In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and cheddar cheese until the cheddar is evenly distributed. Mix in the garlic powder and a generous pinch each of salt and black pepper. Set aside.

In another bowl, combine the remaining ingredients (dried cranberries, pecans, bacon, and chives).

Add about 1/3 of the pecan mixture to the cream cheese mixture and stir well to distribute it. Cover the remaining pecan mixture and set aside for later use.

Place a 14" piece of cling wrap on a large flat surface. Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the cling wrap in a rough log shape, then lightly roll it up. Squeeze gently to form a log, about 1 1/2" in diameter.

Twist the ends closed and refrigerate the log for at least an hour to firm up.

Once firm, unroll the cheese log from the cling wrap.

Spread the pecan mixture on a flat work surface and roll the cheese log through it, coating thoroughly. Pat the pecan mixture into the log to help it adhere.

Serve immediately or return to the fridge. The Cheese Log can be prepared ahead of time.