Our little town's Christmas parade was last night, and as always, the boys were delighted. One of the best things about having kids is seeing things through their eyes, and being more or less forced to go to or do fun things that you might otherwise skip. I'm always glad when I do, and seeing their delight is so good for my heart.
I picked up a few little things on a walk in the woods with the boys last weekend, and have the kitchen windowsill decked out. We don't have many Christmas decorations (very intentionally) but we brought out the boxes yesterday, and the boys were very excited to take everything out. I keep Christmas books and music in one box, and they were so sweet as they took out the books - "Oh! The Mitten! Do you remember this one?" I guess that's the magical thing about traditions. We'll go back in the woods to cut our tree, probably next weekend, and then it will really feel like Christmas is coming. I'm still somewhere back in October in my mind. I have most gifts ready, our cards are ordered, and our calendar is looking gloriously open for the month, but I feel the need to do a master list of everything that needs to be done and remembered. I think I'll tackle that and the week's menu / grocery list today.
Proving that I'm really a senior in disguise, my favourite thing on the internet right now is a YouTube channel with episodes of Martha Stewart Living from the 90's. The bread she makes in this Christmas episode is epic! (I love watching Martha make bread.) And the thatched walls at the beginning are hysterical. I can't imagine anyone going to those lengths - but it's still fun to watch. What I love most about watching those and looking at Martha's old books (I picked up this gem from 1989 at Frenchy's) is to see how much has changed. But there are still some great recipes and ideas in there!
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It's a beautiful morning, sunny and clear and mild. I tidied the barn, cleaned the coop, cleaned up the chickens' run and collected 8 beautiful eggs. As an early Christmas gift, I built a little swing for the chickens out in the run. They were off free-ranging behind the barn as I was cleaning up, so I haven't seen if they're interested in it yet - I hope it provides some entertainment and keeps them out of trouble.
We watched Mr Holmes the other night. It was wonderful. And to our bee-and-Sherlock-Holmes-loving hearts, it was especially great. A beautiful story, beautifully portrayed. Get the kleenex out before you settle in!
If you're looking for something simple and delicious to make, try this Curried Squash Soup. It's been a staple in our house since 2004. I first posted the recipe way back in 2007. I made it again last night, and it's what's on the menu for today's lunch. Enjoy!