so many projects...

most of which have involved me spending time in the kitchen with my trusty 1970 whirlpool oven. As you know, this time of year is filled with all kind of festive gatherings which require a baked good or two. And most of the time, I can't just sign up for one thing. I can't help it. I LOVE potlucks.

But as much as I love potlucks, I'd have to say that the annual cookie exchange with our Sunday school class is by far my favorite gathering. There's just something about the anticipation of each girl's cookie, the overwhelming nauseous feeling after tasting 23 cookies, the lovely fellowship and the oh-so friendly competition! I mean, this thing is serious, people. And this year was no disappointment. This is my third year to participate and still without a solid win, but its all about the process, right?!

I'm a sucker for cookies with frosting, so I guess it's only fitting that this is what made the exchange this year:

packaged like this:

I knew Grant's endless supply of CD cases would come in handy one day.

I didn't take any pictures of the winning cookies (there were five categories) but they were all delicious! Thank you, Stacey for opening your home once again!

When I haven't been in the kitchen, I've been in the bathroom trying to complete the project we started before our vacation a couple months ago. We are two months late from my personal deadline, but it is finally done. Thanks to my wonderful husband for all the time spent in design and manual labor!

Let me remind you of the bathroom when we bought the house.


And after a little TLC


we removed the closet for more open storage

and added a few pictures of Italy to always remind of us our trip

We are officially on break from home projects for awhile and ready to enjoy the holiday season!

As busy as we've been lately with projects and such, there's always time for this sweet friend

Jim and Maria's golden, Maisy. Oh my I love this puppy.