The ever changing New England weather cooperated with us for my second annual cookie swap, and twenty-two friends came together to feast, swap cookies and play games. We started our swap with great homemade food - New England clam chowder, spinach pie, macaroni and cheese to die for - and many other fantastic dishes and desserts, a veritable Christmas feast!

After we ate, we swapped cookies. There were no duplicates in the twenty-two kinds baked so all were able to take home a great assortment of cookies for the holidays. We then played Trivial Pursuit-Christmas Edition, and prizes were awarded to the winners.

Next came a very spirited Yankee Swap (where else but in New Hampshire for a “Yankee“ swap). The swap gifts were exceptional with the tied blankets being the most popular trade - great to have for the long New England winters.

A fun time was had by all, some of us even felt like dancing; and we are eagerly looking forward to the next cookie swap in December 2011. We will be trying different recipes from your book during the next few months.

Submitted by Anne Wagner for Sharlene Salois, Hostess