Southern Holiday Life Christmas 2015 by Lake Wedowee Life

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SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE HOLIDAY 2015 68

Holiday Specials Christmas on the Funky Junk Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday Decorating for Le$$! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I am a Christmas Convert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Year’s Resolutions through Celluloid . . . . . . . . . .

13 40 56 87

Entertaining Adding Punch to Any Holiday Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Breakfast with Santa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Recipes

Thanksgiving in the South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Christmas Treats to Make & Take . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Satisfy Your Holiday Sweet Tooth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Waikiki Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Making the Most Out of Turkey Day Leftovers . . . . . . . 73 How to Serve Up Luck on New Year’s Day . . . . . . . . . . 77

Crafts/How To 13

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Made With Love: Handmade Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oh Christmas Tree! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DIY: Tomorrow’s Holiday Heirlooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Southern Snow Globes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44 50 52 63

Southern All the Way Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Where in the South is that? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Southern Brand Favorites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Advertiser’s Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

82 90 94 98

50 58

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

L E T T E R I love Christmas. Everything about it. From celebrating Jesus’ birthday to decorating the tree to the man in the red suit, I love it all. I enjoy gathering with friends and family, hunting for the perfect gift and paying it forward with random acts of kindness. I am truly thankful for what God has given my family and me. While we have had our struggles, at the end of the day we know we are blessed.

“Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.”

T H E

E D I T O R

to children who don’t understand their circumstances, or simply making it a point to shop with local businesses instead of chain stores, every act of kindness is truly a blessing for the giver.

Paying it forward is a family tradition for us, and I believe it is a source of blessings for all. Whether you are picking up the bill for a man in military uniform eating alone, giving a special generous tip to a hardworking waitress, providing presents

— Charles M. Schulz

O N

F R O M

It’s easy to get wrapped up in all the hustle and bustle of the holidays and miss the point. I fall into that trap too often myself. Please join me as I resolve to slow down, take it all in and truly enjoy Christmas. It is a fantastic celebration that deserves our full attention.

Enjoy Life!

Kelly

C O V E R

Congratulations to

Becky Hill, owner of The Nest in Carrollton, Georgia. She is the winner of our first Christmas Cover Contest. Her beautifully decorated table display captures Christmas with a true Funky Junk appeal, using repurposed Mason Jars as candle holders, a vintage phone for calling Santa and a delightfully weathered stop sign. Shops along the Funky Junk Trail were asked to participate in the contest and six stores accepted the challenge. While all the entries were worthy of the cover, we could only choose one winner. To see the other entries, turn to pages 13-21 for the complete “Christmas on the Funky Junk Trail” story. Photographer Andy Petty and Editor Kelly Caldwell hit the road in early October to capture the essence of Christmas along the Funky Junk Trail.

GENERAL MANAGER

EDITOR

ADVERTISING MANAGER

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

FOOD EDITOR

Leisel Caldwell

Kelly Caldwell

Lavoy Caldwell

Kit Pepper

Shea Goldstein

info@lakewedoweelife.com

news@lakewedoweelife.com

holidaylifeads@gmail.com

southernholidayadservices@ gmail.com

southernholidaylife@gmail.com

256.357.4557 | 877.959. LAKE (5253) | 104 West Broad Street | Wedowee, Alabama w w w . S o u t h e r n H o l i d a y L i f e . c o m

S outhern Holiday Life

is published annually by parent company Caldwell Sales Inc. which also produces Lake Wedowee Life and Friday Night Life magazines. All content in the publication is protected by United State copyright law and many not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed or otherwise published without the prior written permission of Caldwell Sales Inc. © 2008-2015 Caldwell Sales Inc. SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Christmas on the Funky Junk Trail We are always on the hunt for new stores to include on the Funky Junk Trail. We kicked off our Christmas shopping season with a Funky Junk Trail road trip and it put us right square in that wonderful, festive holiday frame of mind. The Funky Junk Trail embraces originality and, of course, the thrill of the hunt! Southern Holiday Life is proud to include the following stores on the trail. Each one embodies the spirit of the trail, and all are a unique and eclectic mix of old and new. You can be sure that none of them are your grandmother’s antique store! Happy hunting and be sure to share your treasures from the trail on social media! Use the hashtag #funkyjunktrail so we can all celebrate your finds! Southern Holiday Shop Two Guys and a Girl, Attics to Antiques Table Talk Wehadkee Trade Days The Refinery

Marketplace on Lafayette Square Home is where the heART is Junk Mama’s General Store Beads and Lace Boutique Memories Past and Present It’s About Time Antiques & Uniques

Southern Holiday Shop 104 West Broad Street, Wedowee, AL

Collectors on 54 Romiette and Julieo Feathers & Twigs The Nest Birds of a Feather Roanoke Discount Center

Two Guys and a Girl, Attics to Antiques

256-357-4557

3355 Highway 431, Roanoke, AL

Thurs, Fri & Sat 10-5

334-863-5865

Where the Funky Junk Trail begins! Our little shop gives you an extension of our magazine, offering our customers an eclectic mix of repurposed furniture, handcrafted custom made furniture, home décor, boutiquestyle clothing now in extended sizes, handcrafted jewelry, gourmet food products, gifts, bath and body products and, of course, Dixie Belle Paint!

Wed 8-noon; Thurs-Sat 10-4 A hometown small shop that offers a variety of antique treasures including, but certainly not limited to, vintage glassware, McCoy and Hull pottery, collectibles, small furniture, lamps, vintage keepsakes, and so much more.

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Table Talk of Senoia 770-599-9700 Sun-Mon 11-4; Tues-Fri 105; Sat 10-6 When given the task to decorate a Christmas scene in October, Table Talk brought its “A GAME.” The entire store was flipped to Christmas Wonderland. The scene we chose to photograph for their contest entry was the “Red Bird Tree.” It’s a white tree with cardinals decorating its branches. Breathtaking to say the least! The scene is finished with birdhouses hanging from the ceiling and the tree itself seems to go up to the heavens with clouds surrounding the top. According to a quick search of the internet, the cardinal is special to the holiday season. “Christened the Christmas bird for its spectacular red color, the cardinal has become a symbol of the beauty and warmth of the holiday season. A glimpse of this brilliant bird brings cheer, hope and inspiration on a gray, wintry day. As nature’s reminder for us to focus on our faith, the cardinal’s scarlet plumage represents the blood of Christ shed for the redemption of mankind.” Table Talk is known for its sense of humor and that doesn’t go away with the holiday season. Filled with unique Christmas gifts with a healthy dose of sarcasm, Table Talk is great stop on the Funky Junk Trail. Table Talk carries national brands Archipelago, Caldrea, MIK Wright, Naked Bee and Swan Creek Candle Company as well as regional favorites Savannah Bee Company and Candace and Kids Soap Company.

when traveling on Hwy 22 West from Roanoke, Ala. toward the Georgia Line. The big red brick building sits on the banks of the rocky Wehadkee Creek. The mill is one of the oldest mills still standing in the southeast. All the vendors are very friendly and helpful. There is a large array of “stuff” to discover, from primitives, farm tools, glassware and kitchenware to art, woodworking and, of course, funky junk. There is ample parking and an easy pull up for loading your purchases. They say “It pays to be early for the best picks and the hot biscuits.”

The Refinery 906 Columbus Pkwy, Opelika, AL 334-220-8925 Mon 10-7; Thurs-Sat 10-7; Sun 1-5 This shop is the place to go for the not-socrafty funky junkers. They specialize in making your vision come true with custom refinishing, restoring and painting furniture. New Creations Upholstery is inside the store as well. The Refinery also offers trendy home décor at affordable prices.

Marketplace on Lafayette Square 100 Bull Street, Lagrange, GA 706-882-3338 Mon-Sat 10-5; Sun 11-4 If you are looking for high-end antiques and out-of-the-ordinary treasures, this is the place to stop. Marketplace has a large collection of rugs and other décor to meet your needs! Owner Al Brannon enjoys finding the best for his customers at estate sales and auctions. Local artisans also display their wares at Marketplace including pottery, handmade furniture and gifts.

Home is where the heART is 18157 Main Street, Woodbury, GA 678-523-9126

Wehadkee Trade Days

Tues.-Sat. 10-6, Sun 1-5

66276 Highway 22, Rock Mills, AL 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 7-1 This is the place “where the real pickers shop”! Approximately 40 vendors gather in the old Wehadkee Yarn Mills building, showing and selling their wares. The old mill is a treasure all its own. You can’t miss it

Home is Where the heART features upscale women’s and children’s consignment clothing and home decor in addition to local artists that are prominent throughout the store. You will come for the art but return for the eclectic mix of old, new repurposed and local that makes the store one of a kind.

Christmas on the Funky Junk Trail SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Junk Mama’s General Store

a-kind jewelry pieces. If you don’t find what you want, talk to Lindsey and y’all can design your unique jewelry for that special occasion. You can find Beads and Lace Boutique on Facebook and Instagram or you can visit the website at www.beadsandlaceboutique.com.

125 Fisher Ave, Fayetteville, GA 770-461-4607, Mon-Sat 10-5 Junk Mama’s General Store embraced the Funky Junk Trail when decorating its mantel for Christmas. The ladies wanted a neutral scene with a splash of color. The mama’s picked turquoise as their splash of color and we loved the results. They used rusted metal buckets, a bicycle tire, old spools and spray-painted cedar branches to decorate the mantel. The look was finished with a old barn door and a plaster deer head. The Christmas tree pillow was painted with Dixie Belle Paint. Junk Mama’s is a unique boutique of hidden treasures old and new. They have a mishmash of whimsy, recycled stuff, antiques, vintage and re-invented treasures. It is a great place for the DIY person. Junk Mama’s carries Southern Brand Favorite Dixie Belle Paint. Check them out on Instagram, Facebook or their website www. JunkMamasGeneralStore.com

Beads and Lace Boutique 60 Main Street, Senoia, GA 770-722-2131 Tues -Sat 11-5 pm Beads and Lace Boutique is not your typical funky junk store. You won’t find dusty antiques or shabby chic furniture for sale here! What you will find is vintage earrings, one-of-a-kind necklaces, unique bracelets and so much more. Owner Lindsey Frazier has been designing jewelry for 10 years and opened her studio in Senoia two years ago. Beads and Lace also supports local artists like “Draw Near to Hymn” and Precious Time Jewelry. She carries custom burlap signs as well as other great one-of-

Memories Past and Present 139 City Hall Ave. Suite F. Bowdon, GA 770-258-8822, Tues-Sat 10-6 Memories Past and Present is a working museum for the town of Bowdon with all kinds of artifacts to see and purchase. Movie memorabilia, antiques and funky fun stuff is around every corner of this transformed factory building.

It’s About Time Antiques & Uniques 117 Franklin Highway Newnan, GA 404-910-9389 Wed-Sat 10-4 Owner Stephanie Ensey submitted the most original idea and if we were giving individual awards, It’s About Time Antiques & Uniques gets the Think Outside of the Box Award! Her vision was to create an old timey Christmas Tree Farm with a Funky Junk twist. She spray painted old ironing boards green and stood them up tall to create her Funky Junk Tree Farm. As a backdrop she used her neighbors metal building and had Christmas trees cut out of plywood painted different shades of green. This sweet little shop is a treasure hunter’s dream. They offer many interesting things that have been repurposed and recycled creating great pieces for you to decorate your home or garden, vintage collectibles, memorable keepsakes, handcrafted home decor pieces, jewelry, furniture, gifts and so much more.

Christmas on the Funky Junk Trail SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Collectors on 54

Feathers & Twigs

8861 Highway 54, Sharpsburg, GA

770-214-9191

770-251-6835 Mon-Sat 10-5; Sun 1-5 Collectors Corner and the Boneyard joined forces in 2014 and they have been a can’t miss stop on the Funky Junk Trail ever since. Their Christmas Cover Contest entry embraced the rustic side of the Funk Junk Trail. The focal point is an antique rocking horse. Also included were rusted metal baskets, a hand-painted coal bucket, vintage signs and a sleigh. It remindeds of a gorgeous cabin in the woods and made one immediately crave hot chocolate or hot apple cider. It was so inviting, customers wanted to buy decorations from the scene while we were there. The store is located in a three-story house that has 22,000 square feet filled with beautiful hand-crafted goods as well as local favorites such as Brighton, Byers’, Carolers, Quoizel Lighting, Willow Tree, Capri Blue Candles, framed art, ladies’ accessories, antiques, repurposed furniture, home decor, Bonnie Blu Baby Boutique and so much more.

Romiette and Julieo 3696 Hwy 78W, Heflin, AL 256.463.3121 Mon-Fri 10-5; Sat 9-3 One-of-a-kind items are the rule at Romiette and Julieo. If you don’t see what you want, talk to them and Debbie or Presley Murray might can make it for you. They carry custom shirts, handmade purses and jewelry, not to mention garden and metal art as well as locally-made soap and coffee. You can find Romiette and Julieo on Facebook, Instagram and their website www. romietteandjulieo.com.

506 Maple Street; Carrollton, GA Mon-Fri 10:30 -5:30; Sat 10:30-4:30 Most Saturdays Granny will greet you with goodies at Feathers and Twigs. The family-run business features different vendors from West Georgia including art by Charlotte Scarce. The owners pride themselves in ensuring the store appeals to all ages. They sell refinished furniture as well as a variety of antiques.

The Nest 121 Bradley Street, Carrollton, GA 770-838-7933 Tues-Fri 10 -5:30, Sat 10-3 This year’s winner of the Christmas on the Funky Junk Trail Cover Contest, The Nest, blew us away with its entry. We entered the store and saw this beautiful tablescape in the middle of the store. It had repurposed mason jars for candleholders, dried and dyed hydrangeas, glittered ornaments and chevron ribbon and placemats. No detail was too small... The vintage rotary dial phone and the nicely weathered stop sign asking for Santa to “Stop Here” completed the scene. Located in the heart of downtown Carrollton, The Nest offers a great variety of items including vintage, repurposed and antique furniture, The Plaster Paint Co. brand chalk paint and man cave must-haves. The Nest prides itself on supporting local talent, and carries many items created by local artisans like children’s clothing, goat milk soap, original art, jewelry, unique candles, local honey and shea butter. The selection is constantly changing and these one-of-akind finds go fast so be sure to follow The Nest on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to see and snag the newest treasures.

Christmas on the Funky Junk Trail SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Birds of a Feather 502 Main Street; Oxford, AL 256-403-2991 Tues-Sat 10-6; Sun 1-4 Birds of a Feather was inspired by Christmas morning under the tree when submitting its contest entry. Vintage toys including a fire truck, ballet slippers and an old lunch box. The tree was decorated with twine-wrapped letters and vintage ornaments. Â charming little shop located on Main Street A in Downtown Oxford, Birds of A Feather is the epitome of the Funky Junk Trail. Owner Lisa Scott is always on the hunt to bring treasures back to her customers. She specializes in Vintage, Antiques, Restorations, Architectural Salvage & Unique Gifts. Birds of a Feather recently started carrying Southern Brand Favorite Dixie Belle Paint Company paint.

Roanoke Discount Center 3800 Highway 431, Roanoke, AL 334-338-1300 Mon-Fri 9-5; Sat 9-1 Roanoke Discount Center is a treasure hunter or pickerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream. With just a little digging and a good eye you will many treasures at reasonable prices. The owners have spent years collecting inventory at auctions, estate sales and other junk stores to fill their warehouse sized space of treasures. Funky Junk bargain hunters should definitely put this place on their radar.

Merry Christmas from all the shops on the Funky Junk Trail. Stop in, say hello and let us show you how shopping local is a gift for everyone! SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

b y

S H E A

G O L D S T E I N

w w w . D i x i e C h i k C o o k s . c o m

Shea Goldstein is the food editor for Southern Holiday Life. She is a self-proclaimed Southern Belle who’s thinking about what’s for dinner while eating lunch. She began her blog in 2010 as a way to document her recipes for her children and family members as well as share her food and culinary experiences with others.

Thanksgiving in the South It’s most foodies’ favorite holiday and the best excuse to cook ALL DAY LONG, eat ALL DAY LONG and complain about it for two damn months. It’s one of my fondest memories as a kid; sitting in the kitchen watching my mom cook for hours and waiting until I could taste the dressing. My mom, my aunt and my grandmother all had a “competition” every single year, even though my grandmother’s was the best (I’ve always called her Nanny). But no one could say whose they thought was the best, because obviously, this is the South and we keep that shit from each other. You don’t say things like, “Mother’s dressing was better this year than Aunt B’s.”

Fig and Sriracha Blue Cheese Truffles Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls — Main Dishes — Jalapeño Citrus Glazed Ham Mayo Roasted Turkey Slow Cooker Whole Chicken — Sides — Homemade Pull-Apart Dinner Rolls The Best Potato Salad Broccoli with Blue Cheese and Fontina

So, if you’re a gal (or guy) from the South you’ll be able to roll with me here.

Butternut Squash and Potato Gratin With Braised Brussel Sprouts

Anybody relate?? I’ve found y’all a ton of beautiful recipes to get you ready for your Southern Thanksgiving, so strap on your apron, get your cast iron skillet ready and let’s do some Southern Thanksgiving cookin’!

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Pomegranate Jeweled Jalapeño Cheese Ball

Um, no. That is a BIG fat ass Southern No-No.

Here’s me in the middle of the Thanksgiving table in the dining room looking straight ahead and whispering, “Mama, your dressin’ was so good I can’t get enough of it and it was the best, I’m full as a tick!” Then, with my head turned to the left, “Nanny, honestly, I can’t get over how good your dressin’ was this year, it gets better every year!” Then, with my head turned to the right, “Aunt B, seriously! What are you doing to make your dressin’ so amazing? And please, for the love of God, where in the hell is the wine?”

— Appetizers —

Pulled Pork Chipotle Dressing Buttery Smashed Potatoes Roasted Green Beans Roasted Acorn Squash — Desserts — Pumpkin Cheesecake with Chocolate and Bacon White Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Oreo Cookie Balls Golden Pumpkin Tassies Hot Chocolate

Pomegranate Jeweled Jalapeño Cheese Ball

Fig and Sriracha Blue Cheese Truffles

1 block (8 ounces) Organic Valley cream cheese, at room temperature 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese 3 tablespoons sour cream 1 garlic clove 2 scallions, chopped 1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and diced 1/3 cup pomegranate arils 1/3 cup pecans, crushed

3 ounces dried figs (about 5), diced 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce Pecans, crushed

Combine cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, garlic, scallions and jalapeño in a food processor until smooth. Fold in pomegranate and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Remove from refrigerator and form into a ball. Roll in pecans and return to fridge until ready to serve.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

Combine figs through Sriracha. Form into balls and roll in pecans Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls 1 cup all purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cayenne 1 jalapeño pepper, washed, deseeded and diced 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded 12 ounces roll breakfast sausage Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine flour, baking powder, salt and cayenne. Add diced jalapeño, cheese and sausage. Grind with your hands thoroughly, until all ingredients are incorporated. Roll into balls (mine were just a little smaller than golf ball size). Bake on a prepared baking sheet for 20-25 minutes.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Mayo Roasted Turkey Jalapeño Citrus Glazed Ham 2 cups orange marmalade 3 fresh jalapeños, deseeded and diced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon ginger 1 tablespoon salt 1 large bone-in ham Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Puree the marmalade through salt in a food processor. Put ham in a large roasting pan and brush with half of the marinade. Bake for 2 hours, then baste with remaining marinade. Bake for an additional 1 1/2 to 2 hours until internal temp registers 140 degrees. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

1 thawed turkey 1 stick unsalted butter, melted 2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth 1 cup mayonnaise Lawry’s seasoning salt (A very light sprinkling all over the turkey, for a 15 pound turkey. I used about 2 teaspoons, Mayonnaise and seasonings will need to be adjusted according to size of your bird.) Rinse and pat turkey dry and place in a roasting pan. Tuck the wings behind the turkey to keep them from burning. Combine melted butter and chicken broth and pour over turkey. Rub mayonnaise all over the exterior of the turkey. Sprinkle the turkey very lightly all over with Lawry’s or your favorite seasoning salt. Roast at 325 degrees. When your turkey is golden brown, place a foil tent over turkey to keep from burning. Once the meat thermometer reaches 160 degrees in the thigh, check the temperature of the thickest part of breast to make sure it reads 160 degrees as well. Allow turkey to rest on a platter for 20-30 minutes before carving. Reserve pan juices to make gravy!

Courtesy Brandi from auntbeesrecipes.com 24

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Slow Cooker Whole Chicken 1 whole roaster chicken, 4-5 pounds 2 cups milk 2 cups fresh whole cranberries 1.5 large oranges 2 whole cinnamon sticks Salt and pepper as desired Prepare whole chicken for cooking by removing neck and any organ packages that were included. Clean and pat dry with paper towel. Cut one half of a large orange into two quarters and stuff the chicken with it. Tie the wings back. Take your whole large orange and cut into slices. Add milk and place chicken breast side down in the slow cooker. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the entire exposed chicken. Pour the cranberries over the top, allowing for some to rest on the chicken. Place some of the orange slices on top and place the extras surrounding the chicken. Add cinnamon sticks over the top. Cook on low for 6 hours or until ready. Recommended to use a pop up thermometer to make sure the internal temperature is 165°F (per FoodSafety.org). Once chicken is cooked, carefully move the chicken to an oven safe casserole dish. Carry the cranberries and oranges over with only little juice. Discard the cinnamon sticks. Broil the chicken for about 10 minutes or until the skin is a nice crispy brown. Let rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Courtesy Dawn from homemakinghacks.com

The Best Potato Salad 3 pounds red potatoes, washed and cut into chunks 1 1/2 cups mayo 1/2 block cream cheese, at room temperature 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce (not prepared, but the sauce you find near the mayo) 1/4 Vidalia (yellow) onion, diced 1/4 cup hamburger sliced pickles, diced 1/4 cup green olives, diced 1/4 cup jarred pickled jalapeño slices, diced 4 bacon slices, crumbled (feel free to use more if you’re a bacon lover) 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, stems removed 3 sprigs fresh thyme, stems removed Bring a dutch oven to a boil over high heat, drizzle with olive oil and add the potatoes. Boil until fork tender. If you have a stand mixer, it will definitely come in handy right now. If not, use a large mixing bowl with a big ass wooden spoon. Drain the potatoes and dump into the mixer (or bowl). Add the rest of the ingredients and combine on “stir” for just a minute or two — we don’t want mashed potatoes. Salt and pepper to taste — do not leave this part out.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

Butternut Squash and Potato Gratin With Braised Brussel Sprouts — GRATIN — 1 pound butternut squash, cooked until tender 1 pound red potatoes, scrubbed and boiled until tender 1 teaspoon thyme, fresh 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon coarse salt 1/2 cup butter, salted, at room temperature — BRUSSEL SPROUT TOPPING — 2 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup onion, diced 1 pound brussel sprouts, washed 1/4 cup chicken broth 1/4 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Preheat oven to 350. Combine gratin ingredients, place in 4 ramekins, cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Heat butter over medium high heat in a medium sized saute pan. Add onions and brussel sprouts. Braise, stirring for about 5-7 minutes, until browning. Add chicken broth and reduce heat to medium. Stir every couple of minutes, until liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes, then add balsamic vinegar. Add bacon and toss. Remove from heat and cover. Top each ramekin with brussel sprout/bacon mixture and place in oven on low broil for 3-5 minutes, until bubbly and slightly brown on top.

Broccoli with Blue Cheese & Fontina 1 pound broccoli stems, washed and chopped 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon cayenne powder (You can use less if you’re a wuss) 1 tablespoon flour 1 tablespoon butter, melted 3/4 cup whole milk 4 ounces package blue cheese 4 ounces package Fontina cheese 2 tablespoons cream cheese Cook broccoli however you like to — steam it, roast it, or even buy a couple of those steam-in-themicrowave bags. (I roasted mine on a baking sheet at 425 for about 10 minutes or so until slightly brown.) Whisk together garlic powder through butter in a small bowl; set aside. Heat milk over medium heat in a sauce pan; add cheeses and stir to combine. Add the garlic/butter mixture to the pan and whisk together, stirring until melted and hot. Pour over broccoli and serve.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Homemade Pull-Apart Dinner Rolls

Pulled Pork Chipotle Dressing 2 cups cornmeal 1 egg, whisked 1/3 cup canola oil 1 1/4 cups whole milk 2 cups pulled pork (I used leftover ribs I slow roasted in the oven.) 1 tablespoon seasoned salt 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon sage 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning 1 tablespoon pepper 2 tablespoons chipotle adobo sauce (comes in a can of whole chipotles in adobo sauce found on the international aisle) 1 1/2 cans cream of chicken soup 13 ounces chicken broth (I say this because I bought a 26-ounces container and used about half.) Preheat oven to 475° and grease a 9×9 baking pan. Combine cornmeal through milk, pour into pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, until done. Remove and let cool for about 15 minutes. Reduce the oven heat to 400°. In a stand mixing bowl add the cornbread and break it into a few big hunks. Add the pork and remaining ingredients and mix on low for about 30 seconds until evenly crumbled. To that add the pork through broth and mix on low until combined thoroughly — about 2 minutes or so. Taste and adjust seasonings if you need to. Some of you may want more salt, more cream of chicken, etc. You know what I mean. Pour in a 9×11” glass baking dish and cook for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown on top. The more you bake it, the more firm it becomes so keep that in mind.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com 26

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Buttery Smashed Potatoes 12 baby potatoes 4 tablespoons (or more!) butter, melted Salt and pepper to taste Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add as many potatoes as you’d like (I usually make 2 per person). Boil potatoes until tender enough to easily poke with a fork, about 10-15 minutes. Drain potatoes from water, and spread out on a large greased baking sheet. (You may need more than one baking sheet. I can usually only fit about 8 potatoes on one baking sheet.) With a potato masher, gently push down on one of the potatoes. Lift up, remove anything that sticks. Rotate the potato masher 90-degrees, then gently mash again. Repeat this process for each potato. Melt your butter in a microwaveable bowl. With a pastry brush, spread butter generously onto each potato. Sprinkle each potato with salt and pepper to taste. What are crispy potatoes without lots of salt?! Be generous here! Bake in a 400° oven for about 20 minutes, or until edges are browned. Sprinkle with additional salt, if you found you weren’t generous enough before. Serve warm, while the butter is still melty!

Courtesy Michelle of thegraciouswife.com

1 package quick-acting active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoon bulk quick acting yeast, I use SAF instant) 1 1/3 cup milk (105 to 115F degrees) 3 to 3 1/2 cups flour or whole wheat flour 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon melted butter Coarse salt Dissolve yeast in warm milk with sugar in electric mixer bowl. Stir in 1 cup flour, oil, and salt. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour, scraping dough from side of bowl, until soft dough forms. Cover and let rise in warm place until double, about 45 minutes. Heat oven 400 degrees F. Punch down dough in center and fold over a few times. Prep a 12-cup muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray. Pinch off 1 inch balls of dough and quickly roll in palm of hands. Put 3 balls to one muffin cup, brush with melted butter; sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake until crust is light golden brown, about 15 minutes. Immediately remove from pan. Store loosely covered.

Courtesy Amanda from Amanda’s Cookin’

Roasted Green Beans Roasted Acorn Squash 2 squash, small- to medium-sized for an individual serving (I used acorn, but you can use your choice.) 4 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons honey 1/2 teaspoon allspice (leave in jar and shake) 4 slices thick cut hardwood smoked bacon, fried and chopped into pieces Stuffing with parsley, sage and rosemary Wash and scrub clean the squash well. Put on a parchment paper-covered cookie sheet and roast in a preheated 400 degree oven about 25 minutes or until the skin is tender and can be more easily sliced in half. Remove and let the squash cool, then using a serrated knife, slice it in half. Remove the seeds in the center by using a fork and releasing from the squash. Take a spoon and gently and carefully start scooping the squash from the skin; try not to cut/pierce the skin (it’s the ‘bowl’). It’s similar to a baked potato and scooping the innards from the cooked skin. Add to each half of squash one tablespoon of butter, about a 1/2 teaspoon drizzle of honey, a couple of shakes of allspice and then top with equal amounts of crumbled bacon.

1 1/2 pounds of fresh green beans, ends snapped off 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, less if preferred 1/4 teaspoon of salt, less if preferred 2 tablespoons of sliced raw almonds, optional Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Snap the ends off of green beans. Place green beans in a bowl and add other ingredients. Toss to blend well. Place on lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring once halfway. Sprinkle with sliced almonds the last 5 minutes of baking.

Courtesy Sherri from simplytoinspire.com

Courtesy Ally from allyskitchen.com

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

White Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Oreo Cookie Balls

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Chocolate and Bacon

36 Oreo cookies 1 8-ounce block cream cheese, at room temperature 4 ounces (about 1/2 of a bag) toffee chips 1 12-ounce bag white chocolate chips 1 teaspoon peppermint extract 1 12-ounce bag milk chocolate chips 2 tablespoons shortening, divided Peppermint chips, for garnishing (like Andes)

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1 stick salted butter, melted 3 tablespoons sugar 3 8-ounce blocks cream cheese, at room temperature 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 eggs 1/4 cup ricotta cheese 1 cup pumpkin puree 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 Hershey chocolate bars 1 tablespoon Crisco shortening 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

In a food processor, pulse the cookies until theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re crumbs. Add cream cheese and toffee chips and pulse until combined. Roll into balls and freeze for 30 minutes. Melt the white chocolate with 1 tablespoon shortening and peppermint extract on low in the microwave (50%) for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until melted. Do the same for the milk chocolate. Dip the cookie balls in the white chocolate, drizzle with milk chocolate and sprinkle with peppermint chips. Freeze for about 15 minutes. Store in an airtight container.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine graham cracker crumbs, butter and 3 tablespoons sugar in a mixing bowl. Press into a springform pan. In a stand mixer, combine cream cheese through vanilla and mix on medium until thoroughly combined. Pour into prepared crust and bake for 1 hour. Let cool for 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Combine chocolate bars and Crisco, heat in microwave on medium heat until melted, about 1 minute, stirring after 30 seconds. Drizzle chocolate sauce over cheesecake and top with bacon crumbles.

Courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Golden Pumpkin Tassies — CRUST — 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, room temperature 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon nutmeg Combine butter, cream cheese and nutmeg; beat with electric or stand mixer until creamy Add flour, a little at a time until fully incorporated. Roll dough into 48 balls (about 1-inch in diameter). Place on cookie sheet and refrigerate for an hour so that dough becomes firm. — FILLING — 2 cups pumpkin (canned is fine) 1 egg, slightly beaten 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg Combine all ingredients until smooth and pudding-like.

— TOPPING — 1/2 cup pecans, chopped 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed 1 tablespoon butter, melted 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Mix with spatula or wooden spoon in small bowl.

Preheat oven to 350F. Place dough balls in lightly greased mini-muffin pans and shape into miniature pie shells (I use my thumb). With a spoon or baster, fill each shell about 3/4 full. Top with pecan mixture. Bake on middle rack until crust and filling are set, about 20-25 minutes. Cool and remove from mini-muffin pans (using the edge of a butter knife to ‘pop’ them out). Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. Makes 48 Golden Pumpkin Tassies.

Courtesy Adam from unorthodoxepicure.com

Hot Chocolate 3 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate (at least 60% cacao)

In a large saucepan, combine first six ingredients. Whisk regularly over medium heat until mixture comes to a light simmer, about 10 minutes. Add chocolate and whisk until melted and mixture is smooth. Top with your favorites — Marshmallows or whipped cream, Cinnamon, Fresh mint, Crushed peppermint candy

Courtesy Adam from unorthodoxepicure.com 30

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Tracy Carpenter lives in Wedowee and loves to create regardless of the outlet. She likes to draw, paint, bake and cook.

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Autumn is a wonderful time of year that evokes images of leaves changing, harvest season, back to school time, and football. Whether you’re celebrating the change of the season by throwing a Fall Harvest Party or looking for something to serve with Thanksgiving appetizers, punch can be mixed ahead in large quantities and served in a punch bowl or pitcher so your guests can help themselves, which allows you to mingle. After all, parties should be about spending time with your guests, right? For this year’s party that’s in the conference room, it’s simple enough to make for a small crowd yourself. These recipes are wonderful punches from two very special people in my life, Patsy Lane and Lucy Clifton. They are filled with flavor and, with a little creativity, the punch bowl or jar containers can be dressed up to fit any occasion. It’s the perfect solution to easily serve large groups.

Janie Danner of Danner’s Bed & Breakfast helped create the warm festive mood for the photos by sharing her beautiful backyard and creative catering talents by setting up the perfect fall tablescape. Thank you Janie!

Lucyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Banana Slush Punch 2 packages cherry Kool-Aid 1 packages orange Kool-Aid 3 cups sugar 2 quarts water Juice of 3 lemons 1 46-ounce can pineapple juice 3 to 4 beaten RIPE bananas 3 cans 7-Up Mix all ingredients together except the 7up. Put in gallon jug and freeze. Shake occasionally to keep bananas mixed well. Thaw till slushy and add the 3 cans of 7-Up when ready to serve.

Red Hot Apple Cider 1 gallon apple juice 1 1/2 cup red hot candies Heat apple juice and Red Hot Candies in a pot over medium heat. Cook until the candies dissolve. Stir and serve warm. You can experiment with the amount of candies to suit your taste. You can also heat and serve this straight from a crockpot.

Mom Laneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Icy Punch 1/2 gallon water 3 cups sugar 1 46-ounce can pineapple juice 1 1/2 tablespoons almond extract 1 cup real lemon juice 1 quart ginger ale Food coloring of your choice (optional) Mix all ingredients together and pour into milk jugs then freeze. When ready to use set out of the freezer for about two hours to thaw. Cut out of the cartons and chop up a little. Add ginger ale and stir when ready to serve. SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE 35

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Lacey Hughes loves a good party. With two little ones, she always has a reason to celebrate.

Breakfast with Santa Breakfast with Santa Christmas brings so many wonderful childhood memories and traditions to mind. I can still picture my mother standing in the kitchen baking for hours on end. She’d be churning out all of her specialties including Mississippi Mud, Cream Cheese Squares, and Hay Stacks. I was always right there, ready to lick the beaters. After the baking was complete, she wrapped all the baked goods up in a festive little package with a perfect bow. Then, she would gather us all up to go around town and hand deliver these yummy little packages of love to special friends.

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Each and every step of preparation was done out of love. Before I even had my own children I remember thinking, “I can’t wait to start traditions with my own little loves.” I couldn’t wait to model that same giving and thoughtful spirit that my own mother had modeled for us. The Lord blessed me with those little loves and I got busy making memories. I decided to make Breakfast with Santa one of our first traditions as a family since it includes both family and friends. It has become an event I look forward to every year.

The little ones all wore their pajamas and came ready to decorate cookies and enjoy the hot cocoa bar.

The first Saturday morning of each December, Santa arrives at our home where sweet little girls and boys impatiently await his appearance. This year a sweet friend of mine, Jesse Schwall, made the cutest little invitations. The little ones all wore their pajamas and came ready to decorate cookies and enjoy the hot cocoa bar.

Each family took turns sitting in Santa’s lap, sharing their wish lists and taking photos. Planning your own Breakfast with Santa doesn’t have to be hard. Your home will likely be decorated for Christmas so you are one step ahead with the perfect backdrop for your party. Add a few festive details like red tulle ties on chairs and line your tables with kraft paper. …con’t to page 39 SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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A hot cocoa bar is always a hit and can be made extra special with Christmas sprinkles, peppermint sticks and toppings galore. Get your friends and family in on the fun and ask everyone to bring their favorite breakfast dish.

You provide the cookies and consider setting up a cookie decorating station as well. Breakfast with Santa can be as simple or as elaborate as your heart desires. Whatever you do, just be sure to have fun doing it! •

Starbucks bottles with chalkboard labels are filled with every hot cocoa topping imaginable. The tables are lined with inexpensive Kraft Paper (painters paper), the chair covers are hand made red tulle ties. Goodies include sugar cookies and homemade buttercream icing, of course with lots and lots of sprinkles. A cookie decorating party was conveniently planned the night before. Homemade Santa Boot sugar cookies were made by Jordan Armstrong, Pat Wood and Lacey Hughes.

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My Mama was the queen of decorating our home on a shoe-string budget! She could make it look like she spent hundreds of dollars on a Christmas tree alone, when she only really spent under fifty dollars! One thing I’ll always remember is, she taught me anything can look good on a Christmas tree, and this was long before it was acceptable to go outside the traditional. I’ll never forget, one year, when money was a bit scarce, she took all of our white stuffed animals and There were polar hung them on the tree. There were bears, white polar bears, white bunnies, white bunnies, white dogs and even a dogs and even a white cat or two. white cat or two. As kids we just thought it was so As kids we just cool to see all of our beloved stuffed thought it was animals adorning so cool to see all our very Christmas Tree! She added of our beloved huge silver bows, stuffed animals white feathers and white painted tree adorning our very branches, it was Christmas Tree! whimsical and amazing! What a great memory!

Holiday Decorating for Le$$! With Dixie Belle Paint…

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Her trees were always packed full and always had a theme, whether it was a Mardi Gras tree or a nature tree, we were always surprised and it was always fun. Another great, inexpensive filler she used was placing a huge bow at the top of the tree and running spiraling strands down to the bottom, it always looked elegant and filled in lots of space. Recently I’ve found a great way to revitalize old decorations or create new ones by painting them, with Dixie Belle Paint, of course! In memory of my Mama I’ll go around, gather sticks and branches, paint them in according to our

yearly theme and arrange them in a vase with some hanging ornaments and/or add them to the Christmas tree for an unexpected, rustic feel. Also, while I’m at it, I’ll gather some fresh greens, paint them silver or gold and arrange them on the mantle or table tops with other holiday décor to create texture and interest. Bringing nature into your home creates a warm, homey atmosphere and the price is right! My Mama would always get us involved in the decorating festivities, whether we liked it or not! One of her favorite traditions was to send us out collecting pine cones,

I’m sure a quiet house was a much needed break too! When we returned she’d set us up with the paint and some glitter and we’d go to town! I don’t know what was more fun, painting and glittering the pinecones or each other! Anyway, we’d have a blast and she always had a special kid’s arrangement, which we were very proud to show to all the holiday visitors!

Anything Goes, But… Nowadays, anything goes when it comes to décor and decorating, and Christmas is no exception. There are a couple of helpful hints which will make it a little easier and less overwhelming. Number one, pick a color scheme and stick with it. There’s nothing worse than walking into a …con’t to page 43 SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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house and it looking like a tornado just ripped through a paint factory and splattered color everywhere. Too many colors are overwhelming to the eye and creates chaos in the mind, less chaos is a good thing during the holiday season! …pick a color So please pick two or colors and stick with scheme and three those, you’ll be glad you stick with did! Number two, the key a magnificent tree is it. There’s to to pack it full, step back nothing worse and fill it some more. it doesn’t have than walking Remember, to cost a lot to look like a into a house million bucks. Use what you have, walk around and it looking outside and bring some like a tornado of it indoors, use paint (preferably Dixie Belle just ripped Paint!) to bring life back through a into worn out items. Let’s see how little we can spend paint factory… this year, not how much! Lastly, always make your tree and your home your own style. If your family has a favorite sports team, then create a tree around that team, you probably have a ton of stuff around the house with team logos and colors! If you like …the key to owls, put them in your tree and in different a magnificent places around your home. Hide some and tree is to pack have the kids see if it full, step they can find them all, make it fun! There is back and fill it no right or wrong!

some more.

With some paint, and a few clever ideas, your Christmas tree and home can look like something out of a magazine this holiday season! Merry Christmas from the Dixie Belle Paint family! •

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Amanda Henderson uses her blog, www.CultivateCreate.blogspot.com, to share with the world her DIY endeavors, home project and her journey to get healthy.

Made With Love: Handmade Holidays One of my favorite things to give (and receive) at Christmas is a handmade gift. There is something so special about being the recipient of a gift that someone has taken the time to make especially for you, whether it’s a home baked good, a jar of homemade jam, or a personalized item. I love what DIY gifts say to the recipient... This item was made with love just for you! I was thinking about you! You are special to me! This handmade wood slice ornament is a simple do-it-yourself project that can be personalized for your loved one and is the perfect gift for a handmade holiday. These …con’t to page 46 44

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Materials Needed — Wood slices Find them at your local craft store or you can DIY your own. Cut slices a half inch to one inch thick from a log or tree branch. — Acrylic or craft paint — Paint brushes — Small eye hooks — Polyurethane or wax finishing paste — Ribbon or twine

Optional Items — Sand paper if needed to smooth the wood surface before painting — Decorative trims, fabric scraps or other items to embellish your ornament

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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make great gifts for friends, neighbors, and teachers. First, make sure the surface of your wood slice is smooth. Use sand paper to knock off any rough edges. This next step is the most fun! Paint! The possibilities are endless when making these ornaments. Paint them to match your Christmas decor, personalize them with initials, wedding dates, birth dates, or special sayings. When you are finished painting, allow the paint to dry completely. Next add a coat of polyurethane or finishing wax to keep the wood from drying and splitting indoors and to ensure that you’ll be able to use your ornaments for years to come. Once your wax or polyurethane is dry and set, add your eye hooks to the top of your ornament. Tie with twine or ribbon and embellish as you wish. Add strips of scrap fabric, trim, or ribbon for some texture and visual interest. Or keep it simple and use baker’s twine to hang your ornament. •

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B I T T I N G E R

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Virginia Bittinger is a true blue Southern Belle, junkaholic, artist, and creator of cool and lovely things. She gets excited and makes stuff, paints stuff, and recycles stuff. A former textile designer, Virginia is now a vendor on the Funk Junk Trail at Junk Mama’s General Store in Fayetteville, Georgia. There she also teaches art classes and holds Dixie Belle Paint workshops. Virginia is the author of the blog ArtsyVaVa.

Mixed Media Art

Oh Christmas Tree!

Along the Funky Junk Trail, we like to step outside of our traditional box, even at Christmas time. Add a little whimsy to your holiday décor with this 3D mixed media art project.

What You Need: Oven Bake Clay Rubber Stamps and other items to make texture Knife Dixie Belle Paint in the colors, Barn Red and Fluff 8 x 10” Canvas Sheet Music Mod Podge Glitter in white and green E6000 Glue

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Start by conditioning the clay and pressing it out to about a half inch thickness. Do this on a cookie sheet so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ready to stick in the oven. Use a knife to cut the clay into the shape of a Christmas tree. Then cut the tree shape into 3 sections. Add texture to each section using rubber stamps and other items such as ball chain. Pressing down firmly will make the sections slightly thinner and larger. This will make the sections overlap easily when placed back together.

Assemble the tree back together and use excess clay to form a tree trunk. Place in the oven and bake following package directions. While the clay is cooling, paint the canvas with 2 coats of Dixie Belle Paint in the color Barn Red. When the red paint is dry, use the color, Fluff, to add snowflakes to the canvas by overlapping Xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

While the Fluff is wet, sprinkle with iridescent white glitter. Tear sections of sheet music and adhere it to the canvas using ModPodge. While the ModPodge is still wet, sprinkle with more glitter. Set aside until the tree is ready to be added to the canvas. Give the tree a coat of Fluff. When the Fluff is dry, coat the tree with ModPodge and sprinkle with green glitter.

Working quickly before the ModPodge has time to dry, rub the tree with a damp rag to remove most of the glitter, leaving it behind in the recessed areas. Finally, glue the tree onto the canvas using E6000. Give the glue plenty of time to dry, then hang your funky and fabulous artwork to be admired throughout the holiday season!

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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DIY: Tomorrow’s Holiday Heirlooms During the holidays, we’re all used to going to department stores and buying shiny ornaments and garland, pulling out decorations from the attic and making our homes look festive.

Christmas is a time for being with family and friends which makes it a great opportunity to get creative and make some new memories. DIY Christmas decorations are not only fun, but are budget friendly and add a personal touch to your décor.

Seashell Christmas Tree Canvas Burlap covered canvas board White seashells of various sizes 2 medium-sized starfish Thin colored ribbon Burlap ribbon Hot glue gun Scissors 1. Lay out your shells on the board in the placement that you like. Try to use larger shells on the bottom and move to smaller shells at the top to form a Christmas tree shape. Be sure to leave a larger space for the starfish tree toppers at the top of the canvas board and room for a burlap ribbon tree trunk at the bottom. 2. Begin hot gluing the shells to the canvas board. Lift and glue one shell at a time to keep the shape in place. 3. Tie two starfish together with ribbon to form a tree topper, and hot glue it to the top of your shell tree on the canvas board. 3. Cut a piece of burlap ribbon and hot glue it to the canvas board so that it acts as a trunk.

Courtesy Kathleen from lifewith4boys.com 52

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Christmas Ornament Tree 3 Large round ornaments 3 Medium sized ornaments 3 Smaller ornaments Candle holder Spray paint (optional) Hot glue gun 1. Spray paint a glass candle holder with metallic paint. You can skip this step if you already have a metal holder you want to use or you want it to remain plain glass.

Holiday Heart Wreath with Frame

2. Hot glue the largest ornament to the top of the candle holder. Be sure to center the bulb on the holder. 3. Remove the hardware for hanging the medium sized ornament and hot glue it to the large bulb you just placed on the candle holder. 4. Remove the hardware and hot glue the last ornament on top of the other two that are already on the holder. I decided to add a bow to the top of mine, but you can use a pointed ornament for the top of just leave it as it is. * Just a tip, be sure to center the ornaments as you place them one on top of another and use plenty of hot glue so they don’t come loose.

Courtesy Kathleen from lifewith4boys.com

Heart shaped grapevine wreath ($6 at Michael’s Craft Store) Wooden frame Red ribbon Faux frosted evergreen stems (About 4, $2.99 each at Michael’s) Hot glue, glue gun 1. Set your frame aside. First you will be creating the heart portion. 2. Cut off the 4-5 inches of the frosted evergreen stems so all that is left is the bunch of greenery and about 3 inches of stem. Wire cutters or scissors will work for this. Just make a cut and bend until the stem separates. 3. Bend the stems to fit the shape of the wreath. You will use 1-2 stems on each side of the heart. If you want, bending the stem into a candy cane shape works well. 4. Secure the stem to the grapevine wreath with hot glue. Hold it in place until secure. 5. Continue to add greenery stems until the wreath is covered. 6. Tie the top of the wreath with a length of red ribbon. Tie it to the top of the frame. 7. Finish off the piece by tying on an additional length of ribbon and tying it into a bow.

Courtesy Emilie from babylovingmama.com more projects on next page SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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Old-Fashioned Hard Candy Holiday Ornament

Holiday Beaded Napkin Rings Plain silver napkin rings (dollar store) Acrylic bead wire garland Hot glue gun with glue 1. Cut off a section of beaded garland so you have approximately 5 or 6 beads. 2. Wrap beaded garland around the center of the napkin ring, making sure to stretch a section with no beads along the back. (I was able to get it to just fit along the back, with one bead on bottom and one on top on the front.)

Large, clear ornament. (Make sure you get one with a wide mouth so you can easily fill it) Old-fashioned hard candy Ribbon for hanging Scissors

3. Wrap the beads around each other with the wire until they form a cluster and are secure on the napkin ring.

1. Begin by adding the hard candy to the inside of the ornament. Simply place one piece in at a time until it is about ¾ of the way full. 2. Replace the cap on the ornament. 3. Add a length of ribbon and tie into a bow for hanging. If you are concerned about your cap coming lose, you can add a dab of glue to the inside before placing it on. This will help secure the ornament a little more and there will be less of a worry of candy slipping out.

Courtesy Chrisa from thriftyjinxy.com

Courtesy Emilie from babylovingmama.com

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Lydia Senn believes in living a limitless life on a limited budget. You can follow her journey at www.frugaldebtfreelife.com

I am a Christmas Convert For years I dreaded Christmas. It felt stressful and exhausting and come January I was greeted with frigid air and a massive credit card bill.

Not anymore. Now I embrace the holiday with open arms. You want to put up a

Christmas tree in October and leave it up until the middle of February? Go for it! I will come string your lights for you! Why? Because I decided a few years ago that I was no longer going to dread a season of stress and instead embrace a season of peace, hope and the everlasting love of my Lord and Savior. We simplified our traditions. We said “no” to obligations and above all, we budgeted. Christmas does not have to be a break-the-bank-buyall-the-presents-disaster. Step away from the crazy and step toward a more simplified and frugal holiday season.

Consider Why You Celebrate During the holiday season, whatever holiday it might be that you celebrate, reevaluate WHY you celebrate. If this is truly a season of worship, thanksgiving, renewed hope and the promise of a new year to come then should the focus really be on the gifts? The true message gets muddled in the mayhem. For me it was the realization that I was spending way more time stressing on what I was going to give people and how I was going to pay for it than I did on truly reflecting and meditating on what Christmas means to me. I love the quote from Bob Hope, which I think it sums it up perfectly: “When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things – not the great occasions – give off the greatest glow of happiness.”

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Time vs. Money Experience gifts can be more meaningful and lasting than a new toy, sweater or scented candle. We don’t show people we love them by the quantity of stuff we give them. We show people we love them by the quality of time we spend with them. I think this is especially hard for parents. Naturally we want to give our children the best of everything. But the best isn’t always a new toy or brand new shoes. Sometimes the best is a day at the zoo, a walk on the beach or a night spent in a tent. The memories will last a lifetime while the new toy might last a month!

Budget, Budget & Budget Our family budgets. We aren’t always perfect at it, but we do it. This is how we were able to get out of debt a few years ago. We apply these same budgeting principles to Christmas. Decide what you can spend reasonably without going in to debt and then divide that amount by the number of people you need to buy gifts for. Obviously you are going to spend more on some people based on your relationship with them. Having a budget for the holidays is like having a roadmap that gets you to January 1.

I love the quote from Bob Hope, which I think it sums it up perfectly: “When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things – not the great occasions – give off the greatest glow of happiness.”

Reconsider Individual Gifts

before Christmas? The bonus is you could make a little extra cash before the holiday rush.

batch of muffins and giving them a nice note telling them how much they mean to you.

If there is a couple or young family in your life consider giving them a joint gift they can all enjoy. For example, a Netflix subscription or an annual pass to the nearest state park.

List old electronics, handbags, shoes and toys on ebay. Sell clothing via a Facebook yard sale group and larger items via Craigslist.

Keep Track of Your Spending

Break Bread Instead of a big gift exchange with extended family share a big meal. Play games or exchange old stories. It’s these moments you remember.

Purge Your Home Why not take a little time to purge your house of unwanted, unneeded and unused items

Reconsider the Fringe People There is always someone you forgot on your list. Your hairdresser, the dog walker, your son’s piano teacher, your daughter’s history tutor. It would be really easy to say that you’re going to give a $10 coffee gift card to each one. But if you have 15 fringe people in your life that’s $150. Instead consider baking a

Before Christmas day rolls around pull out those receipts and tally up your totals. Keeping track of your spending will help you stay within your budget. There is certainly nothing wrong with the love of gift giving. It’s wonderful to bless others with something you truly feel they will enjoy. But don’t let the stress of buying the perfect gift become a financial burden. Take time this holiday season to reevaluate. • SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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Stephanie Parker created her blog Plain Chicken as a way to keep track of her recipes for family and friends. It has turned into a scrapbook of culinary adventures and what happens every day in her kitchen.

Christmas Treats to Make & Take

The holidays are here! It is my favorite time of year. I love the cooler weather, the decorations, the music, the parties and the food. Oh, the food! I love to bake cookies and make our favorite family casseroles during the holidays. Since the holidays are super hectic, I always keep a few quick and easy appetizers and sweet recipes in my arsenal. I like to be able to whip up a quick gift or a party snack on a moments notice. You never know when you are going to get a last-minute dinner invitation and need a quick treat. One of my favorite neighbor/ co-worker gifts is Chocolate Graham Cracker Brittle. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been making a version of this Graham Cracker Brittle for many years. It is so good and super easy. It only takes about 5 minutes of hands-on time and about 15 minutes total. I thought I would change it up a bit this year and add some chocolate. O-M-G! Amazing! The chocolate really puts this toffee over the top. This makes a ton, so there is plenty to share. I gave this as neighbor gifts and it was a huge hit. They all wanted the recipe. This would be a great addition to your holiday cookie tray!

Chocolate Graham Cracker Brittle 1 package graham crackers 1 cup butter 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, divided 2 cups chocolate chips

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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 15x10 pan with foil. Place a single layer of graham crackers on pan. You may have to break up the graham crackers to cover the whole pan. In a medium sauce pan, melt butter and brown sugar. Bring to a boil. Boil for 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and 1 cup of chopped pecans.

Pour pecan mixture over graham crackers. Spread evenly over crackers. Bake for 7 minutes. Remove from oven and top with chocolate chips. Bake for an additional 3 minutes. Remove from oven and spread melted chocolate chips over brittle. Top with remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Allow to cool and break into pieces.

One of my favorite quick dips is this Italian Cheese Spread. A friend brought it to a Christmas party and everyone raved about it. We all asked for the recipe. She was embarrassed to give it us because it was so simple. It only has 3 ingredients! You probably have all the ingredients to whip this up right now. I love easy and delicious recipes! This dip is easy to customize. I think this would be fabulous with some cooked chopped chicken in it or some chopped artichokes and sun dried tomatoes.

Italian Cream Cheese Spread 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 packet Italian dressing mix (Good Seasons) 1/2 cup mayonnaise Combine all ingredients. Refrigerate an hour before serving. Serve with crackers and veggies.

I love nuts. They are so simple to jazz up and make great gifts. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already made two batches of these nuts this holiday season. They are super delicious. They are sweet and salty with a hint of a kick. I bought the cashews at Costco. The container has enough cashews to make a double batch of this recipe. I highly recommend doubling the recipe. These nuts are so addictive. These are great to snack on during the holidays. I plan on making another batch to give away to my neighbors.

Rosemary Roasted Cashews 1 1/4 pounds cashew nuts 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh rosemary leaves or 2 tsp dried rosemary 1/2 tsp cayenne 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon melted butter Preheat the oven to 375. Place the nuts on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine the rosemary, cayenne, brown sugar, and butter in a large bowl. Toss the warm nuts with the rosemary mixture until the nuts are completely coated. Can be served warm or cool. SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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Keesha and her husband Chris create unique home decor and furniture they share through the facebook page “Reclaiming the McEwens.”

Placing your Southern Snow Globes on Candle Stick holders gives an added dimension to your display.

Southern Snow Globes

Christmas is such a wonderful time of year! It’s fun to pull out all of your holiday decorations. Its even more fun creating one-of-a-kind Christmas pieces with your family. Homemade snow globes have become a fun tradition for our household. They are not only homemade and in mason jars, but there is just something rustic about them. A friend saw them on Facebook and immediately shared it with me because of my love of mason jars. The instructions are very simple. Here is what you need :

Mason Jar Plastic Trees

(they come in a pack of two at the dollar tree and they come in green and white colors)

Spray Paint

(for trees I used blue and white)

Water proof hot glue Glitter Glycerin

(which is found in the band-aid isle) Glue your trees to the inside lid of the mason jar (this is after you have colored your trees to match your decor if you choose). Let dry completely. Then fill your jar with water, glitter and a few drops of glycerin. Place the lid on the jar and screw on the cap. Then turn it over and shake. Note: We chose to color our trees so that it would match our rustic decor and it also fits perfectly with our free holiday printable that we got from pinterest. Make it your own and have fun with it! The kids will enjoy it! I know mine did!

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Satisfy Your Holiday Sweet Tooth During the holidays, there’s countless parties, get-togethers and celebrations. What’s everybody’s favorite part of these shindigs? Well, food, of course! We all know spending time and enjoying the holidays with family and friends is really the most important aspect, but let’s not be in denial here. We love to eat, y’all. You know you’ll need some good recipes for those moments when you’re asked to bring something or you just want to. Here’s some make and take recipes to put in your holiday arsenal!

Fudge Cookies Balls with Chocolate Ganache 1 package (4 ounces) Bakers unsweetened chocolate 3/4 cup butter 2 cups sugar 3 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups flour 1 tub (8 ounces) Cool Whip (does not need to be thawed) 6 ounces (1 1/2 packages.) Bakers semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces Microwave unsweetened chocolate and butter in large microwaveable bowl on high for 2 minutes, or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Add sugar; mix well. Blend in eggs and vanilla. Add flour; mix well. Refrigerate for 1 hour until dough is firm. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Bake 6-8 minutes at 350 or just until set. (Do not over bake -- I repeat, do NOT over bake. Only bake until the edges are set and the center is still very moist.) Cool the cookies completely. Microwave Cool Whip and semi-sweet chocolate in microwaveable bowl on high for 90 seconds or until chocolate is completely melted. Whisk the mixture until well blended then let stand for 15 minutes to thicken. Spread over cookies. Makes 5 dozen cookies.

Courtesy Carissa from allinall.com 64

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Caramel Brownies 1 1/3 cup butter, softened 2 2/3 cups sugar 4 eggs 3 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups flour 1 cup cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 package caramels 1 can sweetened condensed milk In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Mix together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add flour mixture to creamed mixture, stirring just until combined. Spread ⅔ of the mixture in the bottom of a lightly greased 9” x 13” baking dish. Bake in a 350° oven for about 12 minutes. While the brownies are baking, heat the caramels and sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan, stirring often, until the caramels are melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour caramel mixture over brownies in the baking dish, and spread evenly. Top with remaining brownie batter and spread as evenly as possible. You can swirl the caramel and brownie batter together, if you’d like. Return to a 350° oven for an additional 20- 30 minutes, or until cooked through.

Courtesy Michelle from thegraciouswife.com …more on page 66 SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

…con’t from page 65

Peanut Butter Macadamia Nut White Chocolate Cookies

1 1/2 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg 1 teaspoon pure vanilla 3/4 cup all-natural peanut butter chips 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips or chunks 1/2 cup macadamia nuts

Bring butter and egg to room temperature. Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Using an electric hand-mixer, cream softened butter for 2 to 3 minutes. Add both sugars and continue creaming mixture on medium speed until it is smooth and lump free, about 1 minute. Scrape down sides of bowl as needed while mixing. Next add egg and vanilla and beat on low speed for around15 seconds, or until they are fully incorporated, taking care not to over-beat the eggs into the dough. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add sifted flour mixture until all of the flour is incorporated. Scrape down sides of bowl. Fold in white chocolate, nuts and peanut butter chips. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Next scoop heaping tablespoons of dough from the bowl, roll into balls, and place on parchment paper, spaced slightly. Freeze anywhere from 1 hour to overnight. Once frozen, transfer to a plastic bag and bake as desired or make them all and channel your inner cookie monster. When ready to bake: preheat oven to 350 degrees F and bake cookies on a parchment paper lined baking sheet, spaced a few inches apart, placed on the center rack of oven for 12-14 minutes. They’re best when slightly doughy in the middle and lightly golden and crispy around the edges. Allow cookies to cool completely and store wrapped individually in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container.

Courtesy Jenn from peasandcrayons.com

Peanut Butter ROLO Ritz Cookies Ritz crackers ROLO candies, unwrapped Peanut butter Semisweet chocolate chips, melted White chocolate chips, melted with 1 tsp shortening Sprinkles (optional) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place one ROLO candy on a Ritz cracker and place in oven for 3-5 minutes, until melted. Place another Ritz cracker on top, and spread that cracker with peanut butter. Add another cracker on top of the peanut butter. Dip in chocolate (or pour over) to coat. Refrigerate until hardened. 66

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…and here are a few goodies from Shea’s own kitchen…

Peppermint Crunch Whoopie Pies — COOKIES — 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 2 sticks butter, softened 3/4 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup white sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 6 oz Andes Peppermint Crunch Baking Chips — FILLING — 2 cups powdered sugar 1 egg white 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 cup shortening In a small bowl combine the flour through salt; set aside. Add the butter and sugars to a stand mixer and mix on low until creamy. Add one egg at a time, stirring thoroughly between each addition. Add the flour mixture 1/2 cup at a time with the mixer on low until all is incorporated; add peppermint chips and stir a few seconds more to combine. Refrigerate dough for about 20 minutes. (That’s what I like to do; spooning them out is easier and much less sticky). Preheat oven to 375° and make the filling: Combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar, egg white, vanilla and shortening. Add remaining sugar and stir until creamy. Store in refrigerator until ready to use. On an ungreased baking sheet, drop dough by heaping tablespoons (I probably made mine a little bigger because I wanted big fat cookies) and bake for 8-10 minutes, until slightly golden brown. They will set more when you remove them from the oven. Cool on a wire rack completely – you don’t want them falling apart when you spread the filling. When cooled, put about a tablespoon of filling on a cookie, then top with another one. Store any cookies left in fridge.

Oreo Christmas Truffles 1 package Oreos 1 8 ounces block cream cheese, softened 1 8 ounces bag milk chocolate chips 1 8 ounces bag white chocolate chips Shortening Sprinkles Sea salt (optional) Using a food processor, crush the Oreos. Add the softened cream cheese and pulse until blended thoroughly. (If you don’t have a food processor, you could just as easily crush the cookies in a large zip lock bag, pour in a bowl and blend in the cream cheese with a big spoon.) Refrigerate dough for about 30 minutes. This part isn’t necessarily mandatory, but I like to do it because it makes the mixture more firm and easier to handle. Shape into balls – about the size of a golf ball – and put on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate these while you melt the chocolate. Mix the milk chocolate chips with about 1 tbsp of shortening and microwave on 50% 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until melted. Take about half of the truffles out of the fridge, dip in melted chocolate, decorate with sprinkles and refrigerate until firm; about an hour. Do the same with the white chocolate chips and remaining truffles.

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Waikiki Christmas Sometimes things need to be shaken up a little.

Of course, everyone enjoys a pretty Christmas tree, garland, lights and the traditional turkey dinner. I, however, love nontraditional because it’s unexpected and creates a new and exciting atmosphere. When you step outside of the box, it not only makes for a fun experience, but you get to create new memories, and damnit everybody will remember it. This year, we decided to go with a Hawaiian-themed Christmas, and I’m sharing with you our tablescape as well as a full menu. We decided to go with fuchsia, teal and silver for the tablescape. I’m so in love with this. Want some facts about Christmas in Hawaii?? • The first recorded Christmas in Hawaii was in 1786 • Santa was called “Kanakaloka” • “Mele Kalikimaka” means Merry Christmas

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All recipes courtesy Shea from dixiechikcooks.com

Brown Sugar Jalapeño Meatballs

Pineapple Guacamole

2 pounds ground round 1 egg 1/4 cup bread crumbs 1 teaspoon ginger 2 cups bottled BBQ sauce 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 cup pickled jalapeño peppers, sliced Sour cream

2 ripe avocados 1 8-ounce can crushed pineapple, and 1 tablespoon of the juice 1/2 onion, diced 2 jalapeños, diced 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon lime juice 1/2 14.5-ounce can petite diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed (add more depending on your taste) 2 tablespoons salt (more or less to taste)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Combine the ground round through ginger; form into balls. Whisk the BBQ, hoisin and soy sauce together, pour over meatballs and bake for 45 minutes. Top each with a little sour cream and a pickled jalapeño.

Combine all ingredients with a fork or anything that smushes it all together. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or use as a topping for meatballs.

Pineapple Scented Jasmine Rice 1 1/2 cups water 1/2 cup pineapple juice 1 cup Jasmine rice Bring water and pineapple juice to a boil; add rice, stir and cover. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, until all liquid has absorbed.

…more on page 70 SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

…con’t from page 69

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus with Gruyère Cheese Sauce 1 pound fresh asparagus 4ounce prosciutto olive oil 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup whole milk 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated 1/2 cup Cabot Sharp White Cheddar, grated Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Wrap each asparagus spear with prosciutto. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, until asparagus spears are tender. Cook the butter over medium low heat until melted. Whisk the milk, flour and cayenne together in a separate bowl and add to pan, then add cheese. Whisk until thickened and remove from heat. Drizzle cheese sauce over asparagus to serve.

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Chocolate Coconut Sea Salted Cake Balls 1 box vanilla cake mix, made according to package directions and cooled 1 container cream cheese cake frosting 1 box Coconut and Sea Salt Triscuits, crushed or run through a food processor Dark melting chocolate Flaked coconut Combine cake and frosting in a bowl with your hands or in a stand mixer until thoroughly incorporated. Roll into golf ball size balls and freeze for 30 minutes. Melt chocolate and roll balls in chocolate, crushed Triscuits and place on parchment paper sprayed with nonstick spray. Sprinkle with coconut.

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Making the Most Out of Day Leftovers Fall is definitely here, bringing in the holiday season! To Southerners, it seems that holidays, families, and eating are all virtually synonymous. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we thought we would share a way to spice up your leftovers. Leftover turkey in a sandwich is almost as traditional as the Thanksgiving meal itself. Inspired

by this thought, Southern Sisters Gourmet made turkey sliders using our Pineapple Garlic Onion cheese ball as a spread. The cheese ball as an appetizer for the main event on Turkey Day is simple to make. (It’s so good you might want to make a double recipe and keep some in the fridge for the sandwiches later.)

When everyone else is Black Friday shopping, we serven our leftover turkey sandwich on a roll slathered with our cheese ball and topped with just enough cranberry sauce to add a little sweetness. For even a little more decadence, maybe for a brunch, slide an overmedium egg onto that turkey sandwich — and it’s a meal!

…more on page 75 SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

DIY CONTEST:

Show us what can you do with paint! Here’s what you do....

…and here’s what you win!

1. Give new life to a piece of “Funky Junk” with paint. 2. It can be a collaboration of more than one person but the person submitting the entry must have been an active participant in transforming the piece of funky junk. 3. To enter, you will submit* a picture or pictures of your redefined, repurposed, reclaimed piece of funky junk, explain where it came from and what techniques you used to transform it. (We would love to see before-and-after pictures if available.) 4. You can submit up to 5 entries. 5. Entries will be accepted through December 31, 2015. 6. All eligible entries will be posted on the Funky Junk Trail Facebook page on or before January 5th, 2016. Our fans will then be asked to vote for their favorites throughout the month of January. 7. The top 10 vote getters will then go to the second round. At that time our editorial staff will review and narrow the field down to 5 and choose the overall winner. 8. The winners and their funky junk transformations will be featured in our Spring Issue of Southern Holiday Life.

1st Place • A Dixie Belle Paint Package with 32 oz of paint, glaze, clear coat, brushes and apron. Enough paint supplies for several Funky Junk projects. Retail value $125.00. • Y our project and transformation story featured in the Spring Issue of Southern Holiday Life magazine.

2nd Place — 5th Place • A Dixie Belle Paint Starter kit. Retail value $20.00 • P icture of your completed project and recognition in the Spring Issue of Southern Holiday Life magazine.

To enter: Go to the Funky Junk Trail Facebook page or to SouthernHolidayLife.com a nd click on the entry form link.

For Dixie Belle paint, ideas & even furniture to transform, visit us in Wedowee! Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday

Christmas Open House Local Funky Southern Saturday, Nov. 14 Door Prizes, Refreshment, Special Event Pricing SHOP

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SHOP

…con’t from page 73

We also have an assortment of sweet mixes that make wonderful desserts, one of our favorites is our Turtle Cheesecake mix. It is so versatile and easy to make. You can use it as a frosting, a cheese ball, filling for éclairs or a dip. We are kicking things up a notch by combining it with a pecan shortbread crust. You will fall in love with this mix. Trust me!

Pineapple Garlic Onion Cheese Ball Appetizer on Turkey Day! Sandwich Spread for leftovers! 1 package Southern Sisters Pineapple Garlic Onion Cheese Ball mix 16 ounces of softened cream cheese 1 13-ounce can of crushed pineapple, drained. 1 package pecan pieces (optional) Combine all ingredients and mix well. Refrigerate for 1 hour before forming into a ball. Garnish with packet provided or with crushed pecans. Serve with crackers.

Turtle Cheese Cake Bars with Pecan Crust 1 package Southern Sisters Gourmet Turtle Cheesecake mix 16 ounces cream cheese, softened 2 cups All Purpose Flour 1/2 cup Confectioners’ sugar 1 stick margarine, melted 1 stick butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans.

Mix the Turtle Cheesecake as directed on package and set aside. Mix remaining ingredients and pour into a 9x13 pan, spread with fingers to the sides. Bake for 18 minutes on 325 degrees F. Cool. Spread cheesecake mixture on top. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and pecans if desired. Freeze for 1 hour before serving.

Kay Allison is half of Southern Sisters Gourmet, a food company based in Mississippi. Along with her sister Claire, Kay has been producing easy to use mixes that create gourmet dishes since 2012. Southern Sisters Gourmet mixes can be found at the Southern Holiday Shop in Wedowee or online through their website. SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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Shea Goldstein is rooted in her Southern-style of cooking — so much so that she chronicles her culinary exploits for the world to see on her website, Dixie Chik Cooks. One look and there’s no doubt that Shea infuses her Alabama flair into every delicious creation. Adam J. Holland, on the other hand, prefers to turn out chow with a Texas twist, even if it means defying Southern tradition. Texas, in his view, includes just about every cuisine on the planet. So, what happens when these two unlikely friends have a friendly foodie fight? “Someone really ought to make him turn in his Southerner card, because he commits some serious sins,” Shea says about Adam, “Dear 8 lb. 6 oz. tiny baby Jesus ... I pray that Adam has a wonderful 2016 and only You can guarantee that he’ll get back on track this New Year’s and stop trying to pass off Yankee food as Southern food.” Shea makes fun of me because I don’t like black-eyed peas. My mawmaw did too. So what. Being a Southern boy doesn’t mean I have to eat grits and greens every day. You know, Texas has more folks from Mexico than Mexico itself. And Houston’s Chinatown is one of the largest outside of Hong Kong. They pay their taxes and fly the Lone Star flag. That’s Tex-

How to Serve Up Luck on New Year’s Day

Two foodies fight it out!

an as far as I’m concerned. And we’re the biggest Southern state by far.” Though they come from vastly different schools of thought, there’s one thing

Shea and Adam have in common: They both turn out some tasty meals. Whose New Year’s recipe is best? That’s for you to decide. But you won’t go wrong either way. …con’t to page 78 SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

…con’t from page 77

Let’s start with Adam… Confession: I despise black-eyed peas about as much as I do fruitcake and sweet tea. Before you accuse me of not being Southern, just know that I’ve downed my fair share of greens and cabbage — fried in bacon grease and doused with peppery vinegar. When it came to New Year’s Day, however, my Southern family had a tradition of eating Mexican food — often on TV trays — as we watched college bowl games. Our dishes were really Tex-Mex — beef enchiladas, tamales, chips and homemade salsa

along with a pot of bacon-infused pintos and a dish of tomato-ey rice. It’s well known that black-eyed peas bring great luck in a new year. Too bad for me … except that cabbage and other greens have the same reputation. Fortunately, our friends in Mexico figured that out a long time ago. Versions of the following recipe are quite common in many regions of Mexico. Sure, corn is the cash crop, but cabbage is also economical and very readily available. Eat this dish atop a bed of steamed rice or on a crispy tortilla. Either way, I prefer to add some chiltepin hot sauce to mine once it’s on a plate in front of me.

Mexican-style Beef with Cabbage 2 tablespoons bacon fat, or vegetable oil 1 small onion, diced 1 Jalapeño chile, chopped 1 medium tomato, chopped 3 cloves garlic, crushed 1 lb ground beef, preferably something lean (90/10 round or sirloin) 2 teaspoons chili powder, preferably ancho 2 teaspoons Kosher salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 cup vegetable or beef stock 3 cups cabbage, shredded 1/2 cup chopped cilantro Toasted pumpkin seeds (optional) In a deep skillet, heat the bacon fat (or oil) over a medium setting. Add onion and sauté until slightly softened, about 2 minutes. Add the garlic, jalapeño, tomato, chili powder, salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring regularly, until tomato juice has all but evaporated (you’ll hear the fat/ oil popping), about 7-8 minutes. 78

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Add ground beef; crumbling as it cooks. When beef is no longer pink, add the stock, cabbage and cilantro. Turn heat to medium high and cook, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is wilted and most of stock has evaporated, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Season as desired to taste. Garnish with pumpkin seeds if desired.

…and here’s Shea’s take on it… Apparently, Adam didn’t have a proper Southern raising. Growing up in the South meant you have to eat some black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day for luck and prosperity. It doesn’t have to be a plain bowl of black-eyed peas – there’s so many things you can do

with them. I’ve used them in salsas, stuffed them in tortillas, and put them in chilis and soups. This year black-eyed peas get a big, fat upgrade with this recipe I created with mini jalapeño white cheddar cornbreads (which symbolizes gold, by the way) to bring you the very best of luck on New Year’s Day.

Salsa Verde Refried Black Eyed Peas on Mini Jalapeño White Cheddar Cornbread Muffins 1 recipe buttermilk cornbread batter 2 jalapeño peppers, diced 4 oz. Cabot Sharp White Cheddar, shredded (Farmhouse is my favorite) 1/4 cup whole milk Canola oil 2 cans black eye peas, drained and rinsed 2 tablespoons seasoned salt 1 teaspoon cayenne 1 tablespoons pepper 4 tablespoons bacon grease, lard or butter 1 cup Salsa Verde Pickled jalapeños, sliced Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Make cornbread according to directions and add jalapeños, cheddar and milk. Coat ramekins with canola oil and fill each one 3/4 full; bake for 20 minutes, or until brown. Pulse black eyed peas through pepper in a food processor until smooth. Heat grease or butter in a medium size saute pan until melted and almost bubbly, add bean mixture, whisking consistently, then add salsa verde, whisk and remove from heat. Serve bean mixture over mini cornbreads and top with pickled jalapeños.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Check out the following events that are happening in our area this Holiday season.

For additional information and new event postings visit http://www.southernholidaylife.com/upcoming-events.

Thursday Nov 5

Saturday, Sunday Nov 7-8

Friday Nov 13

Open House at Memories Past and Present

Christmas Open House at Collectors’ Corner

— Bowdon GA

— Sharpsburg GA

Holiday Open House at Junk Mama’s General Store

In conjunction with Bowdon By Candlelight from 5:30–9 pm. Multiple shops open with extended shopping hours.

Beginning the first weekend in November and continues every weekend through Christmas. Variety of food and cider samples to taste. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Memories Past and Present 139 City Hall Ave Bowdon, GA 30108

Friday, Saturday Nov 6-7

Christmas Open House at It’s About Time Antiques — Newnan GA Extending shopping time Friday evening 6:00 – 8 pm Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

It’s About Time 117 Franklin Rd Newnan, GA 30263

Friday, Saturday, Sunday Nov 6-8

Christmas Open House at H & M Drugs — Wedowee AL

H & M Drugs 17216 AL-1 Wedowee, AL 36278

Saturday Nov 7

Wehadkee Trade Days — Rock Mills AL Where the real pickers shop! 7:00 am–1:00 pm

66276 Alabama 22 Roanoke, AL 36274

Monday Nov 9

Let’s Make It On Monday — Wedowee AL

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Holiday Open House with Refreshments, Door Prizes and 10% off total purchase. Wine at Five!

Junk Mama’s General Store 125 Fisher Ave Fayetteville, GA 30214

Friday Nov 13

Holiday Open House at Table Talk — Senoia GA In conjunction with Enjoy Senoia’s Holiday Open House Extended shopping hours from 5:00 – 8:00 pm

Table Talk 53 Main St Senoia, GA 30276

Girls Night Out...a fun craft, light supper and girl time

Friday Nov 13

6:00 – 8:00pm

Holiday Open House at Beads & Lace Boutique

Main Street Coffee Shop 15 Main St, Wedowee, AL 36278

Please note: Times posted are relevant to the area where the event is taking place. 82

— Fayetteville GA

— Senoia GA In conjunction with Enjoy Senoia’s Holiday Open House. Extended shopping hours from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Beads & Lace 60 Main St Senoia, GA 30276

Friday Nov 13

Friday Nov 20

Saturday Nov 21

Holiday Open House at Gypsy

Open House at J Perry Boutique

Holiday Open House at Feathers & Twigs

— Senoia GA

— LaGrange GA

— Carrollton GA

In conjunction with Enjoy Senoia’s Holiday Open House.

In conjunction with the Candlelight Holiday Sip & Shop Downtown. Enjoy extended shopping hours, wine tasting and a Christmas wreath silent auction.

10:00 am – 5:30 pm

Extended shopping hours from 5:00 – 8:00 pm

Gypsy 26 Main St Senoia, GA 30276

Friday, Saturday Nov 13-14

Christmas Open House at Southern Holiday Shop — Wedowee AL Refreshments, door prizes, and discounts offered throughout the store.

J Perry Boutique 131 Bull St LaGrange, GA 30240

Saturday Nov 21

Holiday Open House at Birds Of A Feather — Oxford AL

Feathers & Twigs 506 Maple St Carrollton, GA 30117

Saturday, Sunday Nov 21-22

Holiday Open House at Home Is Where The Heart Is — Woodbury GA Home Is Where The Heart Is 18157 Main St Woodbury, GA 30293

Southern Holiday Shop W Broad St Wedowee, AL 36278

Food, music, a warm welcome and special discounts offered by all of our vendors! We look forward to sharing some goodies and good times with you!!

— Rock Mills AL

Friday Nov 20

Birds Of A Feather 502 Main St Oxford, AL 36203

Saturday Nov 21

66276 Alabama 22 Roanoke, AL 36274

Holiday Open House at The Nest

Friday Nov 27

Open House at Marketplace at LaFayette Square — LaGrange GA In conjunction with the Candlelight Holiday Sip & Shop Downtown. Enjoy extended shopping hours, wine tasting and a Christmas wreath silent auction.

Marketplace at LaFayette Square 100 Bull St LaGrange, GA 30240

— Carrollton GA Refreshments and door prizes 10:00 am – 5:30 pm

The Nest 121 Bradley St Carrollton, GA 30117

Saturday Nov 21

Wehadkee Trade Days Where the real pickers shop! 7:00 am – 1:00 pm

Laid Back Friday at Southern Holiday Shop — Wedowee AL We are starting a new trend... Laid Back Friday. Come join us for a stress-free day of shopping and sipping on a Mimosa or Champaign Bellini 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Do you have an Open House, Event or Special Sale that needs to be promoted in Alabama or Georgia?

Southern Holiday Shop W Broad St Wedowee, AL 36278

Give Southern Holiday Life a call or send us an email to HolidayLifeAds@gmail.com .

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…cont’d from page 83

Saturday Dec 5

Wehadkee Trade Days — Rock Mills AL

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday ; Dec 9-13

Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour

Where the real pickers shop!

— Opelika AL

7:00 am – 1:00 pm

Opelika’s Northside Historic District is celebrating Christmas like it’s 1899! Sixty historic homes are transformed into a colorful, nostalgic reminder of Christmas from a simpler era.

66276 Alabama 22 Roanoke, AL 36274

Saturday Dec 5

20th Annual Cookie Walk — Auburn AL Folks come from far and near to buy fresh, delicious, holiday decorated cookies at this Habitat for Humanity fund raiser. 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Grace United Methodist Church 915 E Glenn Ave Auburn, AL 36830

Saturday Dec 5

HO HO HO Hike! — Auburn AL

N 8th St Opelika, AL 36801

Friday Dec 11

Christmas In A Railroad Town — Opelika AL Whether you’re a young child or simply a child at heart – there will be activities for everyone at this great night out in historic downtown Opelika. 6:00 – 9:00 pm

N Railroad Ave Opelika, AL 36801

Join us for this fun “Santa-hunt” where we will hike the preserve looking for this elusive visitor in red.

Saturday, Sunday Dec 12-13

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

— Auburn AL

Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Perserve 2222 N College St Auburn, AL 36830

Monday Dec 7

Let’s Make It On Monday — Wedowee AL Girls Night Out in Wedowee Alabama What we offer... a fun craft, light supper and girl time This months craft: Check back yet to be determined. 6:00 – 8:00 pm

Main Street Coffee Shop 15 Main St Wedowee, AL 36278

Santa On The Corner Santa will be on the Corner in Downtown Auburn! Times are to be announced! Donations will be accepted to The United Way.

Saturday Dec 12

9th Annual Holiday Art Sale — Auburn AL Local artists will be selling paintings, pottery, stained glass, photography, cards, jewelry, hats, scarves and much more!

Saturday Dec 19

Wehadkee Trade Days — Rock Mills AL Where the real pickers shop! 7:00 am – 1:00 pm

66276 Alabama 22 Roanoke, AL 36274

Saturday Jan 2, 2016

Wehadkee Trade Days — Rock Mills AL Where the real pickers shop! 7:00 am – 1:00 pm

66276 Alabama 22 Roanoke, AL 36274

Tuesday Jan 19, 2016

AU vs Alabama Basketball — Auburn, AL The AU Men’s Basketball Team will host Alabama at the Auburn Arena. For more information, please visit www. auburntigers.com. 8:00 pm

Auburn Arena 250 Beard-Eaves Court Auburn, AL 36849

Friday Jan 29, 2016

Alabama Oyster Social — Auburn AL For more information, please visit http://www.aotourism.com/

Auburn University Ag Heritage Park Auburn, AL

9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center 222 E Drake Ave Auburn, AL 36830

SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, my friends. Since we all love Christmas movies, and I’ve reviewed so many in the past couple of years, I thought I would write about the other holiday we so desperately long for as soon as the 25th is over. On New Year’s, kids love the fireworks and adults like to party down. There is enough of a breather between Christmas to return the gifts you didn’t want for things you really expected. Family members you either loved to see leave or hated to see go, can either leave or go. There is time to finish off that last turkey leg that you didn’t need to eat. And there is still time still get prepared for a new year. A new you perhaps? Most of us do prepare New Year’s Resolutions. Join a gym to lose weight, call your parents more, be more productive at work or at home…the list can include anything you want it to. The sad part is that most of us fail miserably at our resolutions, but every year we have hope and someone you know, possibly yourself, has succeeded a time or two. I decided to write about movies that can inspire you to both be a better person and to not give up on your goals and dreams, no matter how out of reach they may seem. Enjoy the moment, but never stop looking forward.

New Year’s Resolutions through Celluloid by Andy Petty

Andy Petty is a true movie lover, on a lifelong mission to see any and all films in no particular order and to know all things related to creating a motion picture that can change your life.

Whiplash (2014) We all want to be great at something. I want to be a great photographer, but I always feel like someone is better than me. There always will be someone better because they’ve practiced their craft more than me. But just because there is someone better doesn’t mean I should give up that dream. I certainly related to this movie because it’s all about proving to yourself that you are worthy of being the best if you work hard and put all you’ve got into it. Whiplash does for studio band what Rocky Balboa did for boxing. Andrew Neiman, played by the amazingly talented Miles Teller (his name even sounds like a musician), is a jazz student at a prestigious and coveted music school in New York City who plays the drums. Using the facilities provided to him late one evening, a jazz instructor that Andrew has always admired hears him playing. That instructor is the great Terence Fletcher, played by J.K. Simmons (who brought home an Oscar for his role). Fletcher invites the first-year student to his class after a couple of brief sessions, but what follows isn’t for the weak.

“There are no two words in the English language more harmful than ‘good job’” explains Fletcher. To be good is not great, to be great is not excellent and to be excellent is not the best. Blood, sweat and tears is an understatement as to what Andrew is going to have to endure in order to please the great instructor. No one said being the best is easy. You don’t have to be a musician to get the struggle Andrew is facing. It’s called challenging yourself and finding your breaking point and that is what Fletcher is trying to do here. Now a lot of people will look at Fletcher and immediately make assumptions about the right or wrong of his teachings. A hurled chair to the face may be a little too harsh, but a few yells and slurs later and the viewers can make …con’t on page 89 their own decision if what Fletcher was doing was worth making Andrew SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

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either the best or a failed attempt. Riveting until the final frame, this is one film you don’t want to miss from an incredible new director by the name of Damien Chazelle.

Groundhog Day (1993) Bill Murray has joined the fine wine club these days. Actors that continue to get better with age, like Robert Redford or Meryl Streep or Tom Hanks, he continues to make us laugh and remain interesting at the same time. His fluffy comedies of the 80s and 90s still hold up today, and with Ghostbusters and Stripes, one of his most popular and liked films today is 1993’s fantasy masterpiece Groundhog Day. It was even inducted into the United States National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” in 2006 and is spawning a broadway musical in 2016. Being the box office hit it was then and still relevant today, I’ll assume you’ve seen it, but in case your kids or grandchildren have never had the pleasure, get the family together for movie night and spend an evening with TV weatherman Phil Connors. Phil has been asked to cover the Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania with his producer Rita (Andie MacDowell) and cameraman Larry (Chris Elliott). “This is one time where television really fails to capture the true excitement of a large squirrel predicting the weather,” Phil states sarcastically, not the least excited. Not enjoying his assignment, the team quickly gets back on the road to Pittsburgh, but is forced to return to the small town because of a snowstorm bearing down on the interstate. Forced for another night’s stay, off-putting Phil fails at making conversation and friends with anyone, including producer Rita. He knows tomorrow morning things will be better once he’s able to leave this small town and get back to the city, except one tiny problem. It’s Groundhog Day…again. Thinking he’s being pranked or even in a bad dream, Phil rides out the first day only to awake repeating the same day again, and again and again and again. Have you ever wondered what your life would be like if you were able to change it? I have certainly thought about things I’ve done or said in the past that I would love to change. The core of the message from this movie makes me think about things like that, all the while enjoying the zany comedy that ensues. Maybe I should have helped out a homeless person today. Maybe I should have paid something forward to a complete stranger. Maybe I should have told someone how special they mean to me today. Those thoughts and actions can seriously alter your life and that is exactly what Phil Connors experiences reliving Groundhog Day over and over again. Like Rita says to Phil, “This day was perfect. You couldn’t have planned a day like this.” To which

Phil replies, “Well, you can. It just takes an awful lot of work.” Hard work or not, this is a movie that perfectly blends comedy, romance and fantasy and combines it with thought provoking conversations both aloud and in your mind.

The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty (2013) “Stop dreaming. Start living.” is the tagline for the 2013 adventure The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty, directed by and starring Ben Stiller. One of my favorite films to come out within the past few years, it allows our imaginations to run wild within our very own life. Where are you at right now in your life? Are you doing something you love to do? Most would say they’re stuck in a dead-end job and life seems to be passing them by. That’s exactly whats happening to Walter Mitty (Stiller). He’s a negative assets manager for Life magazine, which has just begun to downsize and restructure their image and daily operations, making Walter’s job obsolete. He’s pushed around and overlooked at work, is alone and single in a tiny apartment and has a crush at work named Cheryl (played by Kristen Wiig) who has barely spoken to him. Walter has begun to daydream fantastical adventures of him saving the world and getting the girl. Having one more job to do, he’s been given the last set of negatives from the great world traveling photographer Sean O’Connell (Sean Penn) with the instructions that #25 is what Life magazine is all about and should be the final cover of the last printed magazine. There’s just one big problem, #25 is missing. Cheryl suggests that maybe he should find O’Connell and the clues could be in the negatives he just had sent in to be printed. Reluctantly boarding a plane for Greenland, the place where he believes he’ll find O’Connell, Walter has now made one of the biggest leaps of his entire life. Of course as fate would allow, O’Connell has been on the move and Walter is always a few steps behind. Seeing the world and being placed in extraordinary circumstances, Walter stops daydreaming and starts living, discovering what it’s like to be alive and free in a world of people and landscapes. The photos he’s processed for so many years are now coming to life and the adventures that were all in his mind are now memories he’ll never forget. So what’s stopping you from having an adventure of a lifetime? A vacation, whether its a different state or a different continent altogether, or a place you’ve never been before can change your life forever. A full immersion into a different culture or way of life is an eye-opening experience so a vacation should never be discarded as a resolution. The moral of the story is exactly what the tagline says. • SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

Where in the South is that?

Andy Petty always takes his camera when traveling through the South. Can you guess where he visited this issue? We will help by listing the towns. Carrollton GA Gadsden AL Roanoke AL Carrollton GA Dublin GA Blue Ridge GA Brunswick GA Ellijay GA Marietta GA Augusta GA

Ellijay GA Anniston AL Atlanta GA Marietta GA Blue Ridge GA Pigeon Forge TN Lindale GA Bowdon GA Ashland AL Blue Ridge GA

You can find the answers by visiting, southernholidaylife.com

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Southern Brand Favorites

Southern Brand Favorites is our way of introducing readers to incredible entrepreneurs and products made right here in the South. The criteria to be a Southern Brand Favorite is simple. We have to love the product, it has to be made in the South, and be available for purchase in the Southern Holiday Life market area.

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Southern Sisters

With Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching, Southern Sisters Gourmet has got you covered for your next holiday party. Whether you choose a savory cheese ball or dip, or you want to satisfy your sweet tooth, Claire and Kay have what you need. Some of the most popular dips include BLT, Cheesy Bacon and Bacon Onion. Then, team the dips up with any or all of the 3 flavors of Snacker Crackers for a festive treat! Snacker Cracker flavors includes Baja Dreams, Garlic Herb and Tupelo Toast. The Sister’s have several mixes and dips to warm you up on the cooler days of fall including their super easy Apple Crisp, Breakfast Coffee Cake, Caramel Apple Dip and Pumpkin Bread. Claire’s five-year-old grandson Aubrey has a personal endorsement for the Pumpkin Bread, telling his grandmother, “this is good stuff.” Roasted Garlic and Asiago is a new savory dip and we will be sampling it as well as the other flavors of fall and football at the Southern Holiday Shop on Saturday’s this fall season. Southern Sisters Gourmet is full of personality and passion for their gourmet food business located in Mississippi. Sister Claire Easley is the mixologist for the dips and mixes, and Sister Kay Allison is the marketing guru and photographer for the team. The “Sisters” definitely know how to make great food that is easy to prepare. The mixes and dip only need a few simple ingredients added to have a spectacular appetizer, salad, dessert, or main course.

Precious Time Jewelry

Precious Time Jewelry is truly special because of the joint venture between Becky McEachern Ford and her father, Larry McEachern. Becky and Larry’s vision of using old pieces from the past and combining them with today’s style has allowed Precious Time Jewelry to build an exciting one-of-a-kind jewelry collection. The jewelry line consists of a variety of antique, vintage, and unique items that are designed into one-of-a-kind pieces by combining them with the styles and charm of today’s fashion. Vintage keys, coins, and flatware, some dating back to the 1900s, are only a few of the items that they usnge in their creations. They began the business in the basement of Becky’s home in 2012 and expanded into a commercial building in Fayetteville, GA in 2015, where they began a new line of leather products called B&L Designs. This line consists of unique leather cuff bracelets, cowboy boot purses, vintage leather purses, and unique belts. Becky says, “As we continue to grow, we will continue to strive to use and repurpose old items to give all of our future pieces the same rustic/artisan style that offers fun, unique pieces that anyone can enjoy.” We also welcome any custom orders from customers and work with them to create and design a piece that they are proud to wear. We are very thankful to all of those who have become Precious Time customers and are excited about the future possibilities that lie ahead.”

Calla Vistas Candles

Calla Vistas Candles is a home-based business run by Tina Suggs of Oxford Alabama. The candles are vintage inspired with natural colors in glass jars and bronze caps. The candles and melts are hand-poured soy. The soy and wicks are southern made and the jars are made of recycled glass. New scents for the fall season include Sweet Potato and Brown Sugar, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cream Brulee, Autumn, and Blueberry Cobbler. The other popular scents that are always available include Apple Orchards, Rice Petals & Shea Butter, Brown Sugar & Fig, Driftwood, Peony, Pomegranate, Loving Spell, Lemon Squares, Kudzu, Lavender and three of my personal favorites: Narcissist, Butt Naked and You Sexy Thing. The candles come in large and small sizes as well as the wax melts at very affordable prices. Special orders are also available for party and wedding favors with custom labeling. SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

continued! Mama’s Secret Cookies

Dixie Belle Paint Company

Dixie Belle Paint Company is located in Land o Lakes, Fla. and has a line of beautiful chalk mineral paint in designer colors, several glazes and clear coat products that are “easy peasy” to use. New colors and glazes are being developed and continually being added to the line for more choices and customization. Dixie Belle Paint can be used on wood, metal, laminate, and glass, ceramic; you name it, with no prep work! All water based with soap and water cleanup. How does Dixie Belle Paint work? Dixie Belle Paint has superb adhesion qualities which allow you to skip the sanding and priming prep work required of other paints. Using 150-220 grit sandpaper, sand the edges, high points and area where there would be normal wear. Dixie Belle Paint will simply fade away. A large jar will cover a large size dresser and 2 nightstands, the small jar, a coffee and 2 end tables. Dixie Belle Paint is thick and adding small amount water as you paint is recommended. Doing that will also make it last longer! Check out the website www. DixieBellePaint. com for instructional videos and tips.

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Mama’s Secret Cookies are fantastic little cookies that have recently been made available to the public in East Alabama. The Secrets as the family named them many years ago have just the right amount of sweetness. Secrets are pure Southern goodness baked into small round balls and dusted with powder sugar. Secrets were first baked in South Alabama but are now baked in small batches in Auburn Alabama. Irma “Mama” Robinson, explains that for three generations, our family’s contribution to social events has been the melt-in-your mouth creations they call Secrets. And I learned early of their importance says Irma. “My grandmother served them as the last delight at her parties. My Mama served them at every baby and bridal shower and even gave them as wedding gifts to the bride and grooms to enjoy. Secrets are not to be saved only for special occasions. They’re perfect for any gathering: from weddings to tailgates, potlucks to gifts. Secrets are a favorite everywhere they’re served. Mama says “you best be careful when eatin’ Secrets because the fine white suga’ will tell on you if you’re not careful! The Mama’s Secret Cookies brand is growing and showing up in new stores every week. Be sure to check out their Facebook page and www.MamasSecretCookies. com for new store locations.

Shopping Guide

Precious Time Jewelry

Little Black Dress in Alexander City, AL Southern Holiday Shop in Wedowee, AL Beads & Lace Boutique in Senoia, GA See Facebook page for new locations

LuLu’s Lathers Hand-Crafted Soap

Southern Holiday Shop in Wedowee, AL Alabama Maker’s Market in Alexander City, AL See Facebook page for new locations

Calla Vista’s Candles

Southern Holiday Shop in Wedowee, AL See Facebook page for new locations

Dixie Belle Paint Company Alabama Maker’s Market in Alexander City, AL

Birds of a Feather in Oxford, AL Southern Holiday Shop in Wedowee, AL Junk Mama’s General Store in Fayetteville, GA Online at www.DixieBellePaint.com

Southern Sister’s Gourmet

Southern Holiday Shop in Wedowee, AL Online at www.SouthernSistersGourmet.com

Mama’s Secret Cookies

Southern Holiday Shop in Wedowee, AL Online at www.MamasSecretCookies.com

Lulu’s Lathers Handcrafted Soaps

In an effort to rid her home of toxic chemicals and move toward a better and healthier lifestyle, Libby Engstrom, owner of Lulu’s Lathers Handcrafted Soaps, discovered the benefits of handmade soap. Through years of trial and error, she found a wonderful combination of oils, herbs and other natural ingredients that make her soap exceptional. The main ingredient in most of Lulu Lathers Handcrafted Soaps is Olive Oil and then adding a blend of other oils to create a unique and luxurious bar of soap. The soap is scented with high quality essential oils or phthalate and paraben free fragrance oils. Natural spices, herbs and plant material contribute to the color and texture. Some of Lulu’s Lathers best selling soaps include Lavender Oatmeal, Peppermint Rosemary, Patchouli Cedarwood and Lemongrass. Another favorite is Pinot Grigio (very fresh scent) and the Avocado Facial Spa Bar. For the fall season they are adding Apple Jack Orange Peel and Cafe Mocha Lulu’s Lathers also makes Spa and specialty bars, sugar scrubs, spa bath bombs, soothing bath soaks, whipped body butters, lotions and lip balms. Libby is from Alexander City, Alabama and has a full time job during the day but also wears the hat of mom, wife and crazy soap maker! She spends her free time creating batches of soap and working on formulas for new soaps, lotions, scrubs, bath bombs and other bath and body products. Her goal is provide her customers with products that good for your skin and toxicant free. You can buy Lulu’s Lathers Handcrafted Soaps online through their Facebook page or Etsy Shop and now available at the Southern Holiday Life shop in Wedowee. More retail locations coming soon.

See Facebook page for additional locations SOUTHERN HOLIDAY LIFE

A D V E R T I S E R S ’ Affordable Tire and Repair, 86 Alabama Street Makers Market, 21 All Smiles Dental, 84 Auburn Opelika Tourism, Inside front cover Auto Supply Company, 29 Bank of Wedowee, Back Cover Beads & Lace Boutique, 16 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, Frank Goolsby, 32 Birds of a Feather, 20 Bonner Heating and Air, 92 Boondocks, 38 Calla Vista Candles, 31 Chad Lee, Attorney at Law, 54 Charles Thompson Construction, 9 Cheaha Realty, 54 Collector’s on 54, 16 Corner One, 88 Cultivate Create, 31 Dari Delite, 76 Dixie Belle Paint, 48

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D I R E C T O R Y

Dixie Chik Cooks, 49 Dr. Michael Edwards, 29 EHC Pharmacy, 8 Emergency Medical Transport, 29 Feathers and Twigs, 18 First Bank, 4 First Capital Insurance, 76 First State Bank, 60 Fort McClellan Credit Union, 93 GLL Marine 8 Gypsy, 65 H& M Drugs, 3, 84 Halls Propane, 88 Home is Where the heArt is, 14 It’s About Time Antiques & Uniques, 14 J Perry Boutique, 20 John Tinney, Attorney at Law, 76 Junk Mama’s General Store, 18 Lake Wedowee Body Shop, 88

Lakehomes.com, Terry & Sherry Norton, 60 Lakeside Grill, 32 Lineville Clinic, 42 Little Black Dress, 47 Lulu’s Lathers, 61 Main Street Animal Hospital, 76 Main Street Coffee House, 33 Mama’s Secret Cookies, 61 Marketplace at LaFayette Square, 12 Meadows Farm Equipment, 98 Megan Miller Yates, Attorney at Law, 47 Memories Past and Present, 18 Mudd Puddles Pottery, 72 Norton’s Floor Covering, 80 Nunnally’s Noble Framing, 84 Perryland Foods, 47 PlainChicken.com, 33 Precious Time Jewelry, 61

Randolph County Appliance, 61 RE/MAX Lakefront Linda and Grady Stone, 49 Roanoke City Schools, 54 Roanoke Discount Center, 20 Romiette and Julieo, 18 Russell Do It Center, 80 Sewell Marine, 31 SmallTown Bank, 81 Southern Auction Solutions, 4 Southern Holiday Shop, 12, 55, 65,74, 98 Southern Home Comfort, 38 Southern Sisters Gourmet, 42 Southern Union State Community College, 81 Speed and Sport Marine, 33 State Farm Insurance, Ken Seiffert, 42 Statefarm Insurance, Mike Coleman, 92 Steele Chiropractic Life Center, 49

Superior Gas, 43 Superior Pest Control, 42 Tabletalk of Willow Dale, 12 Tallapoosa River Electric Coop, 47 Tanner Health System, 5 The Nest, 18 The Refinery, 14 Tim Coe, Wedowee Mayor, 92 Traylor Retirement Community, 80 Tri-County Insurance, 33 Two Guys and a Girl Attic to Antiques, 12 Udderly Cool Cheese, 31 Waste Solutions, 86 Wedowee Building Supplies, 86 Wedowee Lake and Lands Realty, 9 Wedowee Marine, 10 Wehadkee Trade Days, 14 West Georgia Eyecare, 93 WM Grocery, Inside Back Cover

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