Executive decisions help this time of year - figure out how to get something done efficiently and go with that plan. I was perilously close to being swamped with cooking on the day we do our family holiday get together, so I'm going to make one part of it (the holiday gift I make every year for my ex) ahead of time and deliver it so it is out of the way. And the meal for that day won't be takeout (we order it then the ex runs to the places to pick up and it takes a while), but it also won't be the big messy Puerto Rican rice dish we often make. I found a small boneless leg of lamb that I will cube and marinade overnight and put on skewers and grill the day of our family lunch. And with it will be some rice with orzo and spanakopita (I found some frozen at Costco and am hoping they're decent). There will be vegetable sides. If I get to the Halal grocery between now and then I'll pick up some baklava. Now I just have to get a handle on everything else to do with that event. Cleaning and decorating.

I hope Charmion's fruitcakes are well received! I've started delivering baked goods to the usual recipients. This afternoon or tomorrow I'll tackle the julekaka (stollen). I have the fruit I prefer, but I may need a few more sliced almonds, so they're on today's shopping list.

Stay healthy, everyone! COVID is rearing its head and there's a nasty cold still making the rounds. I wasn't the only one wearing a mask in Costco yesterday.