Kathryn of The Bookworm is hosting this edition of the 4Real Moms’ Lives of Loveliness Fairs. Kathryn’s chosen theme is the Loveliness of Preparation and she has asked us to share what we’ve been doing to prepare for Christmas.

Well, my boys are gone with Daddy, over to their grandparents for some bonding time, so we girls are doing some bonding of our own over crafts and cookies.

In the morning, we start out our day with Mass at 8:30, and today we missed it because as we stepped out of the van, Aisa realized she hadn’t put her shoes on and that she was still wearing her house slippers! So back home we went, laughing and giggling all the way. I guess this gives us time to rest a bit, and write this post!

First up is our Chocolate Fruitcake, which I baked too late in the season to enjoy for Christmas. I will have to taste a bit from the bottom at New Year’s to see if it’s good enough, and if it isn’t, we’ll wait ’til Epiphany, and if it still needs more aging (or anointing:D), it will have to be Valentine’s Day when we finally get a bite. Right now it’s sitting wrapped in cheesecloth and plastic wrap, on a plate, on my hubby’s car in the garage (he had taken a rental with him), and gets a few tablespoons of brandy every week. I posted the recipe at the 4Real forum and will update the post at Baking Delights with it. I didn’t have an airtight container that it would fit in, so that’s on my list for next year’s fruitcake. I also have plans of de-allergizing this recipe sometime soon.

Next are mini cheesecakes for people wanting just a bite of luscious cheesecake goodness.

Royal Icing Snowflakes for a tree, gift, cake, or doorway.

Truffles, for gift giving, or for serving at a party, or for snacking on while you trim your tree.

There’s a part 2, coming later today.

Kathryn, thank you so much for hosting!!

Dear Readers, please visit all the other Loveliness Fairs. I’ve learned so much from these gals and I’m sure you will too!