Easy Christmas Cookies: One Dough, Three Ways

First of all, let me begin by saying these are not healthy Christmas cookies.  If you will be disappointed that this healthy foodie mama is about to share a sugary cookie recipe, then please hide your eyes!  I do not wish to offend :)  But.... it's Christmas!  There's just something special about sugar cookies at Christmas time, don't you think?

We decided to hand deliver them to each of the neighbors this year.  It was sweet watching Gentry walk up to each door, ring the bell, wait patiently, and then wish each neighbor a merry Christmas as he offered them a small box of these little tasty treats.  It warmed this mama's heart right through. 

And so we baked cookies, about 100 of them, and thought it would be nice to share our little recipe with you.

One Dough, Three Ways

for the dough:

1 1/2 c butter
1 1/2 c sugar
3 eggs
2 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
4 1/2 c all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt

Cream together the butter, sugar, and eggs, then stir in the vanilla, flour, baking soda, and salt.

Roll out on a lightly floured board; I roll mine to about 1/4 inch height.  Cut into any shape.  I used the mouth of a stage 1 baby food jar for the small circle shapes.

Bake at 375 for exactly 8 minutes.

for the toppings:

Coconut cookies - In a measuring cup, measure one cup of powdered sugar.  Add one teaspoon coconut extract and four teaspoons milk.  Stir well, frost cookies, and top with toasted coconut before the frosting dries. (After I pull the last batch of cookies from the oven, I add a handful of coconut onto the baking sheet and set it under the broiler for a minute to toast.)

Sprinkle cookies - Prepare frosting as above, but eliminate coconut extract and add 4 -5 drops of red food coloring instead.  Top with sprinkles.

Chocolate almond cookies - Pour one cup of chocolate chips into a microwave safe bowl, and microwave for 30 seconds.  Stir, and then microwave for another 30 seconds.  Stir again until all chips have lost their shape and you have a bowl of melted chocolate.  Dip cookies one by one into the chocolate and then into finely chopped almonds.

What are your favorite Christmas cookies to bake?  I'd love to know!  And, if you have the time, join me for a Parade of Christmas!

            Warmly,

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Shared at Raising Homemakers, Making Your Home Sing, and also at:

10 DIY Christmas Gifts for $5 or Less

[photo credit]

Whether you're on a strict budget or just have a large family and many friends, you should be able to find a few Christmas gift ideas you'll enjoy making - and giving - in this list.  Don't forget about the chai tea kit idea I shared last week!

1.  The gift of food is always appreciated.  Perhaps the most frugal of all food gifts is a beautiful, crusty loaf of homemade bread, wrapped halfway in brown paper and tied with a bow.  Add a sprig of evergreen for ornamentation. Might I suggest a loaf of authentic German pretzel bread or bagels made from scratch?  If bread is not your preference, then homemade maple granola or candied pecans presented in a large glass jar are unique and easy alternatives.

2.  For the bookworms in your life, consider homemade bookmarks.  If you are skilled at crocheting, consider crocheting a bookmark, including a few beautiful beads near the top so they may drape from the top of a cherished book.  If you are not skilled at crochet, you can make lovely bookmarks with an assortment of ribbon and then sew beads or a pretty button onto the top. 

3.  Have you been making jams throughout Autumn?  An assortment of homemade jams is a gift an entire family would be sure to enjoy.  My blueberry jam recipe is a yummy, easy option.

4.  If you have accumulated many pins and broaches over the years, consider turning them into elegant magnets by removing the pin segment from the back and hot gluing on a strong magnet in its place for display on a refrigerator.

5.  For the movie buff family, consider putting together a frugal movie basket; include popcorn, a box or two of candy, and a Redbox movie code or two (there are often free movie codes going around).  Or, if you are technologically savvy, include a video of the family from years past.

6.  For children, consider giving a homemade craft box.  Using a fun school box or wood box, fill it up with scraps of card stock, fabric, ribbon, buttons, etc.

7.  Has your family recently experienced the loss of a loved one?  Ask others to contribute a favorite story or memory and then compile a dvd or journal recounting each one.  Interview and record each contributor on video, if you like. This gift would be treasured for many years!

8.  Several years ago we made a wind chime as a family, and right now it's a fun addition to my son's room.  Using an assortment of wire (even old wire hangers twisted into long spirals will work!), hang fun ornaments, art pieces, or collectible items from each ending.  We used three-inch clear glass circles (look for these at a craft store) and painted various designs on them.  The circles had holes at the top that made for easy hanging.

9.  If you have a green thumb, a plant cutting in a beautiful small pot would make an elegant, simple gift, especially if you have a unique or especially beautiful plant to share.

10.  For the homemaker or busy mom, consider putting together a homemaking binder or recipe binder and customize it to their activities and needs.  Be sure to use a durable, appealing design.

Hopefully, you've found an idea or two in this list that would work for you, or at least you've been inspired to think more creatively about your frugal gift-giving this year. 

In an upcoming post, we'll discuss Christmas decor ideas.  If you're visiting here and are not a subscriber yet, now's a good time to get free updates via email and follow along via Facebook.

What are some of your frugal gift ideas?  What have you done in years past? 


           Warmly,



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Holiday Haven, Raising Homemakers, Works for Me Wednesday

Ramblings on Gifts, Pies, and Blogs

Yesterday was quite an eventful day around here.

The morning was an especially early one for me ~ I spent much of it preparing for friends that were coming to visit in the evening.  Picking up toys, dusting furniture, running laundry... But then I baked one of these:

And also one of these:

Both are so very good paired with ice cream or coffee...

But, alas, I digress.

It was especially eventful here yesterday because of the many lovely ladies that came to visit Like a Bubbling Brook from Money Saving Mom.  Thank you, Crystal, for including my Homemade Chai Tea Kit idea on your DIY gift post.  It was a wonderful privilege to be included!

Yesterday's link lit an idea in me; I began to think of what a blessing sites like Money Saving Mom have been to our family - and many of you - over the last few years.  I remember following along with Crystal on a couple of her previous sites as well and was always so very encouraged by her posts.

So, today I thought I'd share a few of the other blogs that I've found to be a tremendous blessing, and each of these I've followed for at least a year, some two or three years.  Inevitably, I may not agree with everything they've shared on their sites over the course of time, but the inspiration has been invaluable ~

Eyes of Wonder - She doesn't post often anymore, but her photos, stories of family, and simplicity have been a treasure.  Her children are mostly grown and she has many lessons and thoughts to share.

Cultivating Home - She raises chickens and ducks, lives simply, is rehabbing a beautiful old home for pennies on the dollar, and has such beautiful children; we've never met in person, but I often feel like we are the oldest of friends when I am reading her posts.

The Prudent Homemaker - She says that her site is dedicated to all those who struggle to put food on the table, but I've found her site to be much more than that; her recipes are frugal and delicious, her gardening and canning abilities inspire me, and I really, really desire a thoughtful, well-stocked pantry like the one she's created.

And last, but certainly not least, is my sweet friend Mrs. June Fuentes's blog, A Wise Woman Builds Her Home.  When I first came across her blog a couple of years ago I had no idea that we lived near each other and would one day be spending time with each other's families.  She is a well of wisdom, and I never tire of gleaning from her.  I highly recommend her Christian Mother Series if you have the time.

Be blessed and encouraged today, ladies ~ you were created for such a time as this, in His image, and He knows the plans He has for you.

Do you have a favorite site or blog that you've followed for a year or more?  I'd love to hear about it in the comment section!


           Warmly,



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Do-It-Yourself Gift Idea: An Elegant Chai Tea Kit

Wouldn't a homemade chai tea kit make a warm, cozy Christmas gift?

I'm envisioning a kit that is elegant, but useful, much like the one here:


[photo credit]

 It would be easy to do, and should cost you less than $5 each if you plan to make four kits and purchase some of your spices and containers in bulk.  For great containers (glass, plastic, or tin) you can shop around your local craft store, or order them very inexpensively from American Science & Surplus.  They have pretty little glass bottles, some in a 20 packs for only $2 or $3, and corks as well.  One 20 pack should make four gifts if you use five bottles or vials per gift.

Fill your little containers with:

Cinnamon sticks
Ground or dried ginger
Whole cloves
Ground or whole cardamom pods
Ground or whole nutmeg
Black tea or tea bags

And include a card, perhaps printed in a calligraphy font, with these directions:

In a saucepan, bring two cups of water to a simmer. Add three black tea bags. Season with one cinnamon stick, four cloves, 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon of ginger, and a pinch of nutmeg. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, slightly covered. Pour in two cups of milk, and return to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat, and strain through a fine sieve.  Add honey to sweeten if desired.

Arrange the items in a simple box or basket, and you have a beautiful, inexpensive gift!

I can often find the spices that are listed above near the international or Hispanic section of my supermarket.  They are sold in larger bags, and cost much less than the spices you may traditionally buy in the small containers.  For example, San Miguel Mexican Products sells 5" whole cinnamon sticks in an 8 oz bag for only $3 or so.  This would be enough to use in at least four kits.

I'll be sharing more inexpensive, do-it-yourself gift ideas in upcoming posts.  Now would be a good time to subscribe if you haven't already!

Do you have any favorite frugal gift ideas?  Share them in the comment section.  I'd love to hear about them!



            Warmly,




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{Shared at Nourishing Gourmet}

Thanksgiving Goodness

Here are a few highlights from our Thanksgiving day ~

While I was preparing, my husband took our oldest son out to enjoy a hike through the woods ~

And then, when I was finished baking, I managed to snap a few photos to share with you all.  I wish I had taken more!  Here's a place setting ~ Care to join us? ;)

My apple pie, which I was quite pleased with this time around (I've been tweaking it) ~

My pecan pie ~

My broccoli salad ~

My mama's potatoes ~

I wished I'd thought to get a photo of my husband's turkey before we cut into it; he grilled it this year, and it was wonderful!

What was on your Thanksgiving table?  How was your day?

           Warmly,



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Menu Plan for Thanksgiving Week




Oh my ~ it's Thanksgiving week!  We've had a fun-filled, relaxing weekend, but now there's lots of baking to do! 

Here's what I've planned so far:

Monday is our church Thanksgiving Dinner; I am planning to bring an apple cake, an apple pie, and possibly one other dish that I haven't decided on yet.  Any suggestions?

Tuesday I am keeping dinner simple.  Potato soup, served with crumbled turkey bacon and crusty bread is on the menu.

Wednesday some family is coming in from out-of-town, and my sweet mama is making dinner for us all.   I may bring an apple cake, and glaze it with a light frosting.

Thursday we are hosting dinner at our house, with lots of yummy dishes on the menu:  roasted turkey (my husband handles this, and it always comes out wonderful!), broccoli salad, fresh baked pretzel bread, gravy, stuffing, pumpkin cheesecake, pecan pie, and more!  My mama is bringing over mashed potatoes and candied sweet potatoes, too.

Friday we'll plan to have leftovers.  That's what everyone is planning, right? :)

Aren't you excited?  What a special week this will be!  I'm so thankful to be spending it with those I cherish most!

I've shared my ideas for Thanksgiving decor here, if you'd like to take a peek.

Are you hosting Thanksgiving at your home?  What's your favorite dish to prepare?

           Warmly,


{Linked with Menu Plan Monday and a Thanksgiving Party}



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Thanksgiving Decor Inspiration

We've hosted Thanksgiving at our home several times, but isn't it nice to get some new ideas each year? 

I just love a beautifully - and thoughtfully - decorated table!

Here are a few decor ideas I have simmering in my head:

Country Living has a sentimental and elegant idea for decorating your table with family photos.. I'd like to see them in pretty frames.  Aren't you so very thankful for your family?  What a simple, frugal, and lovely way to make the day special ~

Another simple idea is to merely tie an autumn leaf around glass votives ~

What about Martha Stewart's idea for "leaves of thanksgiving"... wouldn't it be nice to have each family member write down a thing or two that they are thankful for this year, then arrange all of the leaves in a collage as a keepsake?  Each year you could set the previous years' collages out for the family to reminisce and peruse ~

And, for dinnerware, I love the contrast of this decorated plate against the gold plate and charger.  I already have gold plates (and chargers), so I will be keeping my eyes open for beautiful salad plates for layering ~

 What are your ideas for this Thanksgiving?  Have you found decor inspiration anywhere?

            Warmly, 

{Linked with Frugal Friday, Raising Homemakers, and WFMW}


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He Picks Me Flowers

These flowers have become a favorite around here; my oldest son picks a new little bouquet for me nearly every day.

Walking in the door from playing outside, he proudly exclaims in a sing-song voice, "Mommy!  I have more flowers for you!"

One of the neighbor kids has been inspired by his picking.  She recently picked from among my flowers to create a bouquet for her mama.  I don't mind!  There's plenty to go around. 

Isn't it sweet?





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Priorities, Guests, and Sick Babies

Monday we welcomed an out-of-town (actually, out-of-country) guest into our home for the week. 

Monday also happened to be the day our youngest son was sick with fever.

At four o'clock this morning, my oldest son awoke, screaming from a nightmare and burning with fever, too.

Needless to say, I may not be posting here much the next day or two; my apologies in advance.  I do have so much to share but priorities must be, well... priorities.

In the meantime, I invite you to check out Generation Cedar's recent post on modesty, and my dear friend June's series in-progress titled "She Looketh Well."  Both are thought-provoking.

Now, back to being mama, aka nurse :o)  Have a blessed, sunshiney day!

         Warmly,


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The Purpose of Our Home

Photo credit here  7K3JU6EF2CFR

"Every wise woman buildeth her house..."

Proverbs 14:1

As a Christian, what is the purpose of our home? 

Is it to be used as fuel for competition with the Joneses, or to burden us with unnecessary cares and countless hours of work?

"If our view of our homes is shortsighted, there is no motivation to accomplish the menial tasks of maintaining it. If we don’t cultivate a high and holy design for our homes, it is easy to slip into thoughts of frustration, comparison, or purposelessness.

If we view our homes as a place of hospitality – to welcome our families and the hurting around us – there will be so much more strength and motivation to keep it clean, organized, and prepared."

Most importantly, what does the Bible say about our home?

Read the rest of the blog post at Passionate Homemaking by clicking here.

Have you given much thought to the purpose of your home?