The weekend before last was what I like to call the official Holiday weekend kickoff!  It didn't go nearly as planned or how I had it all worked out  in my head. Usually we take in the Parade of Lights, kick back afterwards and watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and I start really planning Christmas gifts. This year we ended up not going and then by the time we figured out we could go it was late and we rushed to get to the city.By the time we got there the parade had started and there was just no way we were going to make it to our usual spot on Barrington street. Instead we ended up in from of the Casino struggling to get the kids close enough to see. Thankfully a friend of ours was also down by the Casino and had a good spot so we were able to hook up with them.

Austin danced, Amelia ooooh'ed and ahh'ed and Santa was the highlight (well the reindeer for Miss A.) We hustled and bustled to bring my nephew home and get the kids to bed, I made a dress and then hit the sack myself. No movie, no hot cocoa, no list.

I need a list night do-over. I love making my holiday list. Who is going to get what, what items I need to make, when I need to start, the whole shebang. I love giving gifts. I love thinking about each person on my list and trying to figure out what would make them happy. It may be a gag gift that makes them smile, something thoughtful that they didn't even know they needed or something practical that they know they need but never pick up (yes SH you are getting a silicone spatula...) I get pure enjoyment from seeing people smile.

It's time for me to add some new names to my list- my readers!

Thanks to all of you, my blog has been gaining a lot of momentum. I can't get over how many people are reading my babblings, pinning my projects and recipes and sharing what I have to say. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am truly grateful and I wanted to give you back some of the joy that you have brought me. I called on my awesome circle of crafty friends and starting November 28, I'll be hosting a countdown to Christmas giveaway! I can't wait to share these gifts with you and best of all all prizes will be awarded on Dec 13 so you can have them in time for the holidays!

I'm excited and you should be too because this contest is open for US/Canada citizens! (Some items may require additional shipping charges depending on location)

Merry Christmas!

I need this!!!- Christmas Baker's Edition Event GIVEAWAY

My kitchen is ALMOST done! Yes it has been a long haul but we're nearly there. The list of "To Dos" is getting much shorter. What is left is the painting of the cabinets, upgrading the hardware, making the new cabinet doors and boxes for the existing cabinets and installing the back splash. Those last two items are going to take a bit of time but hopefully not too much. It is almost Christmas baking season and I don't want to have an unfinished kitchen.

 I'm looking for accessories and THIS would be the best accessory of all! A brand new Kitchen Aid! Best of all it could be mine (or yours) FREE!

It’s Christmas Baker’s Edition Event

Organized by: Mom Powered Media

Grand Prize: KitchenAid Tilt-head Stand Mixer + accessories

Event dates: 11/18 - 12/9

Open to US + Canada

Referral prize: $25 Amazon E-Code or Paypal Cash

Bloggers: Sign Up HERE

I'll be posting some great recipies to go with this giveaway!