With the bright sun & blue skies, yesterday was a great chance to get outside to play along the Lakefront. Sure, it was a bit chilly… but I went up to Illinois Beach State Park for the day for plenty of hiking, bare trees & crashing waves all around. At times the sound was deafening… and yet so rhythmic & soothing at the same time.

Another MUGSHOT MONDAY… this time while hiking up north along the lakefront. Sure, it was a bit chilly, but proper layers and a mug of hot chocolate… perfect combo for a perfect afternoon out in nature.

Hoping everyone is having a “sweet” Christmas today. Whether you’re safely flying solo, or sharing your “bubble” with family… I just hope you’re all staying safe & enjoying some holiday sweet treats!!!… hmmm?… maybe I need to try ala mode next?!!!

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday today despite all of the challenges. ‘Tis the season to be extra-creative with how you celebrate with family & friends… without being able to be “with” anyone today! I know I’ll be celebrating solo again today, yet “celebrating” with my family via ZOOM with trivia games & a gift exchange later this afternoon!

And here it is – fresh out of the oven!

My new 2020 “solo-holiday” tradition continues! Make a pie. Eat a pie! Should be cooled down just in time for my family ZOOM Christmas get-together. Too bad I can’t share… and I’ll just “rudely” be eating in front of them!!!

Oh well, more for me… HA!!!

Added the top layer of crust and a few decorative touches! Making it all very festive for my new “solo-holiday” tradition! Ready to go into the oven…

It’s all in… my Christmas pie is all coming together nicely!!!

Playing with pie crust… and upping my game this time.
I’m trying a new recipe for homemade pie crust!!!
A little more work, but hoping it’s all worthwhile!

I had to “borrow” two rolling pins from my studio yesterday… one smooth to roll it out, and a groovy textured one from Stodola Rolling Pins to make it a bit more fun!!!

Things are cooking in the kitchen…
starting to smell really festive in here!

Keeping up with my new “2020” tradition. It worked for my “solo” Thanksgiving, so I’m going for it again today!

I have two simple goals on my To-Do List for today…
1) Make a pie…. 2) Eat a pie.

Let the solo-holiday games begin!!!