I tend to shy away from the really macabre part of Halloween and focus on the cute and humorous. But this year I did both. These Chubby Witch Fingers are indeed scary but were toned down by their companions, my Cheerful Pumpkin Cookies. At least that was my hope.

I’ve always had a connection to the ocean and everything associated with it. I love walking on the beach looking for shells. I love the sound of the waves and the smell of the sea. I especially love looking at the endless ebb and flow of the ocean and can sit on the beach watching it for hours. This love stretches out to include all things associated with the sea. This year, lighthouses were the theme for my summer cookie baking.

“Be a lighthouse for someone to find a safe way home.” Anonymous

What’s the best way to celebrate the birthday of someone special? Cookies, of course! Presents wrapped in bright colors are also welcome, but first come cookies, followed by singing off-key and finally come the presents. This order must be maintained because something sweet always shows the way to something spectacular.