• Chocolate-covered Delights.  The real name for these luscious cookies is uncertain, but they are delightful, so this one will do.  Melt a 12-ounce bag of semisweet chocolate chips and a 12 ounce bag of caramel or butterscotch chips together in a microwave-safe bowl for two minutes or so (the chips should be melted, but do not burn): stir thoroughly.  Immediately add a 6-ounce can of La Choy Chow Mein noodles and 8 to 10 ounces of cocktail peanuts.  Mix all the ingredients together.  Line a large baking sheet or other flat pan with wax paper and spoon 1 ½ to 2 inch dollops of the mixture onto the paper (the cookies will appear almost spider-like because of the noodle pieces protruding).  Refrigerate until hardened and eat!  NOTE:  These cookies can be frozen if you wish to make them ahead of time.  Other ingredients such as shredded coconut or raisins can also be added for variety.  White chocolate chips can be substituted for the semisweet chocolate chips, as well.  *Keep the cookies refrigerated until ready to use, as the chocolate may become too soft at room temperature.
• Chocolate Pecan Pie.  In a large bowl, combine 1 ¼ cup of dark corn syrup, 2 large eggs, ¾ cup of sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips: blend thoroughly.  Add 8 ounces of pecans.  Place the mixture in a 9 inch, unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade).  Cook in a preheated 350 degree oven for 45 to 50 minutes.  Let cool before serving.  NOTE:  You may need to loosely cover with foil about halfway through baking to prevent crust sides from becoming too brown.
• White Cake with Strawberries and Cream.  Not crazy about chocolate?  How about a deviation from the tried-and-true.  Bake a white (or yellow) cake mix according to directions in a 9 by 13 pan.  When done, poke holes on the top and let cool.  In the meantime, mix 2 packages of instant vanilla pudding with 3 cups of milk.  Beat until thickened.  Add 8 ounces of Cool Whip (or real whipped cream) and blend: set aside.  Pour 8 to 10 ounces of frozen sliced strawberries with juices (thaw first) over the cake and spread evenly, allowing the liquid to seep into the cake.  Evenly distribute the pudding/cream mixture over the thawed berries.  Top with fresh halved strawberries (round side up).  NOTE:  If making your own whipped cream, beat 1 cup of whipping cream with 1 teaspoon of vanilla.  Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of Confectioners Sugar and beat until peaks form (do not over beat).  Proceed with above directions.

The holidays are wonderful for many reasons: one being food.  So, as we enter this glorious season with celebrations, thanks, reflections, and culinary delights, let’s not forget how sweet this time can be!

In 1918, WWI ended with a temporary cease fire (armistice) until a formal treaty between the allies and Germany was signed (Treaty at Versailles).  The armistice took place on the 11^th hour of the 11^th day in November.  In 1919, President Wilson enacted the first Armistice Day to honor WWI veterans.  The celebration was executed with parades, public meetings, and a two-minute observance beginning at 11 A.M. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution mandating that the President recognize November 11 with proper rites.  Still, it was not until 1938 that Armistice Day was designated an official federal holiday; individual states could also distinguish the day if they chose.

WWII and Korean War veterans eventually came to be remembered alongside WWI veterans following those respective wars.  In 1954, the observance name changed from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Veterans Day recognizes all U.S. veterans.

In 1968 and to begin in 1971, Congress passed a Holiday Law for Mondays, and Veterans Day was celebrated on the fourth Monday in October.  Some states changed the date and some did not.  Yet, because of public support for the original ceremonial day, Veterans Day changed back to November 11.  However, if November 11 falls on a Sunday, then the Monday following is federally observed.   If Veterans Day falls on a Saturday, then Friday may be celebrated.

In addition to the United States, some other parts of the world recognize Armistice Day (also known as Remembrance Day).  The day is dedicated to the sacrifice of soldiers and commemorates the ending of WWI.

We own a debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who have courageously served our country.  May we always pay tribute to their selflessness, service and sacrifice.

Happy Veterans Day!