Oh, What Fun? What’s cooking? Strawberry Bavarian Cream

One of these holiday seasons, I’m going to figure out how to take it easy and enjoy myself. I was just complaining to my husband that I don’t know how I’m going to finish all the things I have to do before heading to New Jersey for the actual holiday. There’s the 12 dozen cookies I have to finish decorating for the neighborhood party, and the labels I have to pick up for the preserves I’m giving to my friends at a small holiday get-together next week – for which I still haven’t figured out what to serve. And the family Christmas cards... Yikes. My husband of course reminded me that these are all self-imposed crises. He’s so helpful.

So maybe the thrill of the season is just that – spreading joy to friends and family and neighbors, even if it just about kills me in the process.

Dear Santa... Gift Ideas for Chefs, Wannabe Chefs, and Guys Looking to Get Lucky

If you’re not the sort of person who browses the Williams-Sonoma catalogue for fun, or reads recipe books in your spare time, you might not recognize a great present for a foodie. It’s understandable. I can’t tell you how many golf-related gifts I’ve given my golf-obsessed husband, only to discover them still in their original packaging a year later.

So if cooking is a passion or a hobby for someone on your gift list, here are a few ideas. And down in the cookbook section, you’ll find my favorite gift for men of any age – especially the kitchen-impaired, although it’s a great starter book for anyone.

Please note: The Kitchen Goddess has not received as much as a candy cane for these recommendations. She is a wonder of ethical virtue.