Moments and Memories 2024 by Fox Printing and Digital Publishing

The Joy of Givi

Holiday STAFF

Executive Publishers

Greg and Suzanne Fox

Fox Print and Creative Publishing, LLC

Managing Editor

Suzanne Fox

Copy Editor

Christian Dischler

Writers

Brittany Cage

Jessie Gray

Nellie Palmer

Annie Thomas

Carly Graham

Nancy Kelly

Gina Pearson

Production & Design

Suzanne Fox

Printed in the USA by Fox Print Services info@igofox.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. F

UniqueTraditions

By Brittany Cage

The holiday season is your golden opportunity to create magical memories with friends and family that will be cherished for generations. Imagine transforming a simple tradition into a heartfelt ritual that becomes the highlight of every year. Picture this: a family gathered around a crackling fireplace, each member holding a fabric square. One by one, they sew their squares into a growing holiday quilt, each piece representing a special moment from that year. The quilt tells a story of shared laughter, milestones, and love, becoming a living testament to the family’s journey. This is just one example of how meaningful traditions can enrich your holiday experience. Dive into these ten unique traditions that will make your holidays not just special, but unforgettable.

Personalized Holiday Movie Experience

Instead of a regular movie marathon, create an interactive viewing experience. Design a cozy home theater with themed decorations, create a special holiday movie bingo or trivia game, and serve snacks that match the films. For example, pair "The Polar Express" with hot chocolate and cookies.

Adventure Advent Calendar

Transform the traditional advent calendar into an adventure countdown. Fill each day with a mini-experience or challenge, such as building a snowman, going for a winter hike, or visiting a local museum. This dynamic approach keeps the excitement alive and encourages family bonding through shared activities.

Themed Tree Decoration Night

Choose a unique theme for your tree each year, like "Travel Memories," "Vintage Family Photos," or "Favorite Books." Collect or create ornaments that fit the theme, and make a night of decorating with hot cocoa, themed snacks, and storytelling about the items you're hanging.

Intergenerational Baking Day

Invite multiple generations of your family to a baking day where each person brings a recipe that's meaningful to them. From grandma's famous gingerbread to dad's secret cookie recipe, baking together preserves family heritage and fills your home with delicious aromas and heartfelt stories.

Family Time Capsule

Create a holiday time capsule each year. Have everyone write down their favorite memories, predictions for the next year, and holiday wishes. Include photos and small mementos, then seal the capsule to be opened the following holiday season. This tradition captures the evolution of your family's journey.

Epic Holiday Game Tournament

Host an annual holiday game tournament with a mix of board games, card games, and custom holiday-themed games. Create a trophy or prize for the winner and keep a record of champions over the years. This fun competition encourages laughter, teamwork, and healthy family rivalry.

Holiday Memory Quilt

Each year, add a new square to a family holiday quilt that represents something memorable from that year’s celebration. Whether it’s a piece of fabric from a special outfit, embroidery of a favorite quote, or a small photo transfer, this evolving quilt becomes a beautiful tapestry of family memories. By incorporating these unique traditions into your holiday celebrations, you can create a festive atmosphere that fosters joy, togetherness, and cherished memories. Whether you choose to adopt one or all of these traditions, the most important thing is to spend quality time with loved ones and enjoy the magic of the holiday season.

EGGNOG CHEESECAKE With Gingerbread Crust

By Annie Thomas

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups gingerbread cookie crumbs (about 20 cookies)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup eggnog

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• In a medium bowl, combine the gingerbread cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to press it firmly.

• Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then coo

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

• Add the sugar and continue to beat until well combined.

• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

• Mix in the eggnog, vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and flour until the batter is smooth and well blended.

• Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled gingerbread crust, spreading it evenly.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when shaken.

• Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour.

• Once the cheesecake has cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

• Before serving, you can optionally garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or crushed gingerbread cookies.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

Sparkling

Pinecones

A Fun Holiday Craft

By Annie Thomas

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS A TIME FOR CREATING LASTING MEMORIES WITH YOUR LOVED ONES, AND THERE'S NO BETTER WAY TO DO THAT THAN BY MAKING FESTIVE DECORATIONS TOGETHER.

• Pinecones: You can collect these on a nature walk with the kids or buy them from a craft store.

• Glitter: Choose a variety of colors to make your pinecones extra festive.

• Craft glue: Opt for a clear-drying glue for the best results.

• Small paintbrushes: These will be used to apply the glue to the pinecones.

• Ribbon or string: For hanging the ornaments.

• Newspaper or a drop cloth: To protect your workspace from glitter and glue.

• A plastic plate or cardbord cut into a round if you are making the centerpiece.

• Styrofoam tree form (if you are making the tree centerpiece above)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Lay down newspaper or a drop cloth to catch any spills or excess glitter. This makes for an easier cleanup afterward and keeps the mess contained.

2. Select Your Pinecones: Choose pinecones that are fully opened and free of debris. If you gathered them yourself, you may want to bake them on a low heat (about 200°F for 20-30 minutes) to ensure they are free of bugs and to dry them out fully.

3. Apply the Glue: Using a small paintbrush, carefully apply glue to the edges of the pinecone scales. You can choose to cover the entire pinecone for a more dazzling effect or just highlight the tips for a subtler sparkle.

4. Add the Glitter: While the glue is still wet, sprinkle glitter generously over the pinecone. Hold the pinecone over a paper plate or a piece of newspaper to catch any excess glitter, which you can funnel back into the container for later use.

5. Let Them Dry: Once your pinecones are glittered to perfection, set them aside on a clean sheet of newspaper or a drying rack. Allow them to dry completely, which should take about an hour.

6. If you are hanging your pine cones: Attach the Ribbon: Cut a piece of ribbon or string about 6-8 inches long. Loop it through the top of the pinecone, tying a knot to secure it. If the pinecone

doesn’t have a natural loop at the top, you can glue the ribbon directly to the top of the pinecone.

7. For the tree centerpiece: Glue the tree form to your plate or round cardboard that is at least four inches wider than your form.

8. Starting at the bottom with the largest pinecones - glue the wide end of the pinecone to the tree form, alternating colors and sizes.

9. Finish by gluing decorative stems around the bottom.

Have fun and be creative!

GIFT IDEAS

For HIM

THE WAY TO HIS HEART... WHEN YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT THAT SPECIAL GUY THIS YEAR, THINK ABOUT FOOD, TRAVEL, AND GADGETS, AND YOU WON'T GO WRONG!

FOR THE TRAVEL ENTHUSIAST, 50 STATES, 5,000 IDEAS: WHERE TO GO, WHEN TO GO, WHAT TO SEE, WHAT TO DO

This richly illustrated book from the travel experts at National Geographic showcases the best travel experiences in every state, from the obvious to the unexpected.

NESTING GRILL BASKETS

Removable wooden handle, 304 Stainless Steel, rolling grilling net. Great BBQ tools for vegetables & shrimp, outdoor cooking & camping.

JERKY GIFT BASKET

Enjoy 23 individually wrapped meat sticks and 3 wrapped cheese sticks, totaling over 1 lb of meaty & cheesy snacks! Packaged in a cool canvas gift bag, this is the perfect gift for any meat and cheese lover!

TECHGLOW FOLDABLE CELLPHONE STAND WITH BLUETOOTH SPEAKER AND POWER BANK. The perfect cool gadget tech gift for Mom or Dad.

AD AD

THIS YEAR, GIVE THE GIFT OF COMFORT AND JOY WITH GIFTS FROM THE HEART THAT MAKE HER LIFE JUST A LITTLE BETTER...

SOK IT JAVA SOK

Iced coffee & cold soda insulated neoprene cup sleeve. Keeps condensation in, and hands warm.

ENTERTAINING

Charcuterie Board - Bamboo

charcuterie board gift set with knife for entertaining.

For HER

THE

LOST

BOOKSHOP

The most charming and uplifting novel for 2024 and the perfect gift for book lovers!

BODY RESTORE Shower Steamers Aromatherapy 6 Pack, Relaxation Gift for stress relief and luxury self care

Magic Rainbow Scratch Paper

Bring out the artist in your little ones with rainbow scratch designs!

Gifts Gifts FOR KIDS

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

Dance Mat Toys for 3-12 Year Old Kids

This Electronic light up dance pad will get your kids off the sofa and moving to the music!

Tech Gear Multi Voice Changer. Experiment with the science of sound using this electronic voice synthesizer, featuring 10 different voice modifiers

LED Bicycle Light (1 Tire, Multicolor) This is one of the top stocking stuffers for the year! Your kids will be the cool kids on the block!

The Joy of Giving: The Joy of Giving:

Holiday STORIES

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS A TIME OF JOY, LOVE, AND TOGETHERNESS—A SEASON THAT INVITES US TO SLOW DOWN, EMBRACE THE WARMTH OF FAMILY, AND FOCUS ON THE TRUE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS. IN A WORLD OFTEN CAUGHT UP IN THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF HOLIDAY SHOPPING AND COMMERCIALISM, IT’S EASY TO FORGET THAT THE MOST CHERISHED GIFTS ARE NOT THE ONES FOUND UNDER THE TREE, BUT THE MOMENTS WE SHARE WITH THOSE WE LOVE.

Christmas has always been about more than just presents. At its heart, Christmas is a time for gathering with family, reflecting on the year, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's a season to celebrate the joy of giving, not just through material gifts, but through acts of kindness, love, and generosity.

For many families, the most treasured Christmas traditions are the ones that bring everyone together. Whether it’s decorating the tree, baking cookies, or simply sitting by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa, these moments of connection are what make the holidays truly special. They remind us that Christmas isn’t about how much we spend, but about the time we spend with the people who matter most.

TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY STORIES THAT WARM THE HEART

Throughout the years, certain stories have become beloved holiday classics, passed down through generations. These tales capture the magic of Christmas and the spirit of giving, reminding us of the importance of kindness, generosity, and family

A Christmas Carol" by Charles

Dickens:

This timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a miser to a man who understands the true meaning of Christmas is a reminder that it’s never too late to change and that generosity can bring joy to others and ourselves.

The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore: This classic poem, with its imagery of Santa Claus and his reindeer, captures the excitement and wonder of Christmas Eve, making it a favorite for children and adults alike.

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry: A poignant tale of love and sacrifice, this story illustrates the true meaning of giving. It tells the story of a young couple who, despite their poverty, find a way to give each other meaningful gifts, showing that the best presents come from the heart.

By Gina Pearson

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss: This whimsical story about the Grinch, who learns that Christmas is about more than just presents and decorations, teaches children that the holiday spirit is found in love and togetherness.

CREATING HEARTWARMING TRADITIONS FOR

YOUR FAMILY

This holiday season, why not take a step back from the commercialized frenzy and create a tradition that your family can cherish for generations? Start by gathering around the fireplace or the dinner table to share stories— whether they’re classics like "A Christmas Carol" or personal family anecdotes that bring a smile to everyone’s face. Make time for activities that bring you closer together, like baking cookies, making handmade gifts, or volunteering as a family to help those in need.

Consider starting a new tradition, such as a family storytelling night where each person shares a favorite memory from past holidays or a weekly family game night throughout December. These simple yet meaningful traditions will not only bring joy to your children now but will also be passed down to future generations, keeping the true spirit of Christmas alive.

In the end, the most enduring holiday memories aren’t about the gifts we receive, but the love we share and the traditions we create together. This Christmas, embrace the joy of giving—not just in material terms, but in time, love, and the creation of memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

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Beef

BeefBrisket Brisket

INGREDIENTS:

• 3-4 lb beef brisket

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large onion, sliced

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 cup red wine (dry, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 cup reserved cooking liquid from the brisket

• Additional salt and pepper, to taste

By Nellie Palmer

DIRECTIONS:

WITH RED WINE GRAVY

1 Season the brisket generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.Transfer the brisket to a slow cooker.

3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sliced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and beginning to caramelize.

4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.

5. Pour the red wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, then pour the mixture over the brisket in the slow cooker.

6. Add the beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

7. Once the brisket is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board.

8. Tent with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain.

9. Strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker, discarding the

vegetables and herbs, and reserve 1 cup for the gravy.

10. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

11. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly.

12. Gradually whisk in the reserved cooking liquid, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

13. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

14. Serve the sliced brisket with the red wine gravy drizzled over the top.

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Use this QR Code to watch a video on how to choose and trim the best brisket. If the video opens with an ad, press skip and the video will begin.

A Tradition to Cherish

The Joy of Handmade Christmas Cards

By Carly Graham

In a world increasingly dominated by digital greetings and store-bought cards, the tradition of making handmade Christmas cards offers a refreshing return to heartfelt simplicity. Crafting cards by hand, especially with your children, is more than just a fun holiday activity—it's a way to instill the values of thoughtfulness, creativity, and personal connection.

Starting this tradition with your children helps them understand the importance of putting thought and effort into the gifts they give. It’s a lesson in generosity, showing that the value of a gift lies not in its price tag, but in the love and care behind it. As they grow older, these handmade cards will become treasured keepsakes, reminding them of the holiday seasons spent creating something special with you.

STEP 1 GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES:

Start with basic materials like cardstock, colored paper, markers, crayons, glue, and scissors. Add some festive embellishments like stickers, ribbons, and glitter to make the cards extra special.

STEP 2 PLAN YOUR DESIGNS:

Sit down with your children and brainstorm ideas for the cards. They could draw a Christmas tree, a snowman, or even Santa Claus. Encourage them to personalize each card with a special message or drawing.

STEP 3 CREATE THE CARDS: Let your children take the lead in cutting, gluing, and decorating the cards. Assist them when needed, but allow their creativity to shine through. Each card should reflect their personality and artistic style.

STEP 4 WRITE A HEARTFELT MESSAGE: Help your children write a short, heartfelt message inside each card. This could be a simple "Merry Christmas" or something more personal for the recipient.

STEP 5 SHARE THE JOY:

Once the cards are complete, your children can handdeliver them to family members and friends or send them through the mail. The joy on the faces of those who receive these handmade treasures will reinforce the value of this meaningful tradition.

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Brussels Sprouts Spicy Roasted Bacon with

By Jessie Gray

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

• 4-6 slices of bacon, chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.

3. Stir in the chopped bacon pieces, ensuring they are distributed evenly among the Brussels sprouts.

4. Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25

minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are golden and crispy, and the bacon is cooked through.

5. For an added touch of flavor, drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar before serving.

SERVE THE SPICY ROASTED BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS HOT AS A SIDE DISH OR EVEN AS A SAVORY SNACK.

the Perfect Party Plan

By Nancy Kelly

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS YOUR GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO CREATE MAGICAL MEMORIES WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. IMAGINE TWINKLING LIGHTS, LAUGHTER ECHOING THROUGH YOUR HOME, AND THE WARMTH OF SHARED MOMENTS THAT EVERYONE WILL CHERISH. WHILE PLANNING THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY PARTY MIGHT SEEM OVERWHELMING, A DASH OF ORGANIZATION AND A SPRINKLE OF CREATIVITY WILL TRANSFORM YOUR VISION INTO A SPECTACULAR CELEBRATION. DIVE INTO THIS STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE AND DISCOVER HOW TO HOST AN UNFORGETTABLE HOLIDAY BASH THAT WILL HAVE EVERYONE TALKING FOR YEARS TO COME!

1. •Select a Theme

• Set the tone for your party (e.g., winter wonderland, ugly sweater party, holiday cocktail soirée).

• Use your theme to guide decisions on decorations, food, and activities. Example: Winter wonderland with snowflake decor and hot cocoa stations, or an ugly sweater contest with DIY ornament crafts.

2. Set a Date and Time that Fits Everyone.

• Send out invitations well in advance.

• Use online invitations like Evite or Paperless Post to track RSVPs and send reminders.

3. Choose the Perfect Venue

• Consider the size and layout of the venue to ensure it accommodates your guest list comfortably.

• Opt for a location that suits your theme and enhances the festive atmosphere.

• Whether hosting at home, renting a hall, or booking a restaurant, make sure it has the necessary facilities for your planned activities and menu.

4. Decorate to Impress

• Use your theme to guide your decor choices (e.g., string lights, candles, wreaths).

• Add personal touches like handmade decorations or photos from past holidays.

• Transform your space with holiday-themed centerpieces and other festive elements.

5. Plan ActivitiesEngaging and a Detailed Timeline

• Set up fun activities like a photo booth with holiday props, gift exchange, or holiday-themed games.

• For children, create a craft station for decorating cookies or making holiday cards.

• Create a timeline to ensure everything runs smoothly (e.g., cocktails and mingling, dinner, games, dessert, and farewell).

6. Plan a Versatile Menu

• Decide whether to serve a full meal, appetizers, or just desserts.

• Offer a variety of options to cater to different dietary preferences (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free).

• Plan a drink menu with festive cocktails, mocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.

• Create a Cocoa Bar..

Festive Hot Cocoa Bar

By Gina Pearson

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming cup of hot cocoa. A hot cocoa bar is the perfect addition to your holiday gatherings, offering a fun and interactive way for guests of all ages to customize their own cozy drink. Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, a holiday party, or simply want to add a special touch to a quiet evening at home, setting up a hot cocoa bar is sure to bring warmth and joy to everyone. Let's get started!

1. Choose the Right Spot

Find a cozy, accessible spot in your home where guests can gather around the bar. Add festive decorations like twinkling lights, garlands, or a holiday-themed tablecloth to set the mood.

2 Prepare the Cocoa

Start with a large pot or slow cooker filled with your favorite hot cocoa recipe. Whether you prefer a rich, creamy homemade version or a convenient pre-made mix, make sure it stays warm throughout the event. For variety, consider offering both

classic cocoa and a white chocolate version. Keep ladles or a dispenser nearby for easy serving.

3. Offer a Variety of Mix-Ins and

Toppings

The key to a successful hot cocoa bar is offering a range of delicious mix-ins and toppings that guests can use to customize their drinks.

Cocoa Bar Must-Haves

• Marshmallows: Offer regular and mini marshmallows, and for an extra festive touch, include peppermintflavored marshmallows or holiday-shaped marshmallows.

• Whipped Cream: A canister of whipped cream is essential for adding that perfect, creamy topping.

• Candy Canes: Provide both whole candy canes for stirring and crushed pieces to sprinkle on top.

• Chocolate Chips: Offer dark, milk, and white chocolate chips that can melt into the cocoa for added richness.

• Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with hot cocoa.

• Cinnamon Sticks: These make a great stirrer and add a warm, spicy flavor to the drink.

• Sprinkles: Colorful holiday sprinkles or edible glitter can add a fun and festive touch.

• Flavored Syrups: Consider offering syrups like peppermint, vanilla, or hazelnut so guests can customize the flavor of their cocoa.

5. Serve in Style: The way you serve your hot cocoa is just as important as the toppings. Provide a selection of festive mugs, or offer disposable holiday-themed cups if you’re hosting a large crowd. For a personal touch, you could even provide guests with mugs as party favors, allowing them to take a little piece of the event home with them. For an added touch of elegance, consider serving the cocoa in glass mugs so guests can see the layers of toppings. If using disposable cups, have fun with the design by choosing ones with holiday patterns or customizing them with your own labels.