Dear Readers,
December is the month when the Mohawk Valley truly sparkles, with lights in every town square, shop windows dressed for the season, and that unmistakable feeling that something special is in the air. This issue has been one of my favorites to put together because it’s our way of celebrating the heart of our community: the small businesses, restaurants, makers, and neighbors who give so much of themselves to make the holidays magical. Our Holiday Gift Guide is filled with local treasures, thoughtful gifts you can find right here at home. When you shop local, you’re not just buying a present; you’re supporting a dream, a family, and a community that continues to thrive because of people like you.
A special thank you goes out to every sponsor, business owner, and partner featured in this issue. Your dedication to our region and your belief in what Mohawk Valley Living represents are what make this Holiday Gift Guide possible. Every page reflects the spirit of collaboration and generosity that defines this season and this community. And to the incredible team that brings Mohawk Valley Living magazine and Mohawk Valley Living TV to life each month, my deepest thanks. Your creativity, energy, and heart make everything we do shine a little brighter. I couldn’t do it without you all.
In that same spirit of generosity, our MV Gives: 12 Days of Giving shares meaningful ways you can give back this season. We’ve highlighted twelve local charities and organizations doing incredible work across the Mohawk Valley, from helping families in need to supporting animals, the arts, and neighbors facing hardship. Each one offers a way to make a difference, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. This time of year reminds us how much the Mohawk Valley gives, and how powerful it can be when we all give a little in return.
This month’s MV Eats takes us to brunch, one of my favorite ways to slow down and savor the season. There’s something special about gathering around a table late morning, sharing good food, stories, and laughter before the day rushes on. For me, that feeling carries right into Christmas morning, when our family starts the day with coffee and gifts under the tree, followed by a table filled with pancakes, eggs, fruit, and warm cinnamon buns. Those small moments, the laughter, the warmth, the familiar scent of something baking, are what I look forward to most every year.
As you read through this issue, I hope it reminds you to slow down, savor the season, and celebrate the people who make the Mohawk Valley feel like home. Whether you’re lighting candles for Hanukkah, gathering for Christmas dinner, or welcoming the new year with friends, may your holidays be filled with peace, warmth, and joy.
With heartfelt gratitude and the happiest of holiday wishes,
Carrie
P.S. From all of us at Mohawk Valley Living, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and cheers to every celebration that fills this season with light.
Spritz Cookies
These have been a holiday favorite in my kitchen for years – simple, buttery, and the kind of cookie that instantly brings back memories of baking with family. I make them every Christmas, using a cookie press and finishing each one with a drizzle of chocolate and a sprinkle of something festive.
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp almond extract
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups flour
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the egg, almond extract, and vanilla. Add the flour and salt a little at a time until the dough comes together and feels soft but not sticky.
Spoon the dough into a cookie press fitted with your favorite design and press directly onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for about 7-8 minutes, just until the edges start to turn golden. Let them cool completely before decorating.
I like to dip or drizzle the cookies with melted Baker’s dark, milk, and white chocolate – alternating for
a mix of colors – and add a light dusting of sprinkles while the chocolate is still warm. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy or share (if you can part with them).
