Yesterday afternoon the kids and I decorated Christmas cookies together. This is one of those things that is a blast for kids, but for me sometimes can seem like just another thing on my 'to-do' list. This year, however, I was determined to make it fun for everyone and focus on the memories we'd be making. Here was my plan to help make it manageable.
- I baked the cookies a couple of days before. This was really helpful, as I would've been in the kitchen on my feet for hours more if I'd tried to do it all in one day.
- I had the older three decorate their cookies while the littles were napping, and then the younger kids had their turn. Much less stressful with less fighting over icing colors!
- The kids each worked on a jelly roll pan to contain the sprinkles. Annesley later took care of the ones that escaped to the floor.
- I gave the kids each six cookies to decorate-one of each shape-and then allowed them to choose two to eat right away. While they worked, I decorated cookies for our neighbors. I think this was the best route considering all the finger-licking that was going on. (Them--not me!)
What fun family activities are you making time for this week? 
7 comments:
I like your organization Candice! Looks like it was fun for all! I am baking cookies and decorating today although by the time I get to icing them it might be after the girls' bedtime:) We are going out for ice cream tonight and going to look at Christmas lights... that is our memory making for the day! Have a very Merry Christmas!!
Hard to keep an energetic attitude at 9 mos preggo isn't it??? I make Christmas lollipops with each of the kids individually and we had a blast.
You did a great job of making it easier on yourself! A tip to make the icing easier is to use pastry brushes instead of spoons and knives. Before you know it, you will have a sugar cookie assembly line that will only require your supervision!
The pastry brushes are a good idea, Nancy! I'll have to try that next time.
Looks like everyone was concentrating hard on decorating their cookies. :) I'll have to keep your suggestions in mind when cookie decorating comes around here...we didn't do it this year (because it stresses me out to have Tyler "want to help" and Bria...yeah, I didn't have the patience for it this year. :) Maybe the Lord will bless me with some in the coming year and I'll be able to do this next year. :) Have a very Merry Christmas, Dennis family!!!!
I love your idea of decorating in shifts...I will have to remember that one. :)
Enjoy the time before the baby comes! Praying everything goes well.
Thanks for sharing... I find myself doing that too...
I planned to do a gingerbread house with my 3 youngest but time got away from me... so as things so down this week we will do it. I know it is after Christmas but sometimes the week between Christmas and New Year is MORE enjoyable and LESS stressful. :) Sad I know... each year I will say I am going to do different but then I find myself stressing.
Well rambling.... (blush)
love the pics!
Teena
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