You cannot capture a dream until you reach for it.

Archive for December, 2011

CAPTURE YOUR DREAMS

 

As the year is ending, a new year begins full of promise. We are so blessed to be able to continue to learn, grow and evolve each day.

I wish for each and every one of you to reach for your dreams and to savor the all the little victories along the way.

May the New Year be a healthy, happy year full of joy and blessings and love.

Hugs & love to all,

Karen

 
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A BROKEN ANKLE FOR CHRISTMAS

by Karen Elizabeth Rigley

About 3 AM Sunday morning, I took a tumble down the stairs. Not that I’m terribly graceful at the best of times, but this happens to be an extraordinarily bad time to be a klutz. It’s just about ten days to Christmas.

Don’t have my shopping done. Nor baking. Forget wrapping. Thank goodness I had just finished my tree and decorations, including hauling all the boxes down to the basement, then stashed away – mere hours before my mishap.

Already missed my little Lexi’s first-ever Christmas concert. That was harder on me than the fall. Fortunately, she has one more and I am determined to see that. A party scheduled at my house has been moved. Parties, concerts, shopping, suddenly transform to huge challenges.

Even trying to clean the house or carry something from one room to another turns into an obstacle. Or up and down the stairs. It’s hard enough to get me up and down those stairs. ;-)

Yet, with my broken ankle came a tumble of blessings. My family, friends and neighbors are rallying around me and I’m so touched and grateful. I couldn’t begin to list all the wonderful thoughtful things they’ve done or prayers and get well wishes they offer.

Yes, breaking my ankle is a bummer, but I am so lucky and blessed and feel very loved. Thank you all for everything. You have made this Christmas special.

May the peace and joy of the holiday season light your heart all year.

CHRISTMAS SUGAR COOKIES

Want the best soft sugar cookies to bake for Christmas? 

Years ago my friend (& sometimes writing partner) Ann Miller House sent me a Reflections of the West cookbook from Texas.  In it I found treasure that I’ve been baking and sharing every since.

                                                     Old-Fashioned Soft Sugar Cookies

1/2 cup butter softened         1/2 cup sour cream                1 cup sugar

3 3/4 cups sifted flour            1 egg           1 teaspoon baking soda          

1/2 teaspoon salt                     1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract          

Beat butter, sugar, egg and vanilla in mixer bowl until light and fluffy.  Add sour cream. Mix well. Sift flour, baking soda and salt together. Add to sugar mixture gradually, beating well after each addition.  Roll 1/4 inch thick on lightly floured surface.  Cut with floured cookie cutter. Place on greased cookie sheet.  Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes. Don’t overbake. Cool on wire rack. Frost and decorate. (Makes about 48 cookies)

I usually make a double batch. When baking cookies always remember — have fun and enjoy — you aren’t just making cookies — you’re creating memories!