Marty Is Taking Off

After 15 years of service with the Transportation Security Administration at Mitchell Airport,  my brother-in-law, Marty is retiring.

I am not sure what Marty has planned as he leaves the world of work behind.

Perhaps he will be snowmobiling at his home in the north woods of Wisconsin  .  .  .

or riding the waves at his condo in North Carolina while his wife, Carol, looks for shells on the beach. . .

or maybe he will pull the Harley out of the garage.

Whatever he decides, I hope he makes a bucket list soon, because Carol definitely has a "honey do" list waiting for him.

Congratulations, to Marty as he journeys into retirement. I hope he always remembers that "it's not the destination, it's the ride."

References: 

Airplane with contrails-Bake at 350. 

Nose view of the airplane-SemiSweetDesigns and Whatta Smart Cookie

Motorycycle-Haniela

Holiday Season

Holiday baking began with traditional designs in simple gold and white.

Next up, 65 Nutcrackers that were a far more complicated design.
 

This was my first time decorating this iconic character and the cookies looked quite festive when they were bagged and tagged for party favors.

As is always the case, time became an issue for preparing for the holiday, so I opted to stick with simple designs in a pastel palette for our family gathering.

Of course, the little ones have to have a "puzzle" cookie to celebrate the season.  I have to say I consider this cookie an epic fail.  I just couldn't get the ears right on this design, and it looks like a cat with antlers. Oh well, no time for "do overs" this year, so the kids can get a good laugh while they eat their cookies.

Finally, I have another new angel in heaven this year.  For my friend, Jim, forever in my heart and in the stars.

"It is Christmas Eve.  In just a few hours, the clock will strike midnight-- a time of magic, and of dreams."    The Nutcracker