Cookie tins 2013

Each year I make cookie tins for Michael's colleagues at work & this year was no exception.  About a week ago I was feeling less than enthusiastic about this task, but after doing a search on Pinterest I had renewed excitement for my annual cookie making extravaganza.  I mixed up the line up some & made some things that I had never before.  I am happy to say all turned out well.  This year's lineup includes, devil's food/peppermint sandwich cookies, Christmas pecan balls, Cranberry bliss bars (oh my, the white chocolate cream cheese frosting, is to die for), & my old favorite--homemade Gingerbread.  I also made star mint meringues, which look so pretty, but are surprisingly easy to make.  One of Michael's good friends loves homemade toffee, so I made him a small batch dipped in chocolate & chopped nuts. I know my mom always loves to see the pictures of my Christmas tins, so here you go.  It was a fun time & the girls helped quite a bit, although, I was much slower with their "help" than I would have otherwise been, but that's what Christmas baking is all about....sharing the baking joy with those you love most!