Good morning. How do we feel about it already being December 18th? Gosh, I wish I could say I have everything ready to go but that isn’t the case. But really trying to focus on the things that actually matter. More on that below. For now, here is a bit of life lately with our Monday Morning Wrap Up.
KEEPING TRADITIONS ALIVE
We grew up with a Christmas tree in our kitchen. My mom loved it and it was such a part of our annual traditions. My dad helped her make and decorate all of the gingerbread men and took such care hanging them year after year. When Riley requested the tree this year, I immediately said yes. I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a lot of work, but it’s been fun to work on over these past few days. It didn’t really matter what gingerbread cookie recipe we used because we won’t eat these and I do plan to wrap and save them for next year.
I used a straw to make the hole prior to baking. The checkered ribbon is from Michael’s.
LABOR OF LOVE
Another part of the kitchen tree is strung popcorn. I can still picture my sister helping my mom string the popcorn while watching movies. I never realized how many hours went into this tree. I’m still at it over here but it’s been really fun to watch it come together. And hopefully, my own children recreate it at some point in their lives.
HOLIDAY BOOTIES
Aren’t these fun? I rarely steer away from classic but as soon as I saw them they made me smile. Very cute with faux leather leggings, white sweater and long coat (for those asking what I paired them with). Also cute with holiday dresses. A pair that is almost identical (same brand) is on sale for under $60. They are true to size and very comfortable.
OLD DOMINION CONCERT
Friday night found us at Bridgestone for the Old Dominion concert. Boy do they put on an incredible show. We danced and sang our hearts out. It was so nice to spend time with friends and enjoy live music. If you are a fan and ever have the opportunity to see them, they are fantastic live.
ANNUAL GINGERBREAD HOUSE BUILDING
Do you all decorate gingerbread houses? This year we bought kits from Target and I have to say they were fantastic. We did make our own icing. We also bought extra candy which was a complete waste. The kit came with a great selection and that is all we used. This was a tradition my dad started when the grandkids were little. He handmade all the houses himself. The kitchen table would be covered with bowls of candy and it will forever be one of our fondest holiday memories. I’m more of a buy the kit girl, but we have so much fun cranking up the music and spending time together.
In case you are looking for houses to do before Christmas, this is the kit we bought from Target and highly recommend.
Gingerbread House Icing
Ingredients
- 4 egg whites
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
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Use an electric mixer with whisk attachment. Beat egg whites & cream of tartar until you see firm peaks.
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With the mixer on low, slowly add in the powedered sugar.
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Once the sugar is mixed, beat on high until it's fluffy.
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Place a plastic sandwich bag over a glass and fill with icing. Snip a hole to pipe.
TRAGIC NEWS
It was especially important this year as we have suffered a huge loss. Grandma Sue is now in heaven looking over us. While battling cancer, she was doing so well and her loss came as a huge shock. Nothing prepares you to lose your mom and I know my husband is taking in the family time as we navigate this loss.
This life is so precious and so very short. Make the call, take the walk, give the hug and say I love you. We honestly just never know. Sue read my blog every day and loved our children dearly. She was so proud of them. We love you, Sue.
What a lovely tradition to carry on with your kids – I’d forgotten about making popcorn strings for our tree growing up. The gingerbread men are adorable.
I’m so sorry to read about the loss of your mother in law. Sending prayers.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I pray the Lord comfort your family.
My deepest sympathy as you navigate.
So sorry for the loss to your family. Our Moms are the foundation of our families. My husband lost his Mom last month, quite quickly as well. Makes you look at all things family a little differently and with so much more protection and love.
I am so sorry for your loss. We lost our grandma this last Friday night too. So glad we made the call, took the walk, planned the visit. Those are times that you can never get back, and will never regret making the sacrifice for. You and your family are in my prayers. xoxo
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. My heart goes out to you all. As a blog reader of yours for many, many years, I remember seeing Grandma Sue’s comments often. Praying for peace and comfort for your family.
So sorry for your loss. I also remember seeing Grandma Sue’s comments often on your blog, so sweet and something you will always have to look back on. I am doing a gingerbread house kit with my college girl tonight, can’t wait!
Oh, Courtney! I am so sorry about the loss of your mother in law, Sue. May she rest in peace and may her memory be a blessing. Thinking of you all with love and prayers, Nancy xo
Sorry for your loss. I will prey for you family.
May the memory of Grandma Sue be a blessing to you.
Thinking of you and your family.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your mother-in-law. I pray the Lord’s peace and comfort to be with your family in the days and weeks to come.
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Grandma Sue. I know I have seen her comments on the blog for forever. Her memory will live on in those comments, as well as in the love you share with your family.
PS – I love the traditions you have kept going with your teenagers.
Praying for your family during this difficult time.
So very sorry for your family’s loss. 🙁
I am so sorry for your loss, sweet Courts! Always tougher when you lose someone so dear during the holidays.
Sending you all so much love x