Failed Christmas Cookies

So far this season, I've baked the butter cookie cutouts I've been making since high school and tonight, a new recipe for winter spice sandwich cookies with an orange cream-cheese filling. And I have to tell you, neither batch was stellar. Sometimes, the cookies you pull from the oven are golden and glorious, or moist and rich, or the perfect balance of flavors.

That has not been happening. This does not bode well for my cookie-baking season. I hope I can turn things around, and fast. Santa's on his way.

Good night.

P.S. Wait! Hold the reins there a minute. It's not cookies, but I did make the Peppermint Patty Cake from the gorgeous new [to me] cookbook Chocolate Cakes, by Elinor Klivans. Brought cake to George and Lydia's party, after decorating dark rich top with striped peppermints. People seemed to like it.

TCOY

1. Boot camp in the park.
2. Walked Sug around block twice. And it was hard to do the second loop, tonight. It's uphill half the way. But it must be good for Puff's heart--and mine.
3. Tried to remain calm in face of drama that could affect our family.
4. Worked.
5. Subway sandwich on grain bread.
6. H. and I picked out an area rug for our living room at Pottery Barn. Over 1 year since we moved back into our home. And we brought it back in the car, unrolled it and put it down. We like it.
7. Mammogram.
8. Well, I would list 'started cookie baking,' b/c I'd like to pace myself and not get overstressed. But please see main entry above. Not too tickled with results. And with cookies, results matter.