It's beginning to look a lot like...

a Christmas meme, from the folks at Sew, Mama, Sew who have saved my sanity on more than one occasion.

If you’re making gifts this year, what are you making? (Post photos if you have some!)

I am making several gifts. Some involve primates. Others involve chenille, which I WILL conquer or die trying. There was also talk of a yo-yo tree skirt but it has taken a backseat to primate production. In the interest of Christmas surprises, I can't post a full photo -- just a few segments. (Edited to add: I have victory over chenille at last!)

Name one thing on your personal wish list.

An obscenely large cutting mat -- don't know where I would put it or how much I would actually use it. Details... (To anyone buying me a gift, I really do need to account for those details before I get the mat.)

What is your favorite holiday food?

Just one? Cider, egg nog, homemade candies, cake, vegetarian stuffing, Brussels sprouts (really).

Do you have a great recipe to share?

It is hardly a recipe, but for the world's best Brussels sprouts, trim them and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on size. In a nonstick skillet, drizzle some extra-virgin olive oil and get the pan as hot as you can stand without the oil reaching a smoking point. Toss in the sprouts, season liberally with sea salt and lots of fresh cracked pepper. Toss and saute over medium-high heat until the sprouts have begun to blacken along the edges, generally 7 or 8 minutes. Serve immediately and sneak a few from the hot pan, burning your tongue and repeating, "Ow! Hot! Good! Hot! Good!" as often as necessary.