Tis the season to turn our homes into a festive haven, and below are ten suggestions on how to do it without burning a hole in your wallet. You don't need a fat bank account to make your space feel like a winter wonderland.
Ten Affordable Ways to Decorate for Christmas:
1. Use Mother Nature:
Grab some pinecones, twigs, and evergreen branches from your backyard or a local park. Arrange them in vases or create a rustic centerpiece for your dining table. It's like bringing some of the outdoors inside, and it won't cost you a dime.
2. Paper Snowflake Throwback:
I remember making paper snowflakes as a kid. Well, it's time to revive that tradition. All you need is some plain white paper and a bit of folding and cutting. Hang these delicate creations around your place for an instant touch of winter charm. All you have to do is google "how to make a paper snowflake," and you'll see instructional videos come up - or go straight to YouTube with that search.
3. Crafty Ornaments:
Get your DIY on by making your own Christmas ornaments. Raid your stash for old fabric, buttons, or whatever you've got. Personalized and budget-friendly – that's the way to go. Again, a YouTube search for "how to make crafty Christmas ornaments" will return some creative ideas.
4. Twinkle Lights Galore:
Who can resist the cozy glow of string lights? Drape them around your windows, toss them in glass jars or vases (I do this), or get artsy and wrap them around lamps. You'll find many choices on Amazon when you search for "string lights." Notice that many are battery operated - you can always use small LED Christmas lights if where you place them is near a plug outlet. I have a collection of both battery and plug-in lights to put anywhere.
5. Upcycled Decor Delight:
Give your existing decor a festive facelift by getting creative. Add ribbons, bows, or small ornaments to everyday items like candles or vases. It's amazing what a little repurposing can do. Easy peasy!
6. DIY Wreath Extravaganza:
Greet your guests with a homemade wreath on the front door. Collect branches and pinecones, or even repurpose some old fabric to create a wreath without breaking the bank. I've never been into making a wreath, but I know many who love to do this. Collect what you can from outside and use extra bows and ribbons to deck it out further - you can even add small holiday decorations to the wreath.
7. Candlelit Magic:
Candles are your budget-friendly besties. Group them on a tray, add a touch of greenery, and boom – you've got a centerpiece for your table or mantle. The flickering flames set the perfect festive mood. Look at these real wax flameless candles that my friend Margaret uses and highly recommends.
8. Edible Elegance:
Why not combine decor with treats? Fill glass jars with colorful candies, hang candy canes on the tree, or create a gingerbread house centerpiece. It's a feast for the eyes and a treat for the taste buds. If you can find budget Christmas candy, this is a lovely way to bring the season into a room.
9. Personalized Stocking Fun:
Forget expensive stockings – make your own! Grab some old fabric or felt, or repurpose those worn-out sweaters. Add a personal touch with some embroidery, and you have stockings that tell your family's unique story.
10. Printable Cheer:
Spruce up your walls with downloadable festive art. Print and frame holiday quotes or whimsical illustrations. It's an affordable way to bring the holiday spirit to every corner of your home. You'll find many places to print free art for personal use online. Simply do a Google search for it, and many options will pop up.
In a nutshell, transforming your home into a holiday haven doesn't have to break the bank. With a dash of imagination and a sprinkle of holiday magic, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that captures the true spirit of Christmas.
Merry Christmas!
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
How many 14-year-olds have had sleepovers with their friends, I know my daughter had a lot of them. Three 14 year olds; Leah, Harriet & Jasmine have a sleepover at their other best friend's house, Vicky. They eat pizza and drink vodka before falling asleep in sleeping bags in the lounge.
The next morning Leah wakes up and there's no one in the room with her. Just like that three teenage girls disappear. Twenty-five years passed and there's still no sign of them anywhere.
This riveting book by Kerry Wilkinson follows two timelines, the present day where Leah is still living in the same town and where one of her missing friend's brothers is doing a documentary about the night of the sleepover to coincide with the 25th anniversary. The other timeline is the night of the sleepover.
I loved this story, there were lots of twists and trying to work out who the mystery person messaging Leah was, let alone working out what happened at the sleepover kept me reading 'just another chapter'!
Towards the end, the mystery appears to have been solved before the final chapter when there's another twist that you probably won't see coming.
If you like psychological thrillers and you don't have a teenage daughter then I thoroughly recommend this book. If you have a teenager then I would wait a few years before reading as I'm not sure my daughter would've been allowed to go on another sleepover if I read this a few years ago!
The author is releasing a sequel called After the Sleepover this month which indicates that there may have been something else happening that we weren't aware of in the original book - I'm tempted to read it again to see if I've missed anything.
I was actually surprised to discover that the author was male as he seemed to really capture teenage girls extremely well. If you like books by Lisa Jewell or Lisa Unger then you will really enjoy this novel.
I read this as part of my Kindle Unlimited subscription which I thoroughly recommend. I spend 2 hours a day on the train commuting back and forth from work and with Kindle Unlimited and I can spend that time in another world whether it's the world of disappearing teenagers, a historical novel, mystical tales or a good old romance. This subscription would also make a great gift idea for the reader in your life.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
A romantic Christmas movie review & recommendation, just in time for Christmas!
Have you ever dialed a wrong phone number and unexpectedly ended up talking to a nice person you don't personally know?
These days, phone calls are often replaced by emails or text messaging. Sending a text to the wrong person is not unheard of. Usually we send text messages to someone on our saved contact list, but it would certainly be possible to send a text message to the wrong person if you are trying to remember a phone number off the top of your head. Especially if you have a new phone without your contacts added.
Thus is the premise of the movie, "Twas the Text Before Christmas".
When a grandmother inadvertently sends a text message meant for her granddaughter to a stranger, she ends up making friends with the kindhearted woman who replies to the text. This is just the beginning of what ends up being a chance for fun, family, and romance.
Twas the Text Before Christmas Movie Synopsis
Addie (Merritt Patterson) has a good job, a loving father and brother, and an ex-boyfriend. Christmas this year is expected to be a rather lonely time for her because her father will be spending Christmas in Australia with her brother. Even though she is invited to join friends in Florida, that trip would be too expensive since she is trying to save for her own vacation in Australia.
When Addie receives a text message from an unknown person, she decides to respond to let them know that they have the wrong number. After exchanging a few messages with a sweet grandmother who meant to be texting her granddaughter, she receives a phone call from "Nana" who opts to call her instead of continuing the texting. After talking a few times, Nana invites Addie to join her family for Christmas. Since it would only be a 4 hour drive to Vermont, she decides to accept and makes a reservation for 1 night at the local Inn.
When she arrives for Christmas dinner, she is introduced to Nana's family which includes the granddaughter Nana originally intended to text, as well as her son, James.
After 3 years, Addie, Nana, and the whole family are close friends and Christmas together has become a new tradition. It is not really surprising when Addie & James discover a they have deeper feelings for each other.
Where to Watch "Twas the Text Before Christmas"
I watched "Twas the Text Before Christmas" on Frndly TV, however the Great American Channel now has their own streaming service available at PureFlix.com which thrills me! When I told my husband about the new streaming service, he happily gifted me with an annual subscription to PureFlix for Christmas. I am guaranteed a year's worth of wonderful movies and I am pretty excited to start watching them.
You can also subscribe to PureFlix through Amazon or directly at Pureflix.com.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
A couple of weeks ago, Fran was looking for something to watch on Netflix and came upon this Netflix limited series, "All the Light We Cannot See"
If you love historical fiction, like I do, you will love this limited series. We were hooked from the very first episode and binged the whole series in one night.
All the Light We Cannot See is based on the critically acclaimed novel by Anthony Doerr.
The book was published in 2014 and was a New York Times Best Seller, and also won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction.
Netflix released the limited series on November 2, 2023. This series will have you on the edge of your seat through every episode.
Set during World War II the story follows two young individuals whose lives intersect amid the chaos of the war.
Newcomer Aria Mia Loberti as Marie-Laure LeBlanc, a blind French teenage girl and the daughter of Daniel LeBlanc played by Mark Ruffalo.
Louis Hoffmann as Werner Pfennig, a young German orphan who eventually becomes a soldier specializing in detecting and tracking radio frequencies.
Lars Eidinger as Reinhold von Rumple, an officer of the SS who certifies and evaluates art, and jewelry.
Hugh Laurie as Etienne LeBlanc, a reclusive World War I veteran suffering from PTSD and the great uncle of Marie-Laure.
The series spans from the years 1934 to 1944. When Nazi Germany invades France, Marie, and Daniel flee to Saint-Malo to take refuge in her great-uncle's house.
All the Light You Cannot See is a rollercoaster of emotions as the series balances moments of intense drama, heart-melting romance, and the harsh realities of war.
I was emotionally invested in the journey of each character. I found myself rooting for their triumphs and feeling their heartaches as their lives intertwined. You find out early on in this series what bonds Marie and Werner, and you are eager to find out how it ends.
Now that I have seen this masterful limited series I must read the book.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
One of my favorite gifts to give or receive is genuine wax flameless candles
with a lovely, flickering "flame," a timer, and a remote control that lets me
"light" them or "blow them out" from across the room at the touch of a button.
When flameless wax candles first came out, the quality of the "flame" from
most manufacturers was pretty poor. Fortunately, the technology has improved
and prices have come down a bit over the years. Now you can buy nice ones that
are suitable for both gift-giving and home decor at moderate as well as
premium prices.
Whether you buy a single flameless pillar candle, a pair of tapers, or a set
of votives, they're sure to add beauty and timeless elegance to your home and
be a gift that keeps on giving.
Flameless wax candles are elegant and safe to leave unattended. My
favorites also include a timer and remote control that let you "light"
and "blow them out" from across the room.
Why Choose Flameless Candles?
Here are some of the qualities that make flameless candles appealing for both
gifts and home decor, during the holidays and year-round.
Long-Lasting Beauty
These flameless candles let you enjoy the timeless beauty of genuine wax
candles that never burn down. We have used ours frequently for many years with
no end to our enjoyment in sight (unless we run out of batteries).
Flickering LED "Flame"
The flame on these LED flameless candles moves randomly to simulate the
flicker of an open flame on a traditional wax candle. Close-up, of course, no
one will mistake it for a real flame. However, from farther away, the "dancing
flame" effect can be quite realistic.
No Drips
Unlike traditional candles with wicks, the wax body of these flameless candles
remains at room temperature and won't melt or drip (unless you subject them to
excessive heat). A grouping of pillars or some tapers make a lovely
centerpiece that can't set your tablecloth on fire if they're accidentally
knocked over while passing a serving dish. You could even use them on a finely
finished antique wood table without fear of marring the surface.
No Smoke
Another advantage is that flameless candles are smoke-free. You can "burn" as
many of these beautiful candles as your heart desires without worrying about
setting off the smoke alarm! I love the look of candles everywhere, especially
during the holidays.
Candlelight That's Safe for the Whole Family
Since there isn't an open flame, these flameless candles can be left
unattended, unlike traditional wax candles. They're safe to leave on in your
windows during the holidays. They provide a romantic glow in the bedroom, with
no worries if you happen to fall asleep before turning them off.
They're also safe to use around children and pets.
Perfect for the Dark Winter Months
Here in New England, the winter months can be brutally cold and the sun sets quite early. We have flameless LED candles in nearly every room of our house, and during the winter we set them to turn on at dusk, so we never have to walk into a completely dark room. The LEDs draw very little power, so a set of batteries usually lasts us the whole winter and beyond.
Two of our Luminara flameless pillar candles with our set of three
color-changing flameless pillars
Luminara Flameless Candles: Perfect for Gifting
There are many brands of flameless candles, and the quality can vary
significantly. We've tried a few inexpensive brands and have mostly been
disappointed. The brand we count on for consistently high quality is Luminara.
Luminara makes top-of-the-line flameless candles made of hand-poured paraffin
wax. Most styles have a timer and a remote, and all are boxed for easy
gift-giving.
The company offers a wide range of styles, from everyday essentials to
specialty items like real birch flameless candles filled with paraffin wax
(gorgeous for country or rustic home decor) and Christmas-themed styles.
Here are some of my favorites.
Luminara set of 3 melted edge wax pillar candles with remote -
click the image to view on Amazon
This set of three melted edge wax pillar candles is one of Luminara's best
sellers. The graduated-height, 3-inch wide pillars are 4.5", 5.5" and 6.5"
tall, respectively.
The included remote control operates all three candles. Even if you split them
up and place them in three different locations, you can control each one with
the same remote, which is very convenient.
These are unscented (although Luminara does make some scented styles), so
they're ideal for someone who is sensitive to scents, has allergies, or
prefers to use other home fragrance products such as potpourri or sprays.
These also come in a choice of colors. I think the burgundy is very festive
for the holidays and would be great as an accent color in a mostly neutral
decor palette, while ivory or white are more subtle and very elegant any time
of year.
We own this set of three pillars in ivory as well as a tall pillar in a
discontinued color (blue sage) that coordinates with our living room color
scheme.
Luminara ivory flameless taper candles - click the image to
view on Amazon
Another choice that will grace your or your gift recipient's dining table for
years to come is this set of ivory flameless wax tapers.
Elegant ivory wax tapers are a classic, timeless style for good reason.
Classic elegance with the safety and convenience of a flameless "flame" is a
win-win!
Measuring 1" wide by 9.75" high, these flameless tapers can be used in any
standard taper candle holder. Even reheated leftovers can become a festive
meal with these flickering beauties on the dining table.
Although these do not come with a remote control, they do have a timer
function that allows them to turn on for 5 hours and then shut off
automatically for 19 hours.
As with all Luminara candles, they come nicely boxed for easy gift-giving.
Luminara real birch wax pillar candle - click the image to view on Amazon
Another of my favorite Luminara flameless candle styles is this hand-poured wax pillar wrapped in genuine birch bark. Every time I see one in a store I am tempted to add one to our collection!
This is available in a selection of sizes including 3.5" x 4.5", 3.5" x 6.5", 4" x 5" and 4" x 7".
Just one of these is striking enough to make a statement in any room. Investing in a group of them in different sizes would make a real conversation-piece display!
The on/off switch on the bottom also has a timer setting.
Although this beautiful birch pillar doesn't come with a remote, it is compatible with Luminara's on/off remote, sold separately, which is well worth the extra money, in my opinion. We use our Luminara remotes all the time.
Color-Changing Flameless Candles
One of the best gifts I ever gave my husband was a set of three color-changing
wax flameless candles. I prefer white Christmas lights and he prefers colored
ones, and it was a big concession for him to go with white icicle lights along
our roof and on our Christmas tree. So, one year I decided to give him a form
of colored lights we both could enjoy: color-changing flameless candles.
These turned out to be an even bigger hit than I had hoped. I took a video of
ours to show the color-changing effect, which was hard to capture on video and
is MUCH prettier in person. (If you can't see the YouTube video below, you can
access it via this link to my
color-changing flameless candles video.)
Set of 3 color-changing flameless candles with remote control
and timers - click the image to view on Amazon
In real life, the color changes are smooth and seamless, and the unsightly
flickering of the image caused by the low-resolution video doesn't exist. I
wish I could show just how beautiful these are in person!
The candles have an on/off switch and a remote control that allows you not
only to turn the candles on and off but also to choose from a wide range of
different colors or rotate through the colors, as shown in the video.
There is also a timer feature, which we use to automatically turn on the
candles in our bedroom at dusk and turn off either 4 or 8 hours later,
depending on the time of year (and how late dusk arrives).
The brand I purchased a couple of years ago is no longer available. However, I
found a similar set with a subtle, elegant, tone-on-tone damask pattern in
the wax shell that makes them even prettier, in my opinion.
If you want to splurge, Luminara also makes lovely color-changing pillars.
Don't Forget Batteries!
Whether you're buying these for yourself or as a gift, make sure to also buy the appropriate batteries for your candles and, if applicable, the remote control.
The set of three Luminara pillar candles, the smaller Luminara birch pillars, and the Luminara tapers take AA batteries. The larger Luminara birch pillars take D batteries. The remote takes a CR2025 button battery.
The three candles in the set of color-changing pillars I featured all run on AA batteries.
Beauty, long life, safety, and convenience — just some of the reasons to treat yourself and those on your gift list to some genuine wax flameless candles!
Genuine Wax Flameless Candles — An Elegant Gift Everyone Will Love by Margaret Schindel
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Gift Reviews by Our Review This Reviews Contributors
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Product Reviews by Our Review This Reviews Contributors
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Making white bean (Great Northern Beans) soup is a holiday tradition in our
home. I don't just make white bean soup during the holidays, but it is
a part of the holiday week menu of recipes that I look forward to making and
eating.
Every holiday, whether it is Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter, I bake a
big ham for the family. I can hardly wait for the ham to be devoured
so I can use the bone in a big pot of white bean soup. The ham,
itself, is usually served at least twice over the course of a few
days. I admit, sometimes (like this past Thanksgiving) I don't wait
for all of the ham to be gone before I claim the ham bone for soup.
I love the holidays and
cooking for the holidays, but after several days of heavy feasting, I am always ready for a lighter
fare of soup for a few days. For some, white beans are exclusively a
side dish. For me, they make a fabulous soup! And, just so your
know, I do make white beans as a side throughout the year. I make the
side dish exactly the same way as I make the soup, but with less
water.
I use the entire package of beans in one pot of soup. I start
by inspecting the beans as I rinse them in small batches in my
colander. I toss any shriveled, dark or broken beans, as
well as any bean loose or floating "skin".
All whole, white beans that pass inspection are placed in a large
dutch oven size cooking pot, covered with water, and left sitting out
on the kitchen counter to soak for 8 hours, or overnight.
Directions for White Bean Soup
Rinse the Beans & Soak for 8 hrs. or overnight (water should be
2/3 up the pan since the beans absorb water while soaking)
After 8 hours, Rinse the Beans again and put them in a dutch oven
pot with Ham (Ham Bone Preferred) OR (2 T Bacon Grease if a ham bone
is not available)
Bring to a Boil, then turn the heat down to a low boil (on my stove top that is 3½)
Add a generous amount of salt and pepper and stir the seasoning
into the beans
Cook covered (tilted lid or Pampered Chef Boil Over No More cover)
on low simmer for 1½ - 2 hours
*Note: I normally check the cooking beans a few times to add water as
needed to keep the water from boiling down too low
I mentioned bacon grease in the recipe above because I season white
beans with bacon grease if a ham bone is not available. Bacon
grease is exactly what it sounds like. It is the grease that is
rendered when cooking bacon. I cook bacon in the microwave on a
bacon tray or rack that allows the grease to settle below the
bacon. I literally pour the bacon grease from the tray into a
bacon grease jar to use as needed, whenever needed. You will
find a partly filled jar of bacon grease in my kitchen at all
times.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to transform your home into a winter wonderland than with the magic of Christmas area rugs? These versatile and festive floor coverings are not just accessories; they're the secret ingredient to elevating the holiday ambiance in your home.
Why Decking the Floors Can Be Fun
Instant Cheerful Transformation:
Rolling out a Christmas area rug is like waving a wand and turning your home into a festive haven. The vibrant colors, playful patterns, and iconic holiday symbols instantly infuse a sense of joy and merriment into any space.
Warm and Cozy Atmosphere:
There's something inherently cozy about the holiday season; a Christmas area rug takes that coziness up a notch. The soft, plush textures underfoot create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making your home the perfect retreat from the winter chill.
Express Your Style:
Christmas area rugs come in various styles, from traditional designs with classic motifs like snowflakes and reindeer to modern, whimsical patterns. This allows you to express your unique style while keeping with the festive theme. Whether your taste is timeless or trendy, a holiday rug suits every preference.
Kid-Friendly Fun:
If you have little ones running around, a Christmas area rug can become the focal point for holiday activities. From playing board games to opening presents, the rug serves as a designated festive zone that adds extra excitement for the kids.
Easy Seasonal Decor:
Only some have the time or energy to transform their home into a winter wonderland. A Christmas area rug is a quick and easy way to inject holiday spirit into any room without elaborate decorations. It's a hassle-free option for those who want maximum impact with minimal effort.
Investing in a Christmas area rug can become a delightful annual tradition. Each year, as you unroll the rug and place it in its designated spot, it becomes a symbol of cherished memories and a reminder of the joyous holiday seasons.
Perfect for All Spaces:
Whether you're decorating the living room, bedroom, or kitchen, a Christmas area rug can seamlessly fit into any space. Choose a size and style that suits the room's aesthetic, and watch as the holiday magic unfolds.
Consider adding a festive flair to your home this holiday season with a Christmas area rug. These rugs enhance the visual appeal of your space and create a warm and inviting atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of the season.
So, why wait? Roll out the festive carpet and feature some Christmas art on the floor.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Candle Day is held each year on the first Saturday in December. For 2023, that day is December 2.
Candle Day
The retail company “Bath and Body Works” started 'Candle Day' to promote their annual candle sale. The sale gives candle lovers time to stock up on world-famous candles at special low prices. Since candles are great for gifting, especially during the holiday season, this annual 'sale' day in early December is perfectly timed.
Brief History of Candles
Candles have been around for more than 5,000 years. Early civilizations used wax made from available plants and beeswax. They were used to provide light in the many years before electricity was invented.
Today, candles are mainly a symbol of celebration and for religious ceremonies. They come in many shapes, sizes and scents.
In addition to the Bath and Body Works sales day on December 2, we also celebrate World Candle Day on March 1. That International candle day was begun by two associations, the Latin American Candle Manufacturers Association and the European Candle Manufacturers Association.
Let's look at a few sources of candles.
Champagne Candle
Bath and Body Works is famous for their 3-wick candles. This Champagne Candle is perfect for a New Year's Eve celebration. It is a 14.5 oz jar candle with an amazing scent.
Ocean Air
Another well-known candle brand is Yankee Candles. This Ocean Air candle will allow you to enjoy memories of your beach vacation or those of a fresh breeze off the ocean anytime you want, even in the middle of winter.
Handmade Candles
Shopping on a handmade site like Etsy, you can choose any scent you want, from favorite kitchen odors like apple pie baking in the oven to holiday and seasonal scents. These candles come in standard jars or pretty glassware, in pretty tins and wood, in fancy & novelty shapes and sizes, and with delightful scents, including aromatherapy.
Being a yarn crafter, I fell in love with this Knot Candle, as it reminded me of the Knot Knit Stitch. The twisted knot shape would look so pretty in my craft room.
It's a homemade soy wax candle handmade by Urban Craft Style on Etsy.
Round or square candles, stand-alone or in a glass jar, often appear to be the standard type of candles. But a novelty type candle in a cute shape is also popular.
Cat lovers like me would love this adorable chubby cat candle. It comes in a variety of colors and scents from the Etsy Store of Melou Candles of Toronto, Canada. Lara also makes her candles in the shape of owls, elephants and teddy bears, among many others. I think they would make darling gifts.
Summary
Candles can give you magical mood moments. Depending upon the scent, they can transport you to a garden of roses or a sunny day on a tropical beach. Light the wick, take a deep breath, and let a favorite scent transport you where you want to be for a few quiet moments.
So choose your favorite brand, or a fun handmade candle, and enjoy.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
My husband likes walnuts in banana bread, but I don't like walnuts in
mine. Therefore, I often end up making two large loaves or one that is
not going to please both of us. Making a pan of mini loaves is the
perfect solution!
After I have mixed the batter, I add walnuts to half of the batter. Therefore, I can make 4 mini loaves of banana bread with walnuts and 4 without walnuts.
I can also share the mini loaves with friends and family. These would make lovely gifts of homemade food during the holidays. For our friends who have differing ingredients preferences like us, I could send several loaves.
A variety of bread mini loaves will certainly make the food at family gatherings more appealing. By labeling the mini loaves, everyone will know exactly what they are getting. No more surprise walnuts in my piece of banana bread!
1 Cup Mashed Banana (usually 2 or 3 very ripe bananas)
1/3 Cup Chopped Nuts, if desired
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar together with a mixer
Then, add eggs, baking mix, & mashed bananas. Mix until well
blended
Stir in walnuts - If you are dividing the number of loaves that have
walnuts, divide batter into two mixing bowls and stir walnuts into only one
Pour into the prepared pan
Bake mini loaves for 30 minutes - Check if done by sticking a toothpick in
the center of a mini loaves. If the toothpick comes out clean, the
bread is done
Let cool for 10 minutes and remove from pan
Let the mini loaves cool completely before you wrap them in foil or plastic wrap.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Stockings are a traditional part of Christmas as far back as the 1800s. There are many stories of how the tradition came to be, but there is no proof that any of them are factual. However they came to be, hanging stockings and filling them with presents is one of the most beloved customs of Christmas.
In my family, you are never too old to have a stocking. My parents had a stocking for me every year, until I got married, when then handed the baton to my husband. My husbands family, on the other hand, only gave stockings to the youngsters. He was delighted to reinstitute the practice between the two of us.
Since then it has become a fun challenge to find new and unique things to put in each others stocking every Christmas. So here are some of the things that I have given to my husband.....who for the past few years has been a senior, which is why I have put a special section at the end of the page for senior stocking stuffers. I hope you find some things to help you stuff your stockings!
Mini Drone - These are small drones that you can fly in or outside. Trust me, any man will love this!! They start around $30.
Magnetic Wristband - Usually nylon with Velcro closure. Interior magnets will hold screws, nails, nuts, staples, just about any small metal object. No more having to repeatedly reach into your toolbox! Starts around $7.
Password Keeper - If your man is constantly forgetting his passwords, this is the perfect gift! You can get him a password book if he is an old style guy for about $8. If he is a more digital type, you can get him a computerized handheld keeper that starts at around $20.
Mini DVD Player - This gift is really great for everyone, not just the guys! These small DVD players fit in your hand and usually play movies, music CDs and show photos. Perfect for places with no WIFI, or in a plane or car. Entertainment on the go! They start around $25 like the one below from Amazon.
Universal Socket - I already bought this for my husband's stocking! Whether your man is a beginner or has a monumental toolbox, (like mine) this is a great item to keep in you kitchen drawer for small jobs. It will save him from having to go search for the correct size! They start around $7.
Deodorizing Balls - If your man has a stink problem, be it shoes, gym bag, locker or closet, this is what he needs! These little balls will help rid any confined space of distressing odors for only about $7 for six balls.
Beef Jerky - Don't put candy canes or chocolates in your man's stocking when what he really wants is JERKY!! Small, individual packets of jerky always go over great, just stuff them right in that stocking and see his face light up!
Mini Bluetooth Speakers - These speakers are small in size but big in sound. You will be surprised at the quality of the sound. They are available in all shapes and sizes, but I recommend the one below, which I have and runs about $19 and comes in six different colors!
Knit Hat with a Light - I got one of these for my husband last Christmas. I was afraid that he would never use it, but I could not have been more wrong! He wears it all the time. Anytime he needs to go out and do something at night, he puts it on. Putting our animals away, going out to retrieve something he left in the car, he even uses it when we grill on the deck at night. He says it is one of the best things I ever bought him because it leaves his hands free while giving lots of light! His is USB rechargeable and cost about $9.
Solar Charger Power Bank - These are about the size of a phone, a bit thicker, and one side is covered will solar panels. You can charge the bank by plugging it in and at full charge it will fully recharge your phone three times. If you are someplace with no plug in, you can charge this power bank using the solar panels. This is a great gift that could save a life in a bad situation. Starts at around $20.
Belly Band Holster - Because many people don't know what these are, I decided to include a picture of one so you would know what I mean. These holsters can be used for guns, but they can also be used for so many other things. It is especially nice for hiding things you don't want out in the open in case you are mugged or threatened, or you don't want to carry a purse. They are also useful for walkers or joggers. The compartments and pockets in these bands are awesome for smart phones, wallets, inhalers, medications, pepper spray, ID, cash and so much more. These are great gifts! They start at about $16.
Personalized Playing Cards - Wouldn't your guy love to have a deck of cards with a his favorite photo on the back of each card? Show you really care with this personal gift! You can order these from Shutterfly for about $20 along with other great personalized stuff like calendars and magnets.
Leather Apple Watchband - These bands are made especially to fit Apple watches and look far more stylish than what comes with them. They start around $12.
Mini Survival Kit - If your guy drives long distances, or if he jogs, hikes or camps, he needs a survival kit. This kit is very small with only the bare minimum of survival equipment, but it has things in it that you will need if you find yourself caught out with no resources. Each kit has different things, but most include at least an emergency blanket, fire starter, multitool, compass and wire saw. These mini kits are usually small enough to fit in your glove compartment, but in an emergency they could save your life, for around $20. A thoughtful gift.
Mini Work Lights - I bought these lights for my husband a couple months ago. We were both really shocked at how bright they were and all the extras they had. Three different levels of brightness, strobe, on/off switch, means to hang it up or stand it up, keychain attachment and bottle opener. For the price, you will never get a better small light. I keep one in my car, and one in my kitchen in case we lose power. They charge with a USB plug and the lights I bought were two for $12.
Though senior men would probably love any of the suggestions above, there are some items that are especially loved by older gents. Here are a few!
Neck Light - My husband uses his all the time when he reads, as the lamp by his chair is not bright enough for him to read easily. You simply drape them around your neck and the legs are bendable into any position you like. A great gift for people who like to read or do crafts. Prices vary widely but start at around $10.
Newspaper or Magazine Subscription - Some seniors still prefer to receive their reading material on paper, and the price of these items has risen greatly in the last five years. The Wall Street Journal is $33 for four weeks and a year subscription to TV Guide is $56! Many seniors have a problem with high cost of their favorite print material, so a gift subscription would be a blessing for them!
Tracker - These small items clip on to car keys, remotes, pill satchels or other things that are commonly misplaced. Must have a smart phone or smart home to use most trackers. Simply download the free app and search, your tracker will ring out so your item is easy to find. Prices start about $17.
Lazy Shoe Horn Helper - Many older folks have trouble getting their foot in their shoes. The heel folds in and it is very frustrating. These shoe horn helpers solve this problem instantly. You simply slip them on the back of the shoe and your heel will slide down the horn and right into the shoe. My husband loves his! They start at around $6. This is what they look like:
Back Scratcher - I know it sounds silly, but you would be surprised how hard it is to reach places that itch if you have arthritis, or a bad back. A nice telescoping back scratcher is a thoughtful gift for any senior's stocking, man or woman! You can pick these up for about $5.
And last but not least, this is my favorite stocking stuffer for seniors. However, if you plan to give this, make sure the recipient has a good sense of humor!
Stockings full of lots of small presents make a great gift for anyone, who says kids are the only ones that should have them? My husband and I always have stockings hung by the big screen TV with care! (we don't have a fireplace) After all the gifts are opened on Christmas morning, they are the last thing we open. It is so fun to see what unique stuff our better half has gotten us, small enough to fit in a stocking!
Merry Christmas!
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