Live from Hawaii

Haven't been cooking much.
But I sure am eating a lot.

Online Food Gifts

Here is the deal peeps, if you haven't hit up the stores for Christmas then don't even try. It's a jungle out there. Last week I had THE. WORST. EXPERIENCE ever. The stores were packed and over packed and then packed some more.

This year I got a bunch of gifts from etsy. I recently discovered an awesome site that's like etsy except for food. A food etsy. It's called FOODZIE. Check out my side bar to see my favorite Foozie products and to visit the website.

Another favorite store is Williams-Sonoma. The quality of their products is always impeccable and it makes a wonderful gift. For example if YOU want to give me some

peppermint bark I won't stop you.

tote bags are always a favorite.

Both of these gifts are under $30. Score!

For more foodie gift ideas go here.

Gingebread Cookies

If you love gingerbread cookies raise your hand.

I love them when they're soft and warm and good to eat and I love them when they're hard enough to break your teeth 'cuz then they're perfect for going on the Christmas tree. I also love how easy they are to make.

Gingerbread Cookies

1/2 cup shortening 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup dark molasses 1/3 cup water 3 1/2 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice dash of salt In large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, molasses and cold water with electric mixer on medium speed until well mixed.  With wooden spoon, stir in remaining cookie ingredients until soft dough forms. Wrap with plastic wrap; refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours Heat oven to 350°F. On floured surface, roll dough 1/8 inch thick Cut dough with Christmas cookie cutters Place on cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Reroll dough, and cut additional cookies Bake for 10 minutes for a softer cookie and 12 for a harder cookie Cool for 10 minutes before eating and cool overnight for decorating.