Monthly Archives: January 2026

Though we have made and distributed peanut brittle for many years, I never knew the origins of the confection. The story I heard was The first peanut brittle recipe was first published in 1893 in Good Housekeeping Magazine. Though George Smith, a candy maker from Illinois is often credited with making the first recipe, heContinue reading “The Peanut Brittle Story, January 26, 2026. 356 words”

Though a bill was introduced in the House and Senate in 1968 to make Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday a holiday, it was not considered an official national holiday until 1983. During the time between, many local cities changed a major road to be renamed for Dr. King. In my capital city of LansingContinue reading “Day of Service, January 19, 2026. 268 words”

January leaves little to look forward to. Snow, cold and winds create a palette of whites and grays without the relief of colorful Christmas lights. But for an old Girl Scout, this is the season for ordering traditional Girl Scout Cookies.I recall waiting for the start date for taking orders for shortbread, thin mints andContinue reading “G.S. Cookie Time, January 12, 2026 473 words”

It is Epiphany or the twelve night after Christmas. The creche scene is the first to be wrapped and packed for another year. The figures are six inches in height and hand painted by Aunt Joy for our first Christmas together. Given as a wedding gift from Aunt Joy and Uncle Bob. The small bandContinue reading “Epiphany , January 5th, 2026. 415 words”