51 Days and Counting

Today's directive is to GET OUT THERE AND VOTE! I am tired of the election. I am tired of the media. And I am tired of the media "micro" analysizing everything making it appear that MY vote does not count! If you listened to the news, you would think that only the states of Pennsylvania, Iowa and Ohio matter! Well, Washington counts and it is important to let your voice be heard. Who knows maybe the media will be wrong on their "projected" outcome. They have been before!

But back to Christmas for me. Here is another gift and/or basket idea!

FLAVORED SUGARS

MAKES 1 PINT JAR FOR EACH FLAVOR

Orange Sugar: 1 3/4 to 2 c. Sugar plus thin slices of peel from 1 orange

Lemon Sugar 1 3/4 to 2 c. Sugar plus thin slices of peel from 1 lemon

Vanilla Sugar: 1 3/4 to 2 c. Sugar plus 1 vanilla bean, split in half lengthwise and cut in half crosswise

Mint Sugar: 1 3/4 to 2 c. Sugar plus 1/4 c. Fresh mint leaves, rinsed and thoroughly dried

Cinnamon Sugar: 1 3/4 to 2 c. Sugar plus 3 to 4 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks, broken in half

Rosemary Sugar: 1 3/4 to 2 c. Sugar plus 2 to 3 (4-inch) fresh rosemary sprigs, rinsed and thoroughly dried

Place about 3/4 c. Sugar into 1-pint jar with tight-fitting lid. Add layer of orange peel, lemon peel, vanilla bean, mint, cinnamon or rosemary. Whichever flavor you decide to make. Layer sugar and flavorings, ending with sugar on top, packing down lightly before adding next layer.

Shake or roll the jar every day or two for 2 weeks blending flavors. Cover top of jar with fabric, stickers or a crocheted or knit jar topper. Attach gift tag/recipe card with ribbon or raffia.

NOTE: SUGAR PICKS UP COLORS FROM THE FLAVORINGS; THIS IS NORMAL.

GIFT TAG/RECIPE CARD:

Substitute Flavored Sugar anytime a recipe calls for granulated sugar. For example, use Orange Sugar in coffeecake; Vanilla Sugar in cookies, Mint Sugar in coffee or hot chocolate. Use the lemon sugar in hot or iced teas; Cinnamon Sugar in any baked item, or on a cake, cookies or buttered toast; or Rosemary Sugar over fresh fruit.