Let The Festivities Begin!

Last night was our first round of Christmas festivities with family, kicking off a week of presents, cookies, coffee, and connecting with those we love. It was a sweet night, thrown together at the last minute with my sister's family and my brother and his crew. There was lots of laughter and gift-wrap strewn in every corner of the living room. The older kids ended the night by heading over to Uncle Li'l Bro and Aunt R's house for more laughter and A Christmas Story. The younger ones stayed here for a holiday sleep-over. The Boss wrapped gifts and I made another batch of Christmas treats.

Here's the recipe, as my last-minute Christmas gift to you all. It comes from an old church cookbook (aren't those ALWAYS the best recipes?!) and we find that it brings out the kid in all of us this time of year. Enjoy!

Delicious Saltine Bark

40 saltines
1 c. brown sugar
1 c. butter
12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)
colored sprinkles or colored sugar crystals (optional)

Preheat oven to 400. Line the bottom and sides of a large baking sheet (I use a Pampered Chef bar pan) with heavy duty aluminum foil. Spray foil lightly with baking spray.

Place saltines side–by–side (not overlapping) in the baking sheet and set aside.

Melt butter in saucepan. Add sugar and bring to full boil, stirring constantly. Boil for exactly 3 minutes, still stirring constantly. Pour gently over the saltines and spread evenly.

Bake for only 5 minutes – do not over-bake. Entire mixture should be bubbly across the surface. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle the surface with the chocolate chips. Wait a few minutes and spread the chocolate evenly. Sprinkle with nuts and/or sprinkles, etc.

Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Remove the block from the pan, remove the foil and break apart in bark pieces. Store in tightly sealed containers in the refrigerator.

Finally, The Gang wishes you all a beautiful and precious Christmas holiday. May you linger long over the table with those you love. May you linger longer under your tree in wonder at the lights. And may you linger longest at the manger, in awe and gratitude at the greatest gift ever given.