"The true essentials of a feast are only fun and feed."
- Oliver Wendell Holmes
Welcome to the December issue of Seasoned Cooking. The entertaining season is now getting into full swing and parties seem to be filling calendars everywhere. It's certainly high time we take the words of Oliver Wendell Holmes to heart and remember what all those parties are for in the first place. Enjoy the opportunities to nourish both the body and the soul with friends and loved ones this holiday season.
In an effort to help you get in a festive mood, we begin by tending to your home and all of the decorating that's yet to be done. To give you a hand, we're presenting a special feature article called 'Tis the Season. In it, you'll find everything from traditional decorating ideas to unique gifts for those good girls and boys on your list. For the cooks on your list, you may want to consult our annual Gift Giving Guide. It covers everything from the simple to the ornate for your gift-giving pleasures.
Of course, what would the holidays be without a nod to the sweets to be had and enjoyed? We begin with a special cookie-making guide that offers you hints on how to manage the holidays without breaking a sweat! Then, it's time to sample a blue ribbon sugar cookie recipe that's perfect for making those time-honored cutouts. If you want something a little more indulgent, try your hand at some sweeet holiday tamales or decadent brownies. There's even a look at sweet fruit muffins to be offered to your morning guests throughout the holidays.
Of course, that's not all that's in store for you this month. The adventurer in all of you will want to join Deana's Alaskan Adventures Ala Carte for the continuing saga of her recent hunt in the wilderness. Of course, she's sharing some glorious camp recipes in addition to her tales of adventure! And, for the less bold, there is a quick and simple recipe featuring pork tenderloin for your weekday rush hour. There's even a guide to living and exercising in the frigid weather that often rears its ugly head this time of the year.
So find yourself a warm and comfy spot and get ready to explore this and everything else we have in store for you this month. You might even want to whip up a batch of eggnog -- check out Victoria's Vegetarian Victuals or Meet Herb columns for some great recipes. Happy holidays and here's to a seasoned lifestyle!
