Archive for the ‘Crafts & Celebrations’ Category

The 2020 MomAdvice Reading Challenge (FREE PRINTABLE)

Tuesday, December 17th, 2019

2020 MomAdvice Reading Challenge

 

 

Are you reading for your next book challenge? Set a goal to switch up your reading this year with our 2020 reading challenge worksheet. These 24 prompts will help you expand your reading this year.

I hope you caught our MomAdvice 2020 Book Club selections that were announced this week! I am so excited to share these next twelve books with you and thrilled about the new additions we are making to help create a more interactive reading experience for you.

I have heard that many of you have really benefited from these reading challenge worksheet so today I am sharing a year in reading challenge that should help you reach your reading goals and challenge you to read more books this year.

What is a Reading Challenge?

Typically, reading challenges are lists that offer prompts for selecting books throughout the year.

Reading challenges can offer advanced reader goals (reading books over 800 pages, classics, 52 books for each week of the year, 50 book challenges, or advanced nonfiction topics), fun exploratory ways of reading (i.e.- reading a book that starts with each letter in the alphabet, reading that is set to one theme (only books by women, books written by people of color, or books about/by the LGBTQ+ community), or they can offer broad challenges that tackle a wide diverse range of topics (like books being made into movies, a book in your tbr pile, something you missed on your 2019 reading challenge, summer reading/ beach reads, or a book that challenges your viewpoint).

What is the Goal of the MomAdvice Reading Challenge?

My goal each year is to create a reading experience that helps you branch out of your comfort genres and helps you to expand a previously held viewpoint about the world and the people in it.

I love to push people to look differently at previously held ideas about topics and that is what you will find in our 2020 worksheet.

With categories like settings in rural places, stories on mental illness, nontraditional family stories, a exploration on a religion you aren’t familiar with, immigrant stories, book set during wartime, and a book that challenges your own viewpoint, I REALLY believe that this can expand your view of the world and the people in it.

Do You Have Any Suggestions on Books I Should Pick for the MomAdvice Reading Challenge Categories?

I thought you would never ask! 

Here is what I will be reading for this year’s challenge!

SCROLL DOWN FOR THE FREE READING CHALLENGE PRINTABLE WORKSHEET

MomAdvice 2020 Reading Challenge

Recommended by a favorite online source/podcast- A Curse So Dark and Lonely (recommended by Currently Reading)

Being adapted for film- News of the World

Set in a rural location- The Line That Held Us

A memoir or journal- Inheritance

One you meant to read in 2019- The Silent Patient

MomAdvice 2020 Reading Challenge Book Options

With a beautiful cover- Wilder Girls

A 2019 GoodReads selection that did not win- This Is How You Lose the Time War

About mental illness- The Great Pretender

With a dysfunctional family- Wild Game

A MomAdvice Book Club pick- I read and loved them all! Join the club!

A political book- Becoming

Recommended by a Librarian- Help a girl out if you are a librarian!

MomAdvice 2020 Reading Challenge Book Options

Written by someone younger thank you-  Normal People

About music or a musician- A Visit from the Goon Squad

Written by a woman of color- With the Fire On High

Set around a holiday- Mr. Dickens & His Carol

On addiction- Marlena

MomAdvice 2020 Reading Challenge Book Options

A novel set during a war- The World That We Knew

One you haven’t read by a favorite author- The Silent Sister

About a religion or culture you are unfamiliar with- The Book of Lost Saints

On an immigrant experience- Behold the Dreamers

One that challenges your own viewpoint- In the Dreamhouse

MomAdvice 2020 Reading Challenge Book Options

About a news headline topic- Long Bright River

MomAdvice 2020 Reading Challenge Book Options

About an artist- Cooking for Picasso

Don’t miss these other great reads on MomAdvice:

MomAdvice 2020 Book Club Selections 2020 MomAdvice Book Club Selections (join our free club!)

9 cozy books for winter reading

19 thrillers to keep you up all night

quick reads to reach those reading goals quick reads to reach those reading goals

53 historical fiction novels to escape with 53 historical fiction novels to escape with

GRAB YOUR FREE PRINTABLE READING CHALLENGE WORKSHEET

Looking for book ideas? Check out our entire Book section of the site! Don’t forget to friend me on GoodReads! xo

You can also sign up for the MomAdvice Daily Book Deals Newsletter with the latest book news!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

GRAB YOUR FREE PRINTABLE READING CHALLENGE WORKSHEET HERE

2020 MomAdvice Reading Challenge

2019 MomAdvice Favorite Things List

Wednesday, December 11th, 2019

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

Looking for a gift for yourself? This holiday gift guide lists all of my tried-and-true gifts that I have received and why I think you will love them too. Check out the MomAdvice Favorite Things list for a great gift for any lady in your life!

I have enjoyed putting together our holiday gift guides SO MUCH this year. To close out the shopping guides, I wanted to share with you what topped *my* favorite things this year.

A few of these were acquired more recently, but most of these items are things that I use use daily in our home.

I love a good gift guide with a personal testimonial, don’t you?

Of course, I have a few items on my wish list (that I don’t own)  too so I’ll share that with you at the end!

2019 MomAdvice Favorite Things List

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List ABEO Slippers

I was such a big fan of my UGG slippers and wore them so much that I completely wore them out.

I participate in a lot of Facebook groups for my chronic pain and went through an entire list of recommendations for the best slippers for people with joint pain.

So many people raved about the ABEO Slippers so I thought I’d give them a try for my next house slippers.

I have to say, I’ll never go back to the UGG slippers again.

The biggest difference is the orthotic support that has been built into these. These slippers actually feel like they are holding and supporting each part of my foot.

I, honestly, didn’t know what I had been missing until I put these on my feet.

Although this is a pricier item on the list, these are worth every dang dollar.

Mainstays Sherpa Throws MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

If I could, I would be wrapped in sherpa for the entire winter.  My favorite thing, in fact, is a sherpa sleep robe that I snagged from Walmart last year.

Sadly, they didn’t bring the exact jacket back, but they did bring along this nice substitute.

If you weren’t able to snag that sleep robe, I found a sherpa blanket that comes in a close second place to my favorite garment.

There is rarely a year that I’m not giving (or getting) a blanket and these sherpa blankets are my pick for cozy winter comfort.

They are surprisingly lightweight, feel like a warm hygge hug, and will cost you just, $9.88.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List Scribd

I am sure you had to guess that there would be a couple of great bookish gifts that made the list.

Honestly, Scribd is one of my absolute favorite things and is a monthly membership that I would have a REALLY hard time giving up.

Scribd is best described as Netflix for book-lovers. Instead of charging per book, Scribd offers an unlimited membership at one flat rate.

There is an unbelievable selection of audiobooks and books that you can check out.

Not only do I love it for all my reads, but they also have other great features like subscriptions to magazines and you can even get sheet music on their platform.

All of that is a mere, $8.99 a month!

Keep in mind, this service does not work with the Kindle, but will work with your tablet or phone!

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List Conair Infiniti Pro Spin Air Brush

I have never been very good at the whole holding a blow dryer and a brush at the same time thing.  I bow down to hairdressers who have mastered this coordination.

Years ago I discovered this Conair Infiniti Pro Spin Air Brush and it has been a game changer.

This brush spins in both directions, with a simple button push! It comes with two different size brush options that you can use,  depending on your hair length.

People usually ask me if I’ve been to one of those fancy blow dry bars when I use this because you get that perfect shiny bounce.

Unfortunately for others, I have to jump into my infomercial for this gadget when I get asked about my hair.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

Exerpeutic Foldable Stationary Bike

I am laughing that this made the list after all the controversy with the Peloton commercial.

Honestly, some of us really DO want exercise equipment for Christmas.

While I would love a fancy spin bike, we don’t have the space or the funds to designate to one of those.

Instead, I opted for this inexpensive foldable bike and pair it with the Cyclecast app for my workouts.

This folds so easily and takes up very little space in our home.

Pairing it with an Apple gift card (check out this discount spot) would definitely make a great gift.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List Full Body Bath Pillow

I have to say that one of my favorite gifts I’ve received is this incredible full body bath pillow.

This is, honestly, a plush cushion and it has durable suction cups that help hold it in place.

I believe this gift pairs awfully well with a bath tray, a good book, and a bottle of wine.

The biggest question I get asked is how to keep it clean.

This has a little hook at the top that you can hang it, after your bath and it dries quickly. The fabric is mildew resistant though so you don’t have to worry about the mold issue, especially if you properly let it air dry.

It also can be put right in your washer on a gentle cycle, to make sure the germs are really gone.

They even provide a laundry bag for you to roll it into, to prevent the suctions from getting stuck in your washer.

Five stars- highly recommend.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

My Political Pottery

I am leaving Mr. Rogers here instead of my pick for President….just to keep you clicking.

In all seriousness, I discovered a local potter (Rothshank Artworks)  that makes incredible political pottery and had to have a mug of our Mayor Pete.

Yay, South Bend!

I am completely aware that these are expensive, but they are one of those one-of-a-kind gifts that you will treasure forever. The workmanship is just unbelievable.

Sipping coffee in this beautiful piece makes me so dang happy and has been one of my favorite finds this year.

PRICELESS.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

Shaker Stitch Sweaters

This year I discovered just how much I love shaker stitch sweaters.

My obsession started with this sweater, but there is a new shaker stitch sweater in town that I’m excited to wear this winter.

This chevron sweater comes in so many fun colors, is made with a breathable cotton yarn, and has that adorable puffer sleeve that is so trendy right now.

I found that this runs true to size, but if you are between sizes, I would go up one.

The best part? It is under $20 and feels VERY high end.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

Keysocks

Anytime I wear my Keysocks, I get questions about them. I am obsessed with these no-show socks because they don’t fall off.

I prefer the kind that go to your knees, because it adds a double layer of warmth, but they also now make these in short lengths too.

If you love a good pair of ballet flats or booties, you will definitely want to add these to your wish list.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

The Contour Flip Pillow

I don’t even remember how I stumbled upon the flip pillow, but I’m SO glad that I did.

Honestly, if you read a lot in bed, this is one gift that I think you will absolutely love.

The way this pillow is made, it allows you to position it in ten different ways, offering incredible neck and back support.

It comes without a cover so be sure to buy one if you want to keep it clean.

Not a reader?

No problem!

It also makes a great couch potato pillow too for those Netflix binges.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List

Cozy Fleece Leggings

I am obsessed with fleece leggings in the winter and love  to wear big oversized sweaters with them in the winter.

If you can believe it, my favorite fleece leggings are $20 for TWO pairs.

These are lightly fleece lined, come in tons of colors, and are high waisted.

Keep in mind, they do not have compression in them, but they do hold their shape.

My one caveat with these is that they run REALLY small.

Size up for a comfortable fit for winter.

Can you tell I live in Indiana by my choices? #socold

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List Origami Entertaining Cart

The Origami company offers products that are a small space lover’s best friend.

Everything is high quality and FOLDABLE.

I REALLY needed a kitchen island, but I REALLY didn’t want to pay for a kitchen remodel.

My Origami Entertaining Cart has become my new best friend when I entertain and one of my favorite gifts.

This island folds completely flat and can be stowed in a corner until I need an extra counter space.

Although this might not be beneficial to you, it has been a BIG help with food photography.

I am able to put my surfaces on top and style dishes really easily, thanks to these little wheels.

Honestly, anything from this company would be a win in your home.

MomAdvice Favorite Things Gift List Corala Weighted Blanket

I got a Corala Weighted Blanket and now I refuse to sleep without it. This blanket has transformed my sleep (and my husband’s).

The reason I am highlighting this one is because it comes with TWO duvet covers- a warm fleece one (for winter) and a linen one (for summer).

While there are a lot of blankets that are cheaper, I’ve yet to find one so cleverly designed and beautifully made.

This queen size blanket settles my body down at night and is wide enough to share with my husband.

It is weird how calm it makes you feel when you are under it.  Restless sleepers really would benefit from this purchase.

I, personally, love that the covers can be removed and washed on this version.

The box itself was just as beautiful  and we use it for storing all of my clutches/purses in my closet now.

What Made My Wish List?

The Matte Makeup Organizer

Mealthy CrispLid

Stack ‘N Cook Stackable Inserts

LED Book Light

PowerLix Milk Frother

Sweater Blazer

Sagely Smart Pill Organizer

Yarn Storage Bag

Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker

Looking for more great gift ideas? Check out this year’s gift guides!

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers Everyone Will Love 100 unique stocking stuffers for everyone on your list

Unique Gift Ideas for Kids of All Ages unique gift ideas for kids of all ages

Unique Gift Ideas for the Man Who Has Everything from MomAdvice.com unique gifts for the man who has everything

Unique Gift Ideas for Tweens & Teens unique gift ideas for tweens and teens

I hope that this inspires your gift-giving this year! Let me know if you got anything and what you thought!

Honest truth: I am always thankful to be a part of ANYONE’S holiday!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This post contains affiliate links from RewardStyle. Thank you for supporting our website through your purchases.

MomAdvice Favorite Things List

How to Make a Homeless Care Package (Free Printable Supplies List)

Tuesday, December 10th, 2019

How to Make Homeless Care Packages from MomAdvice.com

Blessing bags for the homeless are such a beautiful act of kindness for those in need. Today’s post will show you how to make homeless kits for those in need. These hygiene kits are handy to keep in your car, for those that live on the street, or can be given as gift bags for your local homeless shelter. Be sure to print out our free printable supplies list for your homeless care kit.

One thing that you may not know about our family is that we are really passionate about caring for the homeless.

Creating a homeless care package (also known as a Blessing Bag) can be one fantastic way that your entire family can be involved in caring for those in need.

Today we want to provide a checklist of supplies for the homeless bags, a local resources sheet you can print out (if you are in our area), and some tips for involving the whole family in this project.

After all, homeless gift bags are a great idea to help teach your children kindness.

These homeless packs have been replicated by so many people and are the perfect activity for volunteer organizations you may be part of.

By involving others, you can alleviate some of the expenses by asking everyone to bring the materials to craft these bags.

Distribute the list and allow each attendee to bring travel size items, food, socks or bags to help the homeless in your area.

How to Make Homeless Care Packages from MomAdvice.com

I also appreciate that these homeless care packages can be prepared for your local shelters or kept tucked away in the trunk of your car for those you may see on the street looking for your help.

I love feeling armed in these situations and these kits are a simple way to show how much you care.

Over the past couple of years, I have also had the opportunity to work at our local food bank and food pantry. What many people don’t realize is that many of these items cannot be purchased using food stamps.

Items that are not food (like toothpaste, paper products, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, etc…) are not eligible and that is why these items are often in high demand at church community pantries.

It is why these are the items that I choose to donate to our shelter each year.

How to Make a Homeless Care Package from MomAdvice.com

I wouldn’t be truthful if I didn’t tell you that my husband inspires me every day with his giving heart. Last winter, he was coming home late from work because he would see people in need and run to stores to get them supplies and gift cards.

That is his heart.

That is why I love him.

If there is one thing I firmly believe in, it is that giving should be a family affair.

We have to lead our children by our example.

I want my children to remember that what made our family special is that we always gave with our whole hearts.

My kids assisted in every aspect of this project.

My son came with me and did the number crunching on a good old-fashioned calculator, my daughter helped sort and organize all of the items we bought, and both kids helped fill the bags with all of the necessary items.

Here Are My 3 Essential Elements to a Great Homeless Care Package

Feed Their Needs

One of the greatest gifts you can give to someone who is homeless is personal hygiene items and food to nourish their bodies.

Begin by picking up items that will satisfy this area in their life first.

Simple items like shampoo, a razor, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, a bar of soap, and tissues are all great items to keep on hand.

Food like granola bars, crackers with peanut butter, beef jerky, trail mixes, dried fruits, and a bottle of water are also great items to tuck into your bags.

If you have the funds, small denominator gift cards (we did $5 Walmart gift cards) can also be great to give so that they can pick up a meal or item(s) they might need.

How to Make Homeless Care Packages from MomAdvice.com

Provide Warmth

We live in Indiana and the winters here are brutal for homeless people.

I can’t imagine how cold it would be to stand on the streets without the proper items

I need for warmth.

Add items like thermal boot socks, gloves, scarves, and hats to your gift bags.

Items like these may seem out of your financial reach, but I found all of these at the dollar store and the sets of gloves were a mere $.50 each.

Feed Their Souls

I am sure it goes without saying, but feeding someone’s soul is just as important as feeding their needs.

You can feed their souls in a variety of ways depending on your families beliefs and resources.

We created a local resources list (available for local residents to download) that they can tap into for further resources in our town.

A note that lets them know that they are on your prayer list, a note of encouragement by your children, or a scripture that you find comforting can also be excellent additions.

If these are not enough ideas, I encourage you to spend a bit of time browsing through the comments on this post.

Many people regularly volunteer at their shelters and food banks and have some great ideas to help.

Please also know, that we are real people (sometimes that doesn’t seem that way on the website, am I right?) and we did OUR personal best to put these together so we appreciate your KIND words on this post and definitely encourage you to share your own must-have items in a care package while being respectful of others in these comment threads.

How Do I Order My Homeless Care Package Supplies in Bulk?

Did you know that you can purchase items from Dollar Tree IN BULK.

Looking to save even more? Consider using this incredible rebates app to get cash back on ALL your holiday purchases.

We were able to place a bulk order with Dollar Tree and pick up the items we needed for these kits from our local store.

Don’t have room in your car?

No worries!

They can ship all the items directly to you.

How cool is that?

What Our Readers Suggest Adding to Your Hygiene Kits for the Homeless

I love seeing what contributions YOU recommend for these packs! Here are some of my favorites you shared!

“My husband and I travel a lot when he’s working on contract.

I save all the little complimentary shampoos, conditions, soaps, etc and when I have quite a few saved, I sew up pretty drawstring bags, divide the items I’ve save between the bags and then donate them to our local women’s shelter.

I’ve also started adding toothpastes and toothbrushes that I purchase to the bags.

Many times women arrive with nothing but the clothes on their back and this way they can be given their own personal care kit. I make each bag different so that they don’t feel like they are getting something that is assembly line, but something that was made just for them.”

“Many homeless also have dogs.

Perhaps you could add some things like treats, small pouches or pop-top cans of food, grooming supplies and toys.

And with the winter months coming, both owner and pet need to stay warm and dry…some large trash bags to put on the ground to keep from getting wet and even colder.

And I have seen fleece throws just recently at Walmart for like $2!”

“I currently make and deliver hot chocolate to a few homeless people I see on my way home from work (I work in downtown Chicago) and I pass out cold cans of pop in the summer.

I also make plates of food from leftovers after work luncheons and pass them out after work. (I don’t consider this stealing because I know that by 4:30 anything left in the kitchen will be thrown away.) I

know it isn’t not much, It won’t make a huge difference in the world, but it might make a world of difference to the person I’m helping.

Thanks for the list. I’m glad to see there are others out there who are concerned for the homeless and actually do something about it.

I hope the care package(s) I pass out, make the receiver(s) feel loved, thought of and cared for.”

“This is a wonderful idea! I got so excited when I saw this-I immediately began to think of other items that might be added, such a bar of soap or bottle of body wash, plastic glass and mug, plastic cutlery and plate, tissues, pen and notebook, small clock, personal wipes, instant oatmeal packets, instant soup packets, hot chocolate packets, instant noodle packets, towel, facecloth, thermal blanket, and in the summer, a sun hat, sunscreen, inexpensive umbrella and a fly swatter!

Many of these things can be found on sale, at Walmart, and the dollar store. They don’t have to be bought all at once and do lend themselves as a project for a family, like yourselves, or amongst a group of friends, a Sunday School class, a school class or a Brownie troop.”

“You might also check with your school district if they have children.

All our local schools have a homeless liaison who works to get food, clothing and housing for homeless families.”

“I regularly carry around coupon books from various restaurants, but this goes even further.”

“As truck drivers, my husband and I see many people standing on the exit ramps of the interstate highways.

We give ziplock bags with toiletries, (in a separate bag) and foods like you mentioned, plus single serve packages of oatmeal, grits, hot cocoa, ect. I add pack of sugar, jelly, peanut butter, plasticware, napkins, whatever we get from the take out and fast food restaurants.

I also pick up dollar store gloves, hats, socks, ect. We have added stamped postcards, Christmas cards and candy canes in season.

Notepads and pens are welcomed as are throws we get at thrift stores.

We were giving the gift books from the fast food places, but now they’ve gone to gift cards.

Chapstick is a good idea, as are deodorants, comb, sanitary items for the women, (yes, we see homeless women and children too).

We give small toys, stickers and tattoos for the kids. We stay in motels a lot and always ask housekeeping for extras.”

“I love this post. I am in the middle of coordinating a SOCKS party here in Nashville.

We are getting the big, thermal socks, and filling them with different items for the homeless.

We’ve been fortunate to have my dentist donate the toothpaste and floss, and McDonald’s donated 1,000 Cards for a free dollar menu item.

We also have tons of shampoo, conditioner, and soaps from hotels.

We’ll stuff it with snacks, hand warmers, and other items (many on your list).

We are getting together for our SOCK party and letting the kids stuff the socks and make the tags, which will say “I care”.

The kids are excited and I love what it’s teaching them. Thanks for inspiring others to give back!”

Aren’t my readers incredible? Just think of the possibilities with this one!

God has been so good to us, but 10 years ago we were in a very different place than where we are now.

My husband was unemployed for almost an entire year, our financial situation was a house of cards, and my heart was in a bad place.

Although I don’t like to admit it, I wondered what my purpose on this earth even was.

I never have forgotten that dark place and it is why we still try to be so careful with the resources we have been given and why I have such a tender place in my heart for those who are struggling.

If you would like to read more about it, I encourage you to read my book where I share how we recovered from this difficult financial period in our life.

Being careful though doesn’t mean that you can’t be a giver.

There are fantastic ways to give, both big and small, around the holidays.

Be sure to check our list of ten painless ways to give back to charities to help you get started.

I call these smaller ways to give the, “scraps of life giving.” I have talked a lot about that with my partnership with Pure Charity as well!

We want to help you give back to your community! Here are some resources to do just that!

Grab our Free Homeless Supply Checklist for your your care packages.

Don’t just click on the picture, head to this link to grab a full-size PDF version!

Grab our Local Resources List for your care packages (if you don’t live in Michiana, you can use this as a template for your own sheet)! Don’t just click on the picture, head to this link to grab a full-size PDF version!

Looking for more great ways to give back? Here are a few other great ideas!

diy no sew hand warmers

cabled ear warmer pattern diy cabled ear warmers

diy chunky knit blanket pattern

How do you give back in your community? How do you teach your kids to be givers?

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

this post contains affiliate links.

How to Make a Homeless Care Package from MomAdvice.com

How to Make Homeless Care Packages from MomAdvice.com

Pin It

11 Sitcoms to Help Get You Into the Holiday Spirit

Monday, December 9th, 2019

11 Sitcoms to Get You in the Holiday Spirit from MomAdvice.com

Here’s a guide for every episode you need to stream on television get into the holiday spirit! These 11 tv shows, with hilarious holiday episodes, prove that this season really is all about family – no matter how dysfunctional. Be sure to pin this post so you can remember this list of holiday episodes for a new family Christmas tradition.

 

From our marriage & parenting contributor, Mary Carver.

The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, as we all know, but also the most hectic time of the year. 

From shopping to baking to figuring out what to wear to the fancy party that sounded so fun when you agreed to go, most of our lives are nonstop chaos from about October through New Year’s.

With that in mind, it might seem silly that we’re bombarded with so much holiday programming on TV. 

Who has time for that this holiday season when we have gifts to wrap and end-of-semester or end-of-quarter deadlines to meet and family dysfunction to navigate?!?

Well, nobody, I guess. 

But while we may not have time to sit back and watch fictional characters and their holiday hijinks, I believe we might just need it.

Because sometimes we need a break. 

Sometimes we need to laugh. 

Sometimes…well, sometimes we need to watch a family way crazier than our own to regain our perspective on these people driving us nuts in real life!

Fortunately, in addition to the onslaught of holiday movies (of which I am a giant fan) and Christmas specials (of which I have made an exhaustive list), our favorite tv series are HERE FOR US with their very special holiday episodes.

Now, I won’t deny that some of our most beloved dramas have given us so much at holiday time. 

From Chrismukkah (The O.C.) and winter festivals (Gilmore Girls) to the most romantic proposal in the snow (Downton Abbey) to even the most dark and twisty characters getting into the holiday spirit (Grey’s Anatomy), these shows can really do a number on our already seasonally fragile emotions. 

There’s a time and place for all that, but right now, I’m leaning more toward the fun and funny type of holiday episodes. 

That is what I think is going to help us not just get through the holidays, but actually enjoy them.

 

11 Sitcoms to Get You Into the Holiday Spirit

 

Blackish Christmas

Black-ish

What other family sitcom addresses real family life and serious societal issues with so much humor and heart? 

Making us think (and sometimes tear up) while laughing so hard is a Black-ish specialty, and that’s no different during the holiday.

Stream on Hulu.

  • Black Santa/White Christmas – season 1, episode 10
  • Stuff – season 2, episode 10
  • Just Christmas, Baby – season 3, episode 10
  • Christmas in Theater Eight – season 5, episode 8

 

Bob’s Burgers

I’m new to this show (thanks to Amy’s recommendation on my podcast!), but I can already tell I’m going to love this bizarrely lovable (or is it lovably bizarre?) family’s holiday shenanigans.

Stream on Hulu.

  • Bob Rest Ye Gentle-Mannequins – season 3, episode 9
  • Christmas in the Car – season 4, episode 8
  • Father of the Bob – season 5, episode 6
  • Nice-Capades – season 6, episode 5
  • The Last Gingerbread House on the Left – season 7, episode 7
  • The Bleakening – season 8, episodes 6-7
  • Better Off Sled – season 9, episode 10

Community Christmas

Community

Though I always enjoyed the times the Community gang simply sat around their study table in the library, the themed episodes where the whole show goes off the rails are really the best.

Two of the Christmas episodes fit that bill to a T, one being filmed in stop-motion animation and one a musical send-up of the TV show, Glee. 

If you like your holiday shows on the absurd side, Community has got you covered.

Stream on Hulu.

  • Comparative Religion – season 1, episode 12
  • Abed’s Uncontrollable Christmas – season 2, episode 11
  • Regional Holiday Music – season 3, episode 10
  • Intro to Knots – season 4, episode 10

Happy Endings

This group of friends always makes me laugh so hard with their ridiculous antics focused on outsmarting each other in some competition or another, while also caring for one another with the most outrageous (and often back-firing) gestures imaginable. 

Also, as a fellow December baby, I’m all for friends who go overboard trying to make their friend’s Christmas birthday special.

Stream on Hulu.

  • Grinches Be Crazy – season 2, episode 9
  • No-Ho-Ho – season 3, episode 7

 

How I Met Your Mother

How I Met Your Mother is better known for its Thanksgiving (or, Slaps-giving, if you will) episodes, but it had some great Christmas episodes, too. 

And while this show is based on an outrageously unrealistic premise (“Kids, let me tell you every sordid detail of my exploits as a young single guy in the big city…”) and had that ending we all agree was major disappointment (*salutes* Major Disappointment), it also really did address issues many of us face as young (and not-so-young) adults. 

Navigating friendships in the fallout of a breakup, dealing with homesickness, going through life changes like pregnancy and moves: somehow How I Met Your Mother makes “adulting” hilarious, especially in these holiday episodes.

Stream on Hulu.

  • How Lily Stole Christmas – season 2, episode 11
  • Little Minnesota – season 4, episode 11
  • False Positive – season 6, episode 12
  • Symphony of Illumination – season 7, episode 12

New Girl Holiday

New Girl

Every character in this ensemble is intense — but in the super funny, strangely quirky sort of way. 

And like in real life, the holidays just amplify what’s already there, turning everything about them, good and bad, individually and collectively, up to an 11. 

But in the very best sort of way.

Stream on Netflix.

  • The 23rd – season 4, episode 9
  • Santa – season 2, episode 11
  • LAXmas – season 4, episode 11
  • Christmas Eve Eve – season 6, episode 10

Parks & Recreation Christmas

Parks and Recreation

Does anyone even come close to possessing the enormous amount of genuine (and productive) holiday spirit as Leslie Knope? 

Nope. (See what I did there?) 

She outdoes us all, and darn it! 

We love her all the more for it. 

Despite serious political distractions in these holiday episodes, Leslie and friends give us even more feels than normal, even when we’re not invited to Jerry’s Christmas party!

Stream on Netflix.

  • Christmas Scandal – season 2, episode 12
  • Citizen Knope – season 4, episode 10
  • Ron and Diane – season 5, episode 9

THE GOLDBERGS Hanukkah

The Goldbergs

Who can rock a hideous Christmas sweater while also turning Hanukkah into a competitive sport better than Beverly Goldberg? 

Nobody, that’s who.

Stream on Hulu.

  • A Christmas Story – season 3, episode 10
  • Han Ukkah Solo – season 4, episode 10
  • We Didn’t Start the Fire – season 5, episode 10
  • Yippee Ki Yay Melon Farmer – season 6, episode 10

The Mindy Project Holiday

The Mindy Project

If a wine bra and a dancing Danny Castellano aren’t enough to convince you to watch the holiday episodes of The Mindy Project, then I just don’t know what to tell you. 

The holidays might be for spending time with the ones you love, but in this show, they’re also for planning and scheming and so many silly twists and complications we can barely keep them straight. (But we totally can, because sitcom complications are rarely all that complicated, and we are smart people.)

Stream on Hulu.

  • Josh & Mindy’s Christmas Party – season 1, episode 9
  • Christmas Party Sex Trap – season 2, episode 11
  • Christmas – season 3, episode 11

The Office Christmas Party

The Office

The holiday party planning committee and all its many, many problems is one of my favorite parts of The Office. 

Michael Scott going overboard in a ridiculous manner for a ridiculous reason? 

Not so much my fave. 

But somehow, these holiday episodes combine these two show ingredients into something stupid funny and great examples of what made The Office so popular.

Stream on Netflix.

  • Christmas Party – season 2, episode 10
  • A Benihana Christmas – season 3, episode 10
  • Moroccan Christmas – season 5, episode 10
  • Secret Santa – season 6, episode 13
  • Classy Christmas – season 7, episode 11
  • Christmas Wishes – season 8, episode 10
  • Dwight Christmas – season 9, episode 9

Will & Grace

If decking the halls includes donning our gay apparel, then obviously the foursome on Will & Grace are the right ones to help us do the holidays right. 

I’m hoping we get one last holiday episode this year, but even if we don’t, we have plenty of classics to choose from.

Stream on Hulu.

  • Jingle Balls – season 4, episode 12
  • All About Christmas Eve – season 5, episode 11
  • Fanilow – season 6, episode 10
  • Christmas Break – season 7, episode 12
  • A Little Christmas Queer – season 8, episode 9
  • A Gay Olde Christmas – season 9, episode 7

Sign up for the MomAdvice newsletter 

this post contains affiliate links

If you love tv as much as we do, you’ll love these posts too:

 

5 Reasons I Let My Kids Watch TV MomAdvice.com

5 Reasons I Let My Kids Watch TV

 

6 Rules for Watching TV with Husband

6 Rules for Watching TV With Your Husband

 

8 TV Shows with Hilarious Halloween Episodes from MomAdvice.com

The Best Halloween Episodes to Stream

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Say Thanks from MomAdvice.com 6 Must-See Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks

 

 

What’s YOUR favorite holiday TV episode? 

 

11 Sitcoms to Get You in the Holiday Spirit from MomAdvice.com

Make-Ahead Apple, Sausage, And Sage Sourdough Stuffing

Monday, November 25th, 2019

Make-Ahead Apple, Sausage, And Sage Sourdough Stuffing from MomAdvice.com.

 

 

I’m back again with another fun Thanksgiving make-ahead recipe.

Today’s recipe is an apple, sausage, and sage sourdough stuffing that tastes just as good as it sounds.

This recipe is easy to prepare and can be made-ahead and placed in your freezer for the big day, which means one less thing for you to worry about on the day of your big feast!

Make-Ahead Apple, Sausage, And Sage Sourdough Stuffing from MomAdvice.com.

 

Have you ever made your own stuffing?

It is one of the easiest and most rewarding dishes to create for the holiday season.

My grandma made a mean dressing when I was growing up, but stuffing was definitely something that came out of a box.  

I remember in sixth grade when we had to do a Thanksgiving play and I was supposed to pretend to make stuffing and had no idea what the teacher was talking about when he handed me a loaf of bread and celery.

What the heck was that for?

Being the true foodie I am,  I still don’t think the boxed stuff is that bad, and you can’t beat the ease of preparation.

It doesn’t hurt to gourmet things up a bit once in awhile though, especially when you can put this in your freezer and save it for the big day!

 

Make-Ahead Apple, Sausage, And Sage Sourdough Stuffing from MomAdvice.com.

 

The biggest challenge with stuffing is all of the dicing and chopping to get the ingredients prepared.

A handy food chopper can be your best friend when chopping up ingredients like onions or herbs.

Once the ingredients are chopped though, it is just a simple matter of mixing them up and then placing the stuffing in the pan for baking.

 

 

Make-Ahead Apple, Sausage, And Sage Sourdough Stuffing from MomAdvice.com.

 

I really love the ingredients in this recipe because they are the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

I used turkey sausage in this recipe, but you could certainly substitute with chicken sausage instead.

I love Granny Smith apples for baking because they maintain their texture and firmness in this dish.

Leave the skins on for a little added color to your stuffing (not to mention, a little fiber too!)

 

To prep this dish ahead, I purchased some inexpensive foil pans and to make sure that there is no leaking from the lid.

If you are preparing right away, you can just add the apple stuffing mixture to a casserole dish instead.

 

 

 

 

Make-Ahead Apple, Sausage, And Sage Sourdough Stuffing from MomAdvice.com.

 

I baked up a little dish for you to show you what this looks like when it is all done.

The top is crunchy and the inside is delicious and fluffy.

The apples add tartness while the onions, celery, and turkey sausage add a little savoriness to the stuffing.

When these ingredients are all baked together, it is like a little symphony in your mouth!

Reserve a few sprigs of sage to garnish the top of your dish!

 

Make-Ahead: Apple, Sausage, And Sage Sourdough Stuffing
 
Recipe Type: Side
Author: Adapted from Whole Foods
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 12-14
A little bit sweet, a little bit savory. This sourdough stuffing filled with apples, sausage, and onions is a a delicious crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead for the holiday season.
Ingredients
  • 1 loaf sourdough bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 11 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3/4 pound fresh mild turkey or chicken sausage
  • 4 Granny Smith Apples
  • 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Reserved sage leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Spread bread cubes out on two large rimmed baking sheets and bake until dried but not browned, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from the casings, and add it to the skillet to cook, breaking up chunks with a spoon, until browned, about 6 minutes.
  3. Add apples, celery, onion and butter and cook, stirring occasionally, until apple and vegetables are softened, 8 to 10 minutes more. Add to toasted bread. Stir in broth, poultry seasoning, sage, salt and pepper.
  4. Add stuffing to a freezer-safe greased 9×13 foil pan. Place in the freezer (for up to four weeks). 1-3 days before, remove the stuffing from the freezer. Drizzle a 1/2 cup additional chicken stock over the top to moisten the stuffing. Heat oven to 350°F and bake until lightly browned and crisp on top, 50 to 60 minutes. This stuffing can also be stuffed in your turkey, just be sure that the stuffing has cooled before proceeding.
  5. Garnish with fresh sage leaves.
 

 

 

Apple, Sausage & Sage Stuffing MomAdvice.com

 

Are you following along in our make-ahead Thanksgiving series?

Be sure to check out our Brandied & Orange Cranberry Sauce

 

Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce from MomAdvice.com

 

Mashed Potatoes

 

make-ahead holiday mashed potatoes from MomAdvice.com

 

Green Bean Casserole

 

Make-Ahead Green Bean Casserole from MomAdvice.com

 

and Make-Ahead Gravy

 

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

 

 

Sign up for the MomAdvice newsletter

 

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 

Don’t miss these other great Thanksgiving ideas from MomAdvice:

 

Fancy Up Store Bought Pies MomAdvice.com

Dress-Up Store Bought Pies

 

 

Slow Cooker Turkey Recipe from MomAdvice.com

Slow Cooker Roast Turkey

 

 

Bacon, Apple, and Cornbread Stuffing from MomAdvice.com

Gluten Free Bacon, Apple & Cornbread Stuffing

 

 

Buttery Dinner Rolls in the Bread Machine from MomAdvice.com

Make Ahead Buttery Dinner Rolls

 

 

Overnight Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oatmeal Header

Slow Cooker Oatmeal for Fall

 

 

 

how to make an autumn burlap wreath from momadvice.com

DIY Autumn Burlap Wreath

 

 

Apple,Sausage & Sage Stuffing MomAdvice.com

 

 

 

 

Pin It

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern (VIDEO)

Sunday, November 24th, 2019

How to Cable: Knitted Ear Warmers For Those In Need from MomAdvice.com

Learn how to knit this chunky cable knit headband. This is the perfect beginner pattern to learn how to cable. The best part? No cable needles required! Use this free knitting pattern to make these gorgeous ear warmer headbands for women that can keep those ears warm in the fall and winter.

As a knitter, I am often intimidated by things that look too complex.

I find myself gravitating towards things that I think will be easier and not even considering things that I think will take me out of my knitting comfort zone.

Cabling was one of those things for many years. It looked far too complex and I can barely handle the basics of knitting.

Here’s the thing.

It is truly one of the easiest things you can do in knitting especially when you know a few of my favorite tricks for cabling quickly.

Today I want to show you how to cable and how this project can benefit someone in need.

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern Close-Up Different Colors

This is the time of the year where the homeless and those in need really need us.

When the temperatures drop and you are in that cold-in-your-bones zone, you are welcomed by the warmth of your home, maybe a fire, and a hot drink to settle in with when you arrive home.

What if you had nowhere to escape?

Worse yet, imagine you were out in the cold without the warmth of a hat, gloves, or a scarf.

Let’s think of the children whose families can’t afford these simple luxuries of warmth.

You can’t knit a hat?

I get it!

Those double-pointed needles are a pain in the rear, aren’t they?

That is why I thought a simple knitted headband would be a great option for gift-giving and for a quick gift to share with those in need.

In fact,I highly recommend knitting a few of these for your homeless care packages to keep in your car.

Here are a few questions that I get asked a lot when it comes to knitting!

Bluprint Craft Box for Knitting

I Want to Learn to Knit. Where Can I Learn How to Knit?

Want to learn how I learned how to knit?

A good friend taught me.

She had all of her friends over that wanted to learn and I was one of the only ones that took this skill and has never stopped.

I am also pretty darn lucky because my mother-in-law is a knitter and has helped me through many of my more complex problems.

If I didn’t have these resources, I would take courses online that fit with my schedule.

Here are 5 of my recommendations on how to learn to knit. If you want to give your family a gift idea, consider asking for a gift card to cover your classes!

Skillshare

Honestly, this is going to be your most affordable option for knitting courses and I use my membership ALL THE TIME.

The best part is that you don’t have to be limited to just knitting.

This platform has classes for EVERYTHING. I have been taking an amazing weaving course through this that has helped me get started on my loom.

For business, I have been learning how to work on technical aspects of my site.

I can’t recommend it enough. In fact, this link should give you two months of free classes to get you started.

Bluprint Classes

I ask for Bluprint classes almost every Christmas (and for my birthday) and absolutely love them.

I have taken courses on knitting, cake decorating, and even food photography classes so I can do a better job showing food off for you here.

They are constantly running specials so it is easy to find an affordable class. If you like them, they also offer unlimited monthly class memberships too.

All Free Knitting

If you are on a budget, you can use this free resource to learn to knit. This is still set up as an organized course series, but costs you zero bucks.

YouTube always helps, as a great assistant, when using free online classes. I still pull up videos all the time to learn more complex stitches.

Bluprint Craft Box Subscription

Again, this is one of those fantastic gift ideas to ask for.

Bluprint (formerly Craftsy) curates incredible craft boxes that give you the supplies and everything you need to get started with a craft project.

They send you supplies, instructions, and everything you need to try a new craft. You get sent four boxes a year to learn new craft skills.

The best part?

It also includes a premium subscription so you can take unlimited online classes too.

How Do I Pick the Right Yarn for My Knitting Projects?

The yarn aisle can be very intimidating to new knitters. I can’t tell you how many times I have assisted fellow craft store shoppers with finding the right yarns for their projects.

Yarn can be light and delicate or super chunky and bulky (like the project that we are doing today).

Without getting TOO technical, the Craft Yarn Council assigns numbers to yarn that tell you what type of weight they are (you can see their detailed chart online) and these numbers can range from 0 (which would be perfect for knitting lace) all the way up to 7 (which would be used in a pattern like this chunky knit blanket I made).

At the top of the pattern, you should see what yarn weight category is recommended. While this pattern did call for 7, I felt like it became too wide and turban like (for my head) so I used a bulky weight of 5.

What is a Yarn Lot Number and Why Should I Care About It?

For small projects, you might not need to worry about this as much, but you can still end up with two balls of yarn with the same color name, but NOT be the same color.

Why?

Yarns with the same dye lot number were all dyed at the same time. Dying is a chemical reaction and that can make items dyed at different times turn out differently, even if the dye recipe was identical from one dyeing session to the next.

I could go into crazy details, but I don’t think it is important for this project.

What you should know is that it is almost impossible to get an exact match between yarns dyed in different dyeing sessions.

I am not talking about just pretty artisan yarn either, I’m talking about the big brands, like Lion Brand or Red Heart, can also have completely different dye jobs.

It happened to me once when I was whipping up a pom-pom wreath for the holidays.

Make sure that the yarn you get has the same lot number on the package (you can usually just find it by purchasing your yarn all at one store).

If you don’t, you could end up with unintended variations in your finished work.

I Have Arthritis and Hand Pain. What Can I Use to Minimize My Pain While Knitting?

If you are just stopping by from Pinterest, you might be unfamiliar with my story. I have chronic pain in my hands and elbows from a connective tissue disease.

For three years, I stopped knitting because I just couldn’t get my fingers to cooperate.

I am back to knitting (which I’m incredibly grateful for) and these are the tools that helped.

Curable– This app has been transformative for my pain. It uses cognitive behavioral therapy to help you retrain your brain and the pain signals it is sending. It has done more for me than anything else because I am learning to reroute the bad signals to my hands. This takes time and practice, but I’m thankful for a drug-free way to reduce my hand pain.

Oval Ring Splints– Oval rings can act as supporters to your fingers and are one of my most relied upon tools through hand pain. Since they are made from plastic, they can fit/not fit based on weather conditions and inflammation. I recommend one of these sets because it allows you to switch sizes based on the swelling in the joints.

Arthritis Compression Gloves– Compression is your BFF when you have chronic pain and compression gloves are so helpful for arthritis or for Raynaud’s Syndrome. I find that it restores warmth to the tips of my fingers and also feels very comforting to have them compressed.

Ergonomic Knitting Needles– While I haven’t made the investment in these (yet), I do think that this is one more thing you could explore to improve your comfort levels.

Take breaks, as needed, and be patient with yourself. I know how frustrated and sad I was about this. I hope these suggestions can help you as much as they have helped me.

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern

How to Cable: Free Knitted Ear Warmers Pattern from MomAdvice.com

Supplies Needed

Any Bulky Yarn (My top preferences for this project are the Lion Brand Hometown USA & Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick)

US 11 Bamboo Needles

US 10 Double-Pointed Needles (you just need one!)

Optional: Stitch Counter (to help you stay on pattern)

How to Cable: Free Knitted Ear Warmers Pattern from MomAdvice.com

(video below)

Trying to show you how to cable in a picture tutorial was a little impossible so today so I thought I would do a video.

I am so terrible at videos so please forgive me.

I’m off to a conference this week where I am hoping to learn more about doing these better for you all- it’s one of those work challenges I need to learn to tackle.

I know how helpful it can be to show these techniques in a video. Scroll to the end of this post to watch!

This cable is called a Shadow cable.

In this pattern, we will be bringing three stitches in front with our double-pointed needle and three stitchescabled laterbehind our work.

This cabling adds a double layer of warmth in this pattern and I’d love for you to scroll down to the bottom so that you can see how I do this.

How to Cable: Free Knitted Ear Warmers Pattern from MomAdvice.com

Cable needles look like this and I have a ton of them.

I hate them.

I usually lose my stitches and I find it difficult to transfer stitches especially when it comes to bulky yarn.

You can certainly buy them,but I recommend just doing a double-pointed needle one size down from the work to grab your stitches.

I am a big fan of bamboo because they grip the yarn so well especially when moving stitches around.

It’s the only type of needles I knit with!

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern from MomAdvice.com

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern from MomAdvice.com in Red

 

Not only are these quick to knit (they shouldn’t take you more than two hours!), but I think they look pretty fashionable too. I have noticed that many stores are now carrying these in their hair accessories.

Can we also acknowledge how cute the girls have it these days with hair accessories?

The aisles are filled with gorgeous patterned headbands, head wraps, turban headbands, and hair clips.

It has been so fun seeing the revival, for my daughter, of those adorable scrunchies and wide headbands.

I bet your tween or teen girl would love this homemade gift!

For gals with long hair, ear warmers are a dream for keeping your locks in place.

For ponytail days, you can just pull your hair through a hair band and still have warm ears.

I gave them a test run on the most miserable weather day which is ALWAYS, ALWAYS Halloween.

My husband was freezing, but I was delightfully warm thanks to these cozy ear warmers.

The cabling really adds a double warmth to them.

For particularly rotten Indiana days (I know they are coming), you can layer this under your hat for extra ear protection.

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern from MomAdvice.com in Blue

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern from MomAdvice.com

 

 

 

Can you just imagine the warmth you can give this season to someone in need?

This little project is fast to memorize and easy to execute with a good audiobook (can I recommend our books section to you?) or with a great big Netflix binge (I’m sure you can find loads of recommendations on my 3 Little Things list).

Thank you to Nancy Ricci for sharing her beautiful Vanessa Headband Pattern for free with the Ravelry community- I am so honored to share her pattern with you today!

SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM FOR THE PATTERN AND TUTORIAL!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This post contains affiliate links.

Love this knitted gifted idea? Here are a few more posts I think you will love!

DIY Chunky Knit Hygge Blanket diy chunky knit blanket (big fat hygge free blanket pattern)

7 easy scarves and cowls to knit this fall 7 free patterns for scarves and cowls to knit this fall

How to Make Knitted Wine Hats & Scarves Wine Toppers how to knit wine bottle hats & scarves for hostess gifts (great way to use scrap yarn!)

knitted coffee cozy sweater tutorial how to make a knitted sweater coffee cozy (these make fun teacher gifts!)

Free Knitted Ear Warmer Pattern Download HERE:Vanessa Headband Pattern by Nancy Ricci

Check out my video below to see just how easy it is to cable with your double-pointed needle!

Visit our Knitting section for more great ideas and be sure to friend me on Ravelry! You can also pick up my beautiful knitted boot cuff kit in stores RIGHT NOW! Happy knitting!

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern from MomAdvice.com

Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern from MomAdvice.com Header

 
Pin It

Best Advent Calendars for Kids (FREE Printable!!)

Sunday, November 24th, 2019

Best Advent Calendars For Kids from MomAdvice.com

Looking for advent calendar for kids. This free printable advent calendar includes fun Christmas themed trivia questions for the holiday season. Counting down to Christmas couldn’t be more fun (or more affordable!) Download our countdown to Christmas on the blog today!

I never did an advent calendar growing up so I, honestly, had to look up what the heck these were when other moms talked about them.

In honor of today’s trivia theme, do you know how the advent calendar originated?

As with many of our Christmas traditions, this one originated out of Germany. In the early 20th century, Gerhard Lang’s mother made him a calendar with 24 small candies attached to cardboard, one for each day before Christmas.

Lang grew up and opened Reichhold & Lang printing company where he printed the first Advent cardboard calendar with 24 little pictures. Then, just a few years later, the company printed the first calendar with the little doors that everyone loves to open. 

Just imagine what kind of craft celebrity Gerhard’s mom would have been on Pinterest.

That’s pretty much, an original viral project.

I am so excited to share this fun FREE printable advent calendar with you that our amazing contributor, M.J. designed for us!

Best Advent Calendars For Kids from MomAdvice.com

From our graphic designer, MJ at pars caeli

Advent calendars are just the cutest, right?

That is–until you have to fill/create/arrange them!

This year we’re going simple with our countdown to Christmas, and we want to make it easier for you, too, with a printable calendar.

This Advent Calendar needs just to be cut, folded, and glued.

Fist bump.

You can even have the kids create it.

The days leading up to Christmas are both magical and hectic!

We have Christmas performances and charitable shopping, Santa’s gifting and work parties galore.

I didn’t want our Advent countdown to be another process on the list so we put together something light and fun.

How to Make a Christmas Trivia Advent Calendar for Big Kids

Best Advent Calendars For Kids from MomAdvice.com

How about Christmas trivia?!

We watch Jeopardy around our house (with three kids, twelve and under), and a countdown with trivia seemed like a natural way to learn more and to laugh together as we get nearer to the 25th.

We put together twenty-five trivial (some are pretty ridiculous) questions about Christmas traditions, songs, and movies for the whole family.

In fact, this calendar would be great to put next to the coffee pot at work or as a runner across the dinner table.

My kids have been talking about these questions more than I imagined (“what’s your favorite Christmas song?” and “remember that time we saw…”).

Our holiday experiences can be easy entryways to new conversations and insights.

Let’s make an advent calendar together!


Supplies Needed

Craft paper 

Scissors

Tape

Glue stick

A straight edge or ruler

Our printable calendar 

Best Advent Calendars For Kids from MomAdvice.com

Directions for Your Free Printable Advent Calendar

STEP ONE:

Print out the numbers and trivia questions.

Set the trivia questions aside for now.

To cut your numbers, slice the page first vertically and then horizontally, creating four pieces.

You’ll then cut those four piece vertically, to make equal-sized pieces of paper.

STEP TWO:

Each number paper has light gray dotted lines to show where they should be folded.

With a ruler or straight edge, fold crisply along that line as indicated in two places.

Once you’ve made the folds, bend them the opposite direction to create a folded piece with the number on the front and a flap on the top.

STEP THREE:

Take the trivia questions back out.

Cut those along the dotted edges. Glue the questions into the inside of the numbered papers.

These are not numbered so they can go in any day.

We put ours in randomly.

There’s a question for every day from December 1 through the 25.

STEP FOUR:

Refold the bottom and then the top flap of the numbered rectangle over top of the trivia question (we don’t want anyone peeking until the right day!).

You’ll want to seal the flap shut.

You can do this with glue or tape.

We opted to cut up some adhesive labels into tiny strips so that we could peel back the flaps without destroying the calendar.

Best Advent Calendars For Kids from MomAdvice.com

That’s it!

Attach the questions to a ribbon and hang on the side of your fridge.

Or tape them to a pantry door in the shape of a tree!

Or (super simple) keep calendar days in a bowl on your dinner table, and pull one out every day.

You might find yourselves amazed by how many presents you’d get if you received all of them from the 12 Days of Christmas or laughing about what the word mistletoe really means!!

(Oh, I’ve said too much. You have to wait to open that day!)

Happy Christmas countdown from our family to yours!!

Wishing you a simply joyful holiday.

Xoxo,

MJ

SCROLL ALL THE WAY DOWN TO ACCESS THE PRINTABLES!

Best Advent Calendars For Kids from MomAdvice.com

Best Advent Calendars For Kids from MomAdvice.com

 

Looking for more DIY Advent Calendar Ideas? Here are a few others that I’m loving!

Adorable Toilet Paper Roll Advent Calendar– This fun advent calendar is made from something everyone has on hand – toilet paper tubes! Fill it up with small toys, your favorite candy or cute socks! A fun way to upcycle and create fun memories at the same time!

Use What You Have Advent Calendar– Turn your muffin tins into creative advent calendars with this fun holiday bucket list idea.

Christmas Book Advent Calendar – Each book is wrapped with a number for the kids to open each night before bed. No need to purchase new books every year, only if the age out. Making reusable number gift tags to put on the books each year keeps this a great green alternative.

Christmas Tree Ornament Advent– This mini tree makes counting down super fun! Simply hang an ornament every day!

DIY Paper Advent Calendar– Create an easy DIY paper advent calendar with free printable templates for the boxes! This handmade advent calendar is a fun Christmas papercraft and lovely holiday gift idea for kids and teens.

No Time to DIY an Advent Calendar? Here are some of the Best Advent Calendars for Kids!

If you don’t have time to make an advent calendar, here are some MomAdvice Advent Calendar favorites!

Toy advent calendars can be so fun because they feature 24 fun things to look forward to as you welcome in the holiday.

So many advent calendars are featuring sets that include adorable fun trinkets, magnetic ornaments, or mini figures. Find a set with features and surprises that your kids will never expect.

Advent calendars are such a fun bonus surprise gift under the Christmas tree, aren’t they?

Little People Advent Calendar

Crayola Christmas Countdown

Paw Patrol Advent Calendar

LEGO Friends Advent Calendar

LEGO City Advent Calendar

Grab Your Free Advent Calendar Printables!

Click Here for Advent Numbers Printable

Click Here for Trivia Sheet Printable

Love this post? Here are some of my favorite Christmas posts on the site!

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers Everyone Will Love 100 unique stocking stuffers for everyone on your list

Unique Gift Ideas for Kids of All Ages unique gift ideas for kids of ALL ages

Easy Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls christmas tree cinnamon rolls for christmas morning

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 

Pin It

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

Wednesday, November 20th, 2019

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

Bring the holidays to your mantle with these simple DIY Christmas trees! This holiday craft is so easy and inexpensive that you can make a few and display them together or give them as gorgeous hostess gifts. Make the DIY holiday yarn trees in Christmas colors or your favorites to add a festive touch to your Christmas decor!

 

What could be more fun than decorating for the holiday season?

For this month’s holiday decor project, I wanted to share with you a fun DIY project for creating festive yarn trees that you can create to decorate a ledge, table, or mantle in your home. 

You will only need a few affordable supplies from your craft shop to create this craft.

Don’t think of these as only a decoration for Christmas.

These are beautiful to display all holiday season long, especially in a nice warm neutral yarn!

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

Supplies List

2-    3-7/8 x 8-7/8  inch  Styrofoam floral cones

2- 3-7/8 x 11-7/8 inch  Styrofoam floral cones

4 glass candlestick holders (optional)

2 skeins of inexpensive yarn (in your favorite yarn color)

Small & Large Clover Pom-Pom Makers (unless making pom-poms by hand)

Hot glue gun

Glue Sticks

Straight Pins

Scissors

3.75 mm straight yarn needles

2-4.00 mm double-pointed needles

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

 

Instructions for Making Your Yarn Trees

1. For each of the smaller trees, you will need approximately 73-75 small pom poms. I am in love with my pom-pom maker for making these and have provided a picture tutorial above, if you would like to use these too.  Make sure to give your pom-poms a nice trim, to even up any uneven spots.

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

 

2. Once you have made all of your pom-poms, it is time to assemble them to your tree-form. Grab your hot glue gun and apply a dab of glue in the center of the pom-pom (where you have tied the string to gather everything.  Apply the pom-poms to the tree, starting at the bottom of the cone and working your way around the tree. Try not to line these up all evenly, but stagger them in each row to make it look more like a real tree!

 

3. Continue adding pom-poms until you get to the top of the tree, making sure all of the tree-form is completely covered.

 

4. Make a large pom-pom in a contrasting color and secure it with hot glue, in the center again, and add it to the top of the tree as your star.

 

5. Finish by giving your tree a trim, especially at the top, to trim all of the yarn down to make it look more like a tree.

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

 

6. For an easy yarn-wrapped tree, begin by adding a dab of hot glue to the top of your taller tree-forms. Begin by applying your yarn in a swirled motion at the top. Add one more dab of glue at the top and start wrapping your tree-form all the way around it until you are about a half-inch from the bottom.

 

7. Add one more dab of glue and then finish adding the yarn until you reach the bottom of the form. Clip the yarn and secure the end with a little hot glue.

 

8. Decorate this tree-form any way that you would like. If you are not a knitter, there are many varieties of ways you can decorate these yarn trees. You can top with a pom-pom in an alternating color, create a multi-colored pom-pom for topping, braid yarn to create a garland, or create some garland out of a contrasting color.

 

9. If you are a knitter, knit a 3-stitch i-cord using two 4.0 mm double-pointed needles  for a total of 32.5 inches. Using straight pins, secure the i-cord to the top of the tree and then wrap around and around, securing occasionally with pins, until the tree is completely wrapped in garland.

 

10. Top your tree with a simple knitted bow, if knitting an adornment. Using your 3.75 mm straight needles, cast on ten stitches. Knit the first row, then purl the next row. Repeat this pattern until it measures 6.5 inches in length. Cast the stitches off and then seam them in the center. Using more yarn, simply wrap the center of the bow and then knot the yarn behind. Secure the bow at the top with hot glue.

 

11. Attach all of the trees to inexpensive dollar-store candlestick holders. If you desire, you can spray paint these in your favorite color or just leave them plain, as I have shown.

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

 

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

 

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

 

I hope you love these little yarn trees as much as I do! It is definitely an inexpensive and fun way to dress up a corner of your home for the holidays!

 

Sign up for the MomAdvice newsletter!

 

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. I only recommend what I love!

 

DIY yarn holiday trees MomAdvice.com

 

Don’t miss these other great Holiday ideas from MomAdvice:

 

How to Make a Yarn Pom Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

How to Make Pom Pom Wreath 

 

 

The Easiest Burlap Wreath You Will Ever Make from MomAdvice.com

Easy Burlap Wreath

 

 

how to make a pom-pom and ornament garland MomAdvice

Ornament & Pom Pom Garland

 

 

Christmas at Mom Advice-Traditions Decor and Food

Christmas at MomAdvice

 

 

 

20 Easy DIY Stocking Stuffers - MomAdvice.com

DIY Stocking Stuffers

 

 

 

54 Handmade Gifts from MomAdvice

Homemade Gift Ideas

 

 

DIY Holiday yarn trees MomAdvice.com

Pin It

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies

Tuesday, November 19th, 2019

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

Need a quick and easy dessert for your holiday dinner? Just pick up a store-bought pie and dress it up with these great and simple ideas! These small hacks will make your pie look and taste homemade!

 

The holiday preparation continues this week on the blog.

Today I want to showcase 5 easy ways to decorate store-bought pies for the holidays.

Supermarket pies can still look beautiful and will taste even better with my ideas for some fun toppings and additions.

Although we have a fantastic pumpkin pie recipe on here and even a step-by-step picture tutorial for making the perfect pie crust, I know that many of us just don’t have the desire to tackle pie baking.

This post is especially for you and I hope you can create a swoon-worthy dessert table that will leave people guessing if you made those pies or not.

 

Spiced Whipped Cream

 

Add a Delicious Homemade Topping

Although your pie may not be homemade, your toppings can really stand out with just a few simple ingredients that will add a lot of flavor to your pie.

One of my favorite toppings is a Spiced Whipped Cream that gets its hint of spices from ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and a little sugar. It is the perfect accompaniment to your store-bought pumpkin or pecan pies for the holidays.

 

Cranberry Crunch Pie Topping

 

Another idea for layering on the flavors is to add texture through a fun crunchy pie topping.

One of our favorites that I created for our pies last year was an easy Cranberry Crunch Pie Topping made from amaretto cookies and fresh cranberries.

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

Add Unique Details

One of the greatest tools that I got for my holiday baking this past year was a set of piecrust cutters that I found on Williams Sonoma.

Not only are these great tools to keep handy for masking any flaws on your homemade crusts, but they can double as a great detail to adorn store-bought pies.

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

Purchase pie crust from the refrigerated section of the store and then roll out on a lightly floured surface.

Dip your cutters in a little flour and then push down and press these cutters to create your shape.

Bake these adorable details in a 400 degree oven for 6-8 minutes on a parchment lined cookie sheet.

Allow these to cool and then decorate the tops of your pies with these.

These little details are also so pretty to sprinkle on your dessert table and add that extra festive touch.

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

Make a Mini Pie Spread

When I spotted these adorable mini pies in the bakery section of our local Walmart, I knew this would be another fun spin on pies to try for the holidays.

These mini pies are less than $1 each and come in a variety of flavors year-round.

For smaller families, these store-bought pies offer the perfect serving size and give everyone exactly what they love the most.

Adorn these with the smaller size pastry cutouts and add a bowl of spiced whipped cream in the center so that everyone can create their own pie experience.

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

Give the Gift of Pie

One of my favorite things to give as a hostess gift is a sweet treat for their hospitality.

Nothing is sweeter than a little individual treat just for me after entertaining, at least that is my opinion, and one of my favorite gifts to give happens to be my little peppermint cheesecakes in a jar.

If you are short on time though, consider purchasing these mini pies as hostess gifts for the holidays.

Dress it simply in some festive ribbon and tie a bow around it to create a sweet little gift to give for the holidays.

At less than $1 each, these are a sweet way to say thank you without spending a lot.

 

5 Ways to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com.

 

Create a Beautiful Display

I love that when I posted a picture of this pie display on Instagram & Facebook that people were asking if this was even real.

I think it really goes to show that with a few easy details and staging, you can take store-bought pies to another level.

With this display I used mismatched cake stands in varying heights to create a display.

Don’t be afraid to drape a cloth napkin over a stand to make it cohesive or even create a stand out of a teacup and plate and cover it with the cloth napkin, if you are short on serving pieces.

If you have multiple dishes out, consider adding these cute chalkboard label frames to help people navigate the dessert table.

Sprinkle pastry cutouts along the tablecloth to decorate the display and pull in leaves, bare branches, or create a unique centerpiece like I did this year to add some color to the table.

I hope these ideas are inspiring and that you will find a new way to love store-bought pies this year with these creative details!

 Oh, and enjoy all that free time you have now that you aren’t baking this year.

Winning!

 

Don’t miss this series on how to make your Thanksgiving dinner ahead of time and freeze the meal!:

 

make-ahead mashed potatoes from MomAdvice.com

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

 

 

 

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe

 

 

 

Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce from MomAdvice.com

Make-Ahead Brandied Orange Cranberry Sauce

 

 

 

Make-Ahead Green Bean Casserole from MomAdvice.com

Make-Ahead Gluten Free Green Bean Casserole

 

 

Bacon, Apple, and Cornbread Stuffing from MomAdvice.com

Make-Ahead Gluten Free Bacon & Apple Cornbread Stuffing

 

 

 

Buttery Dinner Rolls in the Bread Machine from MomAdvice.com

Buttery Bread Machine Dinner Rolls

 

Sign up for the MomAdvice Newsletter!

 

 

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Dress Up Store Bought Pies MomAdvice.com

 

Other great Thanksgiving ideas from MomAdvice:

 

Centerpiece for all seasons MomAdvice.com

DIY Table Runner for All Seasons

 

 

Thanksgiving TV Episodes MomAdvice.com

6 Sitcoms that Make Us Give Thanks

 

 

 

How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte from MomAdvice.com

How to Make a Pumpkin Spiced Latte

 

 

 

5 Ways to Date Your Husband in the Fall MomAdvice.com

5 Ways to Date Your Husband in the Fall

 

 

 

Dress up Store Bought Pies MomAdvice.com

Pin It

Gingerbread Biscotti Step-By-Step Tutorial

Monday, November 18th, 2019

Gingerbread Biscotti Recipe Step By Step Header

Did you know how easy it is to make biscotti? This great recipe shows you how to make this gingerbread biscotti treat that is perfect for dunking in a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Get the step-by-step tutorial and printable recipe on the blog today!

One of my favorite gifts to give is homemade biscotti.

This gingerbread biscotti is the perfect gift to give for the holidays or to share in this year’s cookie exchange.

Biscotti seems like a really difficult treat to make, but it is just as easy as making a regular batch of cookies.

The biggest difference is that you bake these treats twice to get a cookie with crunch.

Gingerbread Biscotti with a Cup of Coffee

What Are Biscotti?

Biscotti are an Italian twice-baked cookie.

You begin by baking these tasty treats in a loaf, then slicing with a serrated knife, and finish them with a second round of baking.

This yields a dry, crunchy oblong cookie that is perfect for dunking!

Are Biscotti Gluten-Free?

Many of our readers need to eat gluten-free so this is one of our most commonly asked questions. Biscotti are made with flour (this recipe is made with all-purpose and wheat flour) so biscotti are NOT gluten-free.

How Can I Make Biscotti Gluten- Free?

Substitutions for all-purpose flour in this recipe can be made by using oat flour instead. Here is a recipe for gluten-free gingerbread biscotti that may cater to your dietary needs more.

where to find molasses for gingerbread biscotti

Where Do I Find Molasses In My Grocery Store?

I can admit, the first time I started making gingerbread-flavored items, I had NO CLUE where to find molasses in my grocery store.

Is molasses in the cereal aisle with the pancake mixes or is it in the baking supplies aisle?

If you are lost too, I would suggest you check both aisles. While I have found it in my baking supplies aisle, some stores do carry it in their breakfast aisle.

Don’t think of it as only being stocked near the sugar either. This can be found randomly down by spices or even near the puddings.

Don’t want to hit your grocery store? Check here and order online instead.

How to Make Gingerbread Biscotti



This Gingerbread Biscotti is filled with all of the gingerbread flavors you love.

To achieve this flavor, we mix molasses, brown sugar, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon into our batter.

patting the gingerbread biscotti dough

Splitting Gingerbread Biscotti Dough for a Second Bake

split gingerbread dough patted down

Gingerbread Biscotti Dough After First Bake

Cutting Biscotti for a Second Bake

The most important thing with this biscotti, I have found, it to keep an eye on it because it will go from done to burnt rather quickly!

Start checking these after twenty minutes (on your first bake time) and don’t leave them neglected after that point or you may have some burnt biscotti on your hands!

After baking these, for the first time, you will slice them with a sharp knife (serrated is a great option).

You should note that you start with a higher temperature, on the first baking, and then you reduce the oven temperature for the second round of baking.

Gingerbread Biscotti Baked a Second Time

Once they are sliced, you will spread them out on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. 

Bake them again.

Gingerbread Biscotti Glaze

Drizzling Glaze on Gingerbread Biscotti

After finishing the second round of baking, allow these to cool completely on a wire rack before drizzling with glaze.

Packaged Gingerbread Biscotti

Close Up of Homemade Gingerbread Biscotti With Glaze

These can be packaged in festive treat bags with a little ribbon and would make a cute accompaniment to a favorite homemade drink mix, coffee, or the makings of a coffee gift basket with my homemade peppermint syrup or gingerbread syrup for easy homemade lattes.

However you package it, solo or in a basket, I guarantee that this recipe will be a hit for your holiday giving and baking!

Gingerbread Biscotti  
Recipe Type: Dessert
Author: Adapted from AlRecipes.com
Prep time: 25 mins
Cook time: 40 mins
Total time: 1 hour 5 mins
Serves: 4 dozen
A sweet and simple gingerbread biscotti recipe that is perfect for your holiday gift-giving!
Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons ground ginger
  • 3/4 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • For Glaze: 1/2 cup confectioners sugar (icing or powdered sugar), sifted
  • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 – 3 tablespoons milk or light cream
Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together oil, sugar, eggs, and molasses. In another bowl, combine flours, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg; mix into egg mixture to form a stiff dough (depending on your humidity, the dough may be sticky).
  3. Divide dough in half, and shape each half into a roll the length of the cookie.
  4. Place rolls on lined cookie sheet, and pat down to flatten the dough to ½ inch wide thickness.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. KEEP A VERY CLOSE EYE ON IT as it will go from done to burnt quickly.
  6. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool.
  7. When cool enough to touch, move over to a cutting board and cut into 1/2 inch thick diagonal slices.
  8. Place sliced biscotti on cookie sheet, and bake an additional 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until toasted and crispy. If the biscotti already looks a little “too” crispy, you can decrease your oven temperature to 275 degrees and bake for 7-10 minutes instead.
  9. Let cool.
  10. In a small bowl mix together the confectioners sugar, vanilla extract and milk until it is incorporated. Using a small spoon, drizzle back and forth your glaze over the biscotti. Allow the icing to harden before packaging.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Looking for more great holiday hostess gift? Here are 3 other projects to check out!

Chocolate Coffee Spoons from MomAdvice.com make some chocolate coffee spoons to pair with the biscotti

No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars from MomAdvice.com

no bake peppermint cheesecakes in a jar

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Candles slow cooker pumpkin spice candles (SO fun and easy!)

What fun treats are you baking this holiday season? Any great big batch recipes you might like to share?

Gingerbread Biscotti Recipe Step By Step Header

Pin It