busylittlechristmaself

Current Projects!

2009-06-04T19:16:00.003+07:00

I have actually hit the half way point on making enough Starlight mints to encircle the tree skirt. It will take fifty total. Working on this has got me fired up and I'm working on more projects for my Christmas shop. Some of the ornaments I'm working on:

Felt Candy Ornaments
More Elves and Ballerina Ornaments
Angel Tree Toppers
Puzzle Piece Wreath Ornaments
Polymer Clay Ornaments
Some Less Extravagant Tree Skirts [similar design just not all hand sewn!:o)]

Photos to follow soon!

Our Family's Christmas Tree Skirt

2009-01-15T01:33:00.003+07:00

Year 2 - I have just started the second year of working on our family's tree skirt! I am about 1/3 of the way done with making the peppermint swirls, they are all hand sewn so it's taking awhile. It's also about 54" round so I need a whole bunch of them!! After I finally finish the swirls, I have to attach them to the skirt and then finish it up. My hopes are that I will have it finished by Christmas 2009...We'll see, I'll keep you posted!:o)

Siesta!

2009-01-13T19:24:00.001+07:00

I have been taking a little break from all my responsibilities(except my child!!) since Christmas. I hope to have new things to share in the next few weeks! It's tax time so when that is in order I will add fun stuff for next Christmas!

Away in a Manger- Lyrics

2008-12-21T23:00:00.003+07:00

Away in a manager is always the first carol that children are taught. Away in a Manger was originally published in 1885. The publication of Away in a Manger was in a Lutheran Sunday school book and this created the misconception that the lyrics of Away in a Manger were actually written by Martin Luther himself. The author is unknown. The music to Away in a Manger was composed by William J. Kirkpatrick in 1895.

Away in a manger,
No crib for His bed
The little Lord Jesus
Laid down His sweet head

The stars in the bright sky
Looked down where He lay
The little Lord Jesus
Asleep on the hay

The cattle are lowing
The poor Baby wakes
But little Lord Jesus
No crying He makes

I love Thee, Lord Jesus
Look down from the sky
And stay by my side,
'Til morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus,
I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever
And love me I pray

Bless all the dear children
In Thy tender care
And take us to heaven
To live with Thee there

Deck the Halls : Lyrics

2008-12-16T22:50:00.000+07:00

[there is nothing worse than trying to sing a carol to your child and not knowing the words!! my little one LOVES Deck the Halls, I could remember the lyrics until I got to "troll the ancient Yule tide carol" my version was 'something something Yule tide carol' yeah, I know.....doesn't really flow does it?]

The music to Deck the Halls is believed to Welsh in origin and was reputed to have come from a tune called “Nos Galan” dating back to the sixteenth century. In the eighteenth century Mozart used the tune to Deck the Halls for a violin and piano duet J.P. McCaskey is sometimes credited with the lyrics of Deck the Halls but he only edited the Franklin Square Song Collection in which the lyrics were first published. The first publication date of Deck the Halls is 1881. The author is unknown but the words are said to originate in America.

Deck the halls with boughs of holly,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Tis the season to be jolly,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Don we now our gay apparel,
Fa la la, la la la, la la la.
Troll the ancient Yule tide carol,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

See the blazing Yule before us,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Strike the harp and join the chorus.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Follow me in merry measure,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
While I tell of Yule tide treasure,

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Fast away the old year passes,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Hail the new, ye lads and lasses,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Sing we joyous, all together,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Heedless of the wind and weather,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

my christmas tree

2008-12-16T05:47:00.005+07:00

Finally it is up! Still a work in progress, I'm trying to get the tree skirt done before Christmas!!

I will be working on a tree topper over the next year!

(I'm thinking angel, but we'll see where inspiration takes me!)
If you look closely you can see some of the felt ornaments.

Tips on Decorating Your Christmas Tree - What To Do First

2008-12-14T01:00:00.004+07:00

[I had to find this article today because I'm finally getting my tree up this weekend. Normally, I like to have it up the weekend after Thanksgiving but between traveling, my etsy shops picking up and prepping for a craft show, this is the soonest I could manage. I always thought garland went on last but followed this instruction last year and it went pretty well. The big question is how a 17 month old will act with a decorated tree. I'll keep you posted!]

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(From About.com)

You've chosen your perfect Christmas tree, but now what?

Our tips on the next pages will give you ideas for setting up your tree, lighting it, keeping it fresh, and decorating it to be beautiful.

Keep Your Tree Fresh and Green
Cut the stump of the tree with a fresh cut and set it in water immediately. A fresh-cut tree will absorb several quarts of water right from the start. So it's important to check and refill the water level several times a day for the first week. You can cut down on frequency later. Be sure to place you Christmas tree in a stand that has a large water reservoir and keep it filled.
Christmas Tree Preservative
You can prolong the life of your Christmas tree by mixing up a concoction of 1 quart water, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 1 teaspoon liquid bleach. You can also read information on caring for Christmas trees.
Putting Lights and Decorations on the Tree
When decorating your Christmas tree, put lights on first, then garlands, then the ornaments.
Work From the Inside Out
Start arranging Christmas tree lights on the branches near the base of the tree. Weave strings of lights along the branches "inside," then move to the outer edges of the branches.
Placement of Ornaments
Don't hang all your ornament on the tips of the branches. Place ornaments and other decorations 'inside' your tree to add depth and interest.
Basic Ornaments for Fill
Start by arranging the "filler ornaments" evenly spaced around the tree. This would include basic solid color balls that are easily found at discount stores in a wide range of colors to coordinate and enhance your decorating scheme. You'll need about 20 "filler ornaments" for every 2 feet of Christmas tree.
Special Themed, Collectible Ornaments
Mix one-of-a-kind special ornaments between the basic ornaments. Plan to use at least 10 special themed ornaments for every 2 feet of tree. As your collection grows, put the special ornaments closer together.

Cute Sugar Cookie Lights

2008-12-11T07:58:00.002+07:00

Prep Time: 10 min.
Bake Time: 45 min.
Difficulty: Moderate
Yield: Makes 18 cookies.

4 cups M&M’S® Brand Minis Chocolate Candies
1 18 oz. roll refrigerated sugar cookie dough
2/3 cup flour
1 16 oz. can vanilla frosting
1 14 oz. package red licorice laces
Resealable plastic bags
Drinking straw
Christmas light shaped cookie cutter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Knead the flour into the cookie dough until smooth.
3. Roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness. By hand, or using a Christmas light cookie cutter, cut out shapes.
4. With a spatula, gently transfer the cookies to a baking sheet. Using a drinking straw, press a hole at the top of each cookie.
5. Bake for 15 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely.
6. Separate different colors of M&M’S® Brand Minis Chocolate Candies, and set aside.
7. Spread vanilla frosting on top of each cookie. Arrange a solid color of M&M’S® Brand Minis Chocolate Candies on top of each cookie.
8. Let the cookies dry for 30 minutes. Run licorice laces through each hole, connecting the cookies into one continuous strand.

Santa and his Toy Shop will be forced to close!!

2008-12-05T00:19:00.004+07:00

Christmas will never be the same!! Santa and his elves will no longer be able to produce gifts for children under 12 years old due to new toy legislation scheduled to go into effect February 2009. Please read the following article and write your Congressman and Senators to help save Santa and his elves and all the (responsible) independent toy makers in the United States, Canada and Europe!

http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org/

fun activity for kids (of all ages!!)

2008-11-30T06:16:00.003+07:00

Decorate a cute little Gingerbread house (house is a link)by Jenny B Harris.
Great illustrator!Check out her blog too!!

Christmas Centerpiece Ideas

2008-11-29T22:34:00.000+07:00

Black Forest Cakes

2008-11-29T22:33:00.000+07:00

Prep: 45 min.
Bake: 20 min.

Ingredients

1/3 cup snipped dried cherries
3 tablespoons cherry-flavored brandy (kirsch) or cherry juice
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup chocolate-flavored syrup
Truffle Frosting
Powdered Sugar Icing (optional)
Powdered sugar and/or cocoa powder
Fresh Bing cherries with stems (optional)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine dried cherries and brandy or cherry juice. Let stand for 30 minutes. Generously grease and flour six popover pans;* set aside.

2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In another small bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside. In a medium bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat until combined. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat just until combined, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Stir in chocolate-flavored syrup. Add flour mixture to chocolate mixture, stirring just until combined. Stir in brandy-soaked cherries and any liquid.

3. Spoon batter into prepared popover pans, filling each half full (a scant 1/2 cup each). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the centers comes out clean (centers may dip slightly). Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from popover pans and cool completely on wire rack. If necessary, trim cake top edges so they are even with the sides.

4. Place one cake (smallest end up) on a large slotted spoon. Hold the spoon over the bowl of Truffle Frosting. Spoon frosting over the cake, letting it drip down the sides, until the cake is coated. Let cake stand on rack over waxed paper until frosting is set. Repeat with remaining cakes. If desired, place Powdered Sugar Icing in a sturdy resealable plastic bag. Snip off a tiny portion of one corner. Pipe small dots of icing on cake tops.

5. Sift powdered sugar and/or cocoa powder over dessert plates. Place cakes on plates. If desired, garnish each one with a Bing cherry.

6. Makes 6 servings

7. *Test Kitchen Tips: Nonstick cooking spray for baking really helps these cakes unmold easily. This product is designed to grease and flour baking pans in one step. Look for it with other nonstick cooking sprays in your supermarket.

You can use six 6-ounce straight-sided ramekins instead of the popover pans. Grease and flour the ramekins. Cut three 15×12-inch pieces of foil; cut each piece in half lengthwise to make a 15×6-inch piece. Fold each into thirds lengthwise and place around top of a ramekin; secure with tape. Set aside. If you use ramekins, increase the baking time to about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the centers comes out clean.

8. Powdered Sugar Icing: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup sifted powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in additional milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until icing reaches piping consistency.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 697,
Total Fat (g) 36,
Saturated Fat (g) 22,
Cholesterol (mg) 146,
Sodium (mg) 215,
Carbohydrate (g) 88,
Fiber (g) 4,
Protein (g) 7,
Vitamin C (DV%) 1,
Calcium (DV%) 7,
Iron (DV%) 18,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Beaded Snowflake Ornament

2008-11-21T03:11:00.000+07:00

[from Better Homes and Gardens]

The light will dance on these wintertime snowflakes, made from a variety of crystal-like beads.

What You Need:

For each snowflake:

It's easy to make a blizzard's worth
of these sparkling snowflakes.

10 corsage pins with pearl ends (available in fabric and craft stores)
Crystal-like beads in desired shapes and sizes
1 small cork
Iridescent white glitter paint pen (usually used for fabric, available in craft and discount stores)
Monofilament thread

Instructions:

1. Add beads to 4 pins. Place beads on 1 corsage pin in desired order, leaving the last 1/4 inch without beads. Make 3 more beaded pins using the same arrangement.

2. Make another set of 4 beaded pins, using a different arrangement. Make an additional set of 2 beaded pins. (You should have a total of 10 beaded pins.)

3. Add 4 matching pins to cork. Cut the cork, if necessary, so it is about 1/4 inch long. With the round side of the cork laying on the work surface, poke one beaded pin into the cork (close to work surface) like a spoke of a wheel. Place a matching beaded pin opposite the first. Place the remaining two opposite each other, between the first set.

4. Add remaining pins. Using the remaining set of 4 matching pins, poke each into the cork, slightly closer to the top of the cork and alternating with the first set of four. Place the remaining 2 beaded pins into each round end of the cork.

5. Cover the cork using glitter paint pen. Allow to dry. Apply a second coat, if necessary, and let dry.

6. To hang, cut a desired length of monofilament and tie to one spoke of the snowflake.

Jingle Bell Snowflakes

2008-11-21T03:03:00.002+07:00

[From Better Homes and Gardens]

Jazz up the classic snowflake in an unexpected way using jingle bells.

What You Need

16-gauge crafts wire
Needle-nose pliers
Fine crafts wire
Glue gun and hotmelt adhesive
Assorted 9-mm- to 1-inch-diameter jingle bells

How to Make It

1. Cut three 6- to 8-inch lengths of 16-gauge crafts wire.

2. Using needle-nose pliers, bend one of the wires to make a hook for hanging.

3. Cross the wire pieces in the center, wrap with fine crafts wire to secure in a spoke shape, and reinforce the wire with hot glue.

4. Hot-glue one bell over the center intersection of the wire assembly.

5. Slide bells onto each wire spoke, securing them on the back side with hot glue.

6. Trim the remaining wires.

odette: a variation on my elf ornament

2008-11-09T00:50:00.003+07:00

Felt Christmas Candy Ornaments

2008-10-23T02:10:00.001+07:00

All My Completed Christmas Projects

2008-10-14T08:24:00.000+07:00

Okay, here are the final results of some of my projects. It’s a slow go but I’m getting there!!

Ribbon Candy in progress

My Finished Elf Ornament!!

2008-10-09T02:22:00.003+07:00

Now I need to figure out how to recreate it!!

Elf Ornament

2008-10-08T22:16:00.003+07:00

^Okay if you remember, this was the inspiration^

Here are images of my elf ornament in progress.
[I'll try to edit this with directions when I'm finished. Hopefully I'll be able to make some patterns!]

All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth

2008-10-08T20:00:00.002+07:00

Every body stops
and stares at me
These two teeth are
gone as you can see
I don't know just who
to blame for this catastrophe!
But my one wish on Christmas Eve
is as plain as it can be!

All I want for Christmas
is my two front teeth,
my two front teeth,
see my two front teeth!

Gee, if I could only
have my two front teeth,
then I could wish you
"Merry Christmas."
It seems so long since I could say,
"Sister Susie sitting on a thistle!"
Gosh oh gee, how happy I'd be,
if I could only whistle (thhhh, thhhh)

All I want for Christmas
is my two front teeth,
my two front teeth,
see my two front teeth.

Gee, if I could only
have my two front teeth,
then I could wish you
"Merry Christmas!"

Gingerbread Snowflake Ornaments

2008-10-08T19:53:00.001+07:00

Please Check Out My Other Christmas Blog For More Projects!

2008-10-02T20:54:00.007+07:00

I have another busy little christmas elf blog hosted by wordpress. I have been posting a lot to it because it is much easier to post on so I have more crafts there than here right now. I can also see popular searches so I can find pertinent info and post it in a timely manner. There are some duplicates between the two blogs and I will probably list my own crafts here first then eventually migrate them over to wordpress.

Regardless, check it out: http://busylittlechristmaself.wordpress.com/

how to make peppermint candy ornaments

2008-09-29T22:29:00.000+07:00

Peppermint Ornament

If you like painting, you will enjoy making these scrumptious looking peppermint ornaments.

Materials:

3 1/2" Paper Mache disk
All purpose sealer *
Acrylic paint - red & white
Pink paint - either fabric paint in a squeeze bottle or acrylic paint
Paint brush
Thin ribbon
Clear cellophane

*Can be found where acrylic paints are sold

1) Paint the entire disk with all purpose sealer and let dry completely

2) Paint the whole ornament white. It may be easier to paint one side and the edges, let dry and flip it over and paint the second side. Once completely painted, let dry thoroughly.

3) Using a pencil, draw very light lines on one side of the disk as pictured below. You will be drawing six curved lines.

4) Once the lines are drawn on one side of the disk, continue them onto the side of the ornament. Then, draw the same lines onto the back but be sure they line up with the lines on the side.

5) You now have six sections on each side of the disk. On one side of the disk, paint every other section red. You will have a pattern of alternating red and white sections. Let dry completely then continue the paint onto the corresponding side sections and then onto the other side of the disk. Once dry, apply another coat of paint if necessary then let dry completely.

6) Paint white dots on the red sections. An easy way to do this is to dip the end (not the bristle end) of a paint brush into white paint then touch it to where you want the dot. Reload the paint after every one or two dots. Paint a big white dot in the center of the peppermint where the swirls come together. Paint squiggly pink lines down the center of the white sections. Let both sides dry completely before continuing.

7) Cut a 9" square of cellophane and wrap it around your peppermint cutting a small hole and threading the hanging string through the hole. Gather the extra cellophane on both sides of the peppermint and tie each side with an 8" piece of thin ribbon as pictured.

Our green peppermint was made slightly different than the red and white one. I made four sections each of green and white instead of three each. While the green paint was still wet I sprinkled Glamour Dust (a very fine glitter) on it then made a big red dot in the middle of the ornament and little red dots on the white and finally tied the cellophane with gold ribbon.

elf ornaments

2008-09-29T22:22:00.000+07:00

[Here are a couple of craft projects mined off of the net. Above is a cute ornament I found a picture of on Flickr, I will try to come up with directions on how to make it when time permits!! There should be links back to the original sites on all the photos, if not please let me know because I believe in giving props to those who have created all the little lovelies I find!!]

Activa Elf Ornament This little guy will add a touch of holiday whimsy to your tree. Designed by Jill MacKay

4” Roll of Rigid Wrap®

3 “ Styrofoam Egg

Red Glitter

Red Pom-Pom

Acrylic Paint: Red, Green, Peach and Black

Piece of Craft Cord- 6”

Paintbrush

Glue

Container for Water

Plastic to Cover Workspace

Scissors

Cut several strips of Rigid Wrap® (RW) of various sizes ranging from

½” to 1 ½”, Cut one 8” long strip.

Make a loop with the cord and have the cord ends facing each other,

lying next to each other. Using smaller pieces of RW to secure the ends

of cord to top of egg. Then continue on and cover the entire egg with a

layer RW. For hat band, cut the 8” piece of RW in half length-wise.

Next fold the piece in half length-wise, dip in water and place around

head (egg) and smooth. For ears and nose scrunch up a wet piece of

RW and shape with finger tips, press in place, and smooth.

Hang to dry.

Paint head and face while holding hat, let dry.

Paint hat while holding face, let dry.

Trim hat band with glue and glitter let dry.

While hanging glue pom-pom to top of hat.

Let dry

Tip: Make a place to hang your ornament at your workspace,

so it can hang to dry in-between the different steps

Felt Elf Christmas Ornament

Red Felt; 4″ x 7″ piece

Green Felt; 4 1/2″ x 2″ piece

Flesh colored felt: 3 1/2″ x 9″ piece

One 10mm bell

One 5mm pink pom-pom

Two black glass E beads

Tacky glue

Small amount Polyester Fiberfill (stuffing)

8″ piece of elastic thread or crochet thread

Powdered blush

Ultra fine tip black permanent marker

Needle & thread

optional: sewing machine and gold glitter glue

or fabric paint in a squeeze bottle

Trace and cut out two hat pieces from red felt.

Trace and cut out one collar piece from green felt and

trace and cut out two heads from flesh colored felt.

Pin the two head pieces together and sew around the

face close to the edge leaving the top section opened.

Topstitch around the ears.

Stuff the head with Polyester Fiberfil (stuffing).

Only the face will be stuffed - the ears will not get stuffed.

Then, sew the opening at the top of the head closed. Set aside.

Pin the two hat sections together and stitch the two sides

close to the edge leaving the bottom edge opened.

Right side out the hat and place it on top of the elf’s head.

Stitch in place.

Fold down the top of the hat as pictured and tack

in place with a couple of stitches on the back side of the ornament.

Sew a bell to the tip of the hat.

Hand-stitch the collar to the lower portion of the head.

Brush powdered blush on the cheeks of the elf.

Sew the two black beads on for eyes. Glue the pink

pom-pom on as the nose and using the permanent marker,

draw a mouth.

Thread a piece of elastic thread or crochet thread

through the back of the elf’s hat using a needle with

an eye large enough to pass the thread through.

Remove the needle and tie the ends in an overhand knot.

This will be your ornament’s hanger.

Optional: Personalize your ornament by writing the recipients

name on the collar using the glitter glue or fabric paint in a squeeze bottle.

A great idea from valitasfreshfolds.blogspot.com- Elf Shoe

2008-09-29T22:19:00.000+07:00

[this craft was designed by valita's designs & fresh folds. Very talented lady, check out her blog for more ideas and inspiration!]

Elf Shoes

Elf Shoe Instruction Sheet
Elf Shoe Pattern

How to Make an Elf Tree Skirt

2008-09-22T19:02:00.001+07:00

[mined the net again, here's directions for making an elf tree skirt from http://swapatorium.blogspot.com archives and a 1969 magazine!]

Pixie Elf Tree Skirt

Poopscape here and I’m feelin’ all festivey and stuff. For this project, I referred back to my pile of old Pack O Fun magazines for craft inspiration. This time my eye was caught by the pixie-elf tree skirt project in the centerfold of the December 1969 issue. Second choice: That scary, tray-carrying Santa on the cover. Maybe next year.

Why does a tree need a skirt? Well, without one you’re stuck looking at the tree stand which, let’s face it, is more functional than decorative and needs covering up. For years I used an old bedsheet as a tree skirt (you can see a bit of it in the image below), which I would fluff up to look like a snow drift, and not a very convincing one at that. When I saw the tree skirt with its happy little foursome of elves with bad haircuts, I knew the sheet had had its day.

The pattern for the tree skirt was a mere 36″ wide- and that’s just not big enough- so I made the skirt almost twice as big because my tree is a monster (which also meant that I needed to make a few more elves to fill the space). I used glittery chartreuse felt for the skirt, magenta felt for the elves’ hats and collars, cream felt for the fleshy bits, and black for their hair.

I could have gone with more traditional Christmas colors I guess, but I had to create my own perverse take on green and red. I hotglued silver rickrack to the elves’ costumes, white rickrack around the edges of the tree skirt and white pom poms on the tips of their pointy hats. It looked way too unfinished without all that stuff on it. The rickrack totally makes it.

The verdict? Much, much better than that pathetic white sheet. Merry Christmas, Swapatori!

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Lyrics

2008-09-22T18:56:00.003+07:00

God rest ye merry, gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Saviour
Was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan’s power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy
In Bethlehem, in Israel,
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

From God our Heavenly Father
A blessed Angel came;
And unto certain Shepherds
Brought tidings of the same:
How that in Bethlehem was born
The Son of God by Name.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

“Fear not then,” said the Angel,
“Let nothing you affright,
This day is born a Saviour
Of a pure Virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan’s power and might.”
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

The shepherds at those tidings
Rejoiced much in mind,
And left their flocks a-feeding
In tempest, storm and wind:
And went to Bethlehem straightway
The Son of God to find.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

And when they came to Bethlehem
Where our dear Saviour lay,
They found Him in a manger,
Where oxen feed on hay;
His Mother Mary kneeling down,
Unto the Lord did pray.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Now to the Lord sing praises,
All you within this place,
And with true love and brotherhood
Each other now embrace;
This holy tide of Christmas
All other doth deface.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Alton Brown's Eggnog Recipe

2008-09-22T18:52:00.001+07:00

Recipe courtesy Alton Brown, 2005
Show:	Good Eats
Episode:	School of Hard Nogs

[I love Alton Brown! We no longer get cable and I miss watching 'Good Eats'.

I haven't tried this yet, I've been meaning to, it's just so much darn easier running to the supermarket!!]

4 egg yolks
1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
1 pint whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 ounces bourbon
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
4 egg whites*

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon and nutmeg and stir to combine.Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
Whisk the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.

Cook’s Note: For cooked eggnog, follow procedure below.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, over high heat, combine the milk, heavy cream and nutmeg and bring just to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and gradually temper the hot mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Then return everything to the pot and cook until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F. Remove from the heat, stir in the bourbon, pour into a medium mixing bowl, and set in the refrigerator to chill.

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the egg whites to soft peaks. With the mixer running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Whisk the egg whites into the chilled mixture.
*RAW EGG WARNING
Food Network Kitchens suggest caution in consuming raw and lightly-cooked eggs due to the slight risk of Salmonella or other food-borne illness. To reduce this risk, we recommend you use only fresh, properly-refrigerated, clean, grade A or AA eggs with intact shells, and avoid contact between the yolks or whites and the shell.

CUTE! Festive Eggnog Cake!

2008-09-22T18:50:00.001+07:00

Festive Eggnog Cake

Cake:
4 large eggs
1 package (18.25 ounces) French vanilla or yellow cake mix
1 package (3.4 ounces) French vanilla or vanilla instant pudding and pie filling
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons rum extract
1 1/2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
1 2/3 cups (10 oz.) NESTLE TOLL HOUSE SWIRLED™ Holiday Morsels, divided

Frosting:
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese , softened
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

FOR CAKE:
PREHEAT oven to 350 F. Grease and flour 13 x 9-inch baking pan.

BEAT eggs in large mixer bowl for 1 minute or until frothy. Add cake mix, pudding mix, water, oil, rum extract and nutmeg. Beat on high speed for 2 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup of morsels. Spread in prepared pan. Sprinkle 1/2 cup morsels over batter.

BAKE for 35 to 40 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Spread frosting over cake. Sprinkle with remaining morsels.

FOR FROSTING:
BEAT cream cheese and butter in small mixer bowl until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and nutmeg until smooth.

Yields 15 servings

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Nestle and Meals.com - used with permission

Russian Teacakes(Butterballs,Mexican Wedding Cakes,et al.) Recipe

2008-09-19T22:37:00.002+07:00

[These are probably my all time favorite cookies. The trick to these tasting scrumptious is to use REAL butter and good quality vanilla]

Makes about 3 1/2 dozen.

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
Powdered sugar

Sift flour and salt together. Using electric mixer, cream butter in large bowl until light. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and beat until fluffy. Add vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients in 3 batches. Mix in nuts. Refrigerate at least 1 hour or up to 12 hours.Preheat oven to 400°F. Form dough into 1-inch balls. Space 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake until just firm to touch, about 15 minutes. Transfer to rack and cool slightly. Roll in powdered sugar. Cool completely. Roll cookies in powdered sugar again. Store in airtight container.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Lyrics

2008-09-12T23:30:00.002+07:00

[While this particular song makes me cry every stinking time I hear it, It still is one of my favorites!]

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Let your heart be light
From now on,
our troubles will be out of sight

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Make the Yule-tide gay,
From now on,
our troubles will be miles away.

Here we are as in olden days,
Happy golden days of yore.
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Gather near to us once more.

Through the years
We all will be together,
If the Fates allow
Hang a shining star
upon the highest bough.
And have yourself
A merry little Christmas now.

Written by Hugh Martin & Ralph Blane, 1943

My Etsy Shops' New Christmas Wrap!

2008-09-11T02:32:00.003+07:00

I'm so excited! I've been looking for just the right thing and this is what I decided on
(and Santa told me he would use it on all the baby's Christmas gifts until whenever!)
I love it!

New Christmas Blog!

2008-09-09T18:08:00.005+07:00

While laying in bed I had the idea for a new Christmas blog. This one will remain exactly the way it is; the new blog is called "Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come-Reviving the Spirit of Christmas". I hope to examine what happened to the sense of wonder that used to surround Christmas and how we might rekindle it in our own families and communities. There used to be an electric charge in the air, people were filled with good cheer, even when out shopping. Now that is different. I worked in retail management and I've seen it first hand. There still are merry, wonderful people out at Christmastime, but they are fewer and farther between! Thus the reason for the new blog. Less warm and fuzzy on the surface but hopefully it will become a tool to help us change our world for the better and revive the true giving spirit of Christmas by changing ourselves and our place in it.

Family Traditions

2008-09-08T05:37:00.008+07:00

My little one is still too young to really get excited about Christmas, so I am planning our family traditions now while he is so young in hopes that he will acquire the sense of wonder that I had when I was young. I absolutely loved Christmas preparations, decking the halls and baking so many yummy treats. My Aunt Nancy used to make Christmas cookies. She had gingerbread men, peanut butter blossoms, butter balls(russian tea cakes) and my personal favorite, iced sugar cookies with dragees decorating them. My mother always prepared my paternal grandmother's nut roll recipe. She would make raspberry, apricot, poppy seed and traditional walnut all frosted with yummy vanilla frosting. My mom also had these white feather wreaths she hung on the living room wall, porcelain angels that would hang on the lamps and these strange lantern-like gold garlands that would drape across the windows. We always had to have an artificial tree because my mom was allergic to the real ones. My fondest decoration was the plastic, glittery candy garland that used to hang in the kitchen doorway. Oh and then there were also the little plastic elves that everyone seemed to have. We always opened one gift on Christmas eve then we would go to bed and Santa Claus would come and leave us more presents. We always woke up early to see what Santa brought and then we would go to church. As we got older we would start going to midnight mass. My maternal grandmother was born on Christmas day so she would come over every year for dinner which usually included a ham with all the fixings. My husband's family really didn't have any strong traditions, the only thing he remembers are the handmade felt ornaments his aunt use to make. Those and this odd family concoction called hamloaf!? I have the recipe, I just don't know if that is one tradition I want to encourage! :o) Over the next few months, I hope to share our traditions as well as some of my friend's and fellow Christmas lovers!(and if I can dig out the old Stamblesky nut roll recipe, I might just share that too!)

Too cute! Bronner's is the best Christmas store! Click anywhere on the post to go directly to their store!

2008-09-03T03:51:00.005+07:00

ALL INFORMATION FROM BRONNERS IS COPYRIGHTED 2008 BY BRONNERS AND ITS INCLUSION ON THIS BLOG IS INTENDED FOR YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION ONLY (DON'T USE IT FOR ANY NEFARIOUS PURPOSE!!!!)

Add a little sugar and spice to your Christmas tree this year with this adorable gingerbread couple ornament! Personalized with permanent black ink by our professional Bronner's artists at no additional charge, this charming gingerbread couple ornament is sure to be a treasured keepsake with your loved ones for years to come. With sparkling glitter accents, this personalized gingerbread couple ornament is 4½" tall and crafted of clay dough. Comes ready to hang with a red ribbon.
14 characters/spaces allowed for names.
If you would like to order your ornament plain, please do not fill in the blank below. Please select the inset image for a view of this ornament without personalization.

From Bronner's

2008-08-31T05:22:00.004+07:00

[ALL INFORMATION FROM BRONNERS IS COPYRIGHTED 2008 BY BRONNERS AND ITS INCLUSION ON THIS BLOG IS INTENDED FOR YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION ONLY ( DON'T USE IT FOR ANY NEFARIOUS PURPOSE!!!) AND VISIT THEIR SITE!!! THE ENTIRE POST IS ONE BIG FANTASTIC LINK!!]

Tree decorating themes vary widely according to individual tastes. Many people like to decorate with a specific color or color combination. Here are a few basic tips, which may be helpful to you. The suggested sequence for decorating a tree is as follows:

Tree Trim Tips

Tree Height	Miniature Lights # of Bulbs	Feet of Garland	Novelty Tree Trim & Ornaments
2'	35 to 40	24" to 3'	30 pieces
3'	70 to 80	36" to 4'	42 pieces
4'	200 to 400	50' to 55"	35-50 pieces
6'	400 to 600	85' to 90'	50-75 pieces
7'	500 to 700	100' to 110'	75-100 pieces
8'	600 to 800	130' to 145'	175-225 pieces
10'	800 to 1000	185' to 200'	200-300 pieces


Garland Decorating			Garland Required
Regular Doorway			18' to 25'
Double Doorway			20' to 35'
Small Picture Window			18' to 25'
Large Picture Window			20' to 35'
Fireplace Mantle			18' to 25'
Ceiling Decorations			50' to 100'

C-7 & C-9 Lights*:

To calculate the amount of C-7 and C-9 lights for your tree, you may want to do the following:

HxD (divided by 2) for trees up to 7 feet.
HxD (divided by 3) for trees 7 1/2 feet and up.

For example, a 6 foot tree with a diameter of 45 inches would be as follows:

6x45 (divided by 2) = 135 lights

*Not all C-7 and C-9 lights are approved for artificial trees, but Cool Bright by GE is a good choice. Check packaging.

Do's and Don'ts of Lights:

Never hook mini lights and C-7s or C-9s end to end. Connect only the same light sets together. They must be on their own outlet. This is also true when hooking your treetop to your light sets. the 3 outlet cords work very well in this situation. Do not hook more than 3 sets of lights together end to end. This can cause overloaded circuits and may blow fuses in your light sets. Some lights are commercial grade and you can connect up to six lights together. (Check packaging). Discard damaged sets (broken/cracked sockets, frayed/bare wires or loose connectors). Turn off all indoor lights on trees and other decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.

Another on-going project!

2008-08-29T03:24:00.003+07:00

My Christmas Tree skirt!
Starlight mints!(my Favorite) I have many more mints to make. I'm hand-stitching everything so it's taking me awhile to get it done!So far so good!

My first project - the first finshed ornaments

2008-08-21T23:58:00.005+07:00

I have other 'gingerbread' ornaments I'm working on but these were my first few. Finished but missing hangers. I can't wait 'til I get to the snowflakes!

Another great how to from eHow

2008-08-21T05:03:00.001+07:00

by eHow Food & Drink Editor

How to Make Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread has become synonymous with Christmas. This year, try baking your own gingerbread cookies.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

Step One

Gather ingredients. You will need 5 c. sifted all-purpose flour, 1 tsp. ground cinnamon, 2 tsp. baking powder, 1 1/2 tsp. each ground ginger and ground cloves, 1 tsp. baking soda, 1 tsp. ground nutmeg, 1 tsp. salt, 2 sticks unsalted butter, 1 c. sugar, 2 eggs, 1 c. molasses, and 2 tbsp. water.

Step Two

Click to enlarge

Mix butter and sugar until creamy.

Step Three

Add eggs, molasses and water. Mix well.

Step Four

Mix the dry ingredients together.

Step Five

Click to enlarge

Blend the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.

Step Six

Click to enlarge

Chill for at least three hours or overnight.

Step Seven

Click to enlarge

Roll out dough onto lightly floured cookie sheet.

Step Eight

Click to enlarge

Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes.

Step Nine

Click to enlarge

Place cookies about an inch apart on the cookie sheet and bake for five minutes at 375 degrees.

Step Ten

Cool on rack and then decorate cookies.

Tips & Warnings

There are many variations on the gingerbread recipe. This one is a basic way to get started. Add more ginger and cinnamon for spicier cookies, more sugar for sweeter cookies, or more butter or shortening for moister cookies.

snow globe

2008-08-21T05:00:00.001+07:00

How to from ehow.com

2008-08-20T09:38:00.003+07:00

by MommyMentor

Gingerbread Man

I love Christmas and there are so many crafts you can do with the kids from toddlers and up like paper gingerbread men!

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

Steps

Step One

cut out a gingerbread man shape with brown construction paper.

Step Two

cut out a larger gingerbread man with red construction paper with scissors that have zig zag or deckle edges.

Step Three

Have the kids glue the brown gingerbread man on top of the red gingerbread man

Step Four

Bring out different craft pieces like googly eyes, stickers, piper cleaners and buttons.

Step Five

You can also cut out eyes or pieces to make a vest and shorts or color with markers.

Step Six

Decorate and get creative! You can add glitter, cut a hole on top and make yarn loop and hang on the tree or window.

When doing crafts with toddlers this is a great time to encourage independence and creativity and simple crafts like this gingerbread man give you just that opportunity to let them go on their own.
Make sure you are using safety scissors if you allow them to cut any part of the craft.

My Christmas Craft Projects!

2008-08-14T00:53:00.007+07:00

Here's a photo of all my supplies for the upcoming Christmas season! There will be some stamping, ornaments, a cookie plate for Santa. I don't know what I'm doing with the ribbon, I just thought it was cute!! I have other supplies but they wouldn't fit!! I'll post photos when I finish something!

How to from manggy.blogspot.com/

2008-08-11T21:21:00.001+07:00

Thick and Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

[Blogger's note: The original post is taken from manggy.blogspot.com. The cookie title above this picture is an active link and will take you to the original post with comments. Great Blog! Check it out!]

I'll apologize in advance for appearing to be born from another planet, but I've never had an honest-to-goodness gingerbread cookie before. I had a glazed, slightly spicy cookie before, but it tasted more like a Dunkin Donuts' Choco Honey Dipped, for some reason. Maybe it was. So after years of wondering, I was suddenly in the mood for something I thought maybe both kids and adults would like. Imagine my dismay when I learned that most gingerbread cookies were quite hard and only good for making houses and tree ornaments. I realize they're not exactly the same, but I had a gingersnap made by Fibisco that almost took my diamond-like (in hardness, heh) teeth out. Next! But a gem somehow landed in my lap: Cook's Illustrated recipe, which addressed these problems. Given that I hadn't made dessert in a while (and cookies in an even longer while), it was a Godsend. It even has instructions for when you want thin cookies for ornaments. So happy holiday baking, everyone! Get to it! (Okay, Thanksgiving first for those of you who celebrate.) This is my contribution to Susan of Food Blogga's Eat Christmas Cookies blogging event and Zlamushka's Spicy Kitchen's A Spoonful of Christmas blogging event.

The problem was, there was only one supermarket in Manila that sold molasses. What the?!?! I went to Robinson's, Megamall, Hi-Top, Landmark, and Rustan's (several branches). Only Unimart had both local and imported brands. I chose an imported unsulphured brand (Grandma's Mild), since it's my first time and I wanted to be sure I got the unsulphured variety (the local brand didn't specify). I hear they have tons of wholesale baking supplies at Quiapo, where the fruitcake-mass-producing types get their molasses by the liter. I wasn't sold on that since generic fruitcake is not at all that enticing. (Recipe follows)
The recipe I wrote down here has 3 different methods: first by hand (which is what I used-- what use is having arm muscles, heh), then by stand mixer with paddle, and by food processor. I've also included weight measurements for those so inclined. Enjoy!
Thick and Chewy Gingerbread Cookies (adapted from Cook's Illustrated)

3 cups (425g) all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached

3/4 cup (150g) firmly packed dark brown sugar

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon table salt

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1-1/2 sticks (165g) unsalted butter, cut into 12 pieces and slightly softened

3/4 cup (225g) molasses (mild or full/robust, your choice, but I found mild to be quite flavorful as it was)

2 tablespoons whole milk

By hand: In a small bowl, combine the molasses and milk and stir together; set aside. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Add the sugar and whisk to combine thoroughly. Scatter the butter pieces over the flour mixture and work it into the flour with a pastry blender (what I used), a fork, two knives, or a rubber spatula until it resembles very fine meal. Drizzle a third of the molasses mixture over the dough and combine with a rubber spatula (what you're doing is essentially moistening the dough). Repeat with half of the remaining molasses, then use it all up. You'll end up with a soft, cohesive dough that looks like coffee ice-cream.

By stand mixer with a paddle attachment: In a small bowl, combine the molasses and milk and stir together; set aside. In the bowl of the mixer, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Mix at low speed until combined (about 30 seconds). Scatter the butter pieces over the top and mix at medium-low speed until it resembles very fine meal (about 90 seconds). Reduce the speed to low and drizzle in the molasses mixture with the mixer running and mix until the dough is moistened thoroughly (about 20 seconds), then increase the speed to medium and mix for 10 seconds more to combine.

By food processor: In a small bowl, combine the molasses and milk and stir together; set aside. Process the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves until combined (about 10 seconds). Scatter the butter pieces over the top and process until it resembles fine meal (about 15 seconds). With the machine running, drizzle in the molasses mixture and process until the dough is evenly moistened and forms a soft mass (about 10 seconds).

Continue here for all methods: Cut out at least 4 parchment rectangles to fit the bottom of your sheet pans. Scrape dough onto a work surface and divide into 2 (I used a scale to be accurate: I divided it into 2-502g masses). Place each dough half onto its own parchment rectangle and cover each with another parchment rectangle. Pat out each with your fingers through the parchment into a rough rectangle, then roll each into an even 1/4-inch thickness sandwiched in between the 2 parchment sheets (one way to get an even thickness is to use magazines of the appropriate thickness on both ends of your rolling pin as a guide-- Bon Appetit is one such magazine). Stack the dough sheets (still intact in their parchment sandwiches) onto a sheet pan and freeze until firm, about 20 minutes, or refrigerate 2 hours or overnight.

Place a rack in the upper and lower-middle positions of your oven and preheat to 350°F (177°C). Line 2 sheet pans with parchment paper (I just used the ones on my dough sheets, to conserve paper, no problem). Remove a dough sheet from the fridge and peel off the top parchment sheet, gently lay it back on the dough and put another sheet pan on top. Flip the whole set-up over and peel off then discard the other parchment sheet. Using a 3- or 5-inch gingerbread person cutter or a 3-inch cookie cutter, cut out shapes and transfer to the lined sheet pans, leaving 3/4 inch space in between. Bake the cookies for 8 minutes (for 3-inch people, which is what I used), or 8-11 minutes (for 5-inch people or 3-inch cookies), rotating the pans front to back and top to bottom halfway through. You're looking for set centers and for the dough to barely retain an imprint when touched gently with a fingertip. Don't overbake! They will set some more while cooling. Cool the cookies for 2 minutes on the pans then transfer with a wide metal spatula to a cooling rack.

Gather the scraps and repeat the rolling and cutting, chilling the dough again if it's become too soft. I was able to juggle all my rolling and cutting in advance so I can bake them consecutively. The yield is 25 3-inch people, 20 5-inch people, or 30 3-inch cookies. Best if eaten within a week.

For thin, crisp cookies that can be used as ornaments:
Divide the dough into 4 and roll out into an even 1/8-inch thickness. Bake at 325°F (163°C) oven until slightly darkened and firm in the center when pressed, 15-20 minutes for 5-inch gingerbread people.

Royal Icing for Decoration:

1 pasteurized egg white

1 teaspoon lemon juice

(at least) 1-1/2 cups (165g) confectioner's sugar

Using a mixer with a whisk attachment, beat together the egg white and lemon juice until frothy. Sift in all the confectioner's sugar and beat until smooth. Lift the beaters and if a ribbon takes less than 5 seconds to disappear into the icing's surface or runs down the sides when spread over a cookie's edge, add more sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time. Use immediately. You can use a piping bag with a plain tip or load it into a zip-lock bag and snip off a little bit of the tip. The icing will dry and form a crust overnight. If uncomfortable with using a raw egg white due to health concerns, please consult the internet for recipes using meringue powder.

how to from BHG.com

2008-08-09T04:39:00.001+07:00

Make a Ribbon Candy Twist Ornament

Wow family and friends with these handcrafted retro ribbon candy styled ornaments.

What You Need

Spray adhesive
Wide, medium, and narrow ribbon
Water-soluble marking pen
Long-eye beading needle
White embroidery floss
Eleven 10-mm-round pearls

How to Make It

Glue the medium-width ribbon to the center of the wide ribbon.
Trim the length to measure 16 1/2 inches.
Using the pen and a ruler, mark dots down the center of the ribbon at 1-1/2-inch intervals on both sides of the ribbon.
Thread the beading needle with an 18-inch length of embroidery floss.
Slip a pearl onto the floss.
Carefully remove the needle, and then rethread it with both ends of the floss. The ends of the floss should be even.
Push the needle from one side of the ribbon through the other side at the first mark (the first pearl is now at the bottom of the ornament); add a pearl.
Push the needle from the one side of the ribbon through to the other side at the second mark; add a pearl.
Continue until you have 11 pearls on the string.
To finish, secure the thread and attach a hanging ribbon.

[BLOGGER'S TIP: Use Heat n' Bond adhesive to fuse ribbons together. Gives more weight and body to ribbon strip and you can delete the use of beads if you don't like the look! You can also use striped fabric fused together with Heat n' Bond and then make long strips to fold into ornaments!]

Welcome to our blog!

2008-08-09T01:50:00.001+07:00

Folks are always asking me where I get my ideas and usually I google the description of what I'm thinking about making and see what comes up. I then think about how I can make the image in my mind's eye come to life. This usually involves a huge mess(just ask my frustrated husband!!) Since I don't have a technical writer to help you make my craft ideas (although I am looking for one!), I can share some really great ideas that inspire me! I hope you find them inspirational as well! At some point, with or without a technical writer, I may muster up the courage to muddle my through a 'how-to' of one of my own Christmas crafts, until then Enjoy!!

busylittlechristmaself

Current Projects!

Our Family's Christmas Tree Skirt

Siesta!

Away in a Manger- Lyrics

Deck the Halls : Lyrics

Fast away the old year passes,Fa la la la la, la la la la.Hail the new, ye lads and lasses,Fa la la la la, la la la la. Sing we joyous, all together,Fa la la la la, la la la la.Heedless of the wind and weather,Fa la la la la, la la la la.

my christmas tree

Tips on Decorating Your Christmas Tree - What To Do First

Cute Sugar Cookie Lights

Santa and his Toy Shop will be forced to close!!

fun activity for kids (of all ages!!)

Christmas Centerpiece Ideas

Black Forest Cakes

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts

Beaded Snowflake Ornament

[from Better Homes and Gardens]

Jingle Bell Snowflakes

[From Better Homes and Gardens]

odette: a variation on my elf ornament

Felt Christmas Candy Ornaments

All My Completed Christmas Projects

My Finished Elf Ornament!!

Elf Ornament

All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth

Gingerbread Snowflake Ornaments

Please Check Out My Other Christmas Blog For More Projects!

how to make peppermint candy ornaments

elf ornaments

A great idea from valitasfreshfolds.blogspot.com- Elf Shoe

[this craft was designed by valita's designs & fresh folds. Very talented lady, check out her blog for more ideas and inspiration!]

How to Make an Elf Tree Skirt

[mined the net again, here's directions for making an elf tree skirt from http://swapatorium.blogspot.com archives and a 1969 magazine!]

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Lyrics

Alton Brown's Eggnog Recipe

CUTE! Festive Eggnog Cake!

Russian Teacakes(Butterballs,Mexican Wedding Cakes,et al.) Recipe

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Lyrics

My Etsy Shops' New Christmas Wrap!

New Christmas Blog!

Family Traditions

Too cute! Bronner's is the best Christmas store! Click anywhere on the post to go directly to their store!

From Bronner's

Another on-going project!

My first project - the first finshed ornaments

Another great how to from eHow

Introduction

Instructions

Steps

Step One

Step Two

Step Three

Step Four

Step Five

Step Six

Step Seven

Step Eight

Step Nine

Step Ten

Tips & Warnings

Overall Things You'll Need

snow globe

How to from ehow.com

Introduction

Instructions

Things You'll Need

Steps

Step One

Step Two

Step Three

Step Four

Step Five

Step Six

Overall Tips & Warnings

My Christmas Craft Projects!

How to from manggy.blogspot.com/

how to from BHG.com

Welcome to our blog!

Fast away the old year passes,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Hail the new, ye lads and lasses,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Sing we joyous, all together,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Heedless of the wind and weather,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.