Today is our visit with Santa!! Raina is running around house all pumped up with sugar. Why did we bake dozens of cookies again? oh ya.....Santa!! haha

We are making the trip to the local mall for a quick visit with Santa even though Raina has already informed me that Santa visited her in her dreams and told her she was getting a BIG dollhouse!! hmmmm, how in the world did this child know what was in that big brown box coming from Grandma?? Santa did not let her down this year for sure!

I will post Santa pics soon...I was going to have her wear this new dress I made, but have you ever lost ONE shoe? hmmmm i guess the dog ate it. ;-)

*snif snif* look at this sweet child of mine!!

Being the mother of two teenagers, I have seen my share of Christmas Programs, Grandparents day programs, cheerleading competitions, volleyball, basketball, baseball, and my all time favorite so far, softball! I never ever EVER get tired of sitting in the audience or the stands and watching my children shine. :-) Well, its Rainas turn!!! yay!!! Raina will be performing in her first Christmas program this afternoon.

I am giddy like a child, made sure her outfit(yep mommy made it) is out and pressed, with matching accessories. Have a bath ready and I am going to wake her up soon so we can get ready for her BIG day!! I caught her dancing and singing Jingle Bells and Santa is Coming to Town a few times, I think these may be in the program. ;-)I will be sure to share some photos...

There are only 9 days left !! I am so excited about Christmas, it is my most favorite time of the year.... Lets see, what have we done so far..

I love to wrap gifts, there are so many endless possibilities!!

Baking is always a GREAT way to excuse the loud Christmas music and the dancing around the kitchen.

Here is a little recipe for you to give to friends, so they can enjoy their own little baking time!!

COOKIES IN A JAR
INGREDIENTS
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 cup quick-cooking oats
1 cup orange flavored dried cranberries
1 cup vanilla or white chips
ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS
In a 1-qt. glass jar, layer the sugar and brown sugar, packing well between each layer. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; spoon into jar. Top with oats, cranberries and chips. Cover and store in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.
To prepare cookies: Pour cookie mix into a large mixing bowl; stir to combine. Beat in butter, egg and vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Drop by the tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.