We've been trying to strike the balance between taking it easy and creating Christmas memories this week. I've had a few medical appointments and my husband has been winding down work, but we've managed a few fun activities.
On Monday we made our gingerbread house. After having our first gingerbread house completely collapse on us several years ago, we prefer the boxed variety with all the pieces and proper icing that actually sticks. Our very favorite is the Trader Joe's gingerbread house with cute gingerbread people and animals that accompany the house.
On Monday we also had planned to go caroling with the Dominican friars. Dressed in full Dominican garb, the friars sing fun carols at a Metro station and catch the attention of those passing by. Unfortunately there was freezing rain on Monday and the event had to be cancelled. So what to do with our extra time? The girls and I decided to go to the U.S. Botanical Garden's Christmas display. It was beautiful. The girls loved the Christmas tree, the miniatures of important D.C. landmarks such as the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. They loved the model trains and they especially loved the miniature pirate's ship.
By Tuesday it was time to prepare for Christmas Eve and Christmas. We had bought most of the necessary food, but I had yet to make party mix, which was a Christmas Eve staple while I was growing up. Using my grandmother's recipe, the girls and I mixed the ingredients and toasted it. I think I should have baked it a bit longer, but I was afraid I would burn it. Regardless, I am so happy to have party mix around for Christmas Eve.
We are nearly ready for Christmas. I hope I've bought all the presents. Everything is safely tucked away and I haven't had a chance to look at it. When the girls go to sleep tonight, the boxes come out and I will be busy putting together art tables. Can't believe Christmas is almost here!
On Monday we made our gingerbread house. After having our first gingerbread house completely collapse on us several years ago, we prefer the boxed variety with all the pieces and proper icing that actually sticks. Our very favorite is the Trader Joe's gingerbread house with cute gingerbread people and animals that accompany the house.
On Monday we also had planned to go caroling with the Dominican friars. Dressed in full Dominican garb, the friars sing fun carols at a Metro station and catch the attention of those passing by. Unfortunately there was freezing rain on Monday and the event had to be cancelled. So what to do with our extra time? The girls and I decided to go to the U.S. Botanical Garden's Christmas display. It was beautiful. The girls loved the Christmas tree, the miniatures of important D.C. landmarks such as the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. They loved the model trains and they especially loved the miniature pirate's ship.
By Tuesday it was time to prepare for Christmas Eve and Christmas. We had bought most of the necessary food, but I had yet to make party mix, which was a Christmas Eve staple while I was growing up. Using my grandmother's recipe, the girls and I mixed the ingredients and toasted it. I think I should have baked it a bit longer, but I was afraid I would burn it. Regardless, I am so happy to have party mix around for Christmas Eve.
We are nearly ready for Christmas. I hope I've bought all the presents. Everything is safely tucked away and I haven't had a chance to look at it. When the girls go to sleep tonight, the boxes come out and I will be busy putting together art tables. Can't believe Christmas is almost here!
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