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Here is a fun, attractive way to dress-up your Christmas cards using glitter glue.

I purchased inexpensive Christmas cards from the Dollar Tree (fourteen per box.) Since I mail and deliver many cards, cost is important to me. The cards were attractive enough, but I thought some sparkle might make them appear even more seasonal.

Just a couple of items are needed to prep your cards.

Paper plate, glitter glue, and a box of cards.

                

Below is a close-up of the finished piece.

 

This is an easy craft idea for children or anyone who is sheltering in place with extra time on their hands. It’s easy and sure to brighten the recipient’s day.

I will mail and deliver cards. The ones I deliver will be on top of a box of chocolates or cookies.

Merry Christmas!

With a few more social distancing restrictions, Thanksgiving will be difficult for those who live alone.

Why not bless someone this year?

                                     

Below I’ve listed a few ideas that might just make someone’s day.

1. Deliver a Thanksgiving meal.
2. Prepare a plate of desserts, pumpkin bread, or slices of pie.
3. Thanksgiving card.
4. Magazines, crosswords, puzzles, or games to keep a lonely person occupied.
5. Basket of goodies.
6. Phone call or Skype.
7. Bouquet of flowers.

There are so many things we can do to help combat loneliness. Let’s try it!

Happy Thanksgiving!

With Christmas fast approaching, more people are ordering online and having gifts delivered to their homes.

I like to reuse things as much as possible before I recycle or toss them in the trash. When I get a boxed item, I save the box and packaging material.

If you can’t reuse the items, maybe a friend, neighbor, or family member will. Many people eBay and use boxes, Styrofoam, bubble wrap, and large envelopes for mailing purposes.

         Bubble Wrap               

                                            Styrofoam

 

 

 

Twist ties from packaged items can be used to secure cords. I like the longer ties that come with appliances and large items. I store them in a Ziploc bag.

Boxes are great for children’s play. They can create houses, trains, and many other inventive toys. Boxes are fun for painting too. I knew a person who painted cereal boxes. When flattened, boxes are great to place under cars for oil leaks and outdoor spray painting.

I use boxes to carry flowers, pies, and casseroles in the car. With two holidays upon us, try to have a few on hand. Styrofoam isn’t just for packing. Children can paint or draw on pieces with Sharpies or washable markers to create designs.

Happy Thanksgiving!

                                                                      

A basket filled with inexpensive games and crafts can give children a nice break from online studies. High school students enjoy these too.

Just fill a basket with brain teasers, Rubik’s cubes, paint sets, card games, etc. You may have an idea of your own. I purchase items from the dollar stores so my cost is minimal.

        

Brain teasers are great to take along for doctor/dental visits or long rides to games and activities. Of course, the paint sets are much easier to do on a table at home. All are a great alternative to tech devices.

You can place these items in a trick or treat bag, stocking, or travel bag. Even grown-ups like a distraction every now and then.

It doesn’t hurt to have a plate of brownies and glass of milk waiting for tired eyes. Who wouldn’t love a break like this?

I’ve included a quick and easy brownie recipe. Children will beg for more.

Amazing Brownie Recipe

• 1 box milk chocolate brownie mix (I purchase mine when they are a $1 a box).
• Bake according to directions in a 9×13 pan
• Frosting: Bring to boil 1 stick oleo, 1/2 cup milk, 4 tablespoons baking cocoa. Add 1 box powdered sugar and pour over cake while hot. Can top with chopped nuts. (If powdered sugar is lumpy, whisk it smooth).

The frosting is from my brownie sheet cake recipe and is delicious on brownies. Since it covers a sheet cake, you’ll want to make an extra pan of brownies. They’ll be gone before you know it, or you can freeze a pan for use at a later date.

Surprise children with a change of pace and watch their faces light up.

Enjoy!