This month’s column is a special one — at least it is for me. It is holiday time when I could easily write about fun, light and humorous topics. In addition to this being a holiday column, it is also an anniversary column: Last year, December 2018, was when the first “Aging Successfully” was published.
Though the column covers the important topic of senior living, it has been fun to write. In addition, reader input has made writing this column more meaningful, and I am grateful.
Every newspaper columnist knows that reader feedback, for a columnist, is rare, especially in smaller communities. Years ago I wrote a parenting column for a rural newspaper north of Everett. I received zero input. That did not bother me, as I understood readers subscribe to newspapers simply for information.
Since the first issue of “Aging Successfully” was published, I’ve received positive feedback almost every month. Sometimes it is an email, sometimes it is a simple comment while talking with a friend or colleague. Thank you. This feedback has been encouraging and, after receiving zero input in the past it is greatly appreciated.
For many people the holiday seasons are enriched by traditions which have passed down from generation to generation. In my family baking was one of those positive traditions. When I was a child my family and I would spend evenings and weekends baking tons of “goodies.” Even my father and brothers joined in the fun.
Some of the items we made were fudge, pumpkin bread, and divinity. In case you are unfamiliar with divinity, is a very sweet candy made from corn syrup and egg whites.
As my thank you to you, our awesome readers, I want to share one of my holiday favorites which was passed down for several generations. This cake is more of a traditional Christmas cake as opposed to the light, fluffy cakes we normally eat. Please enjoy.
Again, thank you for your encouraging feedback throughout the year, and my wish for you is that 2020 will be your best year ever as we all turn one year older, on our own journey to becoming seniors.
Email me and share with us one of your favorite holiday recipes at information@crystallinn.com.
Crystal Linn is a multi-published author and an award winning poet. When not writing, or teaching workshops, Crystal enjoys reading a good mystery, hiking, and sailing with friends and family.
