Lemon Poppyseed Shortbread Cookies and other Bits

This weekend was chalk-full of wonderful. Saturday hubs and I braved the crowds and did some Christmas shopping. We also helped with a surprise birthday party for our good friend who was turning the big FIVE OH. :) That was a lot of fun. Yesterday I managed to get about six batches of shortbread cookies baked. I tried a couple of new recipes for gift boxes I was thinking of doing... earl gray shortbread tea cookies, lemon poppyseed shortbread tea cookies, and plain shortbread, an old family recipe and its GOOD.

I've been dreaming a lot of starting my own restaurant one day. My sister and I have talked about it before. Its funny because sometimes after our conversations I look at her and say, "Are you serious about this??" And she always says "I kind of am!" And of course, I kind of am too... naturally the cautious sort of person it would be really hard for me to go out on a limb and do something like that, but at the same time... I have the business background, as does she, we're both greatly creative people in the kitchen and out, and recently, our mom's become interested in the idea as well. I just think it would be so much fun!

Don't get me wrong... I know it would be massively hard work... but hard work can be rewarding, especially if you're working for yourself. And cooking is something I enjoy more than words can express. Putting together meals for friends and family is something that comes naturally to me. I feel like its an extension of myself in ways. Food has always been a passion for me. I have pictures of me as a little kid, wearing an apron, covered in flour, baking with my grandmother. Not much has changed.

Its just something I've been toying around with.



My mom made the best chili last night! I just LOVED it. The taco seasoning gave it a different flavor but it was DAMN good. Give it a shot!