First Christmases and a recipe

This is the ornament that was given to us in 1995 for our first Christmas as a married couple. I'm not normally "into" the Hallmark ornaments, but this was so cute, and a very thoughtful gesture! And who could resist those little mice, anyway?

More firsts...
Kendall's first Christmas...again, a gift. It's a crystal rocking horse. So sweet, and so very, very special!And again, another first...Noah's first Christmas. The pacifier in that little bear's mouth looks just like the one Noah got at the hospital. Too bad he was only into the pacifier for a few weeks. After that he just wanted his Mama... some things never change! This was a gift as well. Looks like a lot of my ornaments were gifts, eh? But sometimes those are the best kind. Look how special these are to us! Every one is a memory! If Teresa were here, we might sit down and cry together!! (heehee...I love ya, T!!!)


Oh yeah, and a recipe, per Wreggie's request...

Stromboli

2 eggs, separated
1 tbsp. grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp parsley
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp pepper
2 tbsp oil
8 0z pepperoni
2 c. grated mozzarella
1 can mushrooms
1 loaf frozen bread dough (my fave is Tiseo's from Meijer!)

After separating egg yolks from whites, mix yolks, parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, pepper, and oil together. This will form a thick paste.

Stretch and roll out your dough into a large rectangle. I usually make mine the size of my rectangular pizza stone, but hey, do whatever size you want! When you get it there, spread the thick paste all over the dough. Then put down your pepperoni (edge to edge!), mushrooms, and cheese. Roll the dough up lengthwise, being careful to roll the toppings, not dump them. After you have it all rolled up, pinch the ends together to seal and roll underneath. Then place the roll seam-side down and in the shape of a horseshoe. Brush with egg whites and bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes. I find that it sets up really well if you let it set for 10 minutes or so before cutting it. Serve with marinara for dipping!

So here we are, folks! The weekend before Christmas has arrived! Are you ready? Time is running out! I'm doing quite well, if I do say so myself! I only have two more little things to pick up and wrap, Kendall's holiday party at school, and 3 things to bake today. Also, I have to send out those last minute cards to folks whom I didn't have addresses for. As their cards come in, I send mine out! Also on the agenda tomorrow (after I put in a few hours at work, of course)...Christmas Eve meal planning and another Christmas craft with the kiddos! Should be fun!!!

Have a great day, peeps! And don't forget the Reason for the Season!!! :)