December in Florida

I find it hard to believe that December is almost 1/2 over.   As a matter of fact I can't figure out where the year has gone.   I guess as we get older time just seems to move faster. 

There are signs in my gardens that fall is here, but no real signs of winter....but then again,  the first day of winter is the 22nd.  And that brings me to Mom.  She will turn 98 on December 22nd. I do hope that I have inherited her genes.  She has gotten to see her children grow, marry and have their own children.  She has gotten to see those grandchildren marry.  She has gotten to see her great-grandchildren!  I want that.......time will only tell, and time that goes by sometimes much too quickly.  Goodness, I have 2 grandsons that will be driving! They are all growing fast.
 
On December 7th, we went to our 2nd Annual visit to Busch Gardens with our friends who live in Port Orange. While we have been to Busch Gardens many times before, we have t was very cold.  This year the weather was delightful until about 3:00 p.m. when we got a bit of rain.  It didn't spoil anything though because we only had one more Christmas show to see, and that was at 4:00.  We got to enjoy it and then headed home. 

Look closely among the stilt packaged elves and you will spot my friend, Linda, and I, as we walked into the park. 

Yesterday I baked my Candy Cane Coffee Cakes.   Two are in the freezer, and one small one went to mom to enjoy during Christmas.   The other will go to my neighbor next door.  I always like to bring him some goodies during the Christmas Holiday Season.

Talking about baking.....our local Publix has a magazine that comes out.  And it had a delicious no bake cookie recipe in it.   I think I'm going to try it.

Chocolate Cherry Nut Clusters
12 oz white baking pieces
1 c dried tart cherries, chopped
1 c salted mixed nuts, coarsely chopped
Extra dried cherries, and crumbled graham crackers (optional)

In a large saucepan melt white pieces until smooth.  Add in the 1 c cherries and nuts.  Stir to combine.  Drop mixture by heaping tablespoons on waxed paper lined baking sheet.  Sprinkle with dried cherries and graham crackers.   Chill for 30 minutes.  Looks nice in a little muffin cup.

And that brings me to the Season....... Christmas this year seems so much more relaxed for me.   I really don't know why.  I always seem to be rushing around so much, but not this year.  I seem to be more prepared.   I wish I could see all of my children and grandchildren during Christmas, but alas, that is not to be.   I even have a great-grandchild that I have only seen in pictures.  They are scattered in NJ, PA, LA, and TX.  I remember when we could all be together.  I treasure those memories. 

Well, I guess I have rambled along enough here.....  you all have a good day!