Ending this week: My free giveaway for A Little Fruitcake: A Childhood in Holidays by David Valdes Greenwood (enter by midnight, December 5). You can also comment on my Chronicle Haul-idays post by December 10 for a chance to win $497.49 in books (if I'm the lucky winner).
Holiday Trip: I've got a busy day planned here on Kauai as I get ready to island hop to Oahu. We're heading over to Honolulu for a week of holiday activities. It would be a lot easier if I could load up the car and drive the 100 miles. Instead I'm confined to one suitcase for the plane and need to leave extra room for the shopping I plan to do. I always bring more books than I can read. This time I've narrowed it down to two: One Man's Paradise by Douglas Corleone (in progress) and Charles Jessold, Considered As A Murderer by Wesley Stace (a restart; maybe the second time is the charm).
Riskrem, A Scandinavian Christmas Rice Pudding: Several people asked for the recipe when I mentioned it this week on the Virtual Advent Tour. Mine came from the December 2005 issue of Sunset magazine. When I make it I use whole milk and reduce the amount of whipping cream. Otherwise it's too rich for me. Don't forget to add a whole almond; the lucky recipient gets a gift. I usually serve this Christmas morning.
Library Thing: Anyone doing Santa Thing? I am for the first time this year. When I read the profile of the person I'm choosing books for, I was impressed that all her books were neatly tagged by category and she had a wishlist. My profile, however, had no organization. I didn't even know you could have a wishlist. That all changed yesterday when I brought organization to my profile. I have 544 books which means I shouldn't buy any new books. Right.
Sedaris: I took a break from holiday books this week and read Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk. Do you think its dark humor will be a thumbs up or down for me? You may have to wait a week to find out. With our Hanukkah party tonight I think my reviews will be on hold. My partner is giving me the look right now that I should get off computer. Have a good week everyone.
The Christmas rice pudding sounds yummy...I'm a big fan of puddings, although my absolute favorite is tapioca.
ReplyDeleteI need to read another Sedaris book. Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk sounds intriguing.
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Enjoy your trip to Oahu! And enjoy One Man's Paradise. If you make it over to Ko Olina, I'd be happy to sign the book for you.
ReplyDeleteAloha,
Doug
The Sedaris book did not get great reviews. I'll be curious to read your thoughts. I have read several of his books and enjoyed them, but I have not read this one yet.
ReplyDeleteDoug: Wow! Thanks for the offer to sign your book, One Man's Paradise. I'll be in touch soon and hope to meet you.
ReplyDeleteDiane: I know, many mixed reviews on Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk. Still pulling my thoughts together.
Laurel: Tapioca is a favorite of mine too. We buy the pearls and make our own.
Have a great trip and your book choice sounds good!
ReplyDeleteA pain that we are so restricted luggage wise when we fly as I love to bring back keepsakes.
ReplyDeleteYour take on the traditional rice pudding sounds so yummy, I might get Husband dearest to give it a try making it.
We are just about to island hop in the opposite direction - going from Oahu (where my partner D is working this year, and I am visiting with him over the academic holidays) to Kauai. It will be my first visit - I can't wait.
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, LT's SantaThing is delightful - I did it for a couple of years, but now that I am a Canadian resident, I haven't even looked to see whether it is still a possibility for me. I hope that you enjoy it (and your holiday week in Oahu)!
HI Rob, YOu might enjoy my foodie post today.
ReplyDeletehttp://conestogo.blogspot.com/2010/12/weekend-cooking-cooks-illustrated.html