My Christmas

I guess I don't need to tell YOU this, but my blog has definitely been neglected the last couple months. I wish this weren't the case, but it is. There are some things in the works around here and it's just not giving me time or energy to update my blog.

Lucca was the star of the Christmas card this year

For now I'm here, merely to wish you a very Merry Christmas. If that's what you celebrate, of course. It's what I celebrate so I can and will wish you a happy celebration of your own.

Mom puts poinsettias all over the house

Nutcrackers line the mantel and guard the stockings

I spent yesterday happily baking away at my parents' house and preparing to see family last night. This is what it's all about. My presents were all wrapped and under the tree. My Christmas cards had all been delivered. Cookies and fudge were made and distributed to various friends throughout the month. I'd watched my fair share of Christmas specials and listened to so much Christmas music that I officially hate "A Wonderful Christmas Time" by Paul McCartney (sorry Beatles fans).

For some reason I've been making cream puffs for Christmas Eve
dinner for ~15 years. It's our tradition! ("puff" recipe below)

Today we rose at 9am - oh the joys of all in the house being over the age of 30 15. We assumed our positions around the living room and opened our stocking gifts; taking turns to giggly "ooh" and "ahh" over underwear and See's candy and calendars and kitchen gadgets. Next stop: breakfast. Homemade French Toast every year. Then to tackle the rest of the gifts. We gaze upon the abundance which flows out from under the tree each year and can't believe how generous we've all felt. However, each year is the same "I thought we were going to spend less this year?" followed by "you know we can't do that!"

Even Lucca got a stocking...

Christmas is big in our house.

Decorations EVERYWHERE - both vintage and new

It's interesting and comforting how, at least for me, whether life is happy or challenging - there is always a magic at Christmas. Whether you celebrate Christmas or celebrate solstice or celebrate family or love or just celebrate not having to work today - enjoy the day.

Smile and enjoy today

And Merry Christmas.

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Cream Puffs
(makes about 8)

1 cup water
1 stick salted butter
1 cup flour
4 eggs

Heat water & butter to a rolling boil. Stir in the flour all at once. Reduce heat and continue stirring until it forms a ball, ~1-2 minutes. Remove from heat. Beat eggs in 1 at a time quickly. Drop ~1/3 cup of dough on a Silpat ~3" apart. Bake 15 minutes at 425 and then 20-25 more at 350. Make SURE your oven is 425 before you put them in or they won't puff!

Fill with your favorite pastry cream, whipped cream, custard, ice cream etc...