He's got rhythm, too!

Cy's Party Hat
Originally uploaded by zostra

Such style for an almost-three-year-old. This is Cy's party hat. He wears it every time he goes to a party, which included the big, family dinner with all of the aunties and uncles and cousins. Cy and Gryf had a great time playing together, much more exciting than the last time they met when neither of them could crawl yet. Much noisier too.

Chocolate Balsamic Genie

Chocolate Balsamic
Originally uploaded by zostra

One of the Christmas gifts I made this year was chocolate balsamic vinegar. It's quite tasty, very thick and chocolatey with a decided tang from the balsamic. I found these bottles at the Ecology Center in Berkeley, and I love the way the vinegar separated into layers. It looks like a genie is going to come flying out as soon as you open up the bottle.

Eggnog Demitasse

Eggnog Demitasse
Originally uploaded by zostra

Bray made eggnog on Christmas eve. Real, thick, creamy, traditional eggnog. Nothing healthy. Nothing lowfat. Nothing non-dairy. That last one put me into the "I'll just have a taste" category, but oh what a taste it was.

Merry Christmas!

Red Velvet with Buttercream Frosting
Originally uploaded by zostra

Here's to a festive day with lots of yummy surprises.

It's Done

Finished Window
Originally uploaded by zostra

The grout has been sealed, the label has been scraped off, window cleaned, shelf installed, and the Christmas cactus is just starting to open up to celebrate.

Wonder Who?

That Worked Well
Originally uploaded by zostra

So much for the cat barrier on the window. Fortunately the grout was dry long before he was allowed anywhere near it.

It's In!

Corner Cap with Paw
Originally uploaded by zostra

The corner caps and window tile have been grouted. Scooter decided to play Vanna for the occasion. Still needs to be sealed (the tile, not Scooter). In the meantime there is a blue-tape fence to keep the cats off the un-sealed grout in the kitchen window. We'll see how long that lasts.