Happy New Year

Bruno trying to get Nikan to play. Like Mary, Nikan understands the fine art of napping. Bruno is much more like me...let's go, let's go...

Christmas present - The Ice Cream Ball...we made a pint of choc chip for our New Year's Eve celebration.

Another Christmas present - Aero Garden...I have planted two types of cherry tomatoes, dill, basil, and chives. I can't wait for things to begin popping up.

Growing tomatoes in Alaska is difficult without a green house - I am excited at the prospect of tomatoes with the Aero Garden.

Those of you who bake know that good vanilla is a must (imitation will not do). I am excited about two gifts I received this Christmas - Mom and Dad brought us clear vanilla for Mexico (thinking of us while on their cruise) - we used this last night in making our ice cream! And Heidi brought me three vanilla beans from her honeymoon in Tahiti. The vanilla beans when mixed with rum (vodka or brandy) will produce vanilla you can use for cooking. I learned through my research that vodka is the traditional medium for the transformation, but using rum will make a sweeter vanilla. Additionally, when the bottle is approximately 1/2 empty you simply add more rum and in a couple of weeks your supply is regenerated. (I am thinking this is well worth the expense of a few vanilla beans (and a small bottle of rum) if you don't ever have to purchase vanilla again.)

We spent a great week in San Diego over Christmas visiting family and friends. Timing worked out that our arrival corresponded with our extended family holiday party. It was great to see everyone all in one place. We returned home to beautiful, clear weather - but minus temperatures. Burr...

I have included a couple of new links - our nieces' Paige (10yrs) and Amber (9yrs) have begun their own blogs. It is fun to experience life through their eyes. If you choose to visit - Enjoy.

We wish each of you the best as the new year begins. We had a quite a New Year's Eve at home playing xBox, Wii and watching a movie. Looking forward to a healthily and happy year!