Tag: family

O Tannenbaum Time Trials

Posted on December 13, 2015December 13, 2015 by Mama

Great news! My little guy and I finally decorated our Christmas tree this week. Since we opted for the small faux tree this year instead of a large real one, I knew it wouldn’t take as long as usual; but I’m telling you, leave the room for a couple of minutes with open tubs of ornaments about and there is one little five-year-old boy who can decorate a tree (or at least the bottom third) in nothing flat.

We seriously set a new record in the O Tannenbaum time trials and it was mostly because I just let my son do his thing. There were a few bulbs on top of bulbs and slightly kissing nut crackers, but I just enjoyed the moment without insisting on perfection and we had a blast (I did relocate about three ornaments to cover bare spots, but only after asking permission). Even the angel topper is a self-made son special and it is perfect looking down from its spot on high.

Okay, so I’m a little biased, but I think this is one of my favorite trees ever. The child-like randomness and little imperfections make it beautiful, and my son’s smiles as we decorated make it priceless.

Find Your Magical Moment

Posted on December 10, 2015 by Mama

Here we are at the tenth of December, just a mere 15 days from Christmas, and I’m still trying to figure out where November went. In fact, we just put up the Christmas tree last night. It’s not decorated, mind you, but it is out of storage and in plain sight. (Ashamedly the above picture is a visit from the ghost of Christmas past.)

Yes, I’m seriously behind most of you when it comes to decking the halls, but in the sprint to the 25th I know I will eventually finish with the berries and ivy, trees and gifts, shopping and wrapping, and baking and bundling. . . it may take me to Christmas eve, but somehow I’m okay with that. I guess I’m so far behind, that I figure stressing would only make it worse.

While the chaos of Christmas can be a bit overwhelming, it’s also one of my favorite times of year. I love the crazy crowds, memory making and gift giving with my husband, son, extended family and friends. But as much as I love the frenzy of it all, some of my favorite moments of Christmas are enjoyed completely alone. On those cold early December mornings when everyone else is still in bed I love to light a fire, turn on the Christmas tree lights and enjoy a hot cup of coffee in complete magical silence. It’s a wonderful indulgence and a perfect way to start the day before dawn breaks, the family wakes and mommy duties ensue.

Merry Christmas to all, and may you find a magical moment or two.

Dining Etiquette Made Simple

Posted on November 24, 2015December 11, 2016 by Mama

In just a couple of days many of us will be hosting or attending a large family gathering , and for some of you it will probably be a more formal affair than most dinners at home. If you’re like me, just figuring out which glass is mine or the proper use order of forks can be daunting. It’s not like I was born in a barn or anything, but we also didn’t host too many fancy sit-downs either.

Thankfully the nice folks at Liberty Tabletop have simplified the whole process of when to use what, what to do with it when you’re finished and some simple principles of etiquette with their handy dandy graphic seen below.

Now if you’re one of those families that puts out the best paper plates, solo cups and plastic ware (with maybe even a spork sighting or two), more power to you. Of course there is always room for manners; but unfortunately, I don’t have a graphic for labeling your cup with a marker, licking your fork before dessert or grabbing a paper towel when the napkins run dry. Hmmm, maybe I was born at least close to a barn. . .

Happy Thanksgiving to all, no matter the plate from which your turkey comes!!

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