I started signing Christmas cards early—before Thanksgiving! It’s a tradition that began with a few hundred cards to readers and this year, we crossed the 6,000 mark!
I lost count of how many Sharpies I’ve gone through, and ice is my new best friend. My crew that helps label, stamp and stuff thinks I’m ridiculous when I insist on personalizing and signing each card. Truthfully, I couldn’t do it without them—they do the hard part. And I couldn’t do what I love—write my twisted tales—without all of you. Some of you probably even remember those first Christmas cards. I’m always blown away that many of you keep them…all of them!
The holiday season is a good reminder to count our blessings. Thank you so much for including my books in your life.
I have lots of Christmas cheer to share with you: some favorite things, gift ideas and even a cookie recipe…a dog cookie. Of course!
SOME OF MY FAVORITE CHRISTMAS THINGS
One of my favorite holiday traditions is adding to my Christmas villages. Only recently did I realize my little villages are just another way of telling a story. There are lots of dogs, a bookstore, a book kiosk and this guy reading while he walks briskly along from shop to shop. And yes, there’s even a donut shop!
Favorite Christmas Movie: “Die Hard” (What did you expect from a thriller writer?).
Favorite Christmas Song: “I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas.” The Gayla Peevey version. However, I should add, I LOVE Christmas songs, and we start playing them at Thanksgiving.
Favorite Christmas Cookie: Homemade: cut-out sugar cookies with my mom’s icing. Store bought: Pepperidge Farm’s Peppermint Milano Slices.
Favorite Christmas Story: “The Gift of the Magi,” by O. Henry.
OUR READER CHRISTMAS SHOP IS OPEN
But only for a short time, so check it out: www.alexkava.com/shop
I love the holiday season and for years I’ve wanted to add some gift items to our website shop page. We finally have a whole assortment for readers: $6.99 autographed hardcovers, book bags, dog leashes, reader socks, ceramic mugs, and one-of-a-kind bookmarks. Plus free shipping on orders over $49*. www.alexkava.com/shop
INTRODUCE A FRIEND TO RYDER AND GRACE
We’ve put together a special package that includes: a book tote, reader socks, a dog leash, bookmark and a hardcover copy of “Breaking Creed” that I’ll personalize and sign along with a Christmas card. All wrapped up and ready to give. Alex’s Webshop
A FAVORITE COOKIE RECIPE…FOR YOUR DOG
These are simple and the dogs love them. And it’s one bowl you can even let the dog’s lick! Duncan always enjoys helping in the kitchen. 
Peanut Butter Cookies
2 cups flour
½ cup peanut butter
2 medium eggs
½ cup water
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix all together to form a dough.
Roll out on wax paper to about ¼”.
Cut with cookie cutters or slice into rectangles or triangles.
Place on cookie sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Put on a rack to cook for 5-10 minutes.
Last step: serve to dog who’s probably been at your feet the whole time you’ve been making these.
Back to signing cards. Despite all the things we love about this time of year, it can also be very stressful. Remember to take care of yourself!
Have a wonderful holiday season and thanks always for reading my books!
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(*Free shipping only available in the USA)