tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75356728385431396852024-03-14T05:59:20.800-05:00Scrapbook of Christmas FirstsCathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.comBlogger459125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-10427050382380857202022-12-15T21:17:00.003-06:002022-12-15T21:17:32.101-06:00The Christmas Pickle for Your Christmas Tree, A Fun Tradition<p> I learned about hanging a pickle sharped ornament in our Christmas tree when I was a child in Wisconsin. I have told lots of people about it since moving to California. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSdCRg4C8BP-7n5PGDCz5WMnkq1ITo_xBHqngpTAWNZaMzCWLEautpzwqtbtKNzVcd3futJ_qRtkVxDfH2XgNFHtjBah-IcIVnNM_pAQhGw4R9qY4QrCZzXO1EOP5mEqwP4McV5BSs7R4dGm9C4U6Wjo43ZM2mwM1zMdKI0W_Ogj64aZQ9VBtS0owTg/s640/picklesChristmastree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="481" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSdCRg4C8BP-7n5PGDCz5WMnkq1ITo_xBHqngpTAWNZaMzCWLEautpzwqtbtKNzVcd3futJ_qRtkVxDfH2XgNFHtjBah-IcIVnNM_pAQhGw4R9qY4QrCZzXO1EOP5mEqwP4McV5BSs7R4dGm9C4U6Wjo43ZM2mwM1zMdKI0W_Ogj64aZQ9VBtS0owTg/s320/picklesChristmastree.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMWvv8-fhvRuDfLo0uGgXy747gH7REUIKT4c-wLvs0bExVOgDlWP-WTlNpTFFKdNe8ZFirNstpG5Eq_A-YO3SAQAoBlwmu4wNveoPyPc3yQmPBNoBbvjfyvJ2PXCXa1I8lKzwltyudNo414USZnwVcQbAwzX1bSMLkLa3-hBJeQ0QXT6BwqlzXVk8VA/s640/picklesChristmasclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="481" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMWvv8-fhvRuDfLo0uGgXy747gH7REUIKT4c-wLvs0bExVOgDlWP-WTlNpTFFKdNe8ZFirNstpG5Eq_A-YO3SAQAoBlwmu4wNveoPyPc3yQmPBNoBbvjfyvJ2PXCXa1I8lKzwltyudNo414USZnwVcQbAwzX1bSMLkLa3-hBJeQ0QXT6BwqlzXVk8VA/s320/picklesChristmasclose.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br /> The tradition says to hide the pickle ornament in your tree and the first child to find it gets applause or is first to open a present or whatever reward your family chooses. Can you see my pickle ornaments in the first photo? They are rather hidden. This tradition probably began in Germany.<br /><p></p><p>Here is a Scripture to read with family in this Christmas season: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6</p><p>This post was written by Terra Hangen today, and I hope you enjoy it and that it encourages Christmas joy in your home.<br /></p><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-90754409044567928762021-12-11T12:29:00.001-06:002021-12-11T12:29:39.509-06:00Merry Christmas To All<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjFSfp1AQZh_EvbGUxRIoOqeNnJHgI79jJ1oImoNJODNQM1dIOxcnshaSb3OHbWvsb5EDsHiEYfPzlYr5YY0Aqi82pGBa0Pm3vxp0brxONY-2oIVgaQ-wjdGnQigGGiVRONBaa-HCBtLZO4TWzQZMH54BdU9J33l7qviyJk73BhaoVBu-S9nukql_53Vg=s640" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjFSfp1AQZh_EvbGUxRIoOqeNnJHgI79jJ1oImoNJODNQM1dIOxcnshaSb3OHbWvsb5EDsHiEYfPzlYr5YY0Aqi82pGBa0Pm3vxp0brxONY-2oIVgaQ-wjdGnQigGGiVRONBaa-HCBtLZO4TWzQZMH54BdU9J33l7qviyJk73BhaoVBu-S9nukql_53Vg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /> Here is my new angel on the top of my tree, photographed today. My old angel is retired and has a place on the fireplace mantel. I fancy I see a sweet smile on the face of this angel. Do you?<p></p><p>Here is a poem from "Voices in the Mist" by Alfred, Lord Tennyson, quoted in our "A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts: Stories to Warm Your Heart and Tips to Simplify Your Holiday" book:</p><div style="text-align: left;">The time draws near the birth of Christ:</div><div style="text-align: left;">The moon is hid; the night is still;</div><div style="text-align: left;">The Christmas bells from hill to hill</div><div style="text-align: left;">Answer each other in the mist.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Four voices of four hamlets round,</div><div style="text-align: left;">From far and near, on mead and moor,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Swell out and fail, as if a door</div><div style="text-align: left;">Were shut between me and the sound:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Each voice four changes on the wind,</div><div style="text-align: left;">That now dilate, and now decrease,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Peace and goodwill, goodwill and peace,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Peace and goodwill to all mankind.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi1w1A-w31hEPWYSsimoZnhp6yvQUXvJ2kREPxOHSC1cRzZJz-oEVPxCUOs_yLa6OS5CO1d633rF_v1xJXK5TTLWcGi_pUqG4vTVLcwM0KZwOLioypX6aiRi_XQbSHIeOX-uFo6Fkp6LMxR2-kV06VUwOQSF3RXH_MRU8PXGQKRNnbMh3gkJ9uc_mo5pQ=s640" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi1w1A-w31hEPWYSsimoZnhp6yvQUXvJ2kREPxOHSC1cRzZJz-oEVPxCUOs_yLa6OS5CO1d633rF_v1xJXK5TTLWcGi_pUqG4vTVLcwM0KZwOLioypX6aiRi_XQbSHIeOX-uFo6Fkp6LMxR2-kV06VUwOQSF3RXH_MRU8PXGQKRNnbMh3gkJ9uc_mo5pQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This post was written by co-author Terra Hangen with the intent of spreading Christmas joy<br /></div>Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-59888568745001962452020-12-18T14:48:00.005-06:002020-12-18T14:48:53.863-06:00The Light Shines At Christmas<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4CzjFIdUc1ddlJ-BSe40Ndkvty9iOiRC08br4KenGGGRq6EpRtjNvUbOTavc6MbhP1_xOwHNUNkQx2CyIWZE-tJg3sDCCMhG4WS2XKTwVYoUnh4cOO93iEKEtjwxj27gzWraiFAqfcBbY/s640/wreath20205pm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4CzjFIdUc1ddlJ-BSe40Ndkvty9iOiRC08br4KenGGGRq6EpRtjNvUbOTavc6MbhP1_xOwHNUNkQx2CyIWZE-tJg3sDCCMhG4WS2XKTwVYoUnh4cOO93iEKEtjwxj27gzWraiFAqfcBbY/s320/wreath20205pm.jpg" /></a></div>Here is our new wreath, shining in the darkness and a poem about our bright and morning star from our "Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts: Stories to Warm Your Heart and Tips to Simplify Your Holiday."<p></p><p>Come thou bright and morning star, Light of light without beginning!</p><p>Shine upon us from afar that we may be kept from sinning.</p><p>Drive away by thy clear light our dark night.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUL05n3jIyD0pwYmzw0g5whhNeAGm9uU8h_ceFRK89Xayr045Jo9ibreaRA0Pa2tQ72-KRWMAUE6721635IzdGzvp6b69k3bZjHEb9TAEC95lqp852Nus6bxCsQN8aWpekPmwT-I94yhF/s640/wreathsunlights2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="481" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUL05n3jIyD0pwYmzw0g5whhNeAGm9uU8h_ceFRK89Xayr045Jo9ibreaRA0Pa2tQ72-KRWMAUE6721635IzdGzvp6b69k3bZjHEb9TAEC95lqp852Nus6bxCsQN8aWpekPmwT-I94yhF/s320/wreathsunlights2020.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>Let thy grace, like morning dew, falling soft on barren places,</p><p>Comfort, quicken and renew our dry souls and dying graces;</p><p>Bless thy flock from thy rich store</p><p>Evermore.</p><p>Poem written by Christian K. von Rosenroth 1636-1689. Translated by Richard Massie 1800-1887 <br /></p><p>Merry Christmas to All. Post written by Terra Hangen<br /></p><p><br /></p>Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-36433648756003626192019-12-15T18:17:00.003-06:002020-11-27T17:38:55.654-06:00My new Christmas angel tree topper in her golden gown arrivesMerry Christmas friends far and near.<br />
Here is a photo of my new Christmas tree angel topper in her golden gown. I had to replace my twenty year old angel tree topper because she showed signs of scorching near her lights.<br />
Here is the new angel below.<br />
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Below is our angel in her white gown who is now moved to near the nativity scene, where she can keep an eye on things, while not being plugged in. Like me, I think she is liking the change, as she retires from being queen of the tree, and I retired from work.<br />
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Below is one of my new ornaments, made from a kit by my son Lane, of Bounce's paw print.<br />
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The other new ornament is below, and is also handmade, painted by a neighbor of my son Colt.<br />
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As you can see it features a purple mushroom and a cute Christmas gnome.<br />
Have you added new ornaments to your tree this year? <br />
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 KJV <br />
I hope your Christmas is blessed and merry.<br />
Written by Terra, one of the co-authors of "The Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts." <br />
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<br />Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-27427794426373858452018-12-02T16:27:00.000-06:002018-12-02T16:27:59.473-06:00We Celebrate Advent, which means Coming or Arrival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFhDg50VbwKfhE6YvvlfKuOwkTXK5ksjI2_ComqGXBqPDNUuRH0oApMjptVIDCw1Zks73sKQRZv5DA0yhP4B5RCbygFAW9FTVH3Kr-EeJE2e3OJNw2DLiOuyiRsK7Vm3HAHdhEayTVD5q/s1600/candle-3837577_960_720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="960" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFhDg50VbwKfhE6YvvlfKuOwkTXK5ksjI2_ComqGXBqPDNUuRH0oApMjptVIDCw1Zks73sKQRZv5DA0yhP4B5RCbygFAW9FTVH3Kr-EeJE2e3OJNw2DLiOuyiRsK7Vm3HAHdhEayTVD5q/s320/candle-3837577_960_720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The tradition of Advent is 1400 years old and leads us to look forward to and to celebrate the birth of Christ. We are looking back to the birth of Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem and looking forward to the return of the Messiah, at at unknown time. Candles are a reminder of the light of the savior who was born into a dark world to bring us that light.<br />
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This angel is a cute representation of the powerful and holy angels who announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds in Bethlehem,<br />
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The wise men or three Kings followed the star from their lands to Bethlehem when they learned that Christ was to be born. <br />
Advent now officially begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas day which is Advent Sunday and it ends at midnight on Christmas eve, December 24.<br />
Many homes and churches have Advent wreaths with 4 candles. Three of the candles represent hope, peace and love and are often purple. The final candle is often red and represents the joy of new life offered to us by Christ's birth and sacrifice on the cross. Sometimes a fifth white candle is added which is lit on Christmas eve and symbolizes Christ's birth and that he is the "light of the world."<br />
Do you have Advent traditions in your home? <br />
I would like to hear about them. Terra Hangen<br />
<br />Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-32769446870369419192017-12-14T10:52:00.002-06:002021-12-11T12:31:00.925-06:00Some Happy Christmas Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi. I am one of the authors of "Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts". We all got together and created this blog. Above is my dog Bounce in his first Christmas sweater. He is thinking What is she thinking! I adopted Bounce last year and he is a sweetie.<br />
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My new 24 inch tall bird tree with 12 birds on it. I think it is cheerful. Did you add new Christmas decorations this year?<br />
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Gifts given to me from the GriefShare / Surviving the Holidays classes I attended at a local church. For anyone having a sad time at the holidays or anytime, I recommend the GriefShare program (13 sessions at different times of the year) and the Surviving the Holidays event.<br />
Merry Christmas to All.<br />
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16<br />
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<br />Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-6044477111880593472016-10-25T07:00:00.000-05:002016-10-25T07:00:02.669-05:00Rudy Day, Bible gift ideaIt is Rudy Day again, the 25th of each month and a good time to think of Christmas gifts.<br />
Here is an idea I love.<br />
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This is the "ESV Daily Reading Bible: Through the Bible in a Year". I treated myself to a copy last Christmas and I find it very easy to read about 15 minutes a day in this Bible. At the end of one year you will have read the Old Testament once and the New Testament twice. Today I looked at <a href="http://christianbooks.com/">Christianbooks.com</a> and it is only $6.99.<br />
No, I have no connection with that online store, but love that low price!<br />
A wonderful Scottish pastor, Robert Murray M'Cheyne (1813-1843) created this reading plan. I was stunned to see he lived to be only 30 and yet left this lasting treasure.<br />
I think this Bible would be a great Christmas gift to yourself or anyone on your gift list, and then they could start in reading on January first.<br />
What gifts are you planning to buy or make?<br />
This was posted by Terra Hangen.Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-6889827578550554062016-08-25T10:00:00.000-05:002016-08-25T10:00:18.719-05:00Rudy Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently learned that some folks have designated the 25th of each month as <span style="color: red;">Rudolph Day</span>,
affectionately called Rudy Day. <br />
<br />
The idea is that on the 25th of each month you pause and think about organizing for Christmas. Here on our blog, every day is <span style="color: red;">Rudy Day</span>,
since we give Christmas celebrating tips from July to January. So enjoy
your own Rudy Days in the months to come, as you prepare to celebrate
the day Jesus was born.<br />
I found a blog that has a schedule by month for Rudy Day activities at<br />
<a href="http://rudydaynews.blogspot.com/">Rudy Day News Blog</a> She has an April 2012 post that lists a schedule.<br />
Do any of you use Rudolph Day to help organize for the holidays?<br />
posted by Terra Hangen Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-48124021139378280212015-12-25T12:19:00.000-06:002015-12-26T11:15:46.521-06:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimz3dX5ZQY2iSK7j7yIso51OVlEeeXURKBaXrLlFUDFMpuuf3SG6KKaPABs5cgHdoT8iSQnlAolJVMilkWrYBAahp0uHGCSl9P5vwj92w8DN2V3YYdfEUuw1IQz96v9VxDcvJgBw_smnde/s1600/christmas-934181_960_720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimz3dX5ZQY2iSK7j7yIso51OVlEeeXURKBaXrLlFUDFMpuuf3SG6KKaPABs5cgHdoT8iSQnlAolJVMilkWrYBAahp0uHGCSl9P5vwj92w8DN2V3YYdfEUuw1IQz96v9VxDcvJgBw_smnde/s320/christmas-934181_960_720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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An angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds who were watching their sheep at night and the angel told them "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.<br />
<br />
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel,
praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest heaven and on
earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.' <br />
<br />
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said
to one another 'Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has
happened, which the Lord has told us about'. <br />
<br />
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen which were just as they had been told." Luke 2:10-20<br />
<br />
In the Annunciation the angel spoke to Mary "The Holy Spirit will come
upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the
holy one to be born will be called the Son of God." Luke 1:35<br />
<br />
This post was contributed by Terra HangenTerra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-12743202022526388702015-12-05T11:25:00.000-06:002015-12-05T11:25:18.953-06:00Making a Christmas List <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhImNDqDa2dBgTiO7Kf-245IQHydY0SzGAPdbeXRI8ejf9Q3dcV7KJYP7OrL_7QFe3-bevHfQg5Fh4Y-lkndW7x7QgIDG0M_nATZutSY2EAkmQRAl_1tbi21KPVVtewxe-ddjAax1rLP40J/s1600/Christmas2014b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhImNDqDa2dBgTiO7Kf-245IQHydY0SzGAPdbeXRI8ejf9Q3dcV7KJYP7OrL_7QFe3-bevHfQg5Fh4Y-lkndW7x7QgIDG0M_nATZutSY2EAkmQRAl_1tbi21KPVVtewxe-ddjAax1rLP40J/s320/Christmas2014b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Photo of our living room at Christmas 2014. <br />
At this busy time of year I like to make a list of what I choose to do.<br />
That gives me freedom to consider not doing things that no longer need doing, since one year is different from another.<br />
<b>Here are some things I will do this Christmas season.</b><br />
I love to attend live performances of the Nutcracker Ballet each year, but will decide if I will do that this year.<br />
Set up our festive Christmas tree with lots of old ornaments for the sparkly centerpiece of our holiday decor.<br />
Buy an amaryllis bulb. I did that and planted it in the pot that came with it, on November 17. The color will be a surprise since the kit says it will be red, white or red and white.<br />
Put up our collection of wooden nutcrackers on the fireplace mantle. My parents started this tradition.<br />
Buy a new Christmas book each year. One sweet book is "A Cup of Christmas Tea", for children and adults, about a young man visiting his lonely senior aunt.<br />
Display our two manger scenes.<br />
Holiday meal and gift exchange on Christmas day with family.<br />
Spend time at church.<br />
Mail 30 or 40 Christmas cards to family and friends near and far, some who live in other countries. <br />
<b>New activity this year.</b><br />
I will attend a holiday lunch and show where my friend is singing and dancing. <br />
<b>Tradition I will not do this year. </b><br />
Bake Christmas cookies. This year I won't do any baking since I don't have little children around to bake for and we avoid excess sugar and white flour. We do love sweet treats though.<br />
<b>Are there any Christmas traditions at your house that you will enjoy this year, and any you will drop?</b><br />
This post written by Terra Hangen<br />
Here is a link with info about our co-authored Christmas book:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Scrapbook-Christmas-Firsts-Simplify-Holidays/dp/0891125647/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448250154&sr=8-1&keywords=scrapbook+of+christmas+firsts">Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts</a><br />
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<br />Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-74979706486635079172015-11-01T07:00:00.000-06:002015-11-01T07:00:00.941-06:00Amaryllis for Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_TPojIRfIN5JCbs0Dtgeb342X0aBII7wTcxI3GS9A060dFaS83RNKX8mwm_ABsooPBXmrN4tlDl6c4DoZaM5z4yrpaTa5RA9ghD5PlvqXpTTTDqe7gm_r6G4DWCQklT__0aDCRLFXohx/s1600/amaryllis3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_TPojIRfIN5JCbs0Dtgeb342X0aBII7wTcxI3GS9A060dFaS83RNKX8mwm_ABsooPBXmrN4tlDl6c4DoZaM5z4yrpaTa5RA9ghD5PlvqXpTTTDqe7gm_r6G4DWCQklT__0aDCRLFXohx/s320/amaryllis3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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November is the ideal month to buy an amaryllis bulb and plant it in a small pot for blooms at Christmas. These photos are of amaryllis from our home. Amaryllis do NOT require a green thumb or much care and they look spectacular as they grow on a thick green stem that reaches up above the pot and looks unusual.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Amaryllis grow from bulbs
that can be as large as your fist, and have flowers up to eight inches across,
on tall sturdy stems. As the thick stems grow above the pot, they look like strange
alien beings, and guests are apt to remark “what is that?”.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once the blooms open up, the question is answered, as the
flowers brighten the room.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most amaryllis will bloom in six to eight weeks, so November is
the time to buy an amaryllis, either as a plain bulb, or one that is already growing in a pot, and that has
stems emerging from the bulb. The bulbs you can buy that are almost ready to
bloom are usually for red or red and white flowers, though amaryllis can be
found in salmon, white and even lime green. There is a wide selection of bulbs and colors available in online and mail order nurseries.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For beauty I put some gardener’s marbles on top of the
soil, set the pot in a sunny window, water once a week, and turn the pot a few
times a week to keep the stalks growing straight up.When the amaryllis is done flowering, let the leaves die back, and set it in an out of the way corner until next spring when you can water it so it will bloom again, for several years to come.</div>
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For many more tips see our Christmas book:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Scrapbook-Christmas-Firsts-Simplify-Holidays/dp/0891125647/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1446152757&sr=8-1&keywords=scrapbook+of+christmas+firsts">Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts: Stories To Warm Your Heart and Tips To Simplify Your Holiday</a><br />
<br />
This post written by Terra Hangen <br />
<br />
<br />Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-33918216784467451612014-12-02T17:28:00.000-06:002014-12-02T17:29:49.838-06:00Plan early and have a frenzy free December<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Did you hear the one about the blond who heard that the majority of car accidents happen within two miles of her home? ..........She moved.<br />
<br />
LEAVE a comment to be entered into a contest to win a copy of <em>A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts. Drawing this weekend. </em><br />
<br />
Many people travel long distances over the holidays by car, train, and air, but most traveling is done locally and not just the few days around Christmas, but daily. Truly, this time of year is a little hazardous to your car fenders and you. With planning you can make the roads a safer and friendlier place during the holidays with these tips to help you from now until Christmas. <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>At the beginning of your day, start a list of the local stops you need to make. Route yourself so you travel the fewest miles or the least congested miles. Make plenty of lists, essential to avoid a quick run to the stores or malls. God bless you if you have to go to the malls after the 15th.</li>
<li>Be a friendly driver. If someone lets you merge into waiting traffic, wave a thank you. Allow those having a difficult time merging into traffic to go in front of you. Even this small gesture of kindness brings its own rewards.</li>
<li>Plan your meals from now until Christmas. Buy early. Bake and relax at home while others scurry about for last minute ingredients.</li>
<li>Play Christmas music when traveling. Cheeriness will invade your heart.</li>
<li>Have you put off mammograms, dentist visits, or yearly checkups? Often those offices are slow this time of year. Make an appointment now to take care of your preventive care.</li>
<li>Moms, the kiddos will be out of school soon. It's easier to push a grocery cart single-handed than with three children in tow. If you can afford to, shop early for those everyday needs.</li>
<li>Keep a bottle of water and a healthy snack on hand in your vehicle, to avoid fat-laden burgers and drive-thru lines. Or pack a brown bag lunch, and sit in your vehicle and have lunch. That down time just might relax you enough that a forgotten errand comes to mind and you save an extra local trip to stores.</li>
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Safe travel to you and yours. HONK IF YOU LOVE CHRISTMAS.</div>
Cathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-39253231601175480692014-11-28T08:45:00.003-06:002014-11-28T08:45:39.283-06:00Easy No-Sew Pillow for Gift<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Not only am I a Word Quilter, I'm also a Quilt Quilter. Hmmm. That sounds funny. One of the best places to find fabric for quilting or crafting is in the remnant bin. I love finding treasures. It is there that I suggest you look for some fleece for this no-sew pillow project which is a great gift for just about any age. You will need two pieces of fleece-3/4 yard each. Or two pieces of fleece that measure 25" X 25" for a 14" pillow. (Pictured here are several fleece <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ewUXZYWOVtAoDRO_ewnvBIFCtHJq5anf-fW9KvmlE_2Ff4O4kRmd2jcsLg1ATn0-Li_IzshgfR865XWmWAXNsiSLeRGwdlpmVh8b1jYdZ96mcW_gvuKrMPemQW_PAEpoEMd4t1OAFLk8/s1600/fleece.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ewUXZYWOVtAoDRO_ewnvBIFCtHJq5anf-fW9KvmlE_2Ff4O4kRmd2jcsLg1ATn0-Li_IzshgfR865XWmWAXNsiSLeRGwdlpmVh8b1jYdZ96mcW_gvuKrMPemQW_PAEpoEMd4t1OAFLk8/s200/fleece.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525746399594247746" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 200px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 176px;" /></a>patterns from<a href="http://www.joann.com/joann/home/home.jsp?topnavlink=true" target="'_blank"> JoAnn </a><a href="http://www.joann.com/joann/home/home.jsp?topnavlink=true" target="'_blank">Fabrics</a> online.)<br />
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<br />
Here's the list of supplies:<br />
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Two pieces of fleece 25"X25" (be sure you don't include the selvage in that measurement)<br />
One 14" pillow form<br />
Ruler<br />
Sharp scissors<br />
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Instructions:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Place the two 25" squares (no selvage) "wrong" sides together if you can figure <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2uX14q_1BFENPpYNeDbvDMXfMz57zF5Nz6LXgfhHA8Pau2v0esP_Ba7A_6MGuExzvVLvbKXcGUp21djRY7HztEhrViha9Cbko4SESX9b7MHUVTJ-5lLWlR-UJDF1IMRmIX2jIBulBxop/s1600/fleece2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2uX14q_1BFENPpYNeDbvDMXfMz57zF5Nz6LXgfhHA8Pau2v0esP_Ba7A_6MGuExzvVLvbKXcGUp21djRY7HztEhrViha9Cbko4SESX9b7MHUVTJ-5lLWlR-UJDF1IMRmIX2jIBulBxop/s200/fleece2.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525746418212340210" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 200px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 176px;" /></a>that out. Some fleece looks the same on both sides. Secure with a few pins.</li>
<li>Cut a 5"X5" square out of each corner.</li>
<li>Now cut 5" long fringe that is 3/4" wide on all four sides. It might be easiest to measure the five inches in from the edge and place a strip of masking tape there to use as a cutting guide. </li>
<li>Tie a piece of back fringe to a piece of front fringe all around three sides. Make the knot right at the 5" mark. Some fleece tends to stretch more one direction than another so you might want to turn one of your layers so that a stretchy side is matched to a less stretchy side. </li>
<li>Insert your pillow form and finish tying the fourth side. It may be easier to tie every other one and then go back and finish the inbetween knots. </li>
<li>Voila! A beautiful pillow ready to be wrapped and given to a beautiful person on your gift list. And if you can find remnants and/or sales, your pillow should easily be less than $25!</li>
</ul>
[Posted by <a href="http://karenrobbins.blogspot.com/" target="'_blank">Karen Robbins</a>]</div>
Cathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-4199423877955538812013-12-24T02:34:00.000-06:002013-12-24T02:34:00.732-06:00Room for Him?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"And she brought forth her firstborn son,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">and wrapped him in swaddling clothes,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">and laid him in a manger;</span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">because there was no room for them in the inn." <br />Luke 2:7</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Interesting. No room. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Did that stop Mary?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">No.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">She made room for Him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This Christmas, I encourage you to make room for Jesus in your home and heart. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Intentional effort.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">How?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Reread His birth story.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Give intangible gifts to others.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Have family prayer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Return a favor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Share joy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Laugh.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Forgive a wrong against you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />Befriend someone.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Visit the elderly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Extend hospitality . . . not just to your home but, in your heart. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We are so grateful for you, dear readers, and wish you a most blessed Christmas 2013.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">~ Brenda Nixon</span>Brenda Nixon, Author and Speakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11052093071339488784noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-41775536006260807802013-12-19T15:20:00.000-06:002013-12-19T15:20:00.133-06:00White Elephant<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;">"What!?" she exclaimed with a broad grin.</span></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">The circle of friends roared with laughter. I nearly fell over in my chair. Someone else was slapping me on the back as she hooted and hollered in delight.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">It was that pesky white elephant gift we'd been passing around for years! The item itself wasn't as funny as the fact that the stupid thing kept popping up each Christmas at our annual White Elephant gift exchange. </span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">From one year to the next, I couldn't remember who was bestowed the honor of taking home the offensive possession but, each year we all circled our chairs at a new party and hoped we were not the one "blessed" with it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EVb-pCxNcJ8/SrtkULa_YbI/AAAAAAAAAC0/Ucq98ITsNVY/s1600-h/red_yellow_new.gif" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385008077277716914" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EVb-pCxNcJ8/SrtkULa_YbI/AAAAAAAAAC0/Ucq98ITsNVY/s320/red_yellow_new.gif" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); float: left; height: 50px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; padding: 4px; width: 50px;" /></a>And the one who brought it tried to disguise it with elaborate wrapping that'd make everyone one else want to choose it from the pile of glittering gifts under the tree. It became an art to camouflage it - making it appear new - for the next "victim."</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;">Odd isn't it? Something that repelled us actually brought us together.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><b>Question</b>: What's the funniest White Elephant gift you received or gave away?</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: verdana;"><a href="http://www.brendanixononamish.blogspot.com/">Brenda Nixon</a>, </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Co-author, <i>A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts</i></span></span></div>
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Brenda Nixon, Author and Speakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11052093071339488784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-36786917208218344482013-12-15T09:00:00.000-06:002013-12-15T09:00:00.635-06:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://www.scrapbookofchristmasfirsts.blogspot.com/2008/12/over-hill-and-through-woods-to.html">Over the Hill and through the Woods to</a></h2>
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My husband is famous for saying, "Let's drop by Cecil and Helen's house . . . see if they're home."<br />
<br />
We know our friends and their schedules well enough that we're pretty safe when we make an unexpected house call. I've learned to appreciate drop-in company most of the time, and Christmas usually means visitors will be in and out more over the holidays. Here's some tips I learned about keeping a house company ready. . .or making folk feel welcome even when the house is a mess.<br />
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I heard this tip years ago, and I've found it to be a good one. Keep your mirrors and appliances shiny, and the gleam will catch your visitor's attention, making a good first impression. and it will make you feel better, too. Take a spray bottle of Windex, a roll of paper towels or some lint free rags and only do the household mirrors, wipe down TV screen, (whatever is recommended for yours), the fridge, front of microwave, etc., even washer and dryer if company will see them. Go do that now. There. Do you feel better about your housekeeping?<br />
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I like to take a few minutes each day to tidy rooms. Round up any stray items and return them to their places. Also, during the holidays set a clear cookie jar filled with home baked goodies in a prominent place. Place something cheerful by the door guests enter--a plant, a heartwarming slogan, or a colorful welcome mat. When someone knocks or that doorbell rings, smile and greet any guests who happen to phone ahead or simply drop by.<br />
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What if your house looks like it has just been burglarized and unexpected people are at your door? Clothing, newspapers, and shoes clutter your sitting area. Dust has settled on the end tables like the down on a thistle. Be gracious. Say as little about your mess as possible. You might make your guests feel bad for dropping in. Err on the side of gracious hospitality and put your all-I-want-for-Christmas-is-a-neat-house ego on hold. Choose to be a blessing to all who seek your company. What a compliment. They wanted to come see YOU!<br />
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Enjoy the merriment this week as we move into the count down--10 days until Christmas ....Cathy Messecar </div>
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Cathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-82194314797303529002013-12-10T08:00:00.000-06:002013-12-11T21:31:02.585-06:00A Costly Christmas?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you find that the errands, gifts, extra groceries, cards, and charitable giving make your Christmas costly? Well, this time of year <i>does</i> increase spending but, it doesn't have to break your bank.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SKKxZdff_BQ/UpZTendytRI/AAAAAAAAAlk/nGDzwKzQMQA/s1600/SOCF+Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SKKxZdff_BQ/UpZTendytRI/AAAAAAAAAlk/nGDzwKzQMQA/s200/SOCF+Blue.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Order on Amazon.com</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although there are tons of tips in our <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Scrapbook-Christmas-Firsts-Simplify-Holidays/dp/0891125647/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1386262185&sr=8-1&keywords=scrapbook+of+christmas+firsts">Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts</a> I'd like to share one little idea to increase the meaning of Christmas without the money. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What's more special than giving something homemade, personal, and affordable? </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Teach your children to make handprint cards for teachers, grandparents, pals, etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Using an 8.5 x 11" sheet of cardstock, folded in half (like a card), trace Dad's handprint with a <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>red</b></span> colored pencil. Next have Mom trace her hand in <span style="color: #38761d;"><b>green</b></span> inside the outline of Dad's. Then, using a different </span><b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #741b47;">c</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #351c75;">o</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">l</span><span style="color: #741b47;">o</span>r</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> pencil for each child, trace his/her handprint around the large one of Dad and Mom. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By using a different color for each family member, the card is joyfully colored plus gives distinction to each person. You can shade inside the handprints or leave them plain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next, print the name of each person or glue a small picture inside his/her handprint. What a unique keepsake!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Open your "card" and write a Merry Christmas greeting to your recipient. You can buy large envelops at stationary or craft stores that will fit your homemade card. But to save more money, simply use giftwrap and a glue stick to make a colorful envelop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Check out some of the other ideas in our book and have a Merry, money-wise Christmas! ~ </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Brenda Nixon</i></span></div>
Brenda Nixon, Author and Speakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11052093071339488784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-58706750823168013532013-12-07T11:00:00.000-06:002015-11-25T22:43:01.723-06:00Our Christmas BookWe gals who write these Christmas blog posts wrote a book together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs4D3xu_0uvAmYlOP8yWUs15FtCxW9L-4CaIYHkCxiWBXNiHn4q-5omjIAWNdHIP-SIggB1H3MxiivwEMTBC-4-_3FMy4eIHYgZXO-RdR4nJdoWFQIG4MsbkF1W5l8neTZgbQM_yWOvw/s1600/SOCFcover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs4D3xu_0uvAmYlOP8yWUs15FtCxW9L-4CaIYHkCxiWBXNiHn4q-5omjIAWNdHIP-SIggB1H3MxiivwEMTBC-4-_3FMy4eIHYgZXO-RdR4nJdoWFQIG4MsbkF1W5l8neTZgbQM_yWOvw/s1600/SOCFcover.jpg" /></a></div>
Today it is on sale on Amazon for only $13.59 <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Scrapbook-Christmas-Firsts-Simplify-Holidays/dp/0891125647/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1386261318&sr=1-1&keywords=scrapbook+of+christmas+firsts">Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts: Stories to Warm Your Heart and Tips to Simplify Your Holiday </a><br />
<br />
There are lots of reviews there that make us smile to read them. <br />
One reader wrote there:<br />
"This charming book creates a beautiful harmony from the unique voices
of its six authors. It would make a great "open before Christmas" gift.
It's homespun look and content are a reminder that the holidays are a
time to celebrate and enjoy, not to stress over!"<br />
Post written by Terra Hangen Terra http://www.blogger.com/profile/04396481049075747940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-4249668481479976712013-12-06T16:23:00.000-06:002013-12-06T16:23:00.297-06:00What's Your Quote?<em><strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Merry Christmas to you, our dear blog readers!</span></strong></em><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I thought it'd be fun to exchange some of our fave <span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Christmas</strong></span> quotes. I'll go first . . . </span><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img class="mainImage" height="400" src="http://www.religionquotes.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/01.png" width="283" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>There has been only one Christmas - the rest are anniversaries</em>. ~W.J. Cameron </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>This is the message of Christmas: We are never alone</em>. ~Taylor Caldwell</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God</i>. ~ C.S. Lewis (his first name was Clive)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">
Got a fave quote to share? Leave it below in our comments section. <br />
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If you haven't done it yet, put our <strong><em><span style="color: #cc0000;">A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts</span></em></strong> out as a lovely coffee table book! ~Brenda<br />
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<!--QSO--></span></span></span>Brenda Nixon, Author and Speakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11052093071339488784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-90168080861279544962013-12-02T17:12:00.000-06:002013-12-02T17:12:00.174-06:00'Tis the Season<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Everywhere you look there are </span><b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">co</span><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">lo</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">r</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">e</span></span></b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #741b47;"><b>d</b></span> lights, decorated Christmas<b> <span style="color: #38761d;">trees</span></b>, wrapping paper, and the sound of seasonal songs. I love it!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">If you've read our book (see right) and our bios, then you know we each have different interests aside from writing... or differences in writing. We each live in different states. But we've come together to pen this tome to help you cherish your family and simplify the holidays. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">One American group that doesn't decorate their homes, drag a tree inside the house, or tune the radio to hear constant music, is the Amish. Since writing <em><b>A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts</b></em>, I've become personally acquainted with some Amish, our daughter married a fine young man who grew up and left the Amish, <b>and</b> my husband and I have hosted several individuals transitioning from Amish to English life. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">I've been on a vertical learning curve about this complex, cloistered culture. Today, I blog about the Amish, specifically the <b>most</b> conservative orders -- Old and Swartzentruber. So what I share does not reflect <i>all</i> Amish. Rather than describe here their Christmas behaviors, read a bit about them in my post "<a href="http://www.brendanixononamish.blogspot.com/"><b>Amish Christmas</b></a>." Click the link to my <a href="http://www.brendanixononamish.blogspot.com/"><b>new blog</b></a> and enjoy! ~ Brenda Nixon</span>Brenda Nixon, Author and Speakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11052093071339488784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-45530515894303266742013-12-01T14:16:00.000-06:002013-12-01T14:16:35.442-06:00Hats Off to Themed Christmas Trees<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Themed Christmas trees are fun to do once in a while. When we lived
in a home with a family room and a living room (and I had lots more
energy) I did a themed tree each year in the living room. Years ago, I
also recycled styrofoam cups by melting them and shaping them into
little ladies' hats as favors for a ladies banquet. These would make a
great themed tree as well. With some tulle and beads for garland and a
few silk flowers and baby's breath placed around the branches, you will
end up with a beautiful <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnj8vWs-c085ZDCnHmdV5964yWL-L-ooCe7gZGWonB8Cf-qaD2xTEwuBCfOCtS8JDvwymLNz4Y9VVw8kPHg-Vll-j3r9k-3EgY_UXX7ucwGOfZGpVHzA7cHGI9xcMEfvg6DAba_BMtN37/s1600/hats.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526548474771884418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnj8vWs-c085ZDCnHmdV5964yWL-L-ooCe7gZGWonB8Cf-qaD2xTEwuBCfOCtS8JDvwymLNz4Y9VVw8kPHg-Vll-j3r9k-3EgY_UXX7ucwGOfZGpVHzA7cHGI9xcMEfvg6DAba_BMtN37/s200/hats.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 148px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 200px;" /></a>Victorian-looking Christmas tree.<br />
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For the hats you will need:<br />
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Styrofoam cups (if used be sure to wash and dry thoroughly)<br />
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dark coated cookie sheet (will not melt properly on plain aluminum or stainless)<br />
small silk flowers, poinsettias<br />
small beads<br />
small/thin ribbons<br />
hot glue gun </div>
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Preheat oven to 250 degrees.</div>
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Place
a test cup upside down on the cookie sheet and set in oven. It will
take about a minute before you see a change and about 1-2 minutes more
before you have something that looks like a mini-hat. The test cup
should give you a good idea of timing but don't put any in the oven and
walk away. Also, be careful of the fumes that may build up in the oven.
Don't continually inhale them directly. Remove test cup from oven and
let cool on the cookie sheet. The cup will stick to the surface until it
is completely cooled.</div>
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Now you're
ready for a batch of hats. Place the cups upside down about 1-2" apart
on the cookie sheet. Remember not to walk away from the oven! Watch them
melt and pull out the sheet of cups at the appropriate time. Let them
cool completely on the cookie sheet and then remove them and do another
batch. Some of the cups will be a bit distorted but most should come out
looking like little hats. All will be a little different. </div>
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When
you are done melting your cups and they've cooled, begin the fun.
Decorate each with the beads, ribbons, flowers, etc. and be sure to add a
ribbon, string, or wire for hanging on the tree. </div>
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If you like, you could also use acrylic paints to add more color to your hats.</div>
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Hats off to you crafters! <a href="http://karenrobbins.blogspot.com/">Karen Robbins</a></div>
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Cathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-62673693296255816002013-11-18T07:00:00.000-06:002013-11-18T07:00:06.390-06:00Yummeee, Orange Cocoa Sandies Recipe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Orange Cocoa Sandies. If you like the flavor combination of chocolate and orange, these will more than please your taste buds.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Years
ago, a segment on a local news show included "Mr. Food." This fellow in
a chef's cap would share simple recipes. One morning he told the
audience the following recipe, and I've used it ever since. It's a
chocolate variation of the almond flavored cookie known by these two
names: Wedding Crescents or Pecan Sandies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let me know if you try them and how you like them. You may roll them in cocoa powder or confectioner's sugar.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Orange Cocoa Sandies</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup (2 sticks butter, softened)</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">1 3/4 all-purpose flour</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">1 1/4 cups confectioner's sugar, divided</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup finely chopped pecans</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">1 teaspoon orange extract</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Preheat
over to 400 degrees F. In a large bowl, beat the butter, flour, 1 cup
confectioner's sugar, the cocoa, pecans and extract for 2-3 minutes, or
until well blended. Drop by teaspooonfuls about 1 inch apart onto
ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minut</span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">es,
or until set. Allow to cool slightly, then dust with the remaining 1/4
cup confectioner's sugar. Serve, or store in an air-tight container
until ready to serve. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Recipe posted by Cathy Messecar </span></b></div>
Cathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-76819296630000921782013-11-15T12:07:00.000-06:002013-11-15T12:07:00.118-06:00Family Prayers for Christmas Card Senders<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://www.scrapbookofchristmasfirsts.blogspot.com/2008/11/christmas-card-prayer-basket-trish-berg.html">Christmas Card Prayer Basket - Trish Berg</a></h2>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">Wow, it's hard to believe November is already here, and Christmas is just around the bend.</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">As you prepare your Christmas card list, choose cards and get organized, I wanted to share a neat tip with you.</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">Over the month of December, you will be receiving tons of Christmas cards in the mail. Some of you may hang your cards over doorways or place them on fireplace mantels. Those are all neat ways to decorate your home <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">with</span> love.</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">But here's another thought.</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">You can place all <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">your</span> Christmas cards in a basket, and every night at supper, have each person in your family randomly draw a card out of the basket, and then go around the dinner table and pray for those families by name.</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">Then return them to the basket, and know that your prayers were heard.</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">It's a simple, faithful way to live out your faith in front of your children, and hold up your family and friends in prayer in a real concrete way. Trust God to choose the right cards for you, and know that your prayers are making a difference.</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">Pinterest Pinner Kimberly Pedroche, bundles her cards by years and displays them each Christmas.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/45/74/97/457497856768351dd12b73364619a43e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/45/74/97/457497856768351dd12b73364619a43e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">As always, enjoy the journey-Trish</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 130%;">Psalm 118:24</span></span> </div>
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Cathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-34926441508863741452013-11-14T14:35:00.000-06:002013-11-14T14:35:00.116-06:00First Christmas in New CultureHey friends, thanks for reading our <b><span style="color: red;"><i>A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts</i></span></b> book-inspired blog.<br />
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This year is my <b>first</b> Christmas without my daughter, Laura. Why? She's teaching for two years in the middle-eastern country --<span style="color: purple;"> <a href="http://www.azerbaijan.com/">Azerbaijan</a>.</span> She's on a steep learning curve about the Azeri language, culture, and landscape. While I'll desperately miss my sweet Laura, I'm glad she has opportunity to travel and make a positive difference in the lives of her students.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eletwBhwJcU/UngLGxJqLqI/AAAAAAAAAkc/CCcRiKEzCng/s1600/Laura.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eletwBhwJcU/UngLGxJqLqI/AAAAAAAAAkc/CCcRiKEzCng/s200/Laura.jpg" width="200" /></a>Her tiny country is bordered by the Caspian Sea, Russia, and Turkey (She's going to spend Thanksgiving Day in Turkey, eating turkey in Turkey). She once had opportunity to visit their mud volcanos. Yes, vocano-like formations with warm, runny mud!<br />
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Would you like to discover a few cultural differences she'll experience this<i> first</i> Christmas? She will miss<br />
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<li><b>Coffee</b> - there's no Starbucks and most of the country's expensive coffee tastes weak to her.</li>
<li><b>Plastic bags</b> - we live in a disposable country but over there, even a small baggie is valuable.</li>
<li><b>Riding her bicycle</b> - adult women are not to ride bikes.</li>
<li><b>Timely Transportation</b> - they have public transportation but, keeping their schedule is <i>optional</i>.</li>
<li><b>Quick Eats</b> - A drive-through? No way! Azeri people make eating a long hospitality event that is always indoors around a table. Laura found out one day, while noshing her lunch on a park bench, that eating outdoors is frowned upon.</li>
</ul>
Since the country's religion is Islam, she won't be celebrating Christmas in our traditional way.<br />
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Have you spent Christmas in a new culture? Leave your comment sharing about your <i>first</i> and what your learned . . . or missed. ~ Brenda NixonBrenda Nixon, Author and Speakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11052093071339488784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535672838543139685.post-32747341977418890982013-11-11T10:54:00.000-06:002013-11-11T10:54:00.038-06:00Versatile Pine Cones<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://scrapbookofchristmasfirsts.blogspot.com/2008/07/versatile-pine-cones.html">Versatile Pine Cones</a><br />
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By Karen Robbins</div>
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Whether you buy them by the bagful or pick up your own outside, pine cones are one of the most inexpensive and fun ways to decorate for Christmas. Put out a bowlful of cones as a centerpiece. If you purchase the scented cones, it will also fill the room with wonderful <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">cinnamon</span> or pine scents.</div>
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Or fill large glass containers/vases with the cones. I take old small colored glass ornaments and sprinkle them in as well. Usually one side gets tarnished and as I layer them with the cones in a large vase, I turn the shiny side out.</div>
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<a href="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/pine-cone-christmas-trees-580x386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/pine-cone-christmas-trees-580x386.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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From Dollar Store Crafts <a href="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2011/12/make-pine-cone-christmas-trees/">site,</a> let your little ones make their own miniature Christmas trees with three items: pine cones, small pom-poms, and glue.<br />
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Do you have a favorite place for cones in your holiday decorating? Let us know. We love to hear your ideas.</div>
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Cathy Messecarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139439786620700500noreply@blogger.com0