Cookies with Our Cousin

For a very long time now, I have had a thing for my children decorating cookies with their cousins. I'm really not sure why it's such a big thing for me, but so far, the children also enjoy it. Way back when my sister and I only had two children each, we've been doing this. I've tried to keep the spirit of that alive by sending 'cookie' gifts to them and to our other little cousin in years past. This year, we got to decorate cookies with our newest little cousin, Jo-Jo. While she didn't get in on too much of the action, we sure did have a splendid time playing with her and making her laugh. She did manage to get a handful of cookie dough before her mama caught her! LOL

Emily is a great source of help in the kitchen. She was our dough mixer and icing maker. She does such a fabulous job! We would be stuck with pre-made slice and bake cookies if it weren't for her. (Well, maybe not.) She is a blessing for sure. We made two batches of sugar cookies and most of them were cut out in shapes to remind us of Jesus. No, not your traditional Christmas cookie shapes, but more meaningful, I think.

Gotta love the flour all over her nose!

Learning to roll out the dough.

Me, my children and my little niece, Joanna.

Phew! This cookie business will wear a girl out!

Sometimes you've just got to let them do their thing.

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Shepherd's Staff - Jesus is the Good Shepherd who gave His life for the sheep
Star - Jesus is the Bright Morning Star
Lion - Jesus is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah
Heart - For God so LOVED the world...
Cross - Jesus is the Savior of the world
Candle - Jesus is the Light of the world
Crown - Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords
Lamb - Jesus is the perfect, spotless Lamb of God

We had a fun, fun day with Rachel and Joanna. We are so thankful that they live close by and that we can enjoy memory-making times together like this one.

Jo-Jo, you are the cutest! We love you so much!