Family time

We had a nice full, family day yesterday.  Every now and then it's nice to spend time together, just us! 

The morning was full of work, but after a nice shrimp stir-fry lunch, we packed up in the car and headed to Black Creek Pioneer Village.  If you've never been, you don't know what you're missing.  It's one of my favourite places to be, despite the ridiculous admission and parking costs. 

One of the houses at Black Creek belonged to a German family.  They had a Christmas table laid out the same traditional way the family would have done it.  Instead of stockings, each person got a plate of goodies at their place.  I loved that idea and I think we'll adopt it for our home.  (Also, we don't have a fireplace!)

Michael loved the animals best.

By the by, if you possess a Toronto library card, you are eligible for a free MAP pass admitting up to 2 adults and 2 children.  (I love finding those kinds of things!)

We brought along these cookies along with sliced apples for an afternoon snack during our visit.  Probably one of my favourite cookies... 

ROCKIE ROAD COOKIES (dairy free)
These are perfect for baking with toddlers who love to get their hands dirty, or are fascinated with textures.  The recipe is also super simple for older kids to do on their own. 

1 cup applesauce
1 cup peanut butter
1/2  cup margarine
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup white sugar
1 cup chocolate chips
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 3/4 cups flour
1 cup oats

Mix all ingredients except the chocolate chips together in a large bowl.  Add chocolate chips and mix until combined.  Take small spoonfuls of dough and drop onto a parchment-lined baking sheet; flatten with hand.  Bake at 350 for 10-20 minutes until done.