A Christmas Tradition.

Baking Christmas Cookies... a tradition I hold close to my heart. I remember so well December afternoons spent with my mother and sister rolling dough, choosing cookie cutters to create Christmas shapes, and watching that first batch through the oven door, anxious for the timer to grant us permission to take them out. I always told myself it would be a tradition I'd carry on with my own children.


Yesterday, Gracie and I made our own Christmas cookies, just as we've done every year since she was old enough to help me. But yesterday, the whole experience took on even more meaning as I stirred, rolled dough, placed cookie cutters, baked and decorated cookies with my daughter. I couldn't help but think of the mothers and fathers who will not be able to carry on their own traditions with their children this year. Perhaps they, like me, were planning for the perfect afternoon for baking, or maybe they had evening plans to visit their local lights show. As we continue to pray for those who are mourning and missing loved ones this Christmas season, I find myself all too aware of the "it could happen to anyone" thought.

I was patient when dough went flying to the floor (thanks, Bentley, for cleaning that up...) and I thanked God for the messy kitchen (flour and sprinkles everywhere!). I am so, so thankful that I'm able to just be with my children.


Our cookie making was lots of fun. Gracie was extremely excited when I told her we were trading out nap time for mommy/Gracie time. I am just in awe of my children. I could say it 1,000,000 times and it wouldn't be enough: they are my greatest blessings and I am so grateful to be their mommy 


More than the tasty cookies, I'm remembering my daughter's laugh, her smile and excitement, and her little hands side by side with mine every step of the way.


Yep, my sweet girl has grown SO much! This was our cookie baking afternoon in 2010. :) I'm looking forward to more family traditions as the count down to Christmas Day continues!


Comments

  1. Platinum RoseJanuary 3, 2013 at 4:17 PM

    Wow she's grown up so much, so fast. I love doing this as well with my son each year. It can definitely test a parent's patience with all the mess and extra hassle it creates for us to let them help us out, but like you said, at least we HAVE them to creat the mess! Good, poignant reminder of what really matters. Thanks for that :-)

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