A Few Things

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!  I hope you have had quiet time and exciting time these past weeks.

We have had some forced quiet time, as we all went through a round of upper respiratory issues.  I think I'm the last one with a little sinus pain, but I'm on the mend.  It's been a blessing, now that the kids are a tiny bit older, to have them (for the most part!) be able to blow their own noses :)  Our little Lydia is now a 4 year old; so we have the children evenly spaced in ages for a few months:  8, 6, 4, and 2.

Lots of Christmas cookies were baked this year, and a fabulous cookie exchange was held.  One of the attendees asked about doing some kind of exchange in the summer months; there are lots of ideas around for handmade swaps.  Maybe we'll try something new in 2015!  One of the new recipes tried was pretzel shortbread cookies.  Oh boy!  With only 3 ingredients, I think you should give them a try (well, 4 ingredients if you sprinkle some chocolate chips on top).

One of my favorite days from last week was Dec. 23.  We took the kids for a jaunt to Pittsburgh.  We toured Phipps Conservatory,  walked around downtown seeing the ice skaters and the gingerbread houses displayed at PPG Place, and had dinner at the Oyster House (I believe the 2nd oldest Oyster House in the country).  The weather was mild, and we enjoyed the time together.

Christmas presents have  yet to be put away.....favorites include a jar of army men, a nerf and a marshmallow gun, a crystal growing science kit, and dress up gowns for 2 princesses!  I knitted a toy for each of my kids:  a stuffed snake, a reversible dolly that changes to a different dolly, a reversible bluebird in a nest that changes to an egg, and a market bag to carry ballet slippers. 

Now the challenge is to get the house back in order!  Our dog is shedding right now too (why would she do that now?), so the vacuum is getting a workout.  Maybe we'll wait a few more days to feel "normal", as we have New Year's Eve and Day to play.  Jon and I were discussing if we (well me actually) are even able to stay awake until midnight!!  Party animals - not sure is that is an apt description for us.  My kids, on the other hand, claim they stay awake all night every night!  Wink!

A blessed 2015 to you.....a few days early, but obviously my posts are "generously" spaced.  TTFN!