Christmas sugar cookies

Nothing says Christmas like sugar cookies in the shapes of snowflakes and palm trees... For the past few years I've made sugar cookies and spritz cookies around Christmas.  Butter cream frosting is the way to go.

Sugar and spritz cookies

Raspberry Jam

With sizzling summer weather in Southern Oregon and parents that grow delicious fruits in their garden, 'tis the season for summer canning!  This was a first-time experience for me, and I've learned to make raspberry, cherry & strawberry jam....Turns out it's mostly just following the instructions on the pectin package :)  Here are a few photos from the raspberry jam-making process.

Pineapple update

The pineapple is still growing and now it may be time to move it outside to get a little sun and heat...and build it's sugar content :)  Who says you can't grow pineapples in Oregon?! 

{start of spring}

I love summer when it sizzles but it is hard to resist the colors and blooms of spring!  These photos were taken of spring blossoms in April in non other than beautiful Southern Oregon.

Cookin' up something new....

This past weekend one of my best friends came to visit and I attempted to make eggs Benedict.  A word on hollandaise sauce: it looks difficult....it IS difficult.  And poached eggs aren't exactly a breeze either.  Nevertheless we enjoyed a mediocre breakfast anyway!  :)

Marissa

Marissa is the naturally beautiful type leaving very little work to be done with a camera or photoshop for her to be absolutely stunning.  I took these photos at Paschal Winery on a beautiful Oregon February afternoon.  Not only is Marissa gorgeous but she is also a talented mural artist (hence the paintbrushes in a few of these photos).  You can see her work at http://www.marissasgalleries.com/

Anniversary Party

My new hobby (made possible by a fabulous new camera & fabulous photoshop elements) is photography!  For the next few months I hope to see my photo skills grow into "moonlighting" good capacity.  This is my first batch of edited photos from the journey of hands-on photography lessons.  The event was the 60th engagement party of a couple that has known me since I was just a baby.  It was a privelage to be a part of this special day!  The event took place at taprock overlooking the Rogue River in Grants Pass.