The gluten free apple spice cake came out good, and I've started on a couple of other dishes for tomorrow. Food gifts are finished (smoked salmon and arroz con gandules).

We're doing this gathering a day after the official holiday, but it still has taken us kind of by surprise since the kids were so late to send lists and because it usually happens closer to the New Year. But getting together is the most important part of this.

On another note, this week I decided to take the leave-in conditioner out of my hair washing routine. I'm thinking there is something coconut in there that I'm not seeing on the label that is causing some extra itchiness on my neck, and I'm okay without it if I comb through my hair with the scrubber while in the shower. When you're allergic to the ingredients in so many products, less is more.

All of the year-end wrap up stuff is showing up everywhere - news stories, store clearances, personal care habits we should be minding. Car dealers offering specials to clear the lots (good news for you, Patty!) There are lots of offers on the FB free pages (including my offers) - nothing I can use in there so far. Mostly stuff like mine - excess storage, unused kitchen items, etc. I'll broaden my offer later in the week if I don't hear anything by tomorrow evening.