Amazingly, the fire alarm hasn't gone off once. In the past, I've burnt cookies. Somehow I totally forgot about them until the blaring squeal of the alarm reminded me. I guess that is somehow appropriate as the cookies and brownies I'm baking end up at fire departments.
This year I am busy working on my sales & marketing book at my diningroom table. I guess being in close proximity and not distracted by the TV has saved the day.
The house smells great and festive. That is especially nice since I won't be with my family this year to enjoy the loving chaos of people enjoying the day together. The smells can remind of times shared in the past and makes me smile as I put a batch of Toll House cookies in the oven.