Now back to our regularly scheduled program

Whew.  That was quite a break.  I never intended to be gone for that long, but it first it was the holidays and then I went on vacation and before I knew it, it was March!  

We've got a bit of catching up to do.  While I was away, this blog turned 7 and I turned 36.  It was a quiet celebration for both of us.  Oh, and my hand-me-down camera went kaput so I've been relegated to Instagram, which is actually a lot of fun.

Here's what I've been up to for almost 3 months.

 Christmas at home

 Edible gifts

 Handmade gifts

 My birthday, here.

 Homemade bread.

Kings County Distillery

 Singlecut Brewery

 The prettiest beach

Fancy drinks

 Queens speakeasy

Follow me on Instagram: rebacrea

Merry, merry!

Well, Christmas Eve is Saturday.  The last present was purchased yesterday.  All my goodies are wrapped and ready to go.  We have a really scaled down holiday this year and I'm feeling pretty good about it.  Most family members are getting homemade gifts from the heart.

If you looking for some quick last minute gifts for people, this is what I made this year.  

sugar & spice candied nuts

chocolate "blocks"

candied orange peel

parmesan & black pepper biscotti

Most of them require very little time (chocolate blocks) or little effort (citrus peels; I actually skip the blanching and simmer them for about 3 hours), the biscotti take a little more of both, but are totally worth it!

I hope everyone has the warmest happiest holiday possible!  See you in the new year!

I just wanted to share a little something with you all before I head back to NJ for Christmas.

These are buttons commissioned by Ms. Blue Garter for her February Lady Sweater. They look huge here, but they're only 1" in diameter. Made from fabric from my grandmother's stash, so I guess it can be considered vintage, 'cause it's probably really old! The fabric is a little sheer so the shine of the button shell comes through.

They should be arriving on your coast any moment now, Sarah! I hope you like them!!!