UtHC Bulletin: Cookies, Conditions, & Cupcakes

If you're looking for a recipe, I'm over at Simple Mom giving a recipe on How to Host a Memorable Holiday Cookie Swap! We're no stranger to the cookie swap here at Under the High Chair and today I'm dishing my ideas and tips in a simple step-by-step format to help you get the jump on your Christmas baking.
I'm a big fan of this social event with a practical side, although with our big move happening in just over two weeks (yikes!), may have to forgo my annual cookie swap this year. Oh well, good thing I've been invited to one already; I can at least make that happen.

Mateo (left) & Noah

On a more personal note, our little family sincerely wants to thank everyone who sent prayers, thoughts and get-well wishes over the last week. Our youngest, Mateo, had major surgery to correct an ongoing medical condition and that was tough on all of us. Although he had been on a waiting list for surgery, it was still a shock to get the call (on a Monday) to say "It's on." (Friday). He made it through just fine with no complications, being the little trooper that he is, and in retrospect the whole ordeal was probably slightly harder on mama!

After 3 1/2 days in the hospital, he and I are home and focusing on healing, rest & relaxation. At times like these, it obviously important to pare down one's schedule and focus all attention on the family.

Even if it means missing very. exciting. events. such as this one..



Well, I was going to see you there, but, to reiterate what I just stated above, not even the promise of thousands of cupcakes can take me away from my little boy. And you know how much I love cupcakes.

Cupcake Camp Montreal is happening this Sunday!!

Proceeds from this one-of-a-kind fundraiser will go towards Kids Help Phone/Jeunesse, J'écoute and massive sugar highs will go to all who attend this sweet event.

Do not miss this chance to bake for a good cause! Visit the Cupcake Camp Montreal website to see how you can get involved by contributing cupcakes or follow them on Twitter for regular updates.

Photo by Lydia

My love affair of the Tonka bean is such that I have been known to ship them to my U.S. food bloggers on more than one occasion. I just can't do with out tonka in my kitchen and feel badly for our neighbors to the south, where tonka beans are banned (yes, they can be toxic if consumed in large doses, but then so can nutmeg).

My friend Lydia, from The Perfect Pantry, was the recipient of such a gift recently. As usual, she posted a clear and concise article about the tonka bean and compiled a nice tidy list of recipes.
Visit her blog for a little tutorial on this amazing spice, including where to buy it online and featuring my recipe for Spice Snaps with Tonka.