Holiday Moments & Memories

Holiday STAFF

Executive Publishers

Greg and Suzanne Polk Fox Fox Print and Creative Publishing, LLC

Managing Editor Suzanne Polk Fox

Writers

Nellie Palmer

Dina Zelden

Creative Team

Production & Design

Suzanne Fox

Claire Thomas

© 2023 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.

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Exchange Ornament

By Dina Zelden

Holiday parties have you feeling stressed? Worried about finding time to bake dozens of cookies for that exchange? Want to host a gathering, but don’t want guests to break the bank on a gift to swap? Here’s the solution. Host an ornament exchange!

An ornament exchange can be as simple or as fun and festive as you’d like. The endless options make this a party anyone will enjoy whether hosting or attending.

Pick the Place & Time

The streamlined option is to meet a small group of friends at your favorite restaurant. You can bring place cards or small favors to decorate the plates for a personal touch. Prefer to host at your place? Simple could be brunch in the late morning or desserts and coffee in the evening. Fun and festive means popping some corks and adding a great spread of your best holiday appetizers and finger foods.

Decide the Rules

Simple would mean a price range of $5-10 and guests bring the ornament unwrapped. The festive option could include a theme such as Santa, vintage or glam, with a higher price range. A fun alternative would be a DIY ornament, if your family or friends are a crafty bunch. Festive means guests bring their contribution wrapped with all the trimmings.

Ornament Decorating Station

Set up a DIY ornament decorating station with plain ornaments, paint, glitter, and other craft supplies. Each guest can decorate their own ornament and then exchange them at the end of the party. This way, everyone takes home a handmade piece of holiday cheer.

Themed Ornaments

Assign a theme to the exchange, such as "travel," "nature," or "nostalgia." Ask guests to bring an ornament that fits the theme, and then let them explain how their ornament relates to it. This adds an element of creativity and intrigue to the exchange.

Then Comes the Fun!

Now you have to decide how you will organize your exchange. Choose from these ideas, depending on the rules you set.

• Pick a Number–This is a simple, fast way to be sure each guest goes home with a new ornament. As guests place their unwrapped ornament on the tree, tag it with a number. At the end of the evening, guests pick a number and they take home the corresponding ornament. This is great for a group that doesn’t know each other well, or when you want the food and mingling to be the highlight of the evening.

Santa– Just like the name implies, this works like a traditional exchange where guests pick a name (before or when they arrive) and their ornament goes to that person. For a group that knows each other well, choosing names beforehand allows each person to shop with the recipient in mind for a personal touch.

• Musical Ornaments– Remember this classic party game? Have everyone stand in a circle and hand one wrapped ornament to a guest. Play music, as the group passes the box along the circle. When the music stops, whoever is holding the box takes that ornament and leaves the circle. Play continues until all the ornaments have been given. Play faster music to liven up the game as it goes on. You can watch each person unwrap their gift or wait for everyone to open at the end, depending on the size of your group.

• Swap and Steal or Dirty Santa– Although this exchange goes by many names, everyone knows that it is FUN! Go over the rules before beginning, since there are many variations. Decide how many steals are allowed, how it finally ends, etc. To begin, guests pick a number. The person with number one picks a gift and unwraps it. The second person can either choose a gift to unwrap or steal from the first person. This is where the fun starts. This exchange is great for a lively group that doesn’t mind getting spirited.

Hosting an ornament exchange is a great way to spend time with friends and enjoy the merriment of the season without much hassle or stress. Who knows? It may become a favorite holiday tradition for you and your guests.

ChristmasAlternativesTree

The Christmas tree, as the centerpiece of holiday decorating, is always a tall, expensive evergreen. But does it need to be?

There are many reasons to reconsider the traditional Christmas tree. Maybe finances are tight and the thought of spending a good bit of money on something that will eventually be dragged to the curb seems unreasonable. Are you tired of the vigilant watch over toddler or the family pet, constantly shooing them away from the twinkling, sparkling attraction? Going out of town for a long stretch during the holidays complicates the issue of caring for a living tree. A new baby or illness may have drained your energy and the thought of all that setting up and taking down is too much to bear. These and many other reasons may have you rethinking this staple of holiday decorating. Not to worry. You can still bring a festive look to your home with one of these alternatives.

ORNAMENT DISPLAY

Let’s face it. For many, the tree is just a way to showcase all of those beautiful, precious ornaments. You can still show off your treasures in some unique ways. Dress up your windows by hanging ornaments from various lengths of elegant ribbon. The light from

the windows will add a natural twinkle. Tuck your loveliest baubles in the greenery decorating the fireplace mantle or add them to a wreath. Buy a small, ready-made metal or wooden tree made specifically for displaying your best bulbs or make one yourself. There are lots of DIY projects to choose from. Fill vases with colorful ornaments for an eye-catching alternative.

TOUCH OF NATURE

If the greenery and scent of a Christmas tree is what you’re after, there are some budget friendly ways to achieve the same effect in less space. Try decorating a potted plant you already own like a ficus tree or purchase a seasonal one such as a Norfolk Island Pine or dwarf Alberta Spruce. Add lights and a tree skirt for the full effect. A rosemary shrub, which can be potted for decorating, adds a lovely fragrance

By Dina Zelden

and can be planted in your garden come spring. Twigs and branches in a vase bring nature indoors and can be decorated with small ornaments, ribbon and lights.

GET IN SHAPE

From a design perspective, a Christmas tree is simply a cone. Use this to inspire a unique take on tradition. Use styrofoam or paper craft cones to create your own trees in a variety of sizes. They can be covered with natural items such as nuts, seashells or pine cones. For textured trees, try wrapping with twine, different colored yarns or felt. Other options include buttons, candy or other small, glittery accents such as beads. Kids can even get in on the fun of crafting with you. Another way to mimic the shape of a tree is by stacking progressively smaller items, then topping with a star or shiny ball. You can try books, wine corks, gift-wrapped boxes or painted pieces of pallet wood. Try

stacking different-sized cake plates then adding greenery and ornaments for a holiday table centerpiece. Get creative and have fun!

O CHRISTMAS TREE

If the tree is what you love, consider displaying a group of smaller trees, such as fabric, glass or colorful bottlebrush trees. These collections can be shown off on the mantle, a tabletop or small shelf. Look for other tree-themed items such as pillows, knickknacks or artwork to add that holiday magic using accessories you can enjoy year after year.

Whether you decide to stick to the traditional display of a real, full-sized tree or decide to try an alternative this year, the spirit of the season remains the same. Joy, giving and togetherness are what makes the holidays special.

WINE CORK CHRISTMAS TREE

By Dina Zelden

SUPPLIES

• 30 wine corks

• Clear or glue that dries clear

• Glitter - Any colors - at least three

• Hot glue and hot glue gun

26 of the corks will be the tree and the other four will be the tree trunk.

DIRECTIONS

 Roll the four tree trunk corks in glue and then glitter–Use all one color for the trunk.

 Tap the other twenty six corks in glue and then glitter on each end.

 Allow corks to dry completely before assembly.

ONCE DRY

 Using a flat surface, start with five corks lined up side-by-side so that the ends are even.

 Use the hot glue in the seams to hold them together.

 Make a row of five corks, a row of six corks, another row of five corks, a row of four, a row of three, a row of two and then one.

 Make each row on the flat surface and allow to dry completely before assembly.

 Glue the four corks together to make the trunk.

 Place a row of five on top of the trunk, a row of six, another row of five, four, three, two and finally the last one on top.

 Alternate the colors to resemble ornaments on a tree.

This is a very easy project that can be done with kids or adults.

By Nellie Palmer

Cupcakes Cupcakes Christmas Tree

INGREDIENTS

• Box cake mix - any flavor

• White cake icing

• Coconut flakes

• Wilton green chocolate discs

• Thin pretzel rods

• Multi-color candy sprinkles

DIRECTIONS

 Prepare cake mix as directed.

 Divide into cup cake cups and bake.

 Let cool.

 Spread white icing on top and sprinkle with coconut flakes to resemble snow.

 Place thin pretzel sticks on waxed or parchment paper.

 Melt green chocolate using directions on bag.

 Place melted chocolate in freezer zip lock bag or icing piping bag.

 Cut small corner from bag

 Use bag to pipe icing lines to form a Christmas tree on top of pretzel sticks, sprinkle with candy sprinkles while candy is still wet. Let harden.

 Place Christmas tree on each cup cake.

GIFT IDEAS

For HIM

By Dina Zelden

OFTEN THE BIGGEST HOLIDAY DILEMMA IS WHAT TO GET THE MEN IN YOUR LIFE. HAVE NO FEAR! OUR WIDE VARIETY OF GIFT SELECTIONS HAS YOU COVERED.

The techy guy will enjoy the SMART GARAGE HUB. He can control, secure and monitor the garage door from his smartphone. Easy to install and compatible with most existing garage door openers, this will give your favorite guy access to his garage–any time, anywhere.

For the active guy, try this SPIKEBALL kit. Great for playing at the beach, the park or your own backyard. Everything you need to start the fun is included. In addition, there’s a light-up kit to continue the fun after the sun goes down.

Whether you’re shopping for a griller, a fisherman or a camping enthusiast, they have one thing in common–the dreaded mosquito. Let them enjoy their activity in comfort with the THERMACELL BACKPACKER MOSQUITO REPELLER. It provides hours of scent-free, mess-free mosquito defense up to 15 feet.

Any coffee lover on your list will appreciate this WACACO MINIPRESSO PORTABLE ESPRESSO MACHINE. Sleek, lightweight and easy to use, this gift will provide the perfect cup of coffee at the office or on-the-go.

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What to buy the women in your life? Sister, wife, mom, friend–Christmas is the time to treat them to something special!

GIFT IDEAS For HER

By Dina Zelden

Take the sting out of early mornings with the SUNRISE ALARM CLOCK. This highly-rated clock simulates a sunrise by gradually brightening. With seven soothing nature sounds, this clock can be set for 30, 20 or 10 minutes until it is fully lit.

Upgrade her style while still providing comfort. These ALLBIRDS SLIP-ONS, made of superfine merino wool, are great all day- from home to the office and running errands in between.

Let her chill out with this VOCHILL WINE GLASS CHILLER. It will keep her wine cold for over an hour indoors and fits glasses in a variety of shapes and

You can’t beat a FRESH BOUQUET OF FLOWERS FROM BLOOMSYBOX. This subscription will have her smiling all year long.

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Crazy Forts provides endless creative play for all ages. Simply connect the balls and sticks to create anything from castles, to spaceships, and more. There’s even a glow-inthe-dark version.

Gifts Gifts FOR KIDS

By Dina Zelden

Check out our list of gifts that are sure to please all the kids on your list!

The Moon Lamp comes with a rechargeable remote control, 16 different light colors, as well as a wooden base. A timer and brightness settings make this the perfect start to a great night’s sleep.

Crayola Light Up Tracing Pad comes with 100 mix-and-match images which are easy to trace, thanks to back lighting. It comes with a graphite pencil, 12 colored pencils, 10 tracing sheets and 10 blank sheets.

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Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Pie

By Nellie Palmer

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups cooked pumpkin (canned or fresh, see directions for cooking)

• 2 nine-inch pie crusts (or 1 deep dish)

• 1 1/4 cups cream

• 1/2 cup white sugar

• 1 1\4 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp ginger

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 2 eggs

Cooking Fresh Pumpkin

 Cut pumpkins* in half and remove all seeds.

 Bake open side down on cookie sheet at 325º for 1 hour or until soft.

 Remove all "meat" from pumpkin rind

INSTRUCTIONS

 Using a hand mixer, blender or food processor, combine 2 cups of fresh or canned pumpkin with all remaining ingredients except pie crust.

 Pour mixture into two regular pie crusts or one deep dish crust.

 Bake pie(s) on cookie sheet at 425º for 15 minutes.

 Reduce heat to 350º and bake for 45 minutes. (Deep dish may take 5-10 minutes longer).

 When time elapses, insert knife into center of pie. If it comes out clean, it's done.

*Look for a pumpkin a little smaller than a basketball. It will cook faster and yield enough for several pies. Any extra meat can be stored in airtight bags in the freezer.

Eggnog Cookies

By Nellie Palmer

EGG NOG AND THE HOLIDAYS ARE A DUO THAT CAN’T BE IGNORED. THIS COOKIE TAKES THE HEAVENLY AROMA OF NUTMEG WITH THE SWEET TASTE OF EGG NOG TO CREATE A SWEET TREAT EVERYONE WILL LOVE – EGG NOG FANS OR FOES.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup commercial eggnog

• 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for work surface

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten

• Sugar sprinkles

DIRECTIONS

 In a large bowl, mix butter and sugar together until mixture is light and fluffy. Add eggnog; stir until blended. Add flour, baking soda and nutmeg; stir to mix.

 Form dough into a 6” flattened disk and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.

 Preheat oven to 350°. Prepare 2 large baking sheets; lightly grease with shortening or line with parchment paper.

 On a lightly floured pastry mat or pastry board, roll the dough to a 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut dough into desired shapes using a cookie cutter that has been dipped in flour.

 Place cutout dough 2 inches apart on baking sheets.

 Brush cookies with egg white and sprinkle with sugar sprinkles.

 Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are very lightly browned. Remove cookies with a metal spatula and place on a wire cooling rack to cool.

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ChristmasCasseroleBreakfast

By Nellie Palmer

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb ground sausage

• 1/2 green pepper, diced

• 1/2 red pepper, diced

• 3 spring onions, diced

• 8 eggs

• 1 1/2 cups milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp dried Italian blend herbs or 1 tsp each: fresh chopped basil, oregano and rosemary (optional)

• 1 day old French baguette, chopped in cubes

• 1 8 oz package shredded mild cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS

1• Preheat large skillet and add sausage. Brown sausage, add peppers and onions. Cook until peppers and onions are soft. Let mixture cool.

2• Preheat oven to 350°. Combine eggs, milk, salt and pepper in large bowl. Whisk well. Add cooked sausage and peppers, green onions, herbs, half of the cheese and all of the bread in a large bowl. Mix well and pour into casserole dish.

3• Top with the other half of the cheese. Bake for 30 minutes covered. Remove foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until nicely browned.

Christmas Card

TAKING THE BEST PHOTOS

By Dina Zelden

WHETHER THIS IS YOUR FIRST YEAR SENDING A FAMILY CHRISTMAS CARD, OR YOU ARE STRUGGLING TO GET TODDLERS (OR TEENS) TO COMPLY WITH YOUR PHOTO SHOOT REQUESTS, HERE ARE TIPS THAT WILL MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS CARD ONE YOU ARE PROUD TO SHARE WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

The one thing that will help make all your decisions, is style! What style photo best reflects your family this year? Perusing some photo card websites will help give you some ideas. As a matter of fact, choosing the design will help determine what kind of photo you should take.

MODERN

For a modern look, choose casual clothing that is complementary. Plaids work well, as do muted and neutral colors. Stick with a simple background, plain or with just a single focal point. Everyday shots of your family life also give a modern feel.

CLASSIC

Jewel tones work well, as do coordinating outfits for a classic look. Holiday backgrounds such as the Christmas tree with twinkling lights or the

fireplace evoke a cozy feel. Try candid shots of a traditional activity such as baking cookies or decorating the tree.

FUN AND FESTIVE

This style is great when kids or pets are involved. You could go all out with matching outfits and even Santa hats. Action shots, playing with snow, or relaxing at the beach also give that fun vibe you want to achieve.

While styles may differ, these tips for great photos remain the same:

• Don’t try to cram too many photos on one card. If you can’t choose from a year’s worth of great shots, try using a QR code to link to a photo montage or highlight video.

This is a trendy, modern spin on the traditional holiday letter.

• Don’t stretch your photo to fill the space. This will result in a low quality image. Use images with at least 300 dpi for best quality.

• Don’t rely on the screen. What is printed, will generally be darker than what you see on the computer. For the best results be sure to lighten your photos before printing.

• Take lots of photos so you can choose the best to send to family and friends. Stay relaxed and most of all, remember that your photo will capture this time in your family’s life and become a treasured keepsake for years to come.

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 Teachers

School Staff (cafeteria, bus, etc.)

 Household Helpers (housekeeper, babysitter, etc.)

Neighbors  Bosses  Co-Workers

 Service Workers (mailmen, garbage collectors, etc.)

LOCAL STORY

LOCAL STORY

Silent Night

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Oh, Christmas Tree

Deck the Hall

Jingle Bells