Handmade Holiday

Well, that time is upon us.  I leave work today for NJ to spend some time with loved ones and then I'm on vacation for a whole week!  Woot!

 

This year's holiday continues to be a scaled down one.  A few years ago, my immediate family (brothers, mom and dad, and sister in law) decided that we would all draw a name and buy one gift instead of five.  It was the best decision we ever made and tell that anyone who will listen to me.  It somehow makes the whole gift-giving process 100% more relaxed and exciting.  (Who am I going to get this year?!  Who got me?!)  Trust me, if you haven't already, suggest the idea to your family.  They just might heave a huge sigh of relief!

 

I do like to make homemade gifts for a few special people and I turned to the old reliable recipes I've been using for a while now.  This one, this and this.  So easy!  My favorite part is finding cute packaging.  The best find this year? 1/2 lb. coffee bags at the Container Store.  39 cents!  And they look so fancy.  

I hope everyone has a happy and safe holiday.  This year, especially, there feels like there is a lot to reflect upon.  Make sure you tell your loved ones how much they mean to you and keep the spirit of the season in your heart.

See you next year!

 

Merry, merry!

Well, Christmas Eve is Saturday.  The last present was purchased yesterday.  All my goodies are wrapped and ready to go.  We have a really scaled down holiday this year and I'm feeling pretty good about it.  Most family members are getting homemade gifts from the heart.

If you looking for some quick last minute gifts for people, this is what I made this year.  

sugar & spice candied nuts

chocolate "blocks"

candied orange peel

parmesan & black pepper biscotti

Most of them require very little time (chocolate blocks) or little effort (citrus peels; I actually skip the blanching and simmer them for about 3 hours), the biscotti take a little more of both, but are totally worth it!

I hope everyone has the warmest happiest holiday possible!  See you in the new year!