I can't say I've seen much Christmas caroling in past years (how is it that this awesome tradition is not really safe anymore?), but at least we can count on the Christmas cookies. If we can't share our voices, we can share our good taste. It’s one of simplest Christmas traditions that owes all to the spirit of giving. Unfortunately, I’m not going to any of those crazy girl cookie parties where everyone brings 9 dozen, and we all swap then play patty-cake. One can only get through that situation with liberal wine and chocolate.
None-the-less, if you love cookies, parties, and people, eat exactly what tastes good, savor it slowly, and pass on what doesn’t. Never settle and share, share, share. Then take the batch to whoever is on your mind. Who votes that cookies improve lines of communication? I think it could be proven.
Most importantly in regard to cookies, don’t forget (in fact push) the milk. A noteworthy study from the Journal of the American Dietetic Association shows that children who avoid milk and do not consume calcium-rich food substitutes* are found to have shorter stature, higher body fat, and lower bone density than those who do. This increases the risk for obesity and osteopenic bone fractures. And no one should have to worry about their bones when deciding this winter is THE time to try out new ice-skating tricks.
So as the season joyously brings on the gingerbread, sugar, oatmeal, or old-fashioned chocolate chip, make sure to pair them with the perfect partner: milk. Happy dunking.
* Calcium rich food substitutes include fortified soy or almond milk, yogurt, and some enriched breads with 10-30% of the daily values for calcium. The nutrition label will clearly state the percentage to lead you to a healthy choice.