Christmas Cookies

This weekend, I was fortunate to do some Christmas baking. I remember growing up, my mom would always pull out her copy of the The Complete American-Jewish Cookbook at Christmas time for cookie recipes.

My family is not Jewish, nor do I have any Jewish relatives. I have no idea how my mom came across the cookies recipes in the book.

I can't say I use any of the cookie recipes from the book, but every year when it is time to bake cookies, I always think of my mom. She would sit in the kitchen and make a list of all the cookies we would bake.

Now, I ask the kids what cookies they want, and I go to my favorite recipe binder for the recipes. If I can't find the recipe in the binder, in just a few clicks of the mouse, I can always find what I am looking for online.

Harry Potter Nativity

I live in a house with true fans of Harry Potter. Andrew made a Harry Potter themed Lego nativity to put under his Christmas tree in his bedroom.

As long as he didn't make Lord Voldemort as baby Jesus, I don't see a problem with it.

Treasure Chest Love Notes

Yesterday, as I mentioned, I received a note from Benjamin telling me how much he loved me. Today, when he came home from school, he hurried in the kitchen and said, "Mom, I got my first love note!" I responded with a "Really?" as he handed me the folded piece of yellow paper.

I asked if he wanted me to read it, and he enthusiastically smiled and said, "Yes!"

As I unfolded the paper, I wondered what the note would say and at the same time, I was flattered Benjamin would want me to read it. It was a sweet note, what I call a "yes/no" note.

I asked Benjamin if he wrote back to the girl responding to the note. Surprisingly, he answered "No." Taken aback, I asked him why he didn't answer the girl, for I had visions of a sad, young lady thinking she put her heart on the line, and didn't get an answer.

Laughing, he said, "I did respond. In person. I thought it was nicer to tell her in person. I said "yes." " Wow. What confidence for a twelve year old! I asked what he was going to do with the note, and he responded he would be right back as he headed to his bedroom. When he returned to the kitchen, he held out his hands to show me a small wooden treasure chest. "I am going to keep it in here."

Of course, I am biased, but I do believe the young lady who wrote the note, is a lucky girl.

Benjamin's Mom

The best part of my day today was being the recipient of a note from my youngest son, Benjamin. Today at school, he participated in Challenge Day. At the end of the day, each participant choose to write a note to someone either to apologize for a wrongdoing, or thank them for the role they play in their life.

I was so blessed to receive a note from him telling me how much he loves me. Not a day goes by in my life, when I am not thankful for him. I was so honored he chose to write a note to me.

I love being his mom.

Magical Christmas Trees

I just love Christmas trees. I remember when I was younger, after the tree was all decorated, laying at the base of the tree, squinting and looking up at the lights on the tree.

It looked so magical.

Tonight, I saw a Christmas tree decorated in hydrangeas, with white lights and gold ribbon. I was so tempted to lay on the ground and look up at the lights, but I refrained.

Someday when I find a tree worthy, I will muster up the courage.

Elevator

Tonight I watched Andrew perform at the high school holiday band concert. He looked so handsome in his tuxedo and I am proud of his musical accomplishments.

As a mother, I can close my eyes and remember the sweet boy who wore overalls all the time, and made the best peanut butter and honey sandwiches for me. He always made up games for us to play and I was amazed at the complexity of his thoughts.

Now I look at the loving, caring young man who carries himself with confidence and I am proud to be his mom. The best thing is, I know if I asked him to play "Elevator" he would smile his big, genuine smile, laugh and say "Remember when we use to play that? That was so much fun! Ding!"

My Wonderful Madeline

Today I had the fun adventure of spending time with my wonderful Madeline. It is days like today, when I really fully appreciate having a daughter. Although she is not a huge fan of shopping, she asked if I would go with her to help pick out some clothes.

She looked at me and said, "Just pick out what ever you think will look good, Mom. I trust you." It is like having a full size doll I can dress as I like, and to top it off, she looks absolutely beautiful in everything. How could I not have fun going shopping with her?

Yes, she is wonderful.