Christmas eve tradition

We made our traditional gingerbread cookies. Jman insists that each of us have our own type of each cookie, so there is always three of each kind, with a few extra for Santa.
Every year I seem to forget to get icing or cookie decorations, so we make due with what is in the cupboard - black sprinkles left over from Halloween, multicolored dots that were from some other project. Hey, we worked with what we've got and they turned out just fine.

Packages mailed

Whew, as of this morning all our holiday packages have been mailed (which is 90% of the gifts we give). All that is left to do is to get stocking stuffers and do some holiday baking (the fun stuff)...which is good since the creeping crud has crept into our house, infecting Jman and me.
The poor little guy is laying on the couch, all bundled up, mouth half open (stuffy nose), fevered eyes, and drool coming out of his mouth. If it had to hit, at least this was a semi-good time for it to happen. It struck Saturday afternoon, which is lucky, since his Arrow of Light ceremony was Friday night and popcorn delivery for scouts was Saturday morning. So he got most of everything he needed done done before the germs knocked him for a loop.
I'm fairing better, which a lower fever, sore throat and stuffy nose. It is not unexpected that we become sick this time of year. This is a busy time of year for me at work and I am literally in close personal contact and exposed to about 100 more people per day than normal. My immune system has built up some defense to it, but I think I may have brought it home to Jman. Poor baby. I'm just hoping it is not strep throat. I really don't want to go to the doctor's office.

Artist in residence

Jman's artwork was displayed at our local Barnes and Noble this past week. Out of the 1000+ students in his school, about 2 dozen students had their artwork chosen to show. We are so proud of him, especially since last year at this time we were getting notes home from the art teacher telling us that Jman was going to fail art because he was not doing the work. Now, he talks excitedly about it, discussing the medium he is using (watercolors for those who are interested), what each art project is attempting to demonstrate (ie. depth, dimensions, etc). His art teacher is passionate about his love for art and it is contagious.

(The theme for the picture was summer fun - Jman visited Washington, D.C. and this is his version of the Washington Monument. Notice the reflection pool in the foreground.)