The glow of Christmas lights is one of the many enjoyable aspects of the Christmas season. Unfortunately, for many families, the tradition of Christmas lights quickly turns to tragedy. In the U.S., nearly 15,000 people are treated in hospital emergency departments each year because of injuries related to holiday decorating (source). … [Read more...] about Christmas Light Safety Tips
holidays
Simple Ways to Streamline Thanksgiving Dinner Preparation
For many families, the focal point of Thanksgiving Day is a table laden with delicious food. As nice as it is to dive into these foods, getting them to the table often requires a lot of work and can be stressful. Last year, for example, we spent the entire day before Thanksgiving preparing various dishes. Then I was up and cooking again … [Read more...] about Simple Ways to Streamline Thanksgiving Dinner Preparation
Finally Fall
We recently drove up to our new house in our new city. When we woke the day after arriving, we were greeted by temperatures in the 50s and movers pulling up to the curb with a truck loaded with nearly all our earthly possessions. I don’t know which I was more excited to see! Having just come through the hottest summer of my life (nearly … [Read more...] about Finally Fall
Pecan Pie Brownies
Though we already planned on having at least a half dozen desserts this past Thanksgiving, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to make Pecan Pie Brownies after I saw the idea for them. I suspected that the flavors of brownie and pecan pie would go well together, and they sure did! These were amazing! They were a huge hit after … [Read more...] about Pecan Pie Brownies
Have Yourself a Mindful Little Christmas
I often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas that I miss out on opportunities to truly savor the things I love about the season. This is unfortunate because there are so many amazing things—people, treats, decorations, activities, etc.—to enjoy. This year, I’m being intentional about slowing down and enjoying the … [Read more...] about Have Yourself a Mindful Little Christmas
Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies
This past week, my girls and I baked our first Christmas cookies of the season. After seeing whoopie pies in a book we read before Thanksgiving, my girls were eager to try some. These did not disappoint! If you have time to make these delightful cookies, then add them to your baking list. Those eating your cookies will be delighted by … [Read more...] about Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies
All the Merry for Less Moolah: How to Save Money on Christmas
According to the National Retail Federation, the average American spends about $1,000 on Christmas each year (source). Gifts, treats, decorations, and travel are great, but many of us don’t have a grand sitting around with which to pay for them. Thankfully, the most wonderful time of the year doesn’t have to also be the priciest time of … [Read more...] about All the Merry for Less Moolah: How to Save Money on Christmas
10 Benefits of Engaging in Family Traditions
Yesterday, my daughters completed a gratitude activity that we complete each year before Thanksgiving. In the coming days, they will help me prepare traditional Thanksgiving foods. Then, I’ll recount stories of past Christmases as we hang ornaments on the Christmas tree. We’ll place our handprint tree skirt under the tree after adding this … [Read more...] about 10 Benefits of Engaging in Family Traditions