Christmas Schmistmas!!

I am having the hardest time getting into the Christmas spirit this year. I have my decorations up, the tree is beautiful, but it just feels so non-plussed. I think it is all the commercialization of the whole thing. Or is it that it is hard to live up to Christmas past? I just remember being so excited waiting for Christmas as a child and into adulthood as well. I simply can not muster up that enthusiasm anymore. It is quite possible that Christmas is just for the young.

I believe that Jesus is the reason for the season. I am quite happy to celebrate the birth of our King. I just don't know about the rest. Maybe because I don't have little children anymore. Wait...that can't be it, I have Grace and Joe. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful. I just can't seem to find the unbridled joy that it used to bring me. Maybe it is because the stores start the season back in August and I am just plum sick of it already.

I also think that I have so many suffering around me this year. So many losses, so many death's. That takes it's toll on the joy we feel. I am sincerely hoping that something will remedy my "Scrooge-like" attitude. Wish me luck in this!!

Saving Pennies

Well, just like everyone else n the country, Jeff and I have been trying to cut back on our spending. We used to go out for dinner at least 3 times a week. We figured that was a little extravagant, so we have cut back. Alot!! It seems a little ridiculous for two people who love to cook and can turn out a really good meal. Jeff makes some delicious crock pot meals and the most amazing Mexican foods. He also barbecues like a champion. I too, can cook almost anything I feel like eating, most of the time it is just recipes that I pull out of my head. I am not trying to brag, but when we cook, neither one of us complain at all.

You know how it is though, don't you? When you put in a full day at work, run the errands and finally step in the door to take the dogs out and get settled, it is hard sometimes to want to prepare a meal when you are pooped out. But, I have to say, we have been very diligent about cooking. I am very proud of us for this.

Now for the good part. We decided to go out for dinner on Wednesday night. We opted to go for our favorite Mexican place, Xochimilcos. (Pronounced So-chi-milcos) I just want to say, other than being in Mexico, this is the best Mexican food in the Sacramento area. Trust me, Jeff and I consider ourselves Mexican Food aficionado's. Everything is slow cooked from scratch, and true flavors, homemade tortillas, both corn and flour. Even in the enchiladas. We started out with their bean dip. It is the best ! Comes to you in a crock with melted cheese and homemade chips. I could make a meal out of this and the salsa alone. Jeff opted for the #4 combination plate. He likes to get as much as he can for his dollar. It was a great choice. The chile rellano that is included in the dish is the best I have ever tasted anywhere. I opted for the pork enchilada plate. So delicious!! Simple flipping goodness!!

This restaurant is located on the corner of Auburn Blvd. and College Oak in Citrus Heights. For those of you who live locally, be sure to pay them a visit. I assure you that you will not be disappointed. I for one, can not wait to go back!!

Cake decorating, final class, Course 1

Just wanted to keep my word and post the rose cake we did last night. It is easier than I thought. It does require some practice and finesse, but all in all it was really fun. I have definitely decided to continue on with course two. Can't wait.

I am really happy that my sister is going to continue on too. It just wouldn't be the same without her. A few of the other ladies from class are going to forge on as well.

The next course is going to be working with Royal Icing, It has to be better than the taste of the butter cream. I have never liked it.

One thing is for sure, Jeff is all for me taking these classes as he is loving having a new cake to eat every week. I never realized how much that nab loves cake, Good thing, I guess!

Thanksgiving Weekend

What a very busy weekend it has been. My sister's on Thursday, then we were off to my Mom in laws for Friday night. We had a nice visit with her. I have the greatest mom in law in the world. I just love her to death. My sister in law and her better half were there too.

We got home on Saturday and I had arranged to have Joey for Saturday Night. He is such a sweet boy. I don't know how I ever got through this life without him in it.

Then on Sunday we had arranged to have Grace come over for the day too. Due to vacation, illness and assorted other reasons, I hadn't seen her for quite awhile. Boy...it was good to have her here.



I had a fabulous day with both kids and was exhausted by day's end. We cooked dinner for Mom, Malana and Graces Mom, Beth. We had Tri Tip. homemade potato salad, corn on the cob, honeydew melon and bread rolls. The dinner was good, but the company was amazing. The day ended in sweet kisses and hugs and I had the best night's sleep I have had in a long time.


On this Thanksgiving weekend, I am grateful for my family who means the world to me!!