There’s something about baking with your kids at Christmastime that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the soft holiday music, the smell of cinnamon drifting through the house, or the way the kitchen suddenly becomes the heart of everything. But for me, it’s the little moments — the messy counters, the giggles, the sticky fingers — that make it all feel so magical.

Baking together isn’t really about the cookies (even though those are a pretty great bonus). It’s about slowing down in a season that moves too fast. It’s about creating memories that last longer than any batch of gingerbread ever could. It’s the sparkle in their eyes when they dump in the sprinkles, the intense concentration as they crack an egg, and the proud little smile when they get to taste their masterpiece fresh out of the oven.

When I think back on my favourite childhood Christmas memories, the kitchen is always part of it. Now, being able to pass that tradition on — to let my own kids be part of the mixing and measuring — feels like a quiet reminder of what this season is all about: connection, comfort, and shared joy.

And yes, the flour ends up everywhere.

And no, the cookies don’t always look Pinterest-perfect.

But honestly? That’s what makes it ours.

If you’re baking with your little ones this year, I hope you embrace the chaos, lean into the laughter, and soak up every sweet, warm moment. Years from now, they won’t remember if everything was perfectly iced — they will remember that you made time for them, right there among the bowls and the baking sheets.

A Favourite Holiday Recipe: Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

These classic sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and topped with a simple homemade buttercream that’s perfect for decorating with kids. They’re easy to make, taste amazing, and make the whole house smell like Christmas.

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ tsp salt

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 cup softened butter (room temperature)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg (room temperature)

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the buttercream frosting:

• ¾ cup softened butter (room temperature)

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• ⅛ tsp salt

Instructions

• Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.

• Cream Butter & Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

• Add Egg & Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.

• Combine Wet & Dry: Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms — don’t over mix.

• Shape & Bake: Drop 1½-tablespoon portions of dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 4-5 inches apart. Bake 8–11 minutes, until edges are set and centers are still soft. Let cool on the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

• Make the Frosting: While cookies cool, beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy — add more powdered sugar if you want thicker frosting.

• Frost & Enjoy: Once cookies are completely cool, spread on a generous layer of buttercream. Decorate with sprinkles or festive toppings and enjoy!

These soft sugar cookies are perfect with a glass of milk or hot cocoa — and even better when made together with little helpers.

Trying to decide whether to list your home before Christmas or wait until January? You’re not alone! This is one of the most common questions I get from homeowners this time of year. The good news? There’s no wrong answer — just the option that fits your timeline, your home, and your goals best.

Let’s walk through both sides so you can feel confident in your decision

Listing Before Christmas

The Pros

• Serious buyers are still looking: Holiday buyers tend to be more motivated and focused. Many are relocating, starting new jobs, or wrapping up end-of-year plans — which means they’re not just browsing; they are ready.

• Your home shows beautifully: Warm lighting, tasteful décor, and that cozy holiday feel can make your home feel extra inviting. Buyers remember homes that feel like…well, home.

• Less competition: Fewer homeowners list in December, which means your property may stand out more than it will in January’s busier market.

The Cons

• Your schedule might already be busy: If you are hosting, traveling, or juggling holiday events, showings can feel like one more thing on a long to-do list.

• Decor can be distracting: While holiday decor can add charm, too much can make rooms feel smaller or limit buyer visibility — something we can easily plan around together.

Listing In January

The Pros

• Fresh start energy: January brings a surge of motivated buyers who waited out the holidays and are ready to jump in with a clean slate.

• More prep time: Want to declutter, paint a room, or finalize staging? Waiting until January gives you breathing room to get your home looking its absolute best.

• More market activity: Inventory begins to rise in January — which often brings a busier, more predictable pace.

The Cons

• More competition: That same post-holiday surge applies to other sellers too, and your home may be competing with more listings.

• Winter weather: Snow and chilly weather can make showings trickier and curb appeal a bit harder (although with the right photos and prep, it’s still absolutely workable).

So…What’s the Right Move?

It really comes down to your schedule, your home, and your comfort level.

If your home is already showing beautifully and you’re okay with showings during the holidays, listing now can give you a wonderful advantage with serious buyers and less competition.

If you would prefer a slower pace and want time to prep, January is a fantastic fresh-start month with lots of active buyers entering the market.

Let’s chat about your timeline

Every home (and every family) is different. If you are unsure which option makes the most sense, I’m always happy to walk through your plans and help you choose the path that feels right for you.

Whenever you are ready, I’m here to help.