December Traditions [2017]

CHRISTMAS IN NYC

Here is our traditional family photo at Rockefeller Center 

Yup-Jude's facial expression sums it up for how I feel every December 1st. 

I simply adore the Christmas season, but when Jude's cute little fingers swing open the first door on the advent calendar, a sudden shortness of breath comes over me.  December 1st begins the four, 13 and 24 day countdowns to the birthday's of my middle child, my youngest child and God's child.  Oh and my niece's birthday is in December as well, which calls into question the level of hanky panky in March, but that's for a different post.   With all of the birthdays to plan, why not also be sure to keep our annual NYC Christmas trip alive for the fifth consecutive year?  Honestly, the thought of getting through it all just makes one wish there was a magical elf that could hand me a calming mug of hot cocoa, which reminds me, i need to get that that puppet down from the attic!

In preparation for the overnight trip to NYC, I managed to bake cookie's for the nine children of the six adults (including myself and my husband) that would make up the party of 15.  The homemade Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe was well received when the kids discovered the treats (wrapped in a Santa red ribbon with a yummy peppermint stick) upon arriving at their hotel rooms.  Rockefeller Center, the windows at Saks, Norma's for brunch, skating at the Wollman's Rink and dining at The Plaza was a hectic, yet enjoyable respite prior to returning home to take on the rest of the month.

Regardless of the amount of events, both unplanned (birthdays) and planned (trips and activities), we moms have a tendency to strive for Martha Stewart settings or Emily Post parties when the holidays draw neigh.  But when the ribbons and bows begin to tie us in knots, know that you are creating memories and you are succeeding even when you think you are failing.  You are creating memories and your very own Norman Rockwell is painting itself. 

I leave you with lyrics to one of my favorite Christmas carols for when that overwhelming feeling starts to rise up. Start singing and I promise you will immediately feel better. 

We Wish You A Merry Christmas NJAPP style!

We wish you a Merry Christmas,

We wish you a Merry Christmas,

We wish you a Merry Christmas,

And a Happy New Year!

Good tidings we bring for you and your kin;

We wish you a merry Christmas

And a Happy New Year!

Now bring us some almond milk & truffles

Now bring us some almond milk & truffles

Now bring us some almond milk & truffles

And bring it out here!

We won't go until we get some

We won't go until we get some

We won't go until we get some

So bring it out here!

Good tidings we bring for you and your kin;

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!