A Delicious Investment of Your Time and an Opportunity to Unwind.

Ever since I was a child, I've enjoyed spending time in the kitchen. My mother was a Registered Nurse and frequently worked nights so mornings and into the early afternoon were reserved for sleep. While she was resting I'd often make cookies or a cake from a mix. It was fun and it allowed me to create something that could be enjoyed by everyone. My mom loved baking and cooking too, especially around Christmas time so one December, when I found this recipe for Gingerbread Boys in our local newspaper, The Hamilton Spectator, I showed it to her and asked her to make them. She did, and as it always was with my mom, she'd make a double recipe. I and my brothers were tasked with decorating them. They didn't last long and most times only a few were left on Christmas Eve. Thankfully. You all know who that one or two cookies were left for. Fast forward many years and I and my eldest daughter have taken over the role as gingerbread cookie makers. At first, my kids were the decorators and now that's been passed on to my grandchildren. They're delicious and by far, the best I've ever eaten. But more importantly, baking them allows me to dial back what it is that keeps me running throughout the year - and enjoy the time with loved ones - family - even if it just means thinking about them and putting those fond memories to good use. At this time of the year, I hope you too can spend some time making some gingerbread to be dropped off and enjoyed together even if it's through a virtual visit. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it won't be long before we're creating new memories for future use.

Here's the recipe. I hope you enjoy!

Credit: The Hamilton Spectator and Norma Bidwell, Food Editor and of course, Hazel Nutley, the recipe creator! Thank you.

Originally posted in December, 2020.