Holiday Moments and Memories: Down To Earth Christmas

Holiday

A DOWN TO EARTHChristmas

Holiday

A DOWN TO EARTH CHRISTMAS

Holiday

A DOWN TO EARTHChristmas

Holiday

STAFF

Executive Publishers

Greg and Suzanne Polk Fox

Fox Print and Creative Publishing, LLC

Managing Editor

Suzanne Polk Fox Writers

Jan Golden Jessie Gray Nellie Palmer

Dina Zelden

Creative Team

Production & Design

Suzanne Fox

Claire Thomas

© 2021 Fox Print & Creative Publishing, LLC, New Orleans, LA

All rights reserved

Printed in the USA by Fox Print Services (getfoxcontent.com)

The information contained in Holiday Moments and Memories is intended for educational purposes only. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC and publishers of Holiday Moments and Memories, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Holiday Moments and Memories and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in Holiday Moments and Memories. V5

NaturalDecorating

By Dina Zelden

When it is time to deck the halls, ev eryone can use a little inspiration. The tried and true holiday themes can feel tired and worn. This year, hire Mother Nature as your interior designer to create a fresh, nat ural look that will warm your home and your heart.

First, consider the color palette. Earthy colors in muted, softer tones inspired by elements of nature will com plement this decorating choice. Pine cones, cinnamon sticks and seed pods offer brown hues. Pine boughs, eucalyptus and other foliage provide a range of green shades. Let birch wood, as well as linen and other natural fabrics give you a range of whites from classic to creamy.

Texture is an important design element and nature offers endless possibilities.

Incorporate wooden elements to add to the rustic charm and provide visual interest. Wrap twigs in lights and arrange into star shapes to hang alone or in groups. Hollow out logs to make beautiful, natural candle holders. Next, include natural fabrics. Add a faux-fur throw rug or blanket to cozy up the fireside sitting area. Wrap burlap around a wreath form, adorn with greenery and hang

with a burlap bow to create a wreath with natural charm.

Traditionally, the Christmas tree takes center stage and is a classic example of bringing nature indoors. To add a natural flair, ornaments made from twigs or twine are easy DIY projects, and a fun way to get the family involved. As an alternative, add twinkling lights to a few branches in a tabletop vase for a festive

look, no matter how you choose to celebrate the winter season. Birch wood is a lovely addition because of its clean, white hue. Consider purchasing a few logs to add to a basket or stack artfully by the fireplace.

Adding elements in small detail will make your space cozy this time of year. A

bedside table or living room console is a great place to add beeswax candles. Dried fruit makes a lovely addition to a garland or window hanging. Small bowls filled with seed pods, nuts and cinnamon sticks will not only look great, they will make your home smell great as well.

Decorating this season can last all winter. With a natural palette and simple elements, there will be no need to discard the decor once the holiday has passed. Natural design can create a fresh, re laxing environment well into the new year.

MAKE A GIFT THAT KEEPS ON SOOTHING WHIPPED HONEY ROSE HAND CREAM

By Dina Zelden

YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WILL LOVE THIS CREAMY, NATURAL HAND CREAM TO BATTLE THE WINTER DRYNESS, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE YOU MADE IT YOURSELF!

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup organic extra virgin coconut oil

1/2 cup unrefined organic shea butter

3 tbsp raw and unfiltered wildflower honey

2 tsp organic pure vanilla extract

8-10 drops rose geranium essential oil

DIRECTIONS

the ingredients and place all but the essential oil into a double boiler.

Melt ingredients over medium heat, stirring to mix thoroughly.

Cool completely (1 to 2 hours) in the refrigerator until the mixture becomes solid.

Once solidified, whip essential oils into the solid mixture with a hand mixer.

Transfer to your glass jar for storage.

SUPPLIES:

• Beeswax sheets (colored or natural)

Beeswax

Candles

• Cotton wick cut to height of candle plus approximately 1/2 inch to light

• Unfinished natural wood slices, round with bark (approximately 4 inches, depending on candle size)

• Bits of pine bough, rosemary or other greenery

• Paper ribbon or twine

• Small, natural elements

• Candle putty

• Hot glue or other adhesive

INSTRUCTIONS:



Begin by having an adult cut the beeswax sheets to the desired height of your candle using a sharp knife. Remember that the length of the sheet will determine the diameter of the candle, so adjust accordingly.

 Place cotton wick along the HEIGHT side of the beeswax sheet and gently press into the wax. Bend about 1/8 inch of the wax around the wick. Begin rolling tightly to secure the wick, as this will be the center of your candle. The wax will soften with the warmth of your hands, but you may speed the process by applying the heat from a blow dryer on the lowest setting. This is the only time you need heat and a little pressure. Once the wick is secure, roll gently so as not to compress the honeycomb pattern. Keep your rolling even and straight to the end of the sheet or until you reach the

By Dina Zelden

ENJOY MAKING BEESWAX CANDLES TO DECORATE

YOUR HOME OR GIVE AS GIFTS. BEESWAX BURNS LONGER, DRIPS LESS AND SMELLS WONDERFUL, NATURALLY. THIS CRAFT IS SIMPLE ENOUGH FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO JOIN IN THE FUN.

desired thickness. Trim any excess. Gently press the edge to finish the candle. You may use your thumb or nail to make a fairly smooth edge.

 Adhere candle to the center of a wooden disc with candle putty. Adorn with greenery, ribbon or twine tied into a small bow and secure with adhesive such as hot glue, taking care not to melt beeswax. You may add small natural items such as mini pine cones, acorns, or star anise pods. Have fun and be creative!

GIFT IDEAS

For HIM

By Dina Zelden

THIS YEAR, BY CONSIDERING THE HOBBIES AND INTERESTS OF THE MEN ON YOUR LIST, YOU CAN FIND A GIFT THEY WILL ENJOY YEAR-ROUND. CONSIDER HIS PASSION, THEN CHOOSE A FUN AND TRENDY GIFT TO MATCH.

For the travel enthusiast, an RFID-BLOCKING WALLET or passport holder ensures that his personal financial information will be safe.

This stylish and sleek BEANIE allows him to enjoy his favorite tunes on the go

In addition to camping accessories, the outdoorsmen in your life will find this COOLER with a retro flair, both charming and practical.

For the mixologist, stylish cocktail shakers, and other bar accessories are sure to please. Try a FLAVORED BOURBON WHISKEY for a fun twist.

Whether he does hard workouts or just works hard, any guy can benefit from a MASSAGE GUN with settings for relaxation or deep tissue massage.

ADAD

IN THE KITCHEN

Consider one of the latest culinary accessories for your favorite home chef. Gift cards to a meal kit service, such as Hello Fresh or Purple Carrot combine the fun of preparing your own meal with the convenience of ingredients and instructions delivered right to your doorstep. The new Always Pan does the work of eight pieces of cookware from fry pan to steamer and is sure to be a hit.

For HER

GIFT IDEAS

COMFY AND

Luxurious pajamas, fuzzy slippers, and weighted blankets are good options to keep your loved one happy. The CozyChic Lite Circle Cardigan by Barefoot Dreams is a gift that will go seamlessly from working at home to curling up

By Dina Zelden

Whether they workout at home or in a gym, your favorite fitness junkie can always use items to fuel the next workout. Try combining fitness and technology with this JBL portable waterproof speaker that will take hiking, camping, or relaxing by the pool to the next level.

Want to WOW the women on your gift list this year? From mom to best friend we have great ideas that are sure to please.

Art enthusiasts love to make things. Parents don’t like the mess. Make everyone happy with these clever toys that keep the creativity contained.

Make-believe or role play is a great way for kids to use their imagination. Older kids can try their hand at running a food truck and youngsters can try this smart checkout by Little Tykes that will provide hours of entertainment with its real interactive conveyor belt and scanner.

Kids always love when the whole family joins the fun. Clack! is a magnetic stacking game for younger children, but older siblings as well as parents will gladly join the fun.

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a fast card game with some fun twists.This will be a go-to for game nights all year.

Gifts Gifts FOR KIDS

By Dina Zelden

Bring the holiday cheer in a big way with these great picks for the kids on your list.

By Nellie Palmer

DEBONING A WHOLE CHICKEN

Using a sharp paring knife, start by removing the wishbone, this makes it much easier to separate the breast meat from the bones. Separate the wing from the body at the joint but leave the rest of the wing bones intact. Carefully work your way around the chicken with the tip of the knife pointed inward toward the chicken so you don’t puncture the skin. (If you do puncture the skin don’t get too upset. You can use some meat to cover the hole or seal it with a toothpick.)

Separate the thigh from the body at the thigh joint, then scrape the meat away from the bone.

Use a heavy chef’s knife to break the leg at the ankle and pull out the bones. Season the chicken inside and out before stuffing.

AD

Use this QR Code to watch a video on deboning a whole chicken without cutting the skin.

How to Make a Christmas charcuterie board a Christmas charcuterie board

By Nellie Palmer

STEP 1 • THE PLATTER

To start, you need a foundation that goes with the rest of your holiday theme. This year, our theme is “down to earth” so we are going with an all-natural wood theme. You can use a rustic cutting board, or any wood server you can find. Don’t forget the appetizer plates and cheese knives for serving.

STEP 2 • CHOOSE A ROUNDED SELECTION OF CHEESES THAT ARE POPULAR WITH MOST PALATES

Soft cheeses; brie and goat, semi-soft cheeses; Gouda and cheddar, hard cheeses; aged Gouda, Parmesan, Pecorino. Since we are serving this for a holiday celebration, we will add cheeses that may have a Christmas theme, like cranberry covered cheese.

STEP 3 • A CURATED SELECTION OF MEATS

Prosciutto, salami, paté, turkey, ham pepperoni and bacon are our favorites.

STEP 4 • CONDIMENTS ALLOW GUESTS TO BUILD A CROSTINI OR SANDWICH

Jalapeno mustard, pepper jelly, fruit spreads, honey and hummus are a good start.

STEP 5 • FRUIT, NUTS AND OLIVES ARE A GREAT WAY TO CLEANSE THE PALATE

Favorites are grapes, berries, figs and apples wrapped in prosciutto to keep them from turning brown, along with almonds and a variety of nuts. Because olives are pickled with brine, place them in a small condiment bowl to keep the vinegar from your other dry items.

STEP 6 • CRACKERS AND BREAD

These are the base of your tray. Guests will use these to pile their lovely concoctions of goodness. We added Christmas and holiday shaped crackers and even a few gingerbread cookies. Top the tray off with rosemary garnish and candy canes for decoration.

ADAD

Christmas

Spice Cake Cream Cheese Icing with

BOOST YOUR FAVORITE BOX YELLOW CAKE

By Jessie Gray

ICING

doneness. If not done, check every five minutes until toothpick comes out clean.

cakes are done, let cool on rack.

cake pans on cooling rack.

bottom of each cake with Triple Sec.

the remaining mixture for the icing.

FOR ICING:

a mixer, blend cream cheese, vanilla and Triple Sec. Mix until well blended. If the texture is too loose, add corn starch until the consistency of whipped butter.

By Dina Zelden

WITH A PURPOSEParty Party

1. Select a Recipient

This may be the most difficult part since there are many worthy and admirable causes. Choose a charity close to home or close to the heart, whether it be an animal shelter, nursing home, or military troops. Everyone can benefit from being shown a little extra love.

2. Choose an Activity

Find an activity that will be fun for your guests, while being beneficial to the recipients. One idea is to have guests bring two dozen cookies, bought or homemade. Guests can enjoy samples, while the spare dozens will be delivered to an elderly facility or other location that accepts baked goods. Be sure to check ahead of time. You could arrange for guests to prepare care packages for the homeless or write holiday cards to send to military troops away from home. Another option is to ask guests to bring a re-gift or gently used item, wrapped and ready to “sell”. At the party, auction the gifts to the highest bidder, with all the proceeds being donated to your charity of choice.

3. Party!

Plan the time of day that best fits your chosen activity. Add food and a festive atmosphere that complete the theme. Breakfast on the weekend can include a pancake bar with all the toppings. Lunch may be a sandwich board, while dinner can be light with appetizers and cocktails. Kid-friendly cookies and cocoa would be a fun way to gather families. Keep it simple and focus on the reason behind the gathering.

With a purpose to the party, guests will be able to both enjoy and share the warmth and good cheer of the season.

Holiday Snowball Cookies

By Jan Golden

Snowball

cookies are a combination of ground pecans, lots of butter, flour and a bit of sugar. The cookies are more like shortbread but are extremely rich from the butter and the nutty pecans. These cookies are so easy and quick, they are perfect to make with the kids and grandkids.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1/3 cup sugar

• 2 tsp Madagascar vanilla

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 2 cups all purpose flour (we like King Arthur’s flour)

• 2 cups toasted pecans, finely ground

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS

1• In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, vanilla and salt.

2• Turn the mixer on low and gradually add the flour until all incorporated.

3• Stir in the nuts and mix until combined.

4• Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

5• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6• Place powdered sugar in a wide rimmed bowl

7• Once dough is well chilled and stiff, use a melon baller to scoop balls.

8• Roll balls in your hand until round and dip in powdered sugar.

9

• Place balls on cookie sheet, 2 inches apart.

10

• Bake 12 to 15 minutes. Do not over bake.

11• Cool cookies for 5 minutes. While cookies are still warm, gently roll in powdered sugar again. (they will be slightly soft, so try not to misshape your cookies)

12• Let cookies cool completely. Once cooled, roll the cookies in the powdered sugar a third time.

13• Place the cookies in a decorative bowl and display on table for your next party.

Holiday SELF CARE

Holiday SELF CARE

By Dina Zelden

THERE ARE MANY HOLIDAYS, BOTH RELIGIOUS AND SECULAR, THAT ARE CELEBRATED THIS TIME OF YEAR. WHILE EACH HAS A UNIQUE ORIGIN AND PURPOSE, WHAT THEY HAVE IN COMMON IS CELEBRATING WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS. SOCIALIZING, GIFT-GIVING, AND OTHER HOLIDAY ELEMENTS CAN TURN ANYONE INTO SCROOGE, IF NOT PROPERLY MANAGED. AVOID THAT "BAH, HUMBUG" FEELING WITH THESE IMPORTANT TIPS.

PLAN AHEAD

Holidays put pressure on one’s life in two main areas-time and money. Both seem in short supply this time of year, unless we plan ahead. Take time before the season begins to assess the situation. Consider your calendar and schedule events carefully. Hol iday events can be enjoyable and relaxing, or overwhelming and stressful. Think about all the options before responding yes to every invitation that arrives in your inbox or mail box. Likewise, make a financial plan for dealing with holiday spending. In addition to a gift budget, don’t forget to include decorating and any hosting expenses. Be realistic and scale back as needed. Well-managed finances in December mean a secure start to the new year!

LOOK INWARD

Holiday demands often cause changes to one’s routine. Try to set aside time for self-care. Getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and exercising help with management of stress and should be a priority during the holidays. Schedule down time to relax and recharge.

REACH OUT

Remember that others struggle at this time as well. Call a relative who may be lonely. Offer to help an elderly neighbor run errands. Team up with a friend to conquer your to-do lists. Running errands, wrapping presents and other holiday jobs can be more pleasant with company.

THERE IS NO NEED TO FEEL DEPLETED BY THE END OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON. WITH SOME PREPARATION AND THOUGHT, YOU CAN ENJOY ALL THIS TIME OF YEAR HAS TO OFFER WHILE STILL FEELING RELAXED AND READY TO FACE THE NEW YEAR.

LOCAL STORY

Jingle Bells

Silent Night

O Holy Night

O Christmas Tree

Deck the Hall

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas