Cinnamon Coffeecake

1 cup butter, softened
2 3/4 cups sugar, divided
2 tsp vanilla
4 eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
2 cups (16 oz.) sour cream
2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and 2 cups sugar until fluffy. Add vanilla and 1 egg at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine flour, baking powder, soda, and salt; add alternately with sour cream, beating just enough after each addition to keep batter smooth. Spoon 1/3 of batter into a greased 10-inch Bundt pan. Combine cinnamon, nuts, and remaining sugar; sprinkle 1/3 over batter in pan (try to keep away from edges). Repeat layers two more times. Bake at 350º for 70 minutes or until cake tests done. Cool for 10 minutes. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

Makes 12 to 16 servings.

The Holiday Bonus

For people in all walks of life, this is often the time of year when people look forward to holiday bonuses. Employers in many different professions often feel compelled to show appreciation to their employees for their year's worth of hard work. Those who have increased company business or shown true innovation in their ideas and decision-making may get a little something extra at the end of the year as well.

This kind of thinking has carried over into the world of professional household staff. Many employers feel that the employees who work within their very homes, helping to make their lives run smoothly, are especially deserving of a token of their appreciation.

One of the questions we are often asked by employers is, "What kind of bonus should I give my household staff?"

For the most part, the response to this is, "Whatever you feel moved to give." There is no "right" bonus to provide to household staff. Sometimes a simple note of thanks, letting your staff know that they are appreciated, is the greatest gift they could receive. But of course, monetary remuneration is always appreciated! This could be anything from a gift card redeemable at an exclusive restaurant to a week's salary.

To Household Employees: Sometimes your employer's generosity may take your breath away, and you feel as though you should reciprocate with a special gift of your own. We do not advise this. The most we would recommend is a sincere thank-you note. Remember that the best gift you can give to your employer is your outstanding service!