Friday Before Christmas Thoughts

     I think I am done gift shopping. I'm sure DS will have some running around to do once he is here and he will be welcome to my car. I plan to stay put mid Sunday-Tuesday. I still have grocery shopping to do for Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday but Monday is going to be Sloppy Joe's, left overs from what I cook Sunday and sandwich stuff-no real cooking on my part. Several people are getting gift cards or in the case of our nephew/God son, cash. I like to wrap them with a little something or else it's kin of dull and historically that has been candy or a tin of nuts.  When I was wandering in Target the other night, there was a special on Betty Crocker Mug cakes, 4 mixes plus frosting for $2.50.  Other than the  movie theater size candy, most choices are $2-$3 anyway and I thought this was a fun  way to wrap up gift cards and money-a little self treat they can make throughout the month. Of course there are recipes galore for inexpensive mug cakes, and $2.50 for four servings is certainly not inexpensive, but I thought it was a good idea. I think my 12 year old nephew who likes to be in the kitchen a bit, might get a kick or of it. I know he'll like the cash.

     Today I have a conference call and a couple small task to complete for work, but by 12:00 I am in holiday vacation mode. The game plan is to first make my final to do list, and start on it. Cleaning the house is a priority along with doing laundry, but that's in process. DD2 is here to help me dust and vacuum, and generally get clutter put away. If the  main living areas, and the bathroom are clean and neat for Sunday and my mother-in-law coming over, I'll be satisfied. I have cards still that need to get out, but if they arrive on Christmas eve or after, so be it. I'm hand delivery Christmas Eve to my family and any that do not come to my sisters will get in the mail.  I need stamps and the final pick-up today is 5:00, so that is probably my first  task on my list. 

     DH went to work on Wednesday for a half day and went today as well. We'll see if he make it until 6:00. I made a couple small packages of chicken thighs and he brought a couple sandwiches and fruit. No running for a Subway or Burger King any more. I'll need to compare November and January  grocery and eating out  actuals to see if cutting all the little  lunch trips off sets some of the higher cost items I will be buying to make sure they are as low in sodium as possible. I'm making Spaghetti tonight, but his will be with some sautéed shrimp in a lemon, tomato and light olive oil toss. I can't eat shell fish, but I think I can cook it fine. I bought chicken legs for Christmas Day-I'll make sure they are well seasoned and savory, so he has a good meat option. 

     I'm loving having my daughter home. We had Chinese food last night and watched a movie. She no doubt will have plans tonight and tomorrow, and Monday, but we'll get our share of her. DD1 and I are going to explore the St Paul Christmas market tomorrow and then, if her schedule  works, do some more treat making. I have rambled enough. I have just enough time for another cup of coffee and a banana before I log in to our system. It was down for a bit, but it was supposed to be up by 9:00. I hope your Friday is well, and you head into the weekend with time and energy to enjoy the days, which will start getting longer again!