Tuesday, December 08, 2009

Baking Day

Friday.

The last day of the school week.

Sometimes my alarm wakes me, but more often than not I rise, my body awakening by habit. Hair slips up into a ponytail, robe ties around waist, and I pull the bedroom door closed behind me. The darkness of the house whispers peace to my heart, and though the wintry cold brings a shiver, a mug of tea or hot chocolate and a preheating oven are the simplest of remedies.

It is Baking Day.


I have found that the best way for me to keep my cupboards and countertops stocked with items from The List is to rise even earlier than usual on Friday mornings to prepare them. The cracker dough soaks overnight and the almonds take a spin in the blender the night before as well so that their rough noise will not awaken my little sleepers. Lately, the kitchen has been so inviting with festive twinkle lights in the window; it is not hard to begin my work.

(Especially when I have these to listen to... such a breath of encouragement and conviction first thing in the morning.)

The tasks are these:
  • Bake crackers and muffins. (And granola bars, if I'm making them- lately I've alternated between keeping these and protein bars in stock.)
  • Mix peanut butter bites and refrigerate.
  • Mix protein bars and refrigerate.
It isn't a long list, but it takes two to three hours to complete, and (ideally!) I like to have the kitchen cleaned and breakfast either ready or "mentally prepared" (smile) for when the children rise at 7:30.

Tomorrow, I'll share the recipes and flow of Baking Day...

5 fellow travelers shared:

Stacy said...

I love this, Elise!

I'm anxiously awaiting the recipes and further details! :)

JN said...

I love these ideas!

JN said...

I signed in from another account. JN is Judith. :)

Kathy said...

Oooohh! Where are your recipes??? =0)

Although I am quite sure I am not getting up at 4:30am - people really get up then? Great idea!

~Kathy

Christine said...

What time do you have to go to bed to feel rested? Are you a natural morning person? Just curious how this works and how much effort it takes.

My baby (12 months) still nurses several times a night. When she weans herself, I hope to get up a couple hours before the family.

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