Lovely Christmas Days

Though we're quickly heading into a new year, I'm still savoring Christmastime. I do love the gift-giving and getting, but my absolute favorite part of Christmas is the time spent with my family and friends. There's such a rush of busyness--cooking, baking, making, wrapping--followed by a restful lull. Here's what I did with my lull time.

Ate Italian Cream Cake with lots of coconut and pecans. Mom and I make this every year for Christmas. When all of the party guests have left Mom's house, we each have a slice for a late night snack. 

Of course I crocheted during my downtime. It's what I do. 

The drive to K's hometown was beautiful. The roads were clear, but the surrounding fields were covered with a dusting of snow. The cows and horses looked so pretty silhouetted against the white, munching their Christmas hay breakfast.

I had a hickory nut-cracking party with Korey and my friend Kristie. Hammers pounded and shells flew. Now I've got a bag full of hickory nuts to use up. I'm thinking cookies or bread because it's not enough for a pie. Any other ideas?

Gin! K and I became a little addicted to gin rummy. 

We drove through downtown Maysville with K's parents to look at the Christmas lights. 

K played Christmas carols. He doesn't usually play piano anymore, so this was a special treat. Thanks, K!

* * * * * 

Happy New Year's Eve, everyone! I will see you back here next year.

In case you were wondering about my bobble-y pattern, I've extended my self-imposed deadline to January 10th. Wasn't that nice of me?