It’s 7:31 a.m., and the house is settling into its weekday rhythm. Two of my three kids are off to school, their backpacks swaying with the rhythm of the morning commute. My husband is on his way to work, coffee in hand, navigating the winter chill. My youngest, my ten-year-old, is still nestled under his blankets, his face soft with the peace of uninterrupted sleep. Meanwhile, our dog has already completed his morning ritual: a quick nap on the frosty front path, followed by a triumphant streak of muddy pawprints across the foyer, all the way to his food bowl. As for me, I’m seated by the Christmas tree, savoring my coffee and catching up on emails.
It’s just another ordinary day, and yet, it feels extraordinary a day that reminds me how lucky I am to have this life.
The Magic of Christmas Memories
As I sit here, the glow of the tree lights reflecting off the ornaments, I feel a deep longing to make this season unforgettable for my kids. I want them to remember the nativity set on the mantel, the twinkling Christmas tree, and the sugary aroma of bell-shaped cookies fresh out of the oven. More than anything, I want to carve out time to decorate gingerbread houses together. These are the moments I hope will become lasting memories—the kind they’ll carry into adulthood, a warm refuge during life’s inevitable challenges.
Creating these memories isn’t about crafting a picture-perfect holiday. It’s about infusing our home with the spirit of Christmas—love, warmth, and joy. It’s about teaching my children that even in a world filled with hardship and sorrow, our small acts of kindness and cheer can ripple outward and make a difference.
Embracing Imperfection
Let’s be real: our lives are far from a Norman Rockwell painting or a scene from Leave It to Beaver. My kids argue, I lose my temper, my husband is exhausted, and the house isn’t spotless. Seven damp towels are currently sprawled across my daughter’s floor, and the dog… well, let’s just say he’s overdue for a bath. Life is messy and unpredictable, but it’s ours, and I’m grateful for every imperfect moment.
These ordinary days are a gift, a reminder to live fully and honor those who’ve left this world too soon. Let’s cherish these moments, spread Christmas cheer, and make the most of the time we have with the people we love. Who knows what tomorrow will bring?
Gingerbread Houses: A Tradition of Joy
Today, we’re diving into one of my favorite Christmas traditions: decorating gingerbread houses! Have you made one this year? Whether you have children or not, I firmly believe this activity is good for the soul. There’s something magical about crafting these edible masterpieces, turning simple ingredients into whimsical creations.
Here are some inspiring ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Chocolate Graham Cracker Roofs and Pretzel Fences: A stroke of genius for adding rustic charm. (via Martha Stewart)
- Nonpareil Shingles: Tiny, colorful candies make adorable roof tiles. (source)
- Rainbow Themes: Why not embrace vibrant colors? They’re a surefire way to brighten the day. (source)
- Creative Christmas Trees: This idea is brilliant and so simple! (source)
This year, I stocked up on gingerbread house kits during a sale. The kids and I pre-assembled them to save time and minimize frustration. This afternoon, we’re inviting friends over to join the decorating fun. There will be frosting, candy, and laughter—a perfect recipe for holiday cheer.
Rice Krispy Treat Christmas Trees
In addition to the gingerbread houses, I’ve prepared Rice Krispy treat Christmas trees and bushes. These are a delightful and easy addition to any holiday activity. Here’s how to make them:
- Follow the classic Rice Krispy treat recipe on the cereal box.
- Add green food coloring to the melted marshmallows before mixing in the cereal.
- Once the mixture cools slightly, shape it into trees and balls.
- Let them set on wax paper, ready to be decorated.
These edible creations are fun to make and add a playful touch to our Christmas celebrations.
Spreading Cheer, One Small Act at a Time
As Dale Evans once said, “Christmas… love in action.” This quote captures the essence of what this season means to me. It’s not about grand gestures or perfect moments. It’s about finding joy in the small things, extending kindness to others, and creating memories that warm our hearts.
So, go out and embrace the rest of this Christmas season. Bring cheer to someone who needs it, find joy in the everyday, laugh with your loved ones, and savor the beauty of these regular, busy, messy, and wonderful days. And if you haven’t already, why not try your hand at decorating a gingerbread house? It’s a simple way to infuse your home with Christmas magic and create moments worth cherishing.
