I believe it’s the little things that make the world go round. There are many people that make my life sweeter with a daily hello, a chat, a shared cup of coffee, or a walk. It’s hard to know a way that isn’t corny for showing my appreciation for brightening my year.

As a result, it’s been my tradition for many years to deliver a package of holiday treats to these local friends during the holiday season, or at least, during the week between Christmas and New Year’s. My dearest friends are always on the list, but I also enjoy sharing with newer friends or acquaintances.

The whole process, starting with planning what I’ll make (usually a mix of old favorites and new experiments), picking out the containers, preparing the sweets, packaging everything, and ending with stopping by to drop off the edible gifts, makes me really happy.

Howard has gotten into the act as well. He’s always helped with the packaging, but a few years ago, he asked me to make similar packets of sweets to share with his colleagues at work to welcome the New Year. It’s turned into an event that we both have a lot of fun with.

Initially, I think I made the same set of offerings for both rounds, but, in recent years, I mix it up, making mostly different things. Here’s the menu we shared this holiday season.

Round 1: Local Friends

White-Chocolate Apricots
Dark Chocolate Bark with Almonds and Sea Salt
Za’atar Pecans
Pain d’Amandes

Round 2: Howard’s Colleagues

Peanut Brittle

Brown Sugar Rosemary Walnuts (without the figs)

Dark Chocolate Bark with Almonds and Sea Salt

Cheese Crackers (half made with Emmenthaler and half with Manchego)

I hope 2013 is full of lots of little things to brighten your life in the year ahead! Happy New Year to you!