Christmas in November

We decided to share our Christmas gifts a bit early with Cate and Sam and Ed and Julie, so that we could have the fun of watching them open their presents.

Ed and Julie with their newest nutcracker

Today was also the day to bake the second batch Marks Family Anise Christmas Cut-Out Cookies. This time the process went more smoothly, and Ken even began to enjoy himself a bit. Once the cookies were baked, the next step was to decorate them with colored confectioners sugar icing. We were very glad when Kelley came over to visit--her creativity was a welcome addition to the project. Ed went shopping for cookie sprinkles and decor to embellish the designs. Cate enjoyed helping to place the sprinkles and snowflakes. Ed and I even got into the act. It was easy to tell which cookies Kelley decorated, they were so cute and artistic.



Kelley had a small sewing project. She wanted to take in her bikini bottoms, since they were too large in the waist. The result was quite professional looking.

Kelley's friend, Tim Jackson, had put his Facebook page back up, so she showed Ed and me some pics. He's cute and clearly has a goofy frat boy side, but she says he has a more serious side too. He likes to cook.