December views, day 23

The Christmas Eve performance is a Lauren tradition, but she won't be here at the appointed hour tomorrow evening. So she requested we watch her dance this afternoon instead. Two numbers, with all her signature moves. Ah, Christmas just wouldn't be the same without her dances.

Earlier in the day I made some oh-my-god-delicious sweet/spicy/salty nuts that I am trying desperately to keep my hands off until Christmas Day. Here's the recipe:

2 cups unsalted mixed nuts
1-1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1-1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
kosher salt

Toast nuts in a dry skillet over low heat until fragrant. Drop in butter to melt, and toss and cook nuts for a few minutes longer. Meanwhile, stir together the sugars and cayenne in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the nuts and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar caramelizes. Transfer nuts to a baking sheet, spread in a single layer and sprinkle with the kosher salt. Let cool. Try not to eat them all at once.