Christmas with Southern Living 2004

Okay, probably the best way to describe these Christmas books is once you buy one, you'll want them ALL! I first purchased the 2001 edition and used the planned menu for my baby's baptism party. That had to be some of the most delicious food I'd ever prepared and the compliments! I passed out that cranberry appetizer to a zillion people, I think! This year's is no different. I love all the new decorating ideas that are quite simple, but the recipes are just out of this world. If you entertain large during the holidays, this book goes out of its way to help you plan the perfect party. It even includes a calender and tells you what to do in the days preceeding your event. It's definitely a book you'll get hooked on - especially after you try the delectable recipes. You'll want more!

I have the past 10 years of these Christmas with SL books. This is one of the best! The decorative ideas are new and fresh and abundant. The recipes, as always, look wonderful. I have only tried the Cranberry Brie so far but it was excellent (also great over cream cheese instead of brie). I can't say enough good things about this one...and there are tons of pictures! Also, there projects are simple and elegant not "crafty".

A not-so-smart co-worker lent me this book after describing the Sweet Potato Hash Browns. She'll never get it back! Okay, I had to buy my own because she's been missing hers! This is chocked full of great traditional and some unusual recipes: Eggnog Pie, Triple Nut Tart, Forest Mushroom Soup, Ham & Lentil Stew, White-Chocolate Macademia-Nut Coffee Cake, and on! Plus, there are lots of neat ideas for decorating for Christmas. Such as, a mantel scarf with pockets, a front door basket, coasters from cording, photo balls, and more. This is a MUST have!

I truly loved this book because of the variety of information presented. Decorating, gifts, and entertaining are covered, with great "how-to" instructions for the crafts presented. Although I am a faithful reader of Southern Living magazine, this was my first book in this series and it did not disappoint. I will definitely use this for years to come.