, no matter how nice a meal is set before me, it just doesn’t “feel” like Thanksgiving. And yet I am very thankful not to be cooking the meal. Odd, isn’t it? Your scones sound delicious and would make any breakfast seem like a holiday.
Oh no… can they hunt pheasant there?? I’d like to think our little pheasant has found a sanctuary of sorts with the bird feeders here… gulp! It’s amazing what grand and great-grandparents can bring to a celebration… and, yes, they are the ones we miss.
Oh, yes.. I’ve been reducing the level of indulgence in “all things sugar” these past couple of days. One does get a feeling of over-indulgence, eh?
Thanks Kristy:)
I’ve never thought of them as an American food item, but I guess that makes sense:) Cranberry liqueur… now that is definitely something I’d like to taste.. do you make it yourself?
So true, Barbara. I have been eating quite moderately for the holiday season. I crave sweets in November and December. Right now there is organic eggnog in the fridge and fresh whipping cream and I don’t have a taste for them. Wish I had some snow to walk in — that would set me right! I’ll be away over the New Year, so I’ll wish you a happy 2012 now. — Sharyn
I too can relate about how it doesn’t feel as much like Christmas when you are not preparing the meal. We were invited to friends on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and told not to bring anything. The scones sound like a great little something for Boxing Day.
What a great recipe though. We had our meal early and only cooked breakfast on Christmas. Love that dog.
Wow. Those scones look delicious!
It seems that many people didn’t get the Christmas feeling this year. Stunning shot of the birdie. Any scones left ???
the scone looks fabulous !
We have leftovers trying to elbow the inside of the fridge door open. Want some? You’ve managed to implant the idea of scones into my head, and now I think I’ll have to bake some. Sort of like a song that you can’t get out of your head… 
I’m afraid there are a few game shoots locally at this time of year, but we’ve often had ducks or pheasants hanging around here. I wanted the pheasants to get tamer, but I’ve got to wait and see if they come back first.
This is a wonderful post… I loved the photographs… seems they are so delicious and calling me to eat them Thank you dear Barbara, kisses for your lovely baby! Blessing and Happiness for you all, with my love, nia
These scones look wonderful! I’ll have to try them out soon. I still have a lonely bag of cranberries in the freezer that need a purpose Hope you and your family had a wonderful holiday!
I have nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award! Follow the link: http://theunsweetie.wordpress.com/2011/12/28/versatile-blogger-award-for-the-unsweetie/
I need a good spicey/hot recipe for chili. Is there a secret Canadian recipe I should know about? 
Trying to imagine what it would be like “passing the spoon” as you say and eating Christmas dinner at someone else’s house. I’m quite sure I’d experience a bit of hollowness, a wistful longing for leftovers – they’ve always seemed like the best part of preparing the feast. Your scones look out of this world and delicious compensation for a forlorn-looking fridge. You taking your spoon back next year?
I totally get the “not feeling like Christmas” feeling. Last year, my whole family was away for a wedding so we didn’t have any leftovers, and we didn’t have our usual Christmas dinner. It just felt strange. But this year we back to normal . I also love this Cranberry Lemon Cream Scones recipe.. I will definitely pass this along to my mom
I’ve always wanted to try to make scones – and these look very tasty! Sorry you’re having the post-Christmas blues. I’ve had those kind of years, too. Hopefully a little family cheer and tasty food will bring you back up.
I’ve got a chili post:) Click this link and there are two recipes, one simple, one still easy but more ingredients: http://wp.me/pyLRA-p8
I think if you want it spicy it’s just a question of adding hot sauce or hot cayenne… but go slow, it’d be a shame to overdo it?
You bet! My girlfriend’s family alternate Christmas Eve but always has her own Christmas Day with her immediate family (and anyone who wishes to join). I may just have to start doing this…
It helps to know that you have felt this way too, it felt so strange (and somehow selfish) of me. Glad you had a great Christmas this time, though!
Well, I’ve let it go and we’re skiing now… so it feels really Wintery and that’s a good thing! Thanks for your thoughts, Courtney… It’s awesome to have the support here, isn’t it?
I think it’s the cream that puts it over the top, eh? I did, in the end and am enjoying a little holiday break… how was yours??
I thought you might relate;) It is odd and felt a bit ungrateful but I couldn’t help it (shrug) … so just have to make sure it’s my turn next year.
Wow, not even one dish… that is so fortunate! I still brought my traditional yams and a salad… so only a bit of work there.
Thanks… Seems like many of us have this feeling at Christmas. (Once again, Lucky says thanks;)
They sure were… all gone now, until next time:)
It sure seems so, doesn’t it? I hope your Christmas was “merry and bright”:)
I sometimes feel sad the day after Christmas if I feel I didn’t get everything done or we didn’t get to do all the things I wanted to do or I didn’t cook all the special treats I usually make etc. Christmas here in Sydney just doesn’t seem like Christmas if we don’t have sweltering hot weather and we just haven’t had any decent weather this summer. I guess it’s like it is for you if you don’t get the white Christmas everyone is wishing for.
Oh, please… mail these as well, won’t you:) I hope you did eventually make a few songs, er scones!
I can so relate to how you felt. I too feel that it’s not the holidays unless I cook, then I feel relieved not to have the rush-rush stress of cooking and preparing for a housefull of guests!! Where’s the happy medium?! I’m not sure, but I am sure that these scones look to die for and I do have some cranberries that are definitely going to be baked into this recipe!! Hope you have a very Happy New Year!!
I was just telling someone that scones just don’t excite me because they’re usually dry and pasty on the palate, but I’ve seen some recipes for scones on blogs, including yours, where they look delightfuly moist, filled with plump berries! I’m going to have to give scones another chance! I don’t know much about boxing day, but looks like you had a great time! Happy New Year to you and your loved ones! xo
I’ve nominated you (a duplicate I realize) for the Versatile Blogger Award. I enjoy you so much!
The scones look delish. I’ve never made scones before, but have wanted to. This gives me a good excuse to do it. Thank you!
What a gorgeous pheasant. I know, it is weird when we are used to preparing the “big meal” and find ourselves without as much work or leftovers. It is a little bit unnerving, even though it is good for us and we enjoy it. Those scones look incredible! Can’t wait to try your basic recipe and add some chocolate chips and orange rind.
OOOOOO. The perfect scone and jam spread! So impressive. I’d love to do it sometime here You need to come tell me what you think about my two cheese tartlets! Haven’t heard from you in so long.
Great holiday post young lady! Cute animals, delicious snacks, a cute author: what more could anyone ask?
Beautiful pictures and what an adorable little one!
Hi Barbara, thanks for visiting me. Your photos are breathtaking and fill my heart with memories of a dear friend who lived in Edmonton. She introduced me to sundogs and diamond dust and the extraordinary beauty of Canada. You have so much space there! All best wishes, Joanna
Hi Barbara, I’m new to your blog but I had to leave a comment saying I really love it. Love the photography and choice of recipes. Looking forward to checking up on your posts in the future.
And I, yours! Thanks for coming back and your kind compliments. I’m looking forward to your blog posts as well!
Mmmm….I love scones! I will definitely have to give those a try! They look great! BTW, your pup is super cute!
“It’s important to do Product Research,” I said unconvincingly to myself in the Starbucks line-up. In my defense, all the “just for Christmas” baking was displayed tantalizingly in the glass showcase, tormenting in all their terrible beauty… how could a girl resist? And why should a girl resist? “Why endure endless cycles of spin class……
Argh. I hate when I splurge and then am let down. Looks like your recipe is way better. I love the dog picture.
Me too… but the recipe does improve on it… if you have the time:) Thanks!
I think your cake looks great but I am most impressed with your snow !! and your wee dog waiting! c
Ahhh, our little Luckster… (Lucky) he’s 14 1/2 years old and still thinks he’s a wee pup for sure!
I have to give you credit. Rather than just stop buying these tasty treats, you decided to make it yourself. Judging by the pictures — all beautifully shot, by the way — I’d say you succeeded. Good for you! And I know that gray sky. It’s due to arrive here any day now and it won’t be leaving until sometime in March. If you get a chance, tell it to takes its time getting here. Much obliged!
I do so like the look of anticipation on Master-Explorer Lucky’s face: *I am going out to conquer the big wide snowy world!* Me, I’ll be quite content to conquer something like, say, blissful bar treats! Look out!
The cake looks very pretty, love your doggie
This is SO Christmas-y! I love the addition of peppermint candies. Sorry that you were let down at Starbucks. That is the worst, to splurge and have it end up not as good as expected. I enjoyed the beautiful pictures from your walk, and your dog is a cutie!
I promise to do my best:)
Snow, sleet, rain, hail… nothing stop him… except my lazy self sometimes:)
Thanks so much and Lucky thanks you as well:)
Well, Starbucks does their best… usually it all works out! They rarely miss on my latte order:) Thanks so much, Kristy.
Your little pooch’s paws must have been so chilly – he is just too cute!
Now, I may have to try this recipe out – just for research purposes of course.
Mandy
I always love your photos, and of course the recipes, and this post’s collection is not exception. It’s not easy photographing food, and you do it so well!
I bought booties for him once, but he just kept flinging them off indignantly. He’s not ever been one to enjoy “dressing up” like some dogs.. but the coat has been necessary lately. Good luck with your research!
It can be tricky, baking in good daylight seems to be the easiest. It gets dark here so early now, I’m going to need to purchase some good ambient lighting soon.
http://acupofteawithnia.wordpress.com/2011/11/15/versatile-blogger-award/
wonderful photographs again and of course, so delicious recipes, Thank you dear Barbara, with my love, nia
Looks yummy. I am so glad looking at food doesn’t put on weight or I’d be gaining a pound or two every time I visit your blog.
So tasty – and I bet a thousand times better than Starbucks! And can I admit I’m jealous you have a little snow? I’d love just a touch around here – not a lot, but a little would be nice.
This sounds so perfect!!
Thanks for stopping by my blog.
–bB
http://www.itsybitsybrianna.wordpress.com
Lovely Nia, thank you so much for nominating me for this award… I was about to congratulate you on your award when I read through to the end:) You so deserve it!! xo Smidge
Too funny:) I am gaining weight writing my blog, I think!
Thanks, in fairness, Starbucks can make an awesome bar… just sometimes they are inconsistent. I would love to send you snow.. just a skiff to make everything pretty:)
Thanks, Brianna!
What a beautiful blog! Good writing. I found you because you found me. Now I’m a subscriber — can’t wait to trawl through and see what you have done. — Sharyn (aka The Kale Chronicler)
Beautiful snow day pictures and a delicious sounding holiday sweet treat to try…I just downloaded the recipe! Love your blog and am so happy to find and follow!
Your recipe for Cranberry Bliss Bars looks amazing and so much better. You really did an amazing job.. and the snow looks beautiful. I just don’t want it to head to NYC lol
if you like orange with cranberry, you could mince up some candied orange peel into your crust, frosting or cake layer. Just saying…thekalechronicles.com/…/my-first-orange-plus-candied-citrus-peel/
I don’t know where to begin. Cranberry Bliss bars are my all-time favorite at SB’s and I have always wanted a recipe for it so I could make it for myself. So thank you big time for that. And the dog…that cute, cute dog with the cute, cute sweater. Both sweater and dog are making me swoon. I am a HUGE dog person and your little sweetie is sooooooooooo adorable.
Thanks, Sharyn, I feel the same:)
I’m so glad you are having a go at this… my family loved it:)
I’ll try to keep it all here! Snow is falling while I type at my desk… actually pretty… from in here where it’s warm!
Great idea, I love that about blogs…
Ahhh, we think he’s pretty great as well… especially when he tolerates us putting on his little coat:)
Yum! That looks fantastic. Wanna share a slice with me? Your pup is adorable. Jealous that you have snow. I’ll have to drive a few hours up to the mountains if I want to see any here in CA.
I love it…from now on I’m referring to my tasting as Product Research!! And I love, love this! It looks as pretty as it does delicious! I really have to give this a try. The whole scene with the snow has gotten me excited for Christmas!
I sure would if you lived closer:) It’s nice to have the seasons… but when I’m freezing when walking the dogs I sometimes wonder why I live here and not where you are!!
I’m so glad that it did! I like baking in little bits, none of it will add up to a big “heap” on Christmas day. It’s more akin to the 12 Days of Christmas Baking concept… we get to have little tastes leading up to the big day:)
I’m loving the Christmas baking. And I think anyone who survives a spin class deserves a treat.
Wow you captured the beauty of the winter in all it’s beauty so amazingly, your little furry friend is adorable!
Seriously thought I was going to die in that class today:P But I hung in there out of guilt!!
Thanks so much! And Lucky thanks you as well:)
I miss snow… Living in Australia doesn’t help much. And your cake looks delicious! Very festive!
Always wanting what we don’t have.. I would love to live in Australia… just for a while:) Thanks!
Sigh…look at that beautiful snow you have.
…and yes, any spin class deserves a little something!
I love that you made that wonderful bar so that we can now make it. It’s terrible when a store sells something that is not totally fresh.
YUM! I can’t wait to try this! Thanks for sharing! Love those snow photos. I almost bought a bliss bar today, but resisted. If I make them at home they’re not as bad, right?
^_^ awww…. i want the DO!!!! The Dog is Cute and I’m hungry now… ^_^ Good work!!!
^_^ awww…. i want the DO!!!! The Dog is Cute and I’m hungry now… ^_^ Good work!!!
This looks awesome! Very seasonal and cool!
Great title, too!
In the quiet hush under a waning, quarter moon onyx sky, our group gathered… hoodies pulled up and hands shoved in pockets as we wiggled to stay warm in the cool Coachella Valley. Temperatures during the day were almost unbearably hot, yet incredibly, the desert nights were so easily transformed with just a touch of…
A W E S O M E !!!
Mandy
It was an awesome experience Mandy… now I have to catch up on everyone’s blogs:)
Hi Barb,
I just awarded you a Versatile Blogger award. Details here: http://whitecabana.wordpress.com/2011/10/25/celebration-the-versatile-blogger-award/
Jordana
I have always wanted to fly in a hot-air balloon. Thanks for taking us on your ride! Great description!
Thanks so much, Jordana! This is the second time to be awarded:) I love your blog as well!!
You’re very welcome, Gretchen!!
Hot air ballon rides are definitely on my bucket list, too! Your descriptions and pictures are amazing!
I am not a drinker, but I do enjoy a good champagne so I may actually try out this Champagne Cocktail.. but without the vodka lol. And the balloon ride photos.. amazing!
Wow! That sounds like an amazing adventure. I’ve always wanted to do that. I think it’s actually on my “bucket list” (I wrote it when I was 16). LOL. And I’m so glad to have found your blog now too. I was actually looking for a cocktail recipe like this a few weeks back when we made sushi. I don’t think I’ll be waiting for our next sushi adventure to try this one though – I think it looks just about right for Friday evening!
Oh..WOW! What amazing photos – it must have been an awesome experience! We’ve only ever been up in a tethered balloon, but to be floating free must have been something else! Thanks for sharing!
that must have been tremendous!! you lucky girl and i am dying to try the drinkies! c
What a fantastic experience. Love the drinks!
Great cocktail but that ride! WOW! Sunrise in an air ballon. Incredible!
Smidge, my darling, what a lovely romance-of-the-air. I’m so glad you got to do this! And that I got to do so vicariously.
I love anything with champagne!
Awesome photos and a great champagne recipe to boot!
Thanks Courtney! It wasn’t on my list (it was a surprise excursion)… but it should have been!
I think you could easily substitute as well… it’s a simple recipe that’s for sure:) Glad you liked my photos.
Friday can’t come soon enough for me! I wish I’d written a bucket list sooner. I think I have my daughter talked into writing one. If nothing else, it’s awesome to read later on.
It really was so peaceful, it moved so slowly. They take care to only fly on the “perfect day” so there was no risk involved.
I wish you were here and I’d pour you one, c;)
Thanks Lynda! Now if only I knew how to cook like you!
Yes, it was really spectacular!
Haha, that was my plan… hope you enjoyed the ride;)
It always feels like a celebration whenever champagne is popped open, doesn’t it!
Thanks, Greg! Pretty straight-forward compared to some of your wonderfully concocted drinks:)
How wonderful! I’ve never gone up in a balloon before, but I can just imagine that peacefulness as the sun rises and the balloons travels on.
This is just beautiful! The photos are amazing. I’ve never been in a hot air balloon before, but I will definitely go within the near future, This is absolutely stunning
Oh, dear Smidgen, what a beautiful experience you shared with us. Do you know, what was the most impressive point for me, I learned that you play cello… I have no idea about being on a balloon and also the feeling of play a cello… But I love both of them, and you try to imagine in my mind. You are amazing and you expressed so beautifully, it wasn’t difficult to imagine myself into this dreamy voyage. Thank you, your photographs are so nice too and the cocktails! Congratulations by the way for this award, you deserve always. Blessing and Happiness, with my love, nia
sorry! It should be “I try to imagine in my mind”…
It was so incredible! And not scary for a second… I would love to do it again:)
Where was your balloon ride? Glad you liked my photos!
It was dreamy.. that is the perfect way to describe it! I discovered the cello a few years ago and just love it:)
Enjoyed your post and sent it to my sister who is planning to take her first hot air balloon ride after my daughter’s wedding next week. Great photos.
I can’t speak for other companies of course, but if it’s anything like our trip… she’ll absolutely love it! Great idea for after a wedding!
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
They look and sound delicious… anything with white chocolate in it catches my eye. And the cranberries are so festive.
Hope the party was a raging success! I bet it was with your cooking. That’s a wonderful ad. It’s so true that young women think they couldn’t possibly have a heart attack. I don’t think I’d consider it if I started to feel not so good.
It’s great when a family morphs into elves and help get the cleaning done. I keep hoping Max will morph into something other than a problem. No luck so far but hope springs eternal.
I made cookies similar to these a number of years ago, using dried cherries instead of cranberries. I like your recipe better — and not just because I long ago lost the other recipe. Dried cranberries have more flavor and I like the bit of sour they’d bring to a sweet cookie.
Thanks for sharing your recipe with us, Barb. Speaking of sharing, if those elves of yours are looking for work, send ‘em my way.
I loved the video
is important to take care of ourselves, even if is just because our family will be a mess without us… 
Your Christmas deco is marvelous and those cookies deserve a A+ Congratulations!
Like a film set – looks great. Have a great party:)
No walnuts for me, please, and I bet your house is the prettiest in the neighbourhood. Merry Christmas, Smidge!
Beautiful decorations and absolutely lovely cookies Barb’! I’m getting my xmas cookie baking on very soon
I hope this week calms down so you can enjoy your decorated house. I love your wreath and mercury glass decorations. Our tree is still festooned in the motley arrangements of things a 10 year old picks to hang, but I’ve gone with the vintage glass ornaments elsewhere in the house. Lovely.
Good luck with the party – great cookies
Type A personalities…. they come with a heavy toll, but I honestly don’t think the type can be changed….
Maybe toned down a little for a day or two. (sigh)
Glad you are handling it all well, take care, and ENJOY!
Love your decorations and fabulous cookies!
Is bread flour like cake flour or am I missing the mark here! Love the photos, decorations, and recipe!
Love these beautiful festive cookies – lovely photos too!
I’m sure everyone had a fantastic time. Your home is beautifully decorated with the white and silver…love mercury glass.
Oooooh, how festive! Love your décor, Barbara, just beautiful! I have similar star ornaments but they aren’t vintage like yours
And a beautiful, holiday inspired cookie. Hope you have a wonderful day!
Bread flour is not cake flour.. It’s much higher in protein I believe. It’s a “sturdier” flour than cake flour which is more delicate of that makes sense? xx
Sent from my iPhone
The ornaments tossed around the candles, so simple yet so elegant, you have such creative ideas. I am sure your party was a smashing success.
I think your neighbors are quite lucky to have you hosting, Smidge! Have fun:)
Love the video! Just like a woman to think about how dirty her house is while having a heart attack (or gall bladder, or kidney stones, etc.) Thanks for sharing the video and raising awareness — so important. Your cookies are so festive with the red and cranberry is at its seasonal best.
Chocolate Chunk Cookie … who care, when the post is stunningly beautiful into ever little detail.
Barbara, you are some indulgence cookie – yourself.
Great video – scary that so many women get heart attacks today – before it was something that only happens to men and rarely women.
You take it easy, Girlfriend – we don’t have time for any heart attacks.
The cookies I love everything about, maybe one day I will do them. This week the feedback on you CousCous will be posted. Have done it 3 times now. That dressing is to die for.
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. So glad you have some help to make things a teeny bit easier on you. Have fun and enjoy! It sounds like a fun party. Thank you for the recipe, Barb. Cookies with cranberries always win around here, no matter the season. I’ll be trying these very soon!
Yum! Loving your photos – just getting me more in the holiday spirit:) Have a Great One!
I want to come over!! Your decorations look beautiful, as do these CHUNKY cookies. Chunks are WAY better than chips for sure.
I love the video entertaining and yet delivering such and important message. I felt your stress when I read about four intense eight-hour days and then coming home to host the neighborhood Christmas party!
These are wonderful Christmas cookies!
Yum, the cookies look fantastic!
Once again, wonderful post, lovely photographs and a wonderful recipe. I really do enjoy your blog.
We’ll get to your cookies later. For starters lets talk about how pretty your halls are decked, from your front door to your chandeliers! Let’s talk about what a generous soul you are to have the whole neighborhood to your house for a Christmas party, not once, but again next year! Let’s talk about how you manage a marathon house hunt for clients, take swimming lessons, write a drop-dead gorgeous blog, deck your halls, write poetry, paint, bake, play cello, walk the dog…and then, on top of all that, provide a public service announcement just in case there’re any young active healthy type A’s out here! (hmmmmmmmmmm! Know any?)
Now…to your cookies…they sound Just Perfect…and of course – they would! xx spree
Great looking cookie! And fun video. Definitely something to try. Good stuff – thanks.
Smidge, does your whole home look like this? Seriously, it’s better than visiting the spa when I come to your page… so relaxing and darn inspiring. I definitely recognized parts of myself in that video… although that woman seemed a bit more organized in her disorder than me
. Your cookies look de.lightful! And, the fact that they are your new favourites makes me think I should maybe add them to our Christmas cookie list – I’ve barely had time to make any yet this season so these might make up for the lack – go with a big bang, you know.
I have got to try these! Everything so magical in your photographs. I know your house looks like a winter fairyland with the addition of the baking smells. Yum. Looking forward to the school break and baking and cooking with the family, too.
There are parts of that video that ring very true — except for the heart attack! I am sitting here now reading because I literally can’t move from the day’s activities. I’ll bet those cookies are as delicious as they are festive! Lovely post! (wish I was your neighbour!)
Yum!
These will be on the menu for my Christmas Open House this Sunday – thank you for the inspiration and of course the recipe. (I’ve already made Nell’s sugar cookies, and my, they’re so good, all the better because of the loving story of your grandmother that accompanied the recipe). I love your decorations; your home must look so festive! Apart from the tree, my decorating approach is quite, shall we say, minimalist, but I would love to create a beautiful atmosphere like you do. There’s always next year!
These look like Christmas Barbara
Your decorations are beautiful! Paperwhites are my favorite holiday flower and scent as well. I have two groups of them blooming right now and the house smells wonderful! The only thing that would overpower them would be the smell of these cookies baking! What a wonderful smell that would be! Great cookie recipe!
Everything is beautiful. Love your cookies with cranberries and white chocolate. Delicious!
Such pretty pictures! Sets the mood perfectly!
A serious but very funny video. Thanks for sharing and hope you’re having a good week!
a very serious video indeed – thanks for the reminder. heart attacks are a cause of concern for ALL women regardless of being type A or type B or type whatever – ALL women – and do tend to be overlooked/mis-diagnosed.
sorry my type A being just had to remind people of that least someone feel she can’t be having a heart attack simply because she is not type A ….
You are the great multi-tasker, Smidge! I’m so impressed that you could host a neighborhood holiday party after having such an intense work schedule. You do all things with a lot of style. The cookies are really beautiful for Christmas, with the red and white as standouts! I also love the silver and glitter and polish! I am sure that your guests felt very special!
Just a little heart attack…! Thanks for putting the reminder out there as do you know this time of the year we have a peak in incidence in the ER. I am sure that everyone in the neighborhood had a lovely time enjoying your beautiful decorations and cranberry white chocolate cookies- my favorite. Please do take care of yourself this holiday season. BAM
You have “totally normal weeks”?
Kidding! Seriously, great post and recipe! My mouth is watering. I think I better get looked at…
Oh Barbara, these cookies look absolutely amazing and delicious! If only I can get my hand inside that cookie jar!
Oh Smidge, I feel like that’s been my whole year. So I can relate. I have no doubt you threw a delightful party – beautiful in fact! And I’m sure these cookies were a hit. I hope you’re having a fabulous holiday season.
[...] Cranberry White Chocolate Chunk Cookies* [...]
I just got a bucket of this from Mrs Higgins (cookie shop here), If I just know you will be posting this I would never had bought it. Love this cooking flavour
Oh my I’d be popping one of these cookies in my mouth every few minutes ! Love the white chocolate and cranberry combination.
So glad you had wonderful party, Smidge! A good time well deserved after all that hard work!
Smidge… I had to drop in again to tell you how you and this post inspired me to buy paper whites and an amaryllis to decorate our Christmas home… (something I rarely splurge on) but your sense of style and mostly peace/serenity work wonders for me! Thank you and have a beautiful holiday.
Love the video! Don’t we all have days like that! Your photography is stunning! Thank you so much for linking up! These cookies look delicious! The recipe looks easy and fun….the perfect combination!
Have a blessed and wonderful Christmas!
karianne
For all the frantic feelings during this time you may have it’s interesting that your posts always have a calming effect on me. Maybe it’s the place where you feel this too.
Enjoy these last few days till the 25th. Peace….x wt
PS – Am out to stock up on white chocolate for these lovely cookies. Might throw in some oats for that little natural mood booster
Just wanted to follow up and tell you I made these cookies and love, love, LOVE them! I didn’t have bread flour so used all purpose. Mine were not as high as yours, but oh my goodness, the flavour! These will be part of my repertoire now. So good!
Aren’t they just the best? I’m so glad you liked them.. and I’m so glad I didn’t mess up the recipe! I’ve had two different mistakes pointed out this past week.. so now I’m checking 3-4 times when I type:D xx
It’s so busy these days, I think we’re all making more typos and the like. Thank goodness we can go back and edit any time!