A Tradition

One of my fondest Christmas memories revolves around food (go figure!). I can remember baking Christmas cookies each year, and how much fun my sister and I had (my brother???? His job was to eat the cookies!)

I can remember my mom saying, "How come this recipe says we will get 4 dozen cookies and we never do?" Well... because we loved to eat the dough! My sister, brother and I definitely ate more dough raw than we actually baked!

Somewhere over the years I ended up with the original recipe book that holds the recipe we used. I have made a tradition with my own kids of baking cookies for Santa, one that I have continued to this day. Last night was "cookie night" at the Neal's.

This year, Chandra and family were unable to make it down, but she has already called and gotten the original recipe so that she and the kids can make cookies for Santa. I know that the tradition will continue there as well.

This was Michael's second year to bake cookies. Surprisingly, I believe he actually remember doing this last year. Rachel and Emma arrived and I prepared the dough. While it chilled we ate dinner, and then the party began. As Rachel prepared the table, I dug out the cutters and when I called Michael in he said, "Yay.... cookies!" Isn't he just so cute??? And so smart?????!!!!!

I gave each of the kids a ball of dough, and they set about creating their cookies. I would roll out Michael's dough and he would decide which cutter to use, generally taking his time on the decision. Before long he had flour on his face so I ran to get the camera. Coming back up the stairs I heard the girls rolling with laughter. Having eaten some of the dough, he decided to lick his hand, which was covered with flour. The result was hilarious!

When we were finished, Rachel and Emma packed up their cookies to take home. Carly and Michael each picked out a cookie for Santa's plate, which I placed in the freezer. The rest of the cookies are decorated and set out to enjoy.

I have to tell you that traditions are so important. They give our children something to hang on to, something to remember. If you haven't established any Christmas traditions, it isn't too late. And it can be so simple... just bake a few cookies. And hey, if you need a recipe, just give me a call, I'll be happy to share. And the main ingredient??? Easy... it's love... plenty of love!

Merry Christmas