A delightful conversation with the first family of bread in New Orleans: Sandy Whann and son William, and daughter Katie from Leidenheimer Bakery, celebrating 125 years in business. And Cheez Wiz, and crackers like Ritz and Saltines, plus a discussion of Maple St. Cafe.

Peter Caire called in to talk Christmas gifts, and our regular Thursday visitor, Nicole Dorignac told us about fun gifts right off the supermarket shelves. Also the Boston Tea party, turkey basters, roast goose, and chocolate-covered insects.

National Cupcake Day prompted a gosh-darned inspiring chat with Mignon Francois, proud N'Awlins girl, and cupcake entrepreneur. She owns the Cupcake Collection in Nashville and New Orleans. Mignon was a tough act to follow, but our own friend-of-the-show Gunther Preuss held his own with tales of Christmas traditions from his native Germany. Also molasses, the Eiffel Tower, and Jules Verne restaurant there.

Sue Zemanik from Zasu. Bouillabaisse, the Nostradamus Cookbook.

Alex Patout called in to talk Cajun Christmas food. And cracklins. And beef stew.

David Hubbell, the Mirliton Man. And Eggnog.

Frozen foods, Palmiers, Brigtsen's, mulled wine, blue cheese, and Tim McNally helped us with bubbly selections for the holidays.

National Brownie Day, cocoa nibs, spinach.

Chris Barbato from The Country Club talks about their menus. La Provence, Vincent's, Candy Canes. Daube Glace. And zabaglione.

Don Dubuc called in to chat about a wild Louisiana Christmas. Also Nicholas, vegetable soup, microwave ovens, and kirsch.