Christmas in Our Kitchen

I can't get over how quickly Christmas has snuck up on me this year.  Maybe it was because we went to Disney after Thanksgiving, maybe it was the late start we got on shopping, or maybe it's because I have been far more laid back than normal about all the preparations.  While I've been very busy in my kitchen, that is relaxing for me, and what I do when I'm procrastinating other things.  There are a number of things I want to blog about and still plan to, so hang in there, you might be reading about Christmas on here for another few weeks!  I promise to take pics of the Christmas tree before the needles start to fall off, because I know there are a lot of questions on the basket instead of a tree skirt experience.  But tonight I just have a few minutes to blog before I grab a glass of wine and watch a Christmas movie {er, fall asleep on the couch}.  Here are a few pictures of our kitchen this month.  For the record, open shelves have changed my life.  Best thing I ever did!

{my first gingerbread house! {not from a kit} I used this recipe with my royal icing.}

{Charlie is always at my side when I'm baking, his rolling pin is tucked in the bottom shelf bracket.}

{dark chocolate cut-out cookies, recipe here}

{Do not be deceived by the above pic. 

 Jimmy is warming up left over soup, not cooking! haha! 

I feel like we have been eating soup 3x, at least, per week lately.  

It's been so cold and soup is easy and so comforting.}