I like to share this poem with you, and wish you all a very Merry Christmas.
'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads.And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap.
When out on the roof there arose such a clatter,I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.Away to the window I flew like a flash,tore open the shutter, and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow gave the lustre of midday to objects below,when, what to my wondering eyes should appear,but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.More rapid than eagles, his coursers they came,and he whistled and shouted and called them by name:
"Now Dasher! Now Dancer! Now Prancer and Vixen! On Comet! On Cupid! On Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away!Dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,when they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky so up to the house-top the coursers they flew,with the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof the prancing and pawing of each little hoof.As I drew in my head and was turning around,down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,and his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,and he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes--how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow.The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,and the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.He had a broad face and a little round belly,that shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,and I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself.A wink of his eye and a twist of his head soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.And laying his finger aside of his nose,and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.But I heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
"Tis the Day Before Christmas
This is it!
The moment we have all been waiting for, eagerly anticipating!
A few last minute things need doing, check; turkey is thawing in the fridge.
Now time for the fun stuff, lets get those presents beautifully wrapped.
All the paper, tape, gift bags and bows and ribbons together with little candy canes tiny ornaments are ready to decorate your gifts.
Tell me, what says Christmas better than the beautiful wrapping paper that features Santa Claus, snowman, reindeer or angels. Tie a ribbon around it, slap on a great big bow and voila! You have perfected the art of holiday gift wrapping. Wrapping really large packages, irregular shaped items, plants and giant stuffed animals require some more thought.
If this overwhelm you.
Here is a simple way to get you on your way. You know how easy gift bags are , not only that you can reuse them! Now to wrap the tricycle or scooter, you need to find a specialty gift boutique that sells gigantic gift bags, as they are specially designed for gifts like this.
Now if you bought a large TV or an office chair . WOW they are to big for the gift bag ..........NO FEAR , just spray paint the box red or green again put a huge bow around it (like the one you use for your front door).
A cute or clever saying enhances the value of any gift and makes it much more special to the person who receives it.
Any sweet treat: "Wishing you a season with sweetness!"
Candle: "Hope your Christmas is full of light"
Pencil and notepad: "Hope your Christmas is something to write home about!"
Popcorn: "We're "popping" by with a holiday HI!"
Cookie Dough: "Here's a little extra "dough" for Christmas"
Basket of Bath Items: "When you feel like a basket case, take a break...and slow your pace"
Bell: "With each chime of this festive bell, may a Christmas wish come true, and bring you peace and happiness to last the whole year through!"
Nuts: "We're nuts about you!"
Crayons and Coloring Book: Hope your Holidays are Colorful!
Stuffed animal: "Paw sing" to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
The moment we have all been waiting for, eagerly anticipating!
A few last minute things need doing, check; turkey is thawing in the fridge.
Now time for the fun stuff, lets get those presents beautifully wrapped.
All the paper, tape, gift bags and bows and ribbons together with little candy canes tiny ornaments are ready to decorate your gifts.
Tell me, what says Christmas better than the beautiful wrapping paper that features Santa Claus, snowman, reindeer or angels. Tie a ribbon around it, slap on a great big bow and voila! You have perfected the art of holiday gift wrapping. Wrapping really large packages, irregular shaped items, plants and giant stuffed animals require some more thought.
If this overwhelm you.
Here is a simple way to get you on your way. You know how easy gift bags are , not only that you can reuse them! Now to wrap the tricycle or scooter, you need to find a specialty gift boutique that sells gigantic gift bags, as they are specially designed for gifts like this.
Now if you bought a large TV or an office chair . WOW they are to big for the gift bag ..........NO FEAR , just spray paint the box red or green again put a huge bow around it (like the one you use for your front door).
A cute or clever saying enhances the value of any gift and makes it much more special to the person who receives it.
Any sweet treat: "Wishing you a season with sweetness!"
Candle: "Hope your Christmas is full of light"
Pencil and notepad: "Hope your Christmas is something to write home about!"
Popcorn: "We're "popping" by with a holiday HI!"
Cookie Dough: "Here's a little extra "dough" for Christmas"
Basket of Bath Items: "When you feel like a basket case, take a break...and slow your pace"
Bell: "With each chime of this festive bell, may a Christmas wish come true, and bring you peace and happiness to last the whole year through!"
Nuts: "We're nuts about you!"
Crayons and Coloring Book: Hope your Holidays are Colorful!
Stuffed animal: "Paw sing" to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Avoid holiday stress!
While the strains of "I'll be home for Christmas" at the local mall may be music to your ears,for others it is a reminder that the most stressful time of year is upon us.
Each year, many people feel stressed as they strive to create a perfect Christmas for loved ones. Shopping for presents, food and hanging decorations becomes much more than just a labour of love. It becomes a mission of perfection and a recipe for disaster.
Take a step back and think about it.
Is Christmas going to be ruined because you don't have the right sweet potatoes? Who cares if you don't have as many side dishes as your grandmother used to make. You do not have to make every hing from scratch, there are many wonderful deserts available at your local store.
One of the biggest reason for excess stress during any festive season is our need for control. Too many of us want to orchestrate the perfect holiday moment over turkey dinner. However when you think about it there is not much you can do to control the situation.
In our culture there is a big emphasis on Christmas.
We all would love to have the "perfect" Christmas ever. reality is when family gets together. There will be cross words or fights because they are comfortable enough to be themselves with each other. Although you may not be able to control your uncle's total lack of social skills or your grandma's passive aggressive remarks. In fact the only thing you can control is yourself and your own actions. Remember, as long as you are doing the best you can do, you are doing well!
It is a very stressful time financially for a lot of families, especially now with so many lay offs and the market being so flat. we gravitate to thinking that all will be well at Christmas.
A very good tip to surviving the holidays is to be realistic about what is going to happen.
If you have financial concerns, you have to be responsible for your spending. Racking up the credit card to give mountain of gifts won't feel good when the bill comes in January. Think about your motivation for buying a gift.
Are you trying to buy love or affection?. Are you trying to keep up with others? Think about what you are doing before you put your credit card down.
At Christmas it is very easy to get carried away, however the little things can add up to become more complex.
A good Christmas comes down to being flexible and to go with the flow.
So relax and enjoy!
Each year, many people feel stressed as they strive to create a perfect Christmas for loved ones. Shopping for presents, food and hanging decorations becomes much more than just a labour of love. It becomes a mission of perfection and a recipe for disaster.
Take a step back and think about it.
Is Christmas going to be ruined because you don't have the right sweet potatoes? Who cares if you don't have as many side dishes as your grandmother used to make. You do not have to make every hing from scratch, there are many wonderful deserts available at your local store.
One of the biggest reason for excess stress during any festive season is our need for control. Too many of us want to orchestrate the perfect holiday moment over turkey dinner. However when you think about it there is not much you can do to control the situation.
In our culture there is a big emphasis on Christmas.
We all would love to have the "perfect" Christmas ever. reality is when family gets together. There will be cross words or fights because they are comfortable enough to be themselves with each other. Although you may not be able to control your uncle's total lack of social skills or your grandma's passive aggressive remarks. In fact the only thing you can control is yourself and your own actions. Remember, as long as you are doing the best you can do, you are doing well!
It is a very stressful time financially for a lot of families, especially now with so many lay offs and the market being so flat. we gravitate to thinking that all will be well at Christmas.
A very good tip to surviving the holidays is to be realistic about what is going to happen.
If you have financial concerns, you have to be responsible for your spending. Racking up the credit card to give mountain of gifts won't feel good when the bill comes in January. Think about your motivation for buying a gift.
Are you trying to buy love or affection?. Are you trying to keep up with others? Think about what you are doing before you put your credit card down.
At Christmas it is very easy to get carried away, however the little things can add up to become more complex.
A good Christmas comes down to being flexible and to go with the flow.
So relax and enjoy!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The Gift of Time
Year after year we face the same challenge of choosing the right gifts for Christmas gift-giving.
This year may be a little more challenging then the previous once. With all the uncertainties the world is facing.
Why not give gifts from the heart.
The Romantic Christmas Gift does not have to be a cliche and no matter whether you are buying for him or for her. The best way to make sure that their heart is touched is to give a gift straight from your heart.
The delayed enjoyment gift.
You can make gift certificates, this kind of gift can be put under the tree and redeemed at a later date. For example a week of watering some their plants, mowing the lawn or shoveling the snow from their driveway or walkway, a dinner date, love coupons kiss, kiss.
The Gift of Time!
You know what is really missing in today's world?
The face to face, one on one time with parents, children, siblings. The list goes on and on.
Time with-out the kids; phone; TV; computer or anything else.
Real you and me time, dress in your best, order from their favourite restaurant, unplug the TV and phones, turn up their favourite tunes, talk about them and enjoy each other.
The instant enjoyment gift.
Here are some examples; cellphone, jewellery, perfume, aftershave, clothes, chocolates just to name a few.
The Only One for Me Is You.
You have just bought them a technology device gift or the bracelet or watch they wanted. Now if you were to engrave this, then you are sending the message that you are in it forever. Nothing is more romantic than commitment.
No matter what you do, do it with your heart and with theirs in mind.
This year may be a little more challenging then the previous once. With all the uncertainties the world is facing.
Why not give gifts from the heart.
The Romantic Christmas Gift does not have to be a cliche and no matter whether you are buying for him or for her. The best way to make sure that their heart is touched is to give a gift straight from your heart.
The delayed enjoyment gift.
You can make gift certificates, this kind of gift can be put under the tree and redeemed at a later date. For example a week of watering some their plants, mowing the lawn or shoveling the snow from their driveway or walkway, a dinner date, love coupons kiss, kiss.
The Gift of Time!
You know what is really missing in today's world?
The face to face, one on one time with parents, children, siblings. The list goes on and on.
Time with-out the kids; phone; TV; computer or anything else.
Real you and me time, dress in your best, order from their favourite restaurant, unplug the TV and phones, turn up their favourite tunes, talk about them and enjoy each other.
The instant enjoyment gift.
Here are some examples; cellphone, jewellery, perfume, aftershave, clothes, chocolates just to name a few.
The Only One for Me Is You.
You have just bought them a technology device gift or the bracelet or watch they wanted. Now if you were to engrave this, then you are sending the message that you are in it forever. Nothing is more romantic than commitment.
No matter what you do, do it with your heart and with theirs in mind.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Christmas Carols
Here are a few song lyrics to get you swinging trough the house!
Jingle Bell Rock.
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring
Snowing and blowing up bushels of fun
Now the jingle hop has begun
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time
Dancing and prancing in Jingle Bell Square
In the frosty air.
What a bright time, it's the right time
To rock the night away
Jingle bell time is a swell time
To go gliding in a one-horse sleigh
Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet
Jingle around the clock
Mix and a-mingle in the jingling feet
That's the jingle bell,
That's the jingle bell,
That's the jingle bell rock.
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.
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.
Rocking around the Christmas Tree
Rocking around the Christmas tree
at the Christmas party hop
Mistletoe hung where you can see
every couple tries to stop
Rocking around the Christmas tree,
let the Christmas spirit ring
Later we'll have some pumpkin pie
and we'll do some caroling.
You will get a sentimental
feeling when you hear
Voices singing let's be jolly,
deck the halls with boughs of holly
Rocking around the Christmas tree,
have a happy holiday
Everyone dancing merrily
in the new old-fashioned way.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
You know Dasher and Dancer
And Prancer and Vixen,
Comet and Cupid
And Donner and Blitzen.
But do you recall
The most famous reindeer of all?
Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer
Had a very shiny nose
And if you ever saw it
You would even say it glows
All of the other reindeer
Used to laugh and call him names
They never let poor Rudolph
Play in any reindeer games
Then one foggy Christmas Eve
Santa came to say
Rudolph with your nose so bright
Won't you guide my sleigh tonight?
Then all the reindeer loved him
And they shouted out with glee
"Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer
You'll go down in history!"
Silent Night
Silent night, holy night
!All is calm, All is bright
Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child
Holy Infant so Tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight!
Glories stream from heaven afar;
Heavenly hosts sing Al-le-lu-ia!
Christ the Saviour is born!
Christ the Saviour is born!
Silent night, holy night!
Wondrous star, lend thy light!
With the angels let us sing
Alleluia to our King!
Christ the Saviour is here,
Jesus the Saviour is here!
Silent night, Holy night!
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face,
with the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus Lord at thy birth;
Jesus Lord at thy birth.
Blue Christmas
I'll have a blue Christmas without you;
I'll be so blue thinking about you.
Decorations of red
on a green Christmas tree
Won't mean a thing if
you're not here with me
I'll have a blue Christmas, that's certain;
And when that blue heartache starts hurting,
You'll be doing all right
with your Christmas of white,
But I'll have a blue, blue Christmas.
Jingle Bell Rock.
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring
Snowing and blowing up bushels of fun
Now the jingle hop has begun
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time
Dancing and prancing in Jingle Bell Square
In the frosty air.
What a bright time, it's the right time
To rock the night away
Jingle bell time is a swell time
To go gliding in a one-horse sleigh
Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet
Jingle around the clock
Mix and a-mingle in the jingling feet
That's the jingle bell,
That's the jingle bell,
That's the jingle bell rock.
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.
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.
Rocking around the Christmas Tree
Rocking around the Christmas tree
at the Christmas party hop
Mistletoe hung where you can see
every couple tries to stop
Rocking around the Christmas tree,
let the Christmas spirit ring
Later we'll have some pumpkin pie
and we'll do some caroling.
You will get a sentimental
feeling when you hear
Voices singing let's be jolly,
deck the halls with boughs of holly
Rocking around the Christmas tree,
have a happy holiday
Everyone dancing merrily
in the new old-fashioned way.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
You know Dasher and Dancer
And Prancer and Vixen,
Comet and Cupid
And Donner and Blitzen.
But do you recall
The most famous reindeer of all?
Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer
Had a very shiny nose
And if you ever saw it
You would even say it glows
All of the other reindeer
Used to laugh and call him names
They never let poor Rudolph
Play in any reindeer games
Then one foggy Christmas Eve
Santa came to say
Rudolph with your nose so bright
Won't you guide my sleigh tonight?
Then all the reindeer loved him
And they shouted out with glee
"Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer
You'll go down in history!"
Silent Night
Silent night, holy night
!All is calm, All is bright
Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child
Holy Infant so Tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight!
Glories stream from heaven afar;
Heavenly hosts sing Al-le-lu-ia!
Christ the Saviour is born!
Christ the Saviour is born!
Silent night, holy night!
Wondrous star, lend thy light!
With the angels let us sing
Alleluia to our King!
Christ the Saviour is here,
Jesus the Saviour is here!
Silent night, Holy night!
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face,
with the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus Lord at thy birth;
Jesus Lord at thy birth.
Blue Christmas
I'll have a blue Christmas without you;
I'll be so blue thinking about you.
Decorations of red
on a green Christmas tree
Won't mean a thing if
you're not here with me
I'll have a blue Christmas, that's certain;
And when that blue heartache starts hurting,
You'll be doing all right
with your Christmas of white,
But I'll have a blue, blue Christmas.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Hot Video Games
You can’t miss with these hot video games under the tree.
Remember, when buying a video game for kids and teens, be awhere of the recommended age ratings in the corner of the box, such as “E” for “Everyone”, “T” for “Teen” and “M” for Mature.
LittleBigPlanet :
One of the coolest video games of the year is virtually impossible to explain. Imagine a world with no limits, a world that is yours to shape, build and explore. Imagine the possibilities, then jump head first into reality. Imagine what you can do with that!!
Buzz!:
In Buzz! Quiz TV, the whole world becomes a quiz show network! Includes over 5000 trivia questions.
High Stakes indeed.
Shaun White Snowboarding:
Olympic Gold Medalist Shaun White redefines the action sport genre. Enter a snowboarding world of total freedom. Create your own experience and choose when, where, how and with whom you want to ride.
Sid Meiers Civilization Revolution:
The latest offering in the legendary series of strategy games, features addictive game play that has made this one of the greatest game series of all time.
NHL 2K9:
NHL 2K9 brings a totally rebuilt NHL experience to life with a brand new in game presentation system, as well as fresh player animations and controls that fans will enjoy from the moment they play their first game, until well after they become a seasoned veteran.NHL 2K9 is the only Hockey game on the Wii Console this year.
We Cheer:
Clap Your Hands And Stomp Your Feet! We Cheer brings the excitement and fun of cheer leading to the Wii Console.
Get ready to show team spirit while you kick, jump flip and dance to the rhythm of the hottest music from the past and the present.
Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts:
Nuts & Bolts embraces new and old fans alike, as the famous bear and bird duo return in stunning high definition for a unique adventure of epic proportions.
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus
Underneath the mistletoe last night.
She didn't see me creep
down the stairs to have a peep;
She thought that I was tucked
up in my bedroom fast asleep.
Then, I saw Mommy tickle Santa Claus
Underneath his beard so snowy white;
Oh, what a laugh it would have been
If Daddy had only seen
Mommy kissing Santa Claus last night.
Remember, when buying a video game for kids and teens, be awhere of the recommended age ratings in the corner of the box, such as “E” for “Everyone”, “T” for “Teen” and “M” for Mature.
LittleBigPlanet :
One of the coolest video games of the year is virtually impossible to explain. Imagine a world with no limits, a world that is yours to shape, build and explore. Imagine the possibilities, then jump head first into reality. Imagine what you can do with that!!
Buzz!:
In Buzz! Quiz TV, the whole world becomes a quiz show network! Includes over 5000 trivia questions.
High Stakes indeed.
Shaun White Snowboarding:
Olympic Gold Medalist Shaun White redefines the action sport genre. Enter a snowboarding world of total freedom. Create your own experience and choose when, where, how and with whom you want to ride.
Sid Meiers Civilization Revolution:
The latest offering in the legendary series of strategy games, features addictive game play that has made this one of the greatest game series of all time.
NHL 2K9:
NHL 2K9 brings a totally rebuilt NHL experience to life with a brand new in game presentation system, as well as fresh player animations and controls that fans will enjoy from the moment they play their first game, until well after they become a seasoned veteran.NHL 2K9 is the only Hockey game on the Wii Console this year.
We Cheer:
Clap Your Hands And Stomp Your Feet! We Cheer brings the excitement and fun of cheer leading to the Wii Console.
Get ready to show team spirit while you kick, jump flip and dance to the rhythm of the hottest music from the past and the present.
Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts:
Nuts & Bolts embraces new and old fans alike, as the famous bear and bird duo return in stunning high definition for a unique adventure of epic proportions.
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus
Underneath the mistletoe last night.
She didn't see me creep
down the stairs to have a peep;
She thought that I was tucked
up in my bedroom fast asleep.
Then, I saw Mommy tickle Santa Claus
Underneath his beard so snowy white;
Oh, what a laugh it would have been
If Daddy had only seen
Mommy kissing Santa Claus last night.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
It is the season to give and receive.
Guide to Holiday Gifts.
Let start with the movies. It is difficult to come up with a DVD gift list that will please everybody, I’m sure this list will be of help to you.
The Big Lebowski: 10 th Anniversary Edition $18,99
Cool Hand Luke the deluxe edition $19,99
The Little Mermaid, Ariel’s beginning $25,99. Many little girls dream to have their room decorated like Ariel’s cave.
Get Smart, Steve Carrell stars as Maxwell Smart a man on a mission to thwart the latest plot for world domination by the evil crime syndicate known as KAOS.
The latest Batman movie, The Dark Night, will be released December 9. The movie will be released in several different packages cost $21,99 - $ 26,99
The Nightmare Before Christmas. The 2 disc Collectors Edition and Digital copy is being offered for $32,99
Horton Hears a Who. Dr Seuss's Horton, and elephant who overhears a tiny distress call from a microscopic community and goes to any lenght to protect it from those who can neither see nor hear it.
High School Musical 2. The 2 disc Deluxe Dance Edition $33,99
Hancock, Will Smith stars as Hancock, the ultimate anti hero. In this clever, inventive action comedy breathes new life into a true and tried super hero genre.
Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull was a giant hit this summer. Now you can relive all of Indy’s adventures in this four movie collection for $69,99
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout
I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
He's making a list,
And checking it twice;
Gonna find out Who's naughty and nice.
Santa Claus is coming to town
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!
O! You better watch out!
You better not cry.
Better not pout, I'm telling you why.
Santa Claus is coming to town.
Santa Claus is coming to town.
Let start with the movies. It is difficult to come up with a DVD gift list that will please everybody, I’m sure this list will be of help to you.
The Big Lebowski: 10 th Anniversary Edition $18,99
Cool Hand Luke the deluxe edition $19,99
The Little Mermaid, Ariel’s beginning $25,99. Many little girls dream to have their room decorated like Ariel’s cave.
Get Smart, Steve Carrell stars as Maxwell Smart a man on a mission to thwart the latest plot for world domination by the evil crime syndicate known as KAOS.
The latest Batman movie, The Dark Night, will be released December 9. The movie will be released in several different packages cost $21,99 - $ 26,99
The Nightmare Before Christmas. The 2 disc Collectors Edition and Digital copy is being offered for $32,99
Horton Hears a Who. Dr Seuss's Horton, and elephant who overhears a tiny distress call from a microscopic community and goes to any lenght to protect it from those who can neither see nor hear it.
High School Musical 2. The 2 disc Deluxe Dance Edition $33,99
Hancock, Will Smith stars as Hancock, the ultimate anti hero. In this clever, inventive action comedy breathes new life into a true and tried super hero genre.
Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull was a giant hit this summer. Now you can relive all of Indy’s adventures in this four movie collection for $69,99
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout
I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
He's making a list,
And checking it twice;
Gonna find out Who's naughty and nice.
Santa Claus is coming to town
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!
O! You better watch out!
You better not cry.
Better not pout, I'm telling you why.
Santa Claus is coming to town.
Santa Claus is coming to town.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Craft events offer lots of gift ideas
Craft fairs
Some are hosted by churches, local community centers and others in peoples homes.
A friend of mine, Barb St Laurent has held her own event for about the last 15 years. Barb started with a few of her close friends making crafts for Christmas. Word spread quickly, if you where looking for something out of the ordinary you should visit the "Among Friends Christmas Fair".
Each year the event grew and grew and the friends would meet earlier each year to get ready for their big event.
They now rent a local hall for a week and transform it into a awesome winter wonderland. The husbands end up making arches and trellises for display purposes and are as tallented as their wifes.
Here are some of the gifts you would be able to find ;
Some are hosted by churches, local community centers and others in peoples homes.
A friend of mine, Barb St Laurent has held her own event for about the last 15 years. Barb started with a few of her close friends making crafts for Christmas. Word spread quickly, if you where looking for something out of the ordinary you should visit the "Among Friends Christmas Fair".
Each year the event grew and grew and the friends would meet earlier each year to get ready for their big event.
They now rent a local hall for a week and transform it into a awesome winter wonderland. The husbands end up making arches and trellises for display purposes and are as tallented as their wifes.
Here are some of the gifts you would be able to find ;
- folk art crafts
- stained glass sun-catchers
- 4-5 ft tall old world Santa's
- Snowman in various sizes
- quilts
- floral center pieces
- hand-made Christmas cards
- hand-made soap
- Angels in all sizes
- hand painted glass- ware
- hand painted dishes
- ornaments
- jewelery
- chocolate
- Christmas baking
- dog treats
You would always be offered a cup of coffee or tea and cookies.
Barb has a newly expanded shop, " In the Company of Friends" and she is located in Cloverdale, B.C. This year there are more glittery treasures to add extra cheer to your home
Throughout December you will find lots of craft events and you be hard pressed to go to all. At most of the craft events you would be able to pick something up for your child's teacher that would not break the bank. For the hard to please, there is no better place to look.
Come on, weather man, give us a forecast snowy white
Can't you hear the prayers of every childlike heart tonight
Rockies are calling, Denver snow falling
Somebody said it's four feet deep
But it doesn't matter, give me the laughter
I'm gonna choose to keep.
Another tender Tennessee Christmas
The only Christmas for me
Where the love circles around us
Like the gifts around our tree
Well, I know there's more snow up in Colorado
Than my roof will ever see
But a tender Tennessee Christmas
is the only Christmas for me.
Every now and then I get a wandering urge to see
Maybe California, maybe Tinsel Town's for me
There's a parade there, we'd have it made there
Bring home a tan for New Year's Eve
Sure sounds inviting, awfully exciting
Still I think I'm gonna keep.
Another tender Tennessee Christmas The only Christmas for me
Where the love circles around us
Like the gifts around our tree
Well, they say in L.A. it's a warm holiday
It's the only place to be
But a tender Tennessee Christmas
is the only Christmas for me.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Gingerbread
Gingerbread
What smells more like Christmas than gingerbread men baking in the oven?
The tradition of baking a Gingerbread house began in Germany. After the Grimm brothers published their famous story of Hansel and Gretel, the children where left to starve in the forest, who came upon a house made of bread and sugar decorations.
Early settlers from Northern Europe brought the gingerbread tradition to the North America.
Make Your Own Gingerbread House
There are hundreds of Gingerbread recipes online that you can make to create a very tasty, edible house. Small children have a lot of fun making their own Gingerbread House and Man
The Pattern
Cut from paper the following:
Roof: 2 rectangles, 7 inches by 11 inches Side walls: 2 rectangles, 5"x8"Front and Back: base 5", total height 9".
Cut door from front.
/\ /\ -
/ \ / \ 4 inches
/ \ / \ _
_ 5 inches
____ ______ _
--5"-- --5"--
Chimney: (optional) 1" wide. _ _ _ _
_
/ \
_ / \
Front Back Side1 Side2
2.5" tall 1.5" tall
Attach the sides with icing sugar or frosting, follow with the roof.
You can pipe icing into the cracks with a cake decorator or with a plastic bag filled with icing. Use your imagination to create windows and doors with different shaped and colored candies.
base that looks like snow.
Enjoy and have fun!
A Christmas classic
Ingredients
1 stick butter - softened (1 stick of butter = 1/2 cup or 1/4 pound.)
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup molasses
1 large egg yolk
2 cups all purpose flour
candies and colored frosting for decorating
Instructions:
Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl mix until creamy and smooth. Beat in ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, allspice and baking soda until blended. Beat in molasses and yolk.
On low speed, beat in flour. Divide dough in half, wrap and chill until firm.
Heat oven to 350F.
Roll half the dough at a time on a well floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut with floured cookie cutters.
Transfer with spatula to ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes until lightly browned.
For those who have no time to bake, there are wonderful pre-made Gingerbread Houses, Trains and People.
All you do is decorate them:)
What smells more like Christmas than gingerbread men baking in the oven?
The tradition of baking a Gingerbread house began in Germany. After the Grimm brothers published their famous story of Hansel and Gretel, the children where left to starve in the forest, who came upon a house made of bread and sugar decorations.
Early settlers from Northern Europe brought the gingerbread tradition to the North America.
Make Your Own Gingerbread House
There are hundreds of Gingerbread recipes online that you can make to create a very tasty, edible house. Small children have a lot of fun making their own Gingerbread House and Man
The Pattern
Cut from paper the following:
Roof: 2 rectangles, 7 inches by 11 inches Side walls: 2 rectangles, 5"x8"Front and Back: base 5", total height 9".
Cut door from front.
/\ /\ -
/ \ / \ 4 inches
/ \ / \ _
_ 5 inches
____ ______ _
--5"-- --5"--
Chimney: (optional) 1" wide. _ _ _ _
_
/ \
_ / \
Front Back Side1 Side2
2.5" tall 1.5" tall
Attach the sides with icing sugar or frosting, follow with the roof.
You can pipe icing into the cracks with a cake decorator or with a plastic bag filled with icing. Use your imagination to create windows and doors with different shaped and colored candies.
base that looks like snow.
Enjoy and have fun!
A Christmas classic
Ingredients
1 stick butter - softened (1 stick of butter = 1/2 cup or 1/4 pound.)
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup molasses
1 large egg yolk
2 cups all purpose flour
candies and colored frosting for decorating
Instructions:
Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl mix until creamy and smooth. Beat in ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, allspice and baking soda until blended. Beat in molasses and yolk.
On low speed, beat in flour. Divide dough in half, wrap and chill until firm.
Heat oven to 350F.
Roll half the dough at a time on a well floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut with floured cookie cutters.
Transfer with spatula to ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes until lightly browned.
For those who have no time to bake, there are wonderful pre-made Gingerbread Houses, Trains and People.
All you do is decorate them:)
Monday, November 17, 2008
Our Christmas Tree
While my American family and friends are busy getting ready for their Thanks Giving, my grandchildren are badgering me to please may we put up the Christmas Tree!
I know that we will have a lot of fun getting our Christmas Tree ready, my theme this year is any thing goes and this for sure is going to be the best dressed tree in town.
O Christmas Tree
O Christmas Tree,O Christmas Tree,
How steadfast are your branches!
Your boughs are green in summer's clime
And through the snows of wintertime.
O Christmas Tree,
O Christmas Tree,
How steadfast are your branches!
Well it is a little early to be putting up a Christmas tree, but who can deny their grandchildren such a simple request.
So today while the sun was brightly shinning and the temperature was around 12 C, I was getting our Christmas tree out of storage. With the help from our Hannah, whom is 6 1/2 and our Myles whom is 3 1/2 we brought the tree and all the ornaments upstairs.
Hannah was wanting to put the village up, well we got it upstairs but not yet in it's final place, all ornaments, houses and little people litter my living room floor. I have been collecting Christmas treasures for quite some time. ( more about that later)
For the time being Myles is just so very happy that we got all those Christmas treasures out of the basement, although his main objective was the Christmas Train. Hannah was helping to put the tree up, then she helped putting the track down.
There you have it, ours must be the first Christmas tree up. It is certainly the earliest that a Christmas tree ever graced our living room. Hannah and Myles both are trilled to have it ready for them to decorate tomorrow. For now they are happy with the Train.
I know that we will have a lot of fun getting our Christmas Tree ready, my theme this year is any thing goes and this for sure is going to be the best dressed tree in town.
O Christmas Tree
O Christmas Tree,O Christmas Tree,
How steadfast are your branches!
Your boughs are green in summer's clime
And through the snows of wintertime.
O Christmas Tree,
O Christmas Tree,
How steadfast are your branches!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Christmas in Holland
Vrolijk Kerstfeest! (Merry Christmas)
Zwarte Piet would jump from roof to roof, sliding up and down chimneys, leaving gifts in the little wooden shoes left by the hearth.
Children would sing Sinterklaas songs and fill their shoes with hay and carrots for Sint Nicholaas’s horse and Black Peter’s mule.
Christmas was purely a family holiday. We had a tree, first with real candles, later with colored lights that my parents seem to have forever, they never broke, candy wreaths and beautiful shaped ornaments.
On Christmas Day we would have (and still have) a delicious breakfast with a Kerststol, ( fruit and almond paste bread) evening, as soon as it was dark, we would turn off all the lights ... lit lots of candles and we would have a candle-light dinner. My mom with the help from my Dad would make the turkey and all the trimmings.
In Holland we also have a 2de Kerstdag (Second Christmas day = Boxing day). We would go visit family and in the evening enjoy another wonderful candle-light meal... usual with a delicious "rollade" (rolled pork) and turkey left-overs. My memories of Christmas are of a warm and "gezellig" cozy holiday. When I married my husband we made our own traditions, we have adopted the tradition of hanging stockings and gift giving on Christmas morning.
Sinterklaas still sends us a chocolate letter and presents every year. We still have our delicious breakfast and candle-light Christmas dinner, and the table has some extra decorations...Crackers. That's still our Christmas today... a blend of traditions from our youth, countries and new country. Vrolijk Kerstfeest! - Merry Christmas!
It's the most wonderful time of the year
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
With the kids jingle belling,
and everyone telling you,
"Be of good cheer,"
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
There'll be parties for hosting,
marshmallows for toasting and
caroling out in the snow.
there'll be scary ghost stories and
tales of the glories of Christmases
long, long ago.
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
There'll be much mistletoeing
and hearts will be glowing,
when loved ones are near.
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
What is most important to us during the holidays? To me, it's the traditions. Traditions that were started in my family and traditions that were started in my own family, after I got married. Every country and family has it's own traditions... mine are based on growing up in my native country, the Netherlands.
Christmas celebrations in Holland begin on the last Saturday of November, when Sinterklaas ( Saint Nicholas) arrives via a steam ship from Spain. Children crowding into the harbor in Rotterdam for a glimpse of the ship carrying Sint Nicholaas, zwarte Piet ( black Peter) and their gifts. We now take our grand children to the New Westminster quay (in BC) to greet Sinterklaas.
Dutch Christmas traditions have melded political ideology, folklore, religion and legend into the holiday symbol of Saint Nicholas. In Holland, Sinterklaas is depicted as a tall, slender man wearing a red bishop’s robe and tall bishop’s hat. He carries a bishop’s miter and rides a white horse. His helper, Black Peter, who is garbed in the Renaissance fashion of puffed velvet breeches, rides alongside Saint Nicholas on a mule, his face covered in soot.
We received our presents and sugar candy on Dec 5th, from Sinterklaas.Zwarte Piet would jump from roof to roof, sliding up and down chimneys, leaving gifts in the little wooden shoes left by the hearth.
Children would sing Sinterklaas songs and fill their shoes with hay and carrots for Sint Nicholaas’s horse and Black Peter’s mule.
Christmas was purely a family holiday. We had a tree, first with real candles, later with colored lights that my parents seem to have forever, they never broke, candy wreaths and beautiful shaped ornaments.
On Christmas Day we would have (and still have) a delicious breakfast with a Kerststol, ( fruit and almond paste bread) evening, as soon as it was dark, we would turn off all the lights ... lit lots of candles and we would have a candle-light dinner. My mom with the help from my Dad would make the turkey and all the trimmings.
In Holland we also have a 2de Kerstdag (Second Christmas day = Boxing day). We would go visit family and in the evening enjoy another wonderful candle-light meal... usual with a delicious "rollade" (rolled pork) and turkey left-overs. My memories of Christmas are of a warm and "gezellig" cozy holiday. When I married my husband we made our own traditions, we have adopted the tradition of hanging stockings and gift giving on Christmas morning.
Sinterklaas still sends us a chocolate letter and presents every year. We still have our delicious breakfast and candle-light Christmas dinner, and the table has some extra decorations...Crackers. That's still our Christmas today... a blend of traditions from our youth, countries and new country. Vrolijk Kerstfeest! - Merry Christmas!
It's the most wonderful time of the year
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
With the kids jingle belling,
and everyone telling you,
"Be of good cheer,"
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
There'll be parties for hosting,
marshmallows for toasting and
caroling out in the snow.
there'll be scary ghost stories and
tales of the glories of Christmases
long, long ago.
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
There'll be much mistletoeing
and hearts will be glowing,
when loved ones are near.
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Basic Salt Dough Paste Recipe
The art of making your creations.
Using salt dough is a popular way to make Christmas ornaments and is fun for all the family the only requirements needed to get started are flour, salt, water and basic equipment found in the kitchen
These include:A bowl to mix your dough
A rolling pin for producing smooth sheets of dough
A grater for making decorative imprints on your dough
A garlic press for making strands for hair and foliage
Toothpicks or a small pointed knife for cutting and indenting details
An assortment of pastry cutters and moulds for decorative shapes found at any kitchenware outlet.
To make salt dough Christmas ornaments, the following recipe is a good all round recipe for most art projects.
2 Cups of Plain Flour (not self-raising)
1 cup Fine grained plain salt
1/2 cup water at room temperature
Method
Mix the salt and flour in a large bowl and then add the water. Knead the mixture for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with cling wrap to stop the dough drying out and let the dough sit for 30 minutes before using.
Salt Dough Christmas Creations
Fresh dough is best for shaping your Christmas ornaments. However, if you find you have any leftover dough it can be wrapped in cling wrap or an airtight container and stored in a cool place for a few days
For flat or rolled projects it is best to roll out the dough straight onto a baking sheet then it can be put straight into the oven.
Models or larger pieces can be assembled on a piece of hardboard that has been oiled with vegetable oil to prevent it sticking to the board
When finished and happy with your results you have a choice of Air Drying or baking your project in the oven. Making sure that your projects are correctly dried ensures they will last a long time so it is important that this is not hurried
Air drying is suitable for flat, small pieces or for colored pieces where baking will alter the color of the finished project.
Oven drying is the most popular method and requires careful attention to accurate temperature control to avoid burning. Bake for approx 2 hours using a low temperature setting 150 -200 F for the first half hour then increase temperature slowly to 225 - 350 F and cook until the piece is uniform in color.
While baking if any air bubbles appear pierce the bubbles with a pin and gently depress the dough. If the dough starts to darken before cooking is complete cover with a piece of aluminum foil
The dough is cooked when it hard and sounds hollow when tapped. Turn the oven off and leave in oven until cool.
Any burns can be sand-papered off with fine to medium grade sandpaper. An Emery board or small file can be used for delicate or intricate sanding on objects.
Your finished projects can be left unpainted but they must be sealed on all sides (including underneath) with varnish, gloss or matt, for protection otherwise they will not last long when exposed to air.
When thoroughly dry sand any imperfections. At this stage you can paint your projects then seal with a final coat of varnish.
Brightly colored pieces will look more vibrant painted with a glossy finish and neutral muted colors are suited to a matt finish.
Using a polyurethane varnish on food colored models instead of water-based varnish helps to intensify the color.
Using salt dough is a popular way to make Christmas ornaments and is fun for all the family the only requirements needed to get started are flour, salt, water and basic equipment found in the kitchen
These include:A bowl to mix your dough
A rolling pin for producing smooth sheets of dough
A grater for making decorative imprints on your dough
A garlic press for making strands for hair and foliage
Toothpicks or a small pointed knife for cutting and indenting details
An assortment of pastry cutters and moulds for decorative shapes found at any kitchenware outlet.
To make salt dough Christmas ornaments, the following recipe is a good all round recipe for most art projects.
2 Cups of Plain Flour (not self-raising)
1 cup Fine grained plain salt
1/2 cup water at room temperature
Method
Mix the salt and flour in a large bowl and then add the water. Knead the mixture for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with cling wrap to stop the dough drying out and let the dough sit for 30 minutes before using.
Salt Dough Christmas Creations
Fresh dough is best for shaping your Christmas ornaments. However, if you find you have any leftover dough it can be wrapped in cling wrap or an airtight container and stored in a cool place for a few days
For flat or rolled projects it is best to roll out the dough straight onto a baking sheet then it can be put straight into the oven.
Models or larger pieces can be assembled on a piece of hardboard that has been oiled with vegetable oil to prevent it sticking to the board
When finished and happy with your results you have a choice of Air Drying or baking your project in the oven. Making sure that your projects are correctly dried ensures they will last a long time so it is important that this is not hurried
Air drying is suitable for flat, small pieces or for colored pieces where baking will alter the color of the finished project.
Oven drying is the most popular method and requires careful attention to accurate temperature control to avoid burning. Bake for approx 2 hours using a low temperature setting 150 -200 F for the first half hour then increase temperature slowly to 225 - 350 F and cook until the piece is uniform in color.
While baking if any air bubbles appear pierce the bubbles with a pin and gently depress the dough. If the dough starts to darken before cooking is complete cover with a piece of aluminum foil
The dough is cooked when it hard and sounds hollow when tapped. Turn the oven off and leave in oven until cool.
Any burns can be sand-papered off with fine to medium grade sandpaper. An Emery board or small file can be used for delicate or intricate sanding on objects.
Your finished projects can be left unpainted but they must be sealed on all sides (including underneath) with varnish, gloss or matt, for protection otherwise they will not last long when exposed to air.
When thoroughly dry sand any imperfections. At this stage you can paint your projects then seal with a final coat of varnish.
Brightly colored pieces will look more vibrant painted with a glossy finish and neutral muted colors are suited to a matt finish.
Using a polyurethane varnish on food colored models instead of water-based varnish helps to intensify the color.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Christmas is coming
With the elections out of the way, we can concentrate on the American Thanksgiving. Here in Canada we have had our Thanksgiving already.
For me it is time to think about Christmas . I love Christmas and can not help myself to buy something new each year. It does not have to cost to much, such as a new Ornament and that is a great way to remember some special occasions. Although I have some very old ornaments handed down to me from my parents, others where collected from different places. Each in its own way is special to me. Christmas is a real fun time in our home. The children are all excited about when we should put up the Christmas tree and are making their Christmas gift list already.
I think that we will set up a Christmas train this year. Our little ( grand) guy is going on 4 years old, so what do you think? Will he leave the train alone?
Well I certainly hope so!
For all of you who enjoy baking you know that now is the perfect time to make your Christmas Cake. Generally speaking , I do not like baking all that much, however must admit that I do enjoy making a few different Christmas Cakes. There is just something about Christmas Cakes I findNot only that I so love the smell of baking.
The following is one of the family's favorite. This Christmas Cake recipe it originated in Italy.
Sienna Christmas Cake,
Makes one 18x15 in (or 45x38 cm)
cake ingredients; 6 1/2 oz (200 g) blanched almonds; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) hazelnuts, roasted; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) glaze citron; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) glazed pumpkin; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) glace melon peel; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) dried figs; 5 oz (155 g) walnuts; 1 oz (30 g) sweetened cocoa; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 cup (4 oz) honey; 1 cup ( 5 oz ) powdered sugar; 2 sheets of rice paper.
Finely chop all ingredients up to and including the walnuts. Put them into a bowl and add the cocoa, half of the cinnamon and the pumpkin pie spice. Mix well together.
Put the honey and all but a tablespoon of the powdered sugar into a saucepan. Heat and stir constantly until a drop of the mixture solidifies in contact with cold water. Remove from the heat and add the nut-fruit mixture. Mix together well.
Line the bottom of a shallow 18 x 15 in (45 x 38 cm) baking dish with one of the sheets of rice paper and pour the mixture on top of it. Cover with the other sheet. Bake in an oven preheated to 350 F (180 C) for 30 minutes. remove from the oven, cool, unmold and sprinkle with the remaining powdered sugar and cinnamon.
Do not serve until the next day. With a sharp knife, cut into bite size pieces. Note: If glace pumpkin and melon seeds are not available, use other glaze fruits such as peaches or pineapple.
Enjoy!
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.
For me it is time to think about Christmas . I love Christmas and can not help myself to buy something new each year. It does not have to cost to much, such as a new Ornament and that is a great way to remember some special occasions. Although I have some very old ornaments handed down to me from my parents, others where collected from different places. Each in its own way is special to me. Christmas is a real fun time in our home. The children are all excited about when we should put up the Christmas tree and are making their Christmas gift list already.
I think that we will set up a Christmas train this year. Our little ( grand) guy is going on 4 years old, so what do you think? Will he leave the train alone?
Well I certainly hope so!
For all of you who enjoy baking you know that now is the perfect time to make your Christmas Cake. Generally speaking , I do not like baking all that much, however must admit that I do enjoy making a few different Christmas Cakes. There is just something about Christmas Cakes I findNot only that I so love the smell of baking.
The following is one of the family's favorite. This Christmas Cake recipe it originated in Italy.
Sienna Christmas Cake,
Makes one 18x15 in (or 45x38 cm)
cake ingredients; 6 1/2 oz (200 g) blanched almonds; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) hazelnuts, roasted; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) glaze citron; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) glazed pumpkin; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) glace melon peel; 3 1/2 oz (100 g) dried figs; 5 oz (155 g) walnuts; 1 oz (30 g) sweetened cocoa; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 cup (4 oz) honey; 1 cup ( 5 oz ) powdered sugar; 2 sheets of rice paper.
Finely chop all ingredients up to and including the walnuts. Put them into a bowl and add the cocoa, half of the cinnamon and the pumpkin pie spice. Mix well together.
Put the honey and all but a tablespoon of the powdered sugar into a saucepan. Heat and stir constantly until a drop of the mixture solidifies in contact with cold water. Remove from the heat and add the nut-fruit mixture. Mix together well.
Line the bottom of a shallow 18 x 15 in (45 x 38 cm) baking dish with one of the sheets of rice paper and pour the mixture on top of it. Cover with the other sheet. Bake in an oven preheated to 350 F (180 C) for 30 minutes. remove from the oven, cool, unmold and sprinkle with the remaining powdered sugar and cinnamon.
Do not serve until the next day. With a sharp knife, cut into bite size pieces. Note: If glace pumpkin and melon seeds are not available, use other glaze fruits such as peaches or pineapple.
Enjoy!
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
