Friday Five~~Holiday Redux

As I just posted below,  November and December kicked my butt workwise. But Christmas itself I really enjoyed. And so it seems appropriate to reflect on what was:

1) What food item was one of your favorites this year - a definite keeper?

Baked pineapple and cheese for Christmas dinner (usually with ham) has become a family tradition and is a keeper for sure.

2) Was there a meal or party or a gathering that stands out in your mind from this most recent holiday season?

I really enjoyed having my family--kids and grandkids--gathered here for Christmas. Because of our varied and hectic work schedules that doesn't happen every year, so it was extra special. One of my favorite moments was one of the days after Christmas. Because of the snow we were housebound, and we were gathered in the living room around the fire. The Kid picked up his guitar and started playing and pretty soon, everyone in the room had one of the instruments from Baby M's rhythm band set and we were all singing along. It was great.

3) Were you involved in a jaw-dropper gift? Were you the giver or recipient or an on-looker?

Not sure we really had any jaw-droppers, but I think the person who was most excited about his gift was Mr. LS who received the P90X videos from me, and was ridiculously happy about it.

4) Was there at least one moment where you experienced true worship?

At the 5:00 service on Christmas Eve in the parish we joined in with there was a Christmas pageant. I love Christmas pageants, but usually they are stressful because I am worrying about some detail or other. Because I had no responsibility, I could just enjoy it. I was sitting on a side pew up front, and Baby M wandered up and sat on my lap, and for a bit I was able to just be in the magic of Christmas.

5) What is at least one thing you want to make sure you do next year?

I let the stocking gifts fall through the cracks this year, and if WW hadn't been so prepared, there would have been none, so I need to do better on that!

I really loved my tree this year and felt less stressed out about it than usual.  Next year I'd like to replicate that and maybe even buy it a little earlier than usual.

I haven't baked Christmas cookies in years and I meant to this year, but with all the craziness at work, it just didn't happen. I got a new stand mixer for Christmas, and I really want to bake next year for sure.

BONUS: What is something you absolutely must remember to do differently... or not at all!

NO BUILDING DRAMA at church next year...please.