Holiday Traditions

I grew up in a family steeped in tradition. And I loved it. I have so many wonderful memories, especially of holidays.

There was always the first Strawberry Shortcake of the year on April 13th...my grandfathers birthday. We still have Strawberry Shortcake on April 13th...for Shelby's birthday. Although Shelby won't eat it, because strawberries are fruit, and fruit might be good for you. But the rest of us eat enough for her.

I remember many, many games of "Clue" after holiday dinners. My mom always got to be Miss Scarlet. I wanted to be Miss Scarlett so bad. My Grandmother was Mrs. White, and Grandpa was always Colonel Mustard. It was tradition!

Professor Peacock, in the Library, with the candlestick. Oh how I loved that game.

And at Christmas time, my grandparents always had two bowls on the table. One full of ribbon candy, and one full of nuts.

This is on my counter this holiday season. Thanks for the cool basket Mom!

Another long standing tradition, for many families including mine, is the baking of holiday treats to give to family and friends. While I participate in this annual tradition, I'd like to know who started this sadistic trend. Why on earth do we spend hours upon hours baking cookies to then package up and give away, only to receive a different assortment from others with the same goal? Rather then spend precious holiday time baking hundreds of cookies to give away, then receive hundreds back, why not just bake cookies for your own family?

These are the thoughts that keep me awake at night, tossing and turning with thoughts of sugar, flour and butter. What if I forget to give cookies to someone, then receive them from that person and feel guilty that I missed them? Ahhhh, the joy of the holidays.

Regardless, I continue with the frenzy of holiday baking and delivering pretty wrapped boxes of treats.

Here is part of this years donations:

I at least hope my treats are well received. And we definitely partake of all the goodies bestowed upon us.

Happy Holidays!

Christine