Is it really almost Christmas?

I thought I was prepared for Christmas this year, but somehow it still managed to sneak up on me. We're finished with all of the basics. Our shopping is mostly done, thanks to Amazon. Our decorations, tree, and lights went up Thanksgiving weekend. We've been watching Christmas movies, following our advent calendar, and all of our holiday activities are planned. But, somehow it still doesn't really feel like Christmas.

There are a few things left to do. I haven't finished mailing our Christmas cards. Even though, every night I say that's what I'm going to do. I haven't wrapped any presents yet. And I've only listened to Christmas music once.

I have made a decision, though, and maybe this will help. I'm going to start Christmas baking. Everyone knows I like to cook, but my first love is definitely baking. When I was young, I baked all the time. There are few pleasures greater in life than cookies fresh from the oven. Then something happened, I discovered break-n-bake cookies and brownie mixes. Baking from scratch is an endeavor I rarely make a go at these days. I just don't have the time anymore. But this year I've decided to find a Christmas cookie to become my yearly tradition, and no shortcuts! It has to be completely from scratch, look impressive, and taste awesome. I'm going to start with a childhood favorite that no one in my family makes anymore. If baking goes well, I'll post pictures.

But before I do any of that, I have to get Evan packed. He's going to Grandma's for the weekend. Jeff and I are going to enjoy a couple of date nights, finish what Christmas shopping we have left, wrap Evan's presents, and of course, sleep in!!