Christmas trees and gingerbread houses

This past week I was finally able to put up my Christmas tree. I have decided that I will be purchasing a pre-lit one this year after Christmas. I loath putting on lights. My favorite part is hanging the ornaments. Each one of mine brings back memories from my childhood and that Christmas. Christmas time is my favorite time of year. All the goodies to bake, family gatherings, shopping, and more brings that warm fuzzy feeling to me. I tried getting a good picture of my tree, but for some reason when I was taking a picture with the lights off, it had a red glow around the tree. I have all my Christmas shopping done except for those little odds and ends that are unexpected.

This weekend my parents came to visit. It was a great relaxing weekend. There was nothing going on or to have rush to. Saturday night my dad and I watch the championship games. Too bad Arkansas and Nebraska couldn't pull through and win. I have decided that I will never do another gingerbread house. I had no idea they were such a hassle to do. I was so excited about it, but then I just did a horrible job. It wasn't so bad until I started decorating it. I have no experience in cake decorating and it was hard for me to have a steady hand and patience with it. I don't see how my mom does it. I'm actually a little embarrassed by the job I did. Don't laugh too hard at it. Yes, it looks like a 5-year-old did it, but I'm hoping I get created for effort. I know I could have done better, but I just need more practice at this. So maybe I won't say never, but it would be better if I had more experience. I have a few more Christmas decorating to do, but it was just too cold this weekend.

The holiday parties have begun. I have something every weekend this month, plus events during the week. Some might feel it is overwhelming, but I love the parties! I hope everyone is in the Christmas spirit and enjoying the times with family and the smells of memories and traditions coming from the kitchen!