I could use a team of elves about now, how about you? Every year I have high aspirations of baking, decorating and crafting in addition to shopping, wrapping presents and sending Christmas cards. I'm a planner, but no matter how hard I try my mind just doesn't want to think about Christmas in July or even in October for that matter. I'm also an … [Read more...]
Gifts for the Book Lover
I love books and I could spend days writing about all of my favorite books, but I still have a lot of merry-making to do this holiday season. However, I wanted to share a few favorites of mine and I'm giving away a new children's book signed by the author. All you have to do is a leave a comment and tell me one of your favorite books. I … [Read more...]
A Few of My Favorite Christmas Ideas
The magic of Christmas can be found in many homes this time of year. The magic I'm referring to is the whirlwind of creating and merry-making that many women and a small percentage of men find themselves capable of doing in the mere three weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I've been collecting Christmas ideas over the past few weeks and … [Read more...]
Artichoke Pizza
This artichoke pizza is an easy appetizer and an oldie, but goodie. I go through years where I have my standard go to recipes and then all of a sudden I discover new ones and forget about some of my old favorites. My neighbor Betsy shared this recipe with me and I remember her making it years ago whenever she had a little get together at her … [Read more...]
Gift Ideas for the Entertainer
Today is Cyber Monday when shoppers will be looking for special online deals. Many sales have already begun and since I was busy with family commitments during Thanksgiving weekend I got a jump-start on my holiday shopping online. One of my favorite things to buy is entertaining and kitchen items: glassware, plates, trays and cute … [Read more...]
Grinchy Cranberry Pistachio Cookies
These Cranberry Pistachio Cookies are sure to put a smile on the Grinch's face this holiday season. My sister-in-law made these cookies last year and they were a big hit, even with my teenagers. The recipe comes from Betty Crocker and uses a Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix which means less time in the kitchen measuring a ton of different … [Read more...]
Being Grateful & My Thanksgiving Table
Being grateful is sometimes easier said than done. I try to practice gratitude every day and have many things to be thankful for however, sometimes a soundtrack of sarcasm, criticism, negativity and self-doubt like to play in my head. Sometimes I'm aware of when it's happening and sometimes it's pointed out to me by loved ones. Either way, I'm … [Read more...]
White Chocolate Snack Mix- Gifts in a Jar
My friend Pam shared this White Chocolate Snack Mix with me years ago and it's a perfect treat to give to friends and neighbors during the holidays. There are several reasons why it's perfect. There's no baking required which means you aren't a slave to the oven waiting on cookies to turn golden brown. I enjoy baking cookies during the holidays, … [Read more...]
White Chocolate Cranberry Mini Scones
Making scones just got easier with I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Spread. I make cinnamon scones every Christmas and at other times during the year. It's one of my most requested recipes, but scones can be a little tricky to make. I was surprised to learn you can use I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Spread to make scones. The I Can't Believe … [Read more...]
Unique Gift Ideas from Uncommon Goods
I love receiving packages in the mail and especially ones with cute packaging. The package above came from Uncommon Goods which offers unique creative designs and handcrafted gifts for everyone on your holiday list. Half of what they sell is made by hand by artists and most of the products are created in the USA. Also, roughly one-third of … [Read more...]