Can you believe Christmas is almost here?    I'm not even close to finishing my shopping :-(    In fact, I still have no clue what-so-ever what to buy for my Mom, Dad, or Brother.    My parents are both in their mid-70's.... what do you buy people that have everything?   I can't buy them any fun electronic gadgets because they can't even figure out how to use their DVD player.... which also leaves out DVDs because they'd never watch them.   <sigh>   I'm not sure what I'm going to do.  My Brother and Sister-in-Law are taking care of Christmas Dinner this year.   They always do such a wonderful job.  I've heard we're having Prime Rib, Twice baked potatoes, roasted aspargas, and caesar salad.  ( I hope I can have some of it ).   I come from a somewhat traditional Italian family, so Christmas Eve is a big deal in my family.   My Mom has always hosted a huge open house where we have family and friends dropping in and out all day and evening.   We normally have a huge buffet feast set out and everyone just picks and eats all day long.. lol .   And, being Italian, my mom's pasta and italian sausage are a must!   My daughter and I are in charge of the rest of the buffet.  My mom just can't do that much anymore, although I'm sure she'll try. I love watching the Food Network programs... if I can't eat the food at least I can drool over it.. lol.   But, I've got some really cool ideas and recipes for veggie and cracker dips that I can modify using low fat products that I can possibly have.    My daughter is making my traditional fudge this year so I don't have to look at and smell all that chocolate.  I haven't weighed this week, so I'll update you on my next journal entry. Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the holiday season! Cindy