MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY HOLIDAYS . . .

I've been very busy these last two months between weekend book signings and having a Fan Appreciation Christmas Party that was loads of fun. One of my greatest joys is showing my fans how much I appreciate their loyalty--this was just one way.

I cooked up a storm in preparation and there weren't too many leftovers. That's always a good sign. The other good sign is they stayed late. That made me feel pretty good. And the next day, hubby and I finished cleaning up the kitchen and vegged out for the remainder of the day.

Here's just a few pictures. For some reason, most did not turn out as I had hoped, so I'm limited. Those in attendance who didn't have to pay for airfare were Patti and Bob Chadwick, Barbara Shapland, Betty and Don Hamilton, Anne-Marie Older, Julie Abrams, Kayce Lassiter, Beverly Malloy, Linda Smith, Jan Edwards, Karen Gannon, Max Benson, Sandy Conn, and several others who could not attend. But a good time was had by all.

The menu consisted of: Bruschetta on garlic bread rounds, rosemary Focaccia, Caprese, baked ziti, eggplant parmesan, penne alla vodka, chicken piccata, roasted potatoes and Caesar salad with croutons. Desserts: Italian cheesecake, chocolate and cranberry biscotti, chocolate truffles laced with Kahlua, and free flowing beverages.

To those who celebrate, from my house to yours, here's wishing you a very happy holiday season!