Traditions of Christmas

I can't think of Christmas without thinking of baking. I must have been adopted as this is not an apple pie that fell from my family tree.  My mom is not a baker,  well actually she is but that is just because it is her last name.  I cannot face the holidays without making Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats,  Haystacks, Magic Bars and of course dozens of sugar cookies in the shapes of reindeer, bears, Christmas trees, snowflakes, stars, and Santa's.  I make so many sugar cookies the kids last only about half way through the decorating of them before leaving me in the kitchen to frost/sprinkle/etch way into the night. The kids do enjoy what I make and each has their favorite, thus the reason for making so many different types, but that is only a part of it.  My Norman Rockwell view of this Christmas tradition touches upon all my senses.  Obviously the smell and taste part! I also play Christmas music so that engages an emotion as well as my sense of hearing.  The sight of all these brightly colored cookies, AND my kids sitting there making them and enjoying them makes me warm and fuzzy. And finally the ability to tactically be a part of creating something that brings joy to us as well as to all those that we share with.  Fine, leave me alone in the kitchen to finish up. The baking, and process- including the leaving me- is a part of our family tradition.  Of course I am baking.