*Tommy took the feature pic from the River of Lights*
Sadly, I won’t be sending out Christmas cards this year. Time just slipped away from us, and before I knew it, it was too late. I decided instead that I’ll simply reach out and wish everyone a Merry Christmas in my own way. It’s not quite the same, but the sentiment remains the same. I hope to start earlier next year and be able to send out Christmas cards again.
I love the Christmas cards I received this year. I enjoy reading the messages, noticing the handwriting, and appreciating the unique details.
We went to see the River of Lights on Saturday night, and it was such a fun experience. The BioPark really outdoes itself; the decorations were beautiful, and the lights were absolutely magical. Everywhere you looked, there was something glowing or sparkling, which made the whole place feel festive and alive. It was definitely crowded; it honestly felt like half the city had the same idea and showed up that night. But that’s pretty much to be expected on a Saturday evening, especially for something this popular. Even with the crowds, it was still worth it.
Sunday was spent doing our Christmas food shopping, and wow, everything feels noticeably more expensive this year. I’m still glad we got it done and out of the way. One less thing to worry about as the holidays get closer.
Tommy added another cookie to my baking list, which made me laugh, but also nudged me into action. Since so many of the cookie doughs need time to chill in the refrigerator, I decided to get a head start and begin the cookie-making process today. It feels good to ease into it now rather than rushing later, and it’s starting to make the house feel a little more like Christmas already.
The Hobonichi Weeks starts in December, so this past weekend I officially began planning in my 2026 planner. There’s something oddly comforting about starting early. I’ve done a little decorating inside already.
I usually go all out decorating the cover, but this year I chose one that already has a nice design. I don’t want to cover it up or overwhelm it with stickers, so I’m trying to let it stand on its own.
Finding my supplies was its own little challenge. Most of my stationery is still buried in piles, half-organized and scattered, so it felt like a mini scavenger hunt. Still, I managed to track down a handful of stickers and a few favorite pens, which were enough to get started.
Ok, I have officially entered full cookie-baking mode. I’ve already made a lot of cookie doughs today, chocolate chip, gingerbread, oatmeal raisin, and sugar cookies are all mixed and ready to go. After taking a much-needed lunch break, I’m heading back into the kitchen to make peanut butter cookies and chocolate cookies with peanut butter chips. Tomorrow’s plan is to tackle the biscochitos and two batches of gluten-free cookie dough.
I’m done making cookie dough for the day, and I’m calling it a night in the kitchen… well, until I need to make dinner. I’ll pick it back up tomorrow and will probably start baking then, too. For now, I’m going to make myself a cup of hot tea and either read or spend a little time in my planner.
