Holiday preparations

There is no denying this time of year is a busy one. This year, in an effort to savor the season rather than run ourselves ragged we have tried to limit our evening commitments and instead save our energy for the things which really matter. Instead of focusing our time, efforts and money on searching for the perfect gifts to give we are trying to focus on being together, making memories and remembering the Savior. Jasper has reached the age where he is equally interested in learning about Santa as he is Jesus so this year seemed like a good time to start learning about why we really celebrate Christmas. Over the past few weeks, our home has perpetually been filled with scents of warm gingerbread and pine and I keep thinking to myself, surely Christmas is here. Nope, with Thanksgiving a little early this year we just got a head start. 

So far this holiday season, we have spent many a day listening to Christmas tunes, making cookies and admiring our chubby little tree and twinkle lights. Although life is never perfect, it can have moments so good I find myself grinning ear to ear and almost wanting to pinch myself to see if I am dreaming. 

My tips for baking with toddlers:

1. Take to the floor. This might not sound very sanitary to the health department, but if you have children you probably clean your floors more often than most. I have found it is easier for Jasper to be involved for longer periods of time if we bake on the floor rather than having him stand on a step stool, chair or sit on the counter. This way I do not have to worry about him falling off or getting tired. If he gets bored or irritated he can just get up and walk away. 

2. Measure your ingredients in advance. Toddlers are impatient by nature and can loose interest very quickly. I like to act like it is one big cooking show and measure out everything in advance into my clear gradient bowls. 

3. Invest in a good children's apron. Not only will this look cute for photos, but will set the tone and let your child know you are about to do something special. 

4. Prepare to get messy. Cooking with a toddler is going to be fraught with spills. Go into it with an open mind and know you are going to have to clean it all up later. Once you see their little eyes light up after successfully pouring one half of a cup of flour into a bowl you will clamoring for more. 

And if the baking and decorating were not enough fun for one day. Jasper decided to try his hand at styling. Once he had set up his shot, he pointed at my camera and proudly asked me to document it. Man, I love this kid and his attention to detail.