HER STORY

My Oma would begin weeks before Christmas. Stocked with special spices from Germany and pounds of ground almonds, she would start baking everyday until she had made enough Christmas cookies for the whole family. 

I will never be a vegan but I want to learn about vegan desserts because many of our guests are vegan. I don't want to be the chef who responds, "give them sorbet" when asked for a vegan dessert.

In December of 1987 we went to Bethlehem around Christmas. There were no carols, twinkly lights, or gift-giving. We were living in the country where Jesus was born and there was minimal mention of the holiday. What was I missing?