The Perfect Christmas Dish

Merry Christmas all!

Here, again, the link to the beef stew I'm making today.  Really, truly, try it.  If not at Christmas then on a cold wintery day.  Even the smell of it cooking in the oven is a comfort.

My turkey soup is ready to go and my home is slightly less cluttered and dirty than it was last week.  Family is coming and life is good.

merry merry merry!

My Christmas Gift to Me

Am I the only one out there with an idyllic picture of Christmas in my head?  I imagine a relaxing day with my family, with plenty of time to visit, eat, take pictures, and steep in my children's ever fleeting childhood, soaking in every minute.  The problem:  I have no staff.  I am teacher, cook, and housekeeper.