I went to my second cookie party of the year last night. I actually dropped out of the third one because time just wouldn’t allow for baking.
I took my chocolate oatmeal cookies, which I made the night before.
Casey, who is a friend of mine from college and the host of the party made peppermint chocolate cupcakes.
I don’t have the exact recipe but she said that she uses the chocolate cake recipe on the side of Hershey’s cocoa and adds some peppermint extract. I LOVE mint and chocolate together. It’s so Christmas-y! 🙂
Casey had the cutest UNC ornament. I have a Ramses the ram Christmas ornament. 
(source)
It looks kind of like this, except Ramses is riding in a sleigh. Now I’m a little sad we don’t have a Christmas tree, but I know in the end, I’ll be glad that I don’t have a Christmas tree to take down. Taking down the tree is definitely the worst part of the process.
In addition to cookies and cupcakes Casey also made appetizers like this delicious ham, broccoli, and cheese filled pastry.
There was also cheese, crackers, dips, and veggies.
At some point I got distracted and didn’t take any more photos of cookies besides these Christmas wreaths, which are kind of like rice crispie treats, except they’re made with cornflakes, green food coloring, and little red cinnamon candies.
I turned in as soon as I got home for the party and slept for a loooong time. I’ve been so exhausted all week. Hopefully the 9 1/2 hours of sleep I got last night filled up my sleep-o-meter so I can finally feel rested.
This morning I got the day started with some regular ol’ banana oats with peanut butter and jelly.
Today is my last 20 miler and I’m feeling a little nervous about it. There’s a lot riding on this run and how I do will set the tone for how I feel about my upcoming marathon. Plus, it’s cold and raining, which is not my ideal running conditions. Brad and I are heading down to our favorite greenway trail where he will be running part of my run with me.
Cross your fingers, say a prayer, and wish me luck. I’m going to need it.
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Be sure to come back later today where I will be hosting a very exciting giveaway! Here’s a not-so-subtle hint. 🙂