Winter Snowflakes

Kids Craft: Winter Snowflakes

Using snowflakes and garland to decorate is not only for the holiday season, it can also be for the entire Winter season. Every year, for the past three, this family has made snowflakes out of construction or computer paper and used thread or garland and thumb tacks to hang them throughout the house. It is amazing how something as simple as snowflakes and garland can bring such joy, not only to the kids but in terms of decorating and budgeting.

Materials:

• Strings of garland (as low as $1 at Wal-Mart and Dollar Tree)
• Colored Construction Paper (a booklet for $2.49-$3.00 depending on store)
• Thread or Wrapping Ribbon
• 1 bag/box of Tacks
• Scissors

Directions:

1. Follow Instructions on how to cut snowflakes at the following site: Snowflakes
2. String the garland throughout a room, using thumb tacks to secure to ceiling.
3. Cut six inch ribbon pieces at loop through one of the holes in the snowflakes. Tie onto the garland in any pattern desired.

This is fun, easy, inexpensive, and can even be done on a snow day. The best part is, it can be used as a Christmas decoration in the kid's rooms and left up throughout the winter! Happy Holidays Everyone!

Fudge Cookies

Fudge Cookies

Theses cookies are the result of fudge that decided not to set properly. After making the Kraft Jarred Marshmallow recipe with semi-sweet morsels instead of the stated Baker's Chocolate Bars, the fudge did not want to set, but it tasted like Hot Chocolate. Delicious!!! Instead of throwing it out, this batch of fudge was transformed, melted slightly, and turned into delicious Hot Chocolate Fudge Cookies.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 to 2 cups, softened Fudge
• 2 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Soften fudge in the microwave on high for about 30 seconds, set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
4. Pour the fudge into a mixer, mix on low to medium for 30 seconds, till creamy, add the flour mixture until firm (like cookie dough).
5. Spray a cookie sheet with baking spray or line with parchment paper.
6. Place 1-2 inch balls onto the cookie sheet, cook 17-20 minutes.
7. Let sit for about 5 minutes, remove from sheet using a spatula, place on a plate or tray and enjoy!

These turned out to be a favorite this year with the kids. What was a lost cause, in terms of fudge, became a great save for mom! Woohoo! Merry Christmas and enjoy.

Holiday Salad

Holiday Salad

Simple light side dish for the holidays, a delightfully delicious salad. Most holiday meals focus on carbs and protein, but it is always nice to have a light dish before hand or as an option for guests. This salad and dressing is easy to assemble with easy to find ingredients. Most importantly, it is  good.

Ingredients:

• 1 Large Head of Lettuce
• 1 pack of Grape tomatoes
• 1 container (6-12 oz) Feta Cheese
• 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
• 1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans
• 1/2 cup Vegetable or Olive Oil
• 1/2 cup Balsamic or Red Wine Vinegar
• 2-3 Tablespoons of Fresh squeezed Lemon Juice

Directions:

1. Chop the lettuce, place in a large pot and fill with water, let sit for 30 minutes. Drain the water, dry the lettuce (this can be done the day before, just store the lettuce in the container or bowl being used for the salad in the fridge overnight).
2. Wash the tomatoes by running water over them. Let remaining water drain on a kitchen towel that has ben folded.
3. Place the dried lettuce, tomatoes, Feta Cheese, Cranberries, and Walnuts into a large salad bowl and toss together.
4. In a small bowl, mix the Oil, Vinegar, and Lemon Juice using a fork until blended together. Pour over the salad and toss together before serving.

This goes great with the classic holiday meal of turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and more. Merry. Christmas!!!

Christmas Shopping

Christmas Shopping Deals

Okay,  it is getting close to the big day and many people may start to get nervous while trying to find toys for the kids, popular electronics, and just figuring out what to get and where to find it for the best price. Well, do not worry, there is still time and stores are still offering amazing deals online and in store.

Christmas Clothes Shopping:

Personal favorites include, Old Navy, Kohl's, JC Penney, Sear's, and Target. The best part about these stores, with the exception of Old Navy, they can be a one stop shop for those who do go out to the stores to shop. However, if looking for toy deal in store, Wal-Mart still seems to have the best price cuts and will match the price.

Here are some tips for these locations:

• Old Navy is offering up to 60% off on most the store, bought a sweater for $12 the other day, and $10 kid jeans/$15 adult jeans. Also, if shopped there within the last ten days, get your receipt, go to the survey listed on the receipt, this shopper got 15% off the next visit, but it is normally 10%.
• Kohl's has great deals when it comes to clothes, toy wise, there are some good ones on Mattel Products, in fact the Mattel Products at Kohl's, for now, match or can be lower than most at other stores. Even so, for anyone in the Kohl's reward program, use the coupons, 25% off/20% off along with $5 off can make a big difference. The Christmas bonus buy ends today, but more than likely, a bigger sale will appear, so no fear. Toys are anywhere from 10% to 40% off and the cookware and select bedding is up to 50% off.
• JC Penney's has printable coupons and is offering free shipping on orders $49 or more thru Saturday. The coupons range from $10 to 20% and 25% and an extra 10% on certain products. Codes are available for online shopping. Some great items include the gloves and scarf, coats (50% off), pajamas, and the kid clothes and shoes.
• Sears is a store where it is hard not to find a sale, but the better deal may be online for some items such as clothing and jewelry. An extra 20 to 60% can be taken off using the codes on Sear's.com.
• Target is just a fun store, period. Toy wise, they are doing BOGO 50% Off! On major brands. 30% off clothing and shoes, also check out the sales rack, kid jeans and pants as low as $10, and many other savings throughout the store.

However, what about online shopping. There are major deals to be found but here are important tips for shopping online:

• EBay-do not pay more than you would in a store for an item or gift card. Biding wars get serious, but if a new Blue-Ray ends up being the same price on eBay as it is in the store, besides gas money, there is no need to wait for it to be mailed.
• Check shipping costs-always check the shipping, the price may look nice but the cost of shipping might be shocking.
• Buy in bulk, especially on sites like Amazon. If able, use their credit line and save a lot on the order, just be sure to pay the card what is owed (I used it, save $70 on a 198 order, turned around and paid the remaining balance on the card). However, be careful, not advising use of it if it makes one feel uncomfortable.
• Amazon has cut many prices especially on DVD's.
• Retailmenot.com has some fantastic deals at major stores such as Ultra and even online sites like Amazon. Sign up for the emails and get the deals, and check out the site for more coupon codes to use.
• Check store and order sites for free shipping codes and for sale codes. There are a bunch of codes for online shopping on store sites, most of the time at the bottom or side of the page. Look for them because they are worth it.

Hope this helps and wishing everyone Happy Shopping. Merry Christmas!!!

Cranberry Walnut Cheeseball

Cranberry Walnut Cheeseball

Although, Hickory Farm's is the king when it comes to Cheeseball, they got nothing on a delicious homemade Cheeseball that will have guests begging for more and for the recipe. This is sweet and savory, goes great with one of the most popular butter crackers of the holidays and super easy to make. No gathering should be without this yummy treat.

Ingredients:

1. 12 oz. Cream Cheese, softened
2. 4-6 oz. Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese (in special cheese section, price $3.49-5.49, depends on store and sales)
3. 4 oz. Feta Cheese (optional), crumbled
4. 1 1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts, finely chopped in a food processor or blender
5. Salt and Pepper

Directions:

1. Let the cream cheese soften on the counter, can be done overnight.
2. Place the Cream Cheese, Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese, and Feta into a bowl.
3. Spray hands with cooking spray, to keep everything from sticking too bad, mix the cheeses together well, add salt and pepper to taste, and form into a ball.
4. Place the finely chopped walnuts on a plate and roll the ball around until covered in walnuts.
5. Put the cheeseball back into the preparation bowl, pour remaining nuts over it, cover and store for four hours to overnight.
6. Before serving, place on a platter or plain white plate with crackers around it.

Not only will this be a hit at a holiday gathering for family and friends, it can be taken to cover dishes at church and work and will more than likely be gone. Merry Christmas Ya'll!!!

Kids Craft: Paper Ornaments and the story of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Rockefeller Christmas Tree Story/Paper Ornaments

The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is, perhaps, the most anticipated event of the Christmas season. It is a sign that the season is officially in full swing and decorations began to glow throughout the city. It is a tradition, a tradition with a very humble beginning.

The first tree was nothing like the trees featured now a days. The year was 1931, the depression had hit the country extremely hard, and the tree placed at the center was small with no lights or ornaments. In 1931, construction workers, many most likely thankful for a pay check, were building the famous complex, completed in 1933, and wanted to bring a sense of holiday spirit to the site. More than likely, most of these workers were not adorning their homes with decorations, but decided to spread some cheer by decorating a 20 foot Fir Tree with paper ornaments, strings of cranberries, and tin cans. It might not have been the grandest sight with no lights, no glistening ornaments, but for the workers collecting a pay check, it provided an enormous reminder of thankfulness and joy.

Since 1933, the tree lighting ceremony has been a huge event, minus one year during WWII during a blackout period. Children in the early fifties got to experience the ceremony for the first time on television, those lucky enough to have one, on the famous TV show, Howdy Doody. Stars and musical guests have continued the beloved tradition, and in a way so have many throughout the country.

Children and adults alike continue to make ornaments from paper, tin cans, mason jar lids, Christmas cards, clothes pins, and all sorts of items. The ornaments by themselves may not seem like much to some, but the main ingredient in all these homemade decorations is love and joy. Every single decoration made by a child or adult, be it at school or home, is done so with care and is truly treasured year after year as it is placed on the tree along with collections of others accumulated over the years.

Christmas Glitter Ornaments

Materials:

• Colored Construction Paper in blue, green, red, white, purple, and pink
• Glitter Glue (pack of 6/priced anywhere from $1.99 to $3. Depending on store)
• Red and Green Ribbons, cut to six inches long
• Stencils (optional)
• Scissors
• Hole puncher

Directions:

Just to note: These ornaments can be done free hand without stencils, it is up to the kids and parents.

1. Pick out what color paper to use and what shape or picture to draw (snowman, Santa Face, Reindeer Face, Star, Poinsettia).
2. Use a pencil to lightly draw out the pattern, using the stencil.
3. Draw over the pencil marking with the glitter glue, using different colors for the outline and for other areas of the stencil if desired.
4. Let dry over night.
5. Cut around the shape, leaving some edge on the outside, punch a hole in the top of the cutout, put the ribbon through, tie and hang on the tree.

Decorating with paper ornaments is not only fun and creative, it is affordable. Merry Christmas!!!

Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday

Black Friday may be over, but do not fear, more deals are here. It is Cyber Monday and cyber deal week! So, if standing in line is not appealing when it comes to Christmas shopping, maybe searching the internet will be. There are many great deals to be had, from electronics to toys to kitchen appliances. Here are a few to check out:

Kohl's:

• Free Shipping with $25 purchase
• 65% to 70% off select items
• Daily Deals
• Extra 20% off this week using code: Cyber20

Seriously mad deals on clothing, toys, bedding, jewelry, and kitchen aids.

Toys-R-Us:

• Deals offered online and in store
• In store only: Free Lego Ninjago Pack with purchase of Lego Construction set ($30 and up)
• Free shipping on Lego Construction Sets
• Free shipping to home on orders of $49 or more
• Free shipping to store
• Free 2 day shipping on certain items
• Deals from 15% up to 50% off

JC Penney's:

• 30% off orders of $100 or more, online only
• 20% off in store and online: Code-CYBRMNDY
• Free Shipping to store on orders $25 and up
• Free shipping to home on orders $49 and up

Sears:

• Free Shipping on order $59 and up
• 50% off outerwear-code: CYBER25
• 50% off clothing, plus extra 15% off with coupon in store, download and print coupon online
• 10% off select Craftsman tools
• 20% off select home appliances
• Enter to win Cyber Prizes all week!

These are just some of the great deals, more to come. Merry Shopping!

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows




Marshmallows, brown sugar, 2 large sweet potatoes, some orange juice, and 1/4 cup butter is all that is needed to create a tasty, mouth watering sweet potato casserole that even the kids will love!

Ingredients:

• 2 Large Sweet Potatoes
• 1/2 bag of mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup, plus 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 Tablespoon Orange Juice

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the sweet potatoes in a small oven dish with 2 Tablespoons butter. Use a knife or fork to create some holes throughout the potatoes. Heat for 1 hour, till skin is able to be pulled off rather easily (can be heated on bottom rack while turkey cooks).
3. Take the skin off, mash the potatoes and add the orange juice, sugar, and remaining butter. Mix together.
4. Add 1/4 cup marshmallows and stir together.
5. Spoon the mix into a baking dish, sprinkle with more brown sugar and top with remaining marshmallows.
6. Bake 45 minutes until set and marshmallows are slightly browned.

Happy Holidays!!

Cranberry Cocktail

Cranberry Cocktail

This cranberry cocktail is light and delicious and uses beer instead of wine, liquor or champagne. As someone who enjoys cocktails but always feels like they are too sugary and is not a fan of wine or champagne, this holiday concoction is the perfect compromise. Using light beer, light Cranberry juice, and a little bit of freshly squeezed orange juice it is the best drink to sit back and relax with while watching a fun Christmas movie.

Ingredients

• 8-12 oz. light beer
• 8 oz. light Cranberry juice
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed orange juice
• Orange slice for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Pour the beer into a cup followed by the cranberry juice and orange juice. Stir a bit and place a slice of orange on the glass if desired.

Not only is this good, it goes great with holiday foods and is seasonal. Merry Christmas!!!

Kids Christmas Crafts: Paper Garland

Paper Garland

When the term paper garland comes about, most people may think of the red and green loops connected together to create a chain of garland. However, there are a number of ways to create garland using construction paper, scissors, tape, and ribbon or Christmas colored twine.

Christmas Light Garland

Materials:

• 1 pack Colored Construction Paper with Yellow, Blue, Red, Green, Purple, Black, and Pink Paper in it
• 1-2 Rolls of scotch tape or glue or staples and a stapler
• 1-2 rolls of Christmas colored ribbon or twine
• Scissors
• Different Colored Glitters (optional)

Directions:

1. Cut out light bulb shapes using a variety of colors or one specific color (except black). Cut enough to o around the tree.
2. Cut out 4 inch rectangles from the black and brown papers for each light bulb.
3. Staple, tape, or paste one end of the black rectangle to the top of each light bulb.
4. If using glitter and glue, lay on a flat surface with cardboard underneath and draw Christmas shapes, write names, or write Merry Christmas or a message on the bulbs usin the glue and sprinkle glitter on top. Let dry.
5. Lay the ribbon or string out on the ground and place the lights on it, in desired order, by folding the remaining black rectangle over the ribbon and securing with staple, glue, or tape to the back of the paper bulb.
6. Wrap around the tree.

This is a really fun project for kids at Christmas, they will literally want to take over, and very good for snow days. Merry Christmas!!!

No Stress Holiday Meal

Easy, Low Stress Holiday Meal

Too often, holiday meals become overly stressful and burdensome. There is no reason, unless eating at 11AM or noon, to get up at 4AM or 5AM and have to start preparing the meal. No reason that everything on the menu has to be homemade and no reason to think that, as the host, every dish that each guest wants should be cooked. Instead of over spending on food, time, and sanity, here is a simple menu and tips for a stress free Holiday meal.  

peppermint bark ice cream brownie cake

 


Turkey:

Instead of buying a whole turkey, get one or two turkey breasts. They cook faster (8-10lbs.=2 to 2 1/2 hours), and happen to be easier to prepare.

• Thaw two-three days in advance, wash, dry, take out the heart and gravy packet, butter under and over the skin, salt and pepper, place in a store bought roasting pan and pour 1-2 cans chicken stock on top.
• Cook on 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, then turn to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for the rest of the time till the internal temperature has reached 165-170 degrees.

Ham:

Buy half a ham or a ham in the can. Cook according to package directions (found on whole and half ham labels), in a roasting pan, and pour 2 cans pineapple chunks over the ham, 1/2 cup cherry halves (or whole cranberries), and place about four Gala or Fuji Apples (sliced) around the ham.

Cook the night before, slice, separate the fruits from the ham (place in a bowl and cover). The next day, heat the ham covered with aluminum foil in an oven safe dish on 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-30 minutes. Pour the fruit mix on top and serve in the dish.

Stuffing:

Use the box. That's right, boxed stuffing.

Autumn Waldorf Salad

• Prepare according to box directions. Add more butter or chicken stock if desired.
• If desired, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry jelly and 3 Tablespoons finely chopped celery.
• Mix, place in a serving bowl and serve.

Green Bean Casserole:

Just use Campbell's recipe, it's a winner, no fuss, no stress, and eating the extra French Onion's is great. Add some cooked chopped bacon if desired.

Corn:

This is iffy. This girl loves corn pudding, sweet southern corn pudding, and my grandma's recipe is great but super difficult and does not always set correctly. So, a few sites, such as Taste of Home and recipes.com have some great ones. Even so, keep it simple, grab some corn n the cob, boil it, serve with butter.

Mashed Potatoes:

Bags of potatoes are usually inexpensive and with butter, pepper, and salt (maybe some milk), can become the side everyone reaches for.

• Wash, dry, peel or don't peel
• Cut into fours and bring to a boil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
• Turn to medium low, heat until softened (15 minutes).
• Drain the water.\
• Use a potato masher and mash, add 1 stick butter, mash some more.
• Add salt, pepper, about 1/4 cup of milk and continue to mash till desired texture is reached.
• Add some Gouda, Goat, Italian, Parmesan, or a white sharp cheese, chives for extra flavor. Serve with sour cream.

Ginger Pumpkin Ice Cream Cakes

Pies:

Buy the pie for two reasons:

1. It is more expensive to bake the pie than it is to buy it, depending on pie brand. Pumpkin filling can cost over $2. Add in the pie crust and whipped cream and the hour cooking time, along with hoping it sets right and buying the already made pie for less than $4.50 seems like a good idea. Two brands that tend to be good, pie wise, Edwards (never had a bad one and they are always on sale at Wal-Mart during the holidays) and Sara Lee.
2. After cooking everything else, it almost feels like a chore to make a pie, watch it while it cooks, check it, and want for it.

Other items that would be quick to make and worth adding to the menu:

• Deviled Eggs
• Fruit Salad
• Salad with salad dressings
• Veggie Platter
• Cheese Ball-12 oz. Whipped Cream cheese, 2 cups Shredded Sharp cheddar, 1 Tablespoon Worschestire Sauce, 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper. Set 1 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar aside, spread on a plate. Mix the reaming ingredients together, form into a ball, roll around in the cheese, place in a bowl, wrap and chill over night. Serve with crackers.
• Jar-o-Gravy
• Cake
• Ice Cream
• Ice Cream Cake-buy a store bought pound cake, cut in half, spread softened ice cream in on the bottom half, put the top back on, spread ice cream on the top half, sprinkle with finely chopped candy. Keep frozen till ready to serve.

Here's to a stress free holiday meal!!! Happy Holidays.

Advent Calendar: Countdown to Christmas

Advent Calendar

Advent calendars are a merry way to countdown to Christmas, especially for children. What child does not like to open the little doors on a chocolate filled calendar, only to open every single one of them at once instead of actually on the date listed. Other advent calendars come in the form of, what looks like, a house or church with doors that open with Bible verses or Christmas messages. There are so many available, but instead of purchasing an already made calendar, why not make one with the kids?

Kids love, love, love crafting during the holidays, be in decorations or baking and this advent calendar will not only be crafty but also somewhat a surprise for the children.

Advent Gift Calendar

Materials:

• 24 Christmas Boxes or jewelry/shoe boxes/red and green boxes, etc, various sizes
• 2 different kinds of Christmas wrapping paper for those boxes that are not already decorated or Christmas colors
• 1 bag of bows
• Green and Red Construction Paper cut into 24 circles
• 1 Black Sharpie
• Gifts for the box (ornaments, candy, gift certificates)
• Double sided tape

Directions:

1. Number each green and red circle 1-24, alternating colors.
2. If needed, wrap boxes, lids and bottoms separately. Otherwise, skip this step.
3. Place the numbers on the boxes, numbering small to large.

The next part is for parents only!

1. Put gifts inside the boxes. These can be from the dollar store, small Lego toys, ornaments, for those who love cars-matchbox cars, candy, a few $5 gift cards to  favorite store, a Christmas wash cloth, hand towel, movie or CD (found very cheap on Amazon), or even hot cocoa packets.
2. Once gifts are packed, close the box (using tape if needed) and place bow on top or side, depending on how the boxed will be arranged.
3. Place on a shelf, bookcase, fireplace, or as a centerpiece on the dining table using candle holders to create layer and stacking the boxes in order on top of each other, or do not place bows on them and stack like a Christmas Tree.
4. Kids can open one a day as they countdown to Christmas.

Along with the treats, add Bible verses or Christmas messages to remind the kids what the season is really about. Merry Christmas!!!

Holiday Leftover Casserole

Holiday Leftover Casserole

Everyone ends up staring at leftovers the day after a holiday or the day after that and going, "wow... that's a lot of food." By the third day, the joy of leftovers is probably starting to get old and the family is considering going out to eat. However, instead of eating the same multiple dishes day after day for nearly a week, turn those leftovers into an amazingly good casserole that will make everyone feel like they are eating something new, not leftover.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Cooked Turkey, shredded or broken into pieces
• 1 1/2 cups dried rolls, crumbled
• 1 cup mashed potatoes
• 1-2 cups stuffing, crumbled
• 1/2 cup sweet potatoes (if not available or do want to use, use 1 1/2 cups mashed potatoes)
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 stick butter, melted, plus 1/4 stick butter for the baking dish
• Gravy, reheated stove top or in the microwave

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Mix the turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce in a medium bowl, set aside.
3. Mix the sweet and mashed potatoes in a separate bowl.
4. Butter a baking dish with 1/4 stick butter.
5. Spread the turkey, cranberry, stuffing mix into the dish.
6. Spread the potatoes over top.
7. Sprinkle with the dried bread crumbs.
8. Cook for 30 minutes. Pour the melted butter on top of the cracker crumbs, bake another 15-20 minutes.
9. Let cool 5-10 minutes, serve with reheated gravy.

The cranberry sauce could even be spread over the turkey and stuffing mix, creating another layer of holiday happiness. Also, instead of using potatoes, use leftover pumpkin pie, mashed up and spread on top of the turkey and stuffing, sprinkle with leftover chopped pecans instead of rolls.... it is spectacular. Happy Holiday Eating!!!!

Holiday Stuffing

Holiday Stuffing

Lets talk stuffin'! Stuffing is a must on the holiday table, be it with Cornish game hen, turkey, ham, chicken, pork, or steak (especially stuffed or wrapped in steak, pork, or chicken). Even though, most people call it stuffing, a lot of us do not stuff any of the meats, so it is really dressing but everyone seems to continue to call it stuffing.

The basic recipe for stuffing is easy. 1 loaf of bread (preferably Italian or French), butter, chicken stock, add ins (celery, onion, cranberries, raisins, and finely chopped herbs). This recipe keeps it simple and delicious!

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf Italian or French Bread cut into 1/2 to 1 inch slices
• 1 stick butter
• 1-1 1/2 15 oz. can chicken stock
• 3 sticks celery, washed and finely chopped
• 1/2 white or red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup finely chopped rosemary
• 3 Tablespoons Garlic Salt
• 1/2 cup golden raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 1 Teaspoon Poultry seasoning
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Teaspoon Pepper

Directions:

Day Before Serving

1. Preheat Broiler.
2. Using 1/2 stick of butter, spread over the cut pieces of bread.
3. Mix the garlic salt and finely chopped rosemary in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the bread pieces.
4. Cook 2-3 minutes in broiler (check after 2) until the edges are slightly browned.
5. Leave on counter, covered, overnight.

Day of Feast

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Melt butter in a sauce pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and celery and poultry seasoning. Cook 5 minutes till softened.
3. Add the chicken stock, bring to boil over medium high heat. Once boiled, turn off the burner.
4. Cut the bread pieces into cubes and place in a 9x13 baking dish, if using raisins or cranberries, toss into the bread.
5. Pour the chicken stock mix over the bread. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook 30-45 minutes, until slightly browned on top.

Goes great with turkey and gravy and by toasting and seasoning the bread the night before, extra flavor is added. Happy Holidays!!!

Tuna Cranberry Salad

Cranberry Tuna Salad

Eating even somewhat healthy during the holiday season is near impossible, but with this cranberry tuna salad, it is possible. Simple to put together, can be used for sandwiches, as a dip, or eaten by itself. The best part, on some good bread, it taste like a delicious Thanksgiving turkey sandwich made from leftovers.


Ingredients:

• 2 cans tuna in water, drained
• 3/4-1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup finely chopped Gala or Honey Crisp Apples, washed and dried (optional)
• 3 Tablespoons finely chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl with a fork, until well blended. Cover with plastic wrap, place in the refrigerator for 2 hours or overnight to chill. Serve on bread or as a dip on cracker or Tortilla Chips.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Enjoy!!!!

Black Friday Ads: Best Buy and Kohls

Black Friday Ads

The ads are out and so far, Wal-Mart seems to have some of the best deals. Here are some highlights:

Best Buy

• $1 Samsung Galaxy S5 with 2 year activation (this will be a big one for the teens)
• Beats by Dr. Drew-$79.99 ($90 saving)
• $150 saving on Surface Pro 2
• Save $70 on a Boost Mobile Cell Phone
• $1 Insignia Flex Tablet with 2 year activation ($199.99 without the activation)
• 128 GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive for under $30.
• Savings up to $1500 for a flat screen television
• Savings on power cords, Portable DVD Players, PS2 AMD Xbox, games, and DVD's as low as $1.99-Lego Movie Blue-Ray 2 pack is going to be $5.99 (that is enough to get this mom in line, unfortunately), and $1 iPhones with 2 year activation.

Overall, some good savings at Best Buy, some of the DVD's are actually less than WalMart is offering. The stores open 5PM Thanksgiving, and reopen 8AM Black Friday.

Kohl's
Oh my gosh, love this store, and the best part-the store is giving $15 Kohl's Cash for every $50 spent!!! Oh yes!! Meaning, at least shoppers get some free money to spend later in the holiday shopping season.

• 50% off all toys-what parent doesn't like that?
• $99.99 Mini Beats by Dr. Drew jam boxes
• $25 mail in rebate on Fit Bits (a great gift for the fitness guru/nut)
• 55% to 60% off on jewelry+20%?? Up to 80% off!
• Keurig Elite-$99.99
• $9.99 Black & Decker kitchen electronics after mail in rebate!! That's big.
• 60% off Holiday Décor
• Plush Throws for $8.99
• $3.99 Home Classic Fleece Throw
• Big shoe sale, ladies boots as low as $19.99
• All purses and wallets 60%-oh yes!

Of course, clothes are on sale, all of them including kids. The juniors have several really good deals, along with Apt. 91, and a lot of men's items for under $10 or $15. Even so, it is really awesome they are offering Kohl's Cash during this event, a nice plus. Happy Holidays, and Happy Holiday Shopping!!!




 

Toy Sales: Games

Game Sales

While in Target on Sunday, in the toy section, the games were buy 2 get 1 free (B2GO)! As someone who does buy games for the kids, other children, and the family, and had just been on amazon looking at prices, this is actually a GREAT deal. For the games desired for three boys, it was less than $17, with a savings of $15. In all, good buy. Even so, now other stores have jumped on the game wagon, and to add to the excitement, Black Friday Ads are coming out and games will be on sale at Wally World.

Toys-R-Us

It is game time at Toys-R-Us. A lot of favorites such as Candy Land, Connect Four, Monopoly, Guess Who, Sorry, Scrabble Flash, lots of Memory games and more for less than $10!

Kohl's

10% off Hasbro games, online, with the code HASBROTOYS.

Wal-Mart

According to the newly released Black Friday Ad, a huge number of games will be $4.88 to $8.88. Favorites such as Monopoly, Life, Hungry Hippo, Jenga, and Headband (6PM Thanksgiving Day). Even so, like with most stores, online deals will be available as well.

Don't forget to check out amazon, in many cases games and much more can be found for a good price on amazon and eBay. Merry Christmas!!!

Thanksgiving Thursday Store Openings

Stores Open on Thanksgiving Thursday

The only thing open on Thanksgiving in the long past, at least what seems like the long past, use to be a few restaurants and gas stations. In today's, "I want it now" society, even grocery stores are open for Turkey Day, along with many others. As awesome as Christmas shopping and Black Friday can be, Black Friday should stay on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Even so, stores such as K-Mart (at 6AM), Walgreens (8AM), and Radio Shack (8 AM)!


Stores Open on Thanksgiving Thursday:

4PM Openings:

• Micheal's

5PM Openings:

• Stein Mart
• Toys-R-Us
• Best Buy

6PM Openings:

• Belk
• JC Penney
• Kohl's
• Best Buy
• Macy's
• Sports Authority
• Wal-Mart (open all day for the 24 hour centers, door busters start at 6PM)
• Sears

Other Openings include:

• Big Lots
• CVS
• Dick's (8AM)
• Gap
• Dollar General
• Family Dollar
• HHGregg (10PM)
• Kroger
• OfficeMax (8PM)
• Old Navy (9AM)
• Pottery Barn
• Rite Aid
• Rue21
• ULTA Beauty

There are also restaurants and, of course, movie theaters that will be open in case one wants to take a break from the hustle and bustle. Of course, those who actually wait till Black Friday to shop will still get deals and more sleep. Merry Christmas!!!!

Christmas Home Decorating: Wreaths

Christmas Wreaths

Trees, wreaths, garland, and lights seem like the must have when it comes to decorating for the holidays season. Even though, fresh cut wreaths are wonderful to use, there are advantages to using artificial wreaths throughout the home, while still decorating with a real one outside. The best part, it does not take much to create a centerpiece or add some Christmas cheer to a room just by adding a wreath wrapped in ribbons or decorated with ornaments.

Wreath Centerpiece

• Red Ribbon
• Gold or Silver Bead Garland
• 3-5 LED Candles (depending on the size of the wreath)
• Red or Green Construction Paper
• 1 Wreath
• 1 pack shatterproof Christmas balls

Directions

1. Cut the construction paper to fit the hole in the middle of the wreath. Place the paper where the middle of the wreath will be and put candles on it.
2. Wrap the ribbon around the wreath, tuck the end under the wires on the backside of the wreath or tie into a bow.
3. Place wreath over the candles. Arrange the beads around the candles in the center of the wreath.
4. Place the shatterproof Christmas Balls throughout the wreath with the spot for the hooks facing into the wreath. Place remaining balls around the candles.

Kids Hanging Christmas Wreath

Kids love Holiday crafts, especially during the Christmas season. This is super easy, inexpensive, and kids will love creating these and hanging them above the fireplace, in a window, or on a wall.

Materials

• 1-3 small or medium foam wreath frames
• 1-2 rolls of Christmas ribbon or garland
• 6-8 inch solid color ribbon to match Christmas ribbon
• Fabric Glue, Hot Glue, or Safety pins
• Scissors

Directions:

1. Glue the tip of the ribbon to the back of the foam wreath and wrap around it until it is completely covered with the ribbon.
2. Glue or safety pin the last piece of ribbon to the back of the wreath.
3. Loop the solid ribbon around the inside of the wreath, tie it at the top.
4. Using a push pin, hang the wreath or wreaths in the wall just above the window.

These are simple, inexpensive crafts that will add Christmas Spirit to the home. Merry Christmas!!!

Kids Craft: Christmas Card Pictures

Christmas Card Pictures

Christmas cards are often seen, displayed, and packed or thrown away. For those  who save the cards, stacks soon appear, along with dust, and yet, it is impossible to throw away the cards. Fortunately, Christmas cards do not have to be put away, they can become part of the Christmas décor in many ways, one being festive framed pictures.

Materials:

• 4X6 and 5X7 picture frames (number depends on number of cards being framed)
• Christmas cards

Directions:

Cut the cards to fit inside the frames. Place frames in hallways, kids rooms, bathroom, Kitchen, and other areas to add Christmas cheer.


Easy, very inexpensive. Even so, this can be turned into a kids craft, using wooden frames found at craft stores, glitters, ribbons, stickers, and paint for them to give their frame a personal touch.

Kids Craft: Christmas Card Pictures

Materials:

• 1 wooden frame for each child
• Collection of Christmas Cards
• Red, Green, and Blue Construction Paper
• Christmas Ribbons
• Red, White, Silver, Green, and Gold Glitter
• Christmas Stickers
• Christmas Colored Paints
• Paint brushes
• Scissors
• Glue

Directions:

1. Give each child a frame, take out the glass, and let them paint it. Set aside and let dry.
2. Have all items on a table, available for the children to pick. Let the kids pick Christmas cards to place in the frame or to create a collage on cardboard paper to place in the frame.
3. Once the picture is ready and paint is dry, place in the frame.
4. Make a bow and glue or tape onto the top or bottom of the frame.
5. Decorate with stickers or more glitter if desired.

This is a really fun craft for the holidays and it could even be turned into a craft for the kids to do with family photos as a gift. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Brunch Menu

Many families wake up and begin preparing a meal before opening gifts, a meal that will not be eaten until mid to late afternoon. Some eat leftovers from Christmas Dinner on Christmas Eve, but this ear, why not start a new tradition, Christmas Brunch. Brunch is perfect for this busy holiday. No one wants to eat or prepare breakfast first thing on Christmas but everyone is usually hungry by mid morning and starts snacking before the main meal. Not only will brunch satisfy the hunger, it will give everyone a chance to sit back and just enjoy the rest of the day.


Christmas Brunch Menu

What to cook for a brunch? Basic breakfast foods with a twist. This menu even includes turkey and cranberry sauce. No one will leave this brunch hungry, but all will be begging for more.

• Pumpkin Biscuits
• Eggnog Pecan French Toast
• Buttered Turkey Breasts
• Cranberry-Orange Jelly
• Cheesy Egg, Bacon, and Herb Casserole
• Honey Butter
• Ginger and Nutmeg Warm Fruit Bowl
• Cider

 Make the turkey, jelly, and butter the night before, the recipes for the cider and honey butter can be found by clicking the links.

Pumpkin Biscuits

Ingredients:

• Favorite biscuit recipe
• 1/2-3/4 cup canned pumpkin pie mix
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Directions:

1. Prepare oven and biscuit mix according to the recipe. Add the canned pumpkin pie mix and 1/2 the brown sugar.
2. Roll out on a floured surface (or use a spoon to make drop biscuits), cut out biscuit rounds, about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick.
3. Place on a cookie sheet, sprinkle remaining sugar on top (optional) and cook according to directions.
4. Place in a bowl covered with a tea towel. Serve with honey butter and cranberry jelly.

Cranberry-Orange Jelly

Ingredients:

• 1 can Whole Berry Cranberry
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/3-1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1-2 tablespoons orange zest

Directions:

1. Place the cranberry, sugar and orange juice into a pot over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil. Stir often to prevent sticking.
2. Turn heat to low, let simmer 15 minutes, stirring often.
3. Add orange zest.
4. Place in a small serving bowl, use on biscuits.

Buttered Turkey Breasts
(prepare night before)

Ingredients:

• 2 8lb. Turkey Breasts, thawed, washed, dried
• 2 sticks butter, softened
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 package herb seasoning (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350.
2. Place turkeys in a roasting pan and loosen the skin from the body.
3. Mix the softened butter with the herb seasoning. Use about a spoon full at a time and place under the skin, mashing down and rubbing. Rub the remaining butter on top and inside the birds.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the birds, pour 1 cup stock over top. Cook 2 1/2-3 hours (until internal temperature is 165-170.
5. Let cool, cut, cover, and reheat in the morning.

Eggnog Pecan French Toast

Ingredients:

• 1-2 loaves Italian or French Bread, cut into1 1/2 inch slices.
• 2-2 1/2 cups eggnog
• 6 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup pecan pieces
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions:

1. The night before, mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Spray a baking dish with non-stick baking spray. Spoon in 1/2 cup of egg and nog mix onto the bottom of the dish, spread around and sprinkle with about 1/4 of the sugar spice mix.
3. Place cut pieces of bread into the dish, side by side.
4. Whisk remaining sugar into the eggnog and egg mix, pour over the bread.
5. Place in fridge overnight, until ready to use.
6. Preheat oven to 375.
7. Uncover the French toast and sprinkle pecans on top. Bake 35-40 minutes until crispy on top. Serve with maple syrup.

Cheesy Egg and Herb Casserole

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs, beaten
• 1 lb. sage sausage
• 1 1/2 cups toasted Italian or French Bread, cubed (use any left over from the Eggnog French Toast
• 1 1/2 cup milk
• 1 stick butter, softened
• 1 packet herb seasoning
• 1 cup Italian cheese mix (available on shredded cheese aisle)
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degree F.
2. Mix the eggs, milk, herb seasoning, 1/4 cup of the Italian cheese and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese in a medium bowl. Cover, set aside.
3. Cook sausage in a skillet until browned and cooked through, drain the grease into a glass jar.
4. Butter a 13x9 baking dish generously.
5. Mix sausage, parsley, and cubed bread in the baking dish.
6. Pour the egg and milk mix over the bread, sausage, and parsley. Bake 10 minutes. Top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake 20-30 minutes, until set.
8. Serve

The mix can be made the night before and placed in the refrigerator overnight.

Ginger and Nutmeg Warm Fruit Bowl

Ingredients:

• 4 large Honey Crisp or Golden Delicious apples, washed, dried, and sliced
• Washed and Dried Bagged Cranberries
• 2 Pears, washed and sliced
• 2 cans Sliced Peaches, drained
• 1 can Chunk Pineapples, drained
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 Tablespoon Fresh grated Ginger
• 1/2 Teaspoon Nutmeg

Directions:

1. Mix all the ingredients in a baking dish the night before. Cover and place in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake uncovered 30-40 minutes. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over cooked fruit if desired and serve.

The fruit goes perfectly with the cheesy egg casserole, the eggnog French toast is like a dessert dish, the turkey can be served on the pumpkin biscuits with the cranberry-orange jelly or honey butter, and the hot cider will leave everyone feeling relaxed while listening to Christmas tunes. Merry Christmas!!