The Cookie Tree

In the corner of the dining room, next to the rectangular-shaped window that looked right on to West Street,
stood the cookie tree in all its glory. The Saran-wrapped ornaments, tied off with white curling ribbon, hung gracefully from each level of boughs. These delicate decorations had all been fashioned by a woman who paid attention to detail. Each pretty adornment was a cookie.
My grandmother was a details kind of girl. That is what I loved most about her. That may be why I have the Aunt Chick's Cookie Molds now.
The cutters have deep carvings in them that transfer over to the special recipe dough. One can't help smiling at the wink from Santa's cheery brow, or feel small under the majestic star of Bethlehem, or want to leap at the sight of the reindeer.
I have not assembled a cookie tree every year. Hand-painting the baked cookies is time consuming. My grandmother was generous enough to embark on the crafty project even with very disabling arthritis. I'm sure she did it for us. I can remember crawling on my belly from the bedroom, while she was sleeping, just so that I could pluck a cookie from the back branches. A covert cookie operation!
Sometimes a memory becomes a memorial. This year, as a tribute to Fluffy, I can't wait to erect a cookie tree!

Frozen Pipes

To begin with, it's much too cold to sit on the porch this morning. I'm afraid it's rather unfriendly. The ice pools that have leveled inside the planters make it clear that winter is here. However, I have a plan that you'll like. We're going inside, by the fire, to sip one of my favorite winter cures. I'm inclined to share Nonnie's individually wrapped biscottis. Gingerbread-Pecan will go well with our Cider & Spice from R.W. Knudsen.
Simmered with orange slices, it's naturally delicious with no sugar added.

This morning the pipes to the kitchen and washing machine are frozen. An icy obstruction is limiting the flow of fresh water. And I'm reminded that my pipes get frozen too. The windpipe specifically. My dear readers, I let icy obstructions limit the flow of fresh encouragement that comes from my mouth.

The moment the sound of rhythmic drops of water force their way through the faucet, I am ready to use them. Those precious drops I've waited for that were paralyzed at the source. How a timely word is the same!

I will encounter countless people today who have been living with plumbing problems. They are used to limited amounts of fresh water or live with leaky faucets that waste fresh water, only to collect in plastic buckets under the sink. Stagnant. That pains me. How refreshing a good word is!

Any moment, a gush of frigid water will splash into the waiting tub below. I will position the handle over to the hot supply line and use it well. It is so much more effective.

A thank you, a simple note, a brief call, a prayer... all good protection against frozen pipes. Mine are thawing!

Hope it's been restful,
Alis