Sounds and Tastes of Christmas

It isn't really Christmas in my house until I've listened to every Christmas album my parents own (five times) and have baked the traditional Christmas shortbread and cakes. It's a little late this year, but I have finally completed those tasks.

I think it's the smells and sounds of this time of year that really put me in a festive mood. It's not the presents or the malls, it's the little things I remember from childhood. I used to love helping Grandma bake the Christmas Cakes in her big orange bowl. She would always have everything pre-measured so I would be able to pour things into the mixer. I don't have anybody to pre-measure the ingredients for me anymore, but every year when I bake the cakes myself I remember all those good times. I still sneak a few of the candied cherries for myself as I'm baking.

The sounds are as equally important to me. Every year we listen to Johnny Mathis when we're decorating the tree, eating shortbread and drinking eggnog. My mom sings, albeit terribly off key, but that's all part of the charm and my brother curls up on the couch watching as everybody else goes crazy with tinsel.

These are the memories that I savour each year. Even though things change, year after year I still have these little traditions that will always remind me of home.









I apologize for the picture quality, last minute photos for the album and blogging do not mix. That having been said Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Around the Home

This week has been a whirlwind of last minute Christmas preparations. I was so busy with shows and then exams I had no time to even think about Christmas and so I'm winging the holidays this year. Christmas shopping is nearly done; the house is almost decorated, well the tree is up at least, and the first round of baking is complete and eaten. I just love the old ornaments that have been used for generations. So many have been broken over the years, but the ones that remain add something special to our tree year after year.

Christmas To Do

Finish Shopping - Two Presents to Go

Bake Christmas Cake, Shortbread, Mince Pie, Sugar Cookies, Rice Crispy Squares, Cherry Slice, Scones

Pick Up Turkey

Well the list really isn't that bad is it? The baking list is a little long, but I've set aside most of tomorrow for it. Sure I still need to pick up the ingredients for the baking, but it will all get done. Nothing to worry about! Other than that, there are Christmas films to watch and books to read in front of the fire. Nothing beats sitting by the fire, looking at the Christmas tree with a good book and a cup of hot coffee. I plan on thoroughly enjoying the next few days and hope you all do too!