Tag: Christmas

Saving for Christmas

A Difficult Year

This year, like a number of past ones, has been hard for almost everyone in the world. People have lost their jobs and homes and many people are still suffering from previous events like lockdowns, mental illness, loneliness, lack of medical care for other illnesses, like stroke, heart attack and cancer.

For those who celebrate Christmas, it is often a time to make it the best one ever, to forget about a miserable year, with no money and to really blow out on Christmas.

Whether you are planning a blow-out Christmas, a usual Christmas or even just a quiet time at home, it always takes money. If you really have no money, then now is also the time to plan how you are going to manage at Christmas.

Savings

Have you started saving for Christmas? Maybe you have enough money for all you need each year? If not, then you could save $100 or £100 by Christmas by starting right NOW and putting $1 or £1 a day into a jar. If you start on September 1st,  there are over 100 days left to Christmas so just 1 coin a day would get you 100 coins by Christmas. Of course, if you gave up a coffee a day from September, you could save maybe 300 coins by Christmas or even more. Would that help with the expenses? It could certainly buy you a turkey or other Christmas dinner, some festive cheer and even some presents.

Starting Later

Of course, you may be reading this later, if so, start saving now. Put your spare change in a jar, give up buying a coffee or a bun or buy a cheaper lunch or take one from home. You can still save something and every little bit helps towards the expenses.

Food

Perhaps you could put some food to one side? Tins of meat, chicken, beef or whatever your favourites are. Even a few tins of baked beans  hidden away may help reduce the expense nearer Christmas itself. Some shops may be offering deals between now and Christmas. If the deal is something you would use AND it can be stored safely, then that’s another help towards Christmas.

Presents

I recall one person I know whose parents suffered hard times many many years ago. He got no presents at all. But his parents didn’t let him know before Christmas. Here are some thoughtful, affordable, and handmade gift ideas for Christmas that can still bring joy to loved ones without breaking the bank:

Handmade Gifts

Bake cookies, biscuits, muffins, or a small loaf of bread, and wrap them in festive paper or a tin.  Buy a plain mug and decorate it with oil-based paint pens. You can add personal messages, designs, or the recipient’s name. Use old candle stubs or buy some wax. Adding a few essential oils can create lovely candles. Hand-Knit or Crocheted Items such as scarves, beanies, or small blankets can be made with inexpensive yarn and a little time. Paint or draw a small piece of art and frame it. You can also use pressed flowers for a natural, beautiful effect.

 Upcycled & DIY Gifts

Write down shared memories, jokes, or things you appreciate about the recipient on slips of paper. Place them in a decorated jar for them to read. Use materials like beads, leather, or even upcycled fabric to create personalized keychains. Take cuttings from a plant you have and pot them in a small, decorated pot. Handwrite your favourite recipes or family recipes and bind them into a small recipe book. Create a bookmark from cardstock, decorated with doodles, inspirational quotes, or a meaningful design.

Hard Times

This article is based on a previous one back in 2020, when people had been suffering from the effects of lockdowns during the year. There was also not much of a Christmas that year and some people decided to celebrate Christmas in July the following year.

Hopefully, there will be nothing similar this year, though  may people now have much less money than previously, costs have risen and many families are at or below poverty level. If you are in this position, look around for local organizations that help families in need. You may be able to find a food bank, a baby needs bank, or there may be local goodwill shops where you could buy toys well ahead of time.

Awesome Mens Christmas Sweaters

When it comes to awesome men’s Christmas sweaters, you have many options to choose from. Here are some ideas that can help you  or your favorite man stand out during the holiday season.

Ugly Christmas Sweaters

Embrace the classic “ugly” sweater trend with festive designs, bright colors, and quirky patterns. Look for sweaters featuring reindeer, snowmen, Christmas trees, or other holiday motifs.

3D Sweaters

These sweaters often have embellishments that create a 3D effect, such as attached ornaments, pom-poms, or plush elements. You can always create your own unique sweater by adding your own embellishments to a plain or Christmas sweater.

Pop Culture References

Find sweaters that incorporate popular movies, TV shows, or characters into Christmas themes. This could include references to Star Wars, superheroes, or other iconic symbols.

Funny and Whimsical Designs

Opt for sweaters with humorous sayings, puns, or playful graphics that capture the festive spirit in a lighthearted way.

Minimalist and Stylish Sweaters

If you prefer a more subtle look, go for sweaters with simple and elegant designs that still evoke the holiday season without being overly flashy.

Personalized Sweaters

Create a custom sweater featuring your own design, name, or a special message to make it truly unique.

Fair Isle Patterns

These traditional patterns often incorporate a mix of colors and motifs that give a cozy and festive vibe. These sweaters are often very warm too, especially good for cold areas or men who feel the cold more easily.

Light-Up Sweaters

Add some extra flair with sweaters that have built-in LED lights, making you a walking Christmas light display. Make sure your battery is charged up because everyone will be wanting to press your button!

Vintage or Retro Styles

Look for sweaters that harken back to a specific era, such as the 80s or 90s, for a nostalgic twist on the Christmas sweater tradition.

Classic Knits

Choose sweaters with classic winter patterns like cable knits or Nordic designs for a timeless and cozy look. Again, these are great choices for men who prefer the understated look or who feel the cold more.

Remember, the key to finding an awesome Christmas sweater is to choose something that resonates with the man’s personal style and sense of humor. Whether you’re going for giving a humorous, stylish, or nostalgic look, there’s a Christmas sweater out there that’s perfect as a gift from you. You can find these sweaters at various clothing stores, both online and in-person, especially as the holiday season approaches.

Ugly Sweaters for Christmas

The concept of wearing “ugly” Christmas sweaters has become a popular and humorous holiday tradition in many cultures. Here’s why ugly sweaters are embraced and celebrated during the Christmas season:

Nostalgia and Nostalgic Humor

Ugly Christmas sweaters often feature outdated or kitschy designs reminiscent of past decades. Wearing these sweaters can evoke a sense of nostalgia and playfully embrace the styles of yesteryear.

Festive Spirit

Ugly sweaters are a lighthearted and fun way to show your enthusiasm for the holiday season. They’re a way to express your holiday cheer and embrace the festive atmosphere.

Social Bonding

Ugly sweater parties have become a popular social event during the holidays. Wearing an outrageous and festive sweater can help break the ice and create a shared sense of humor and camaraderie among partygoers.

Anti-Fashion Statement

Ugly Christmas sweaters are a playful rejection of typical fashion norms. They celebrate individuality and a willingness to not take oneself too seriously in the name of holiday fun.

Personal Expression

Ugly sweaters allow people to express their creativity and sense of humor through clothing. Some individuals enjoy the challenge of finding the most outrageous and unique sweater.

Charitable Causes

Many ugly sweater events and parties have a charitable component, where participants are encouraged to donate to a cause while donning their most eccentric sweaters. This adds a philanthropic element to the tradition.

Photogenic and Shareable

Ugly sweaters are often eye-catching and photogenic, making them perfect for social media posts and creating lasting memories.

Family and Group Activities

Ugly sweater themes can extend to families, friends, and even workplaces, promoting unity and togetherness during the holiday season.

Light-Heartedness

The holidays can be a stressful time for some people, and wearing an ugly Christmas sweater can be a way to inject some levity and light-heartedness into the season.

Overall, the appeal of ugly Christmas sweaters lies in their ability to bring people together, spread joy, and create memorable experiences. They provide a unique and festive way to celebrate the holiday spirit while embracing humor and individuality.

Many people donate their ugly Christmas Sweater to charity after Christmas. If you’re lucky and early enough, you could pick up one of these without having to spend a fortune or lots of time.

Christmas Candy to Make at Home

There are plenty of delicious Christmas candies you can make at home to enjoy during the holiday season. There are countless other Christmas candies and treats you can experiment with, based on your preferences. Enjoy the holiday baking and have a sweet Christmas! Some of the options below can be made with children, others use the oven and others are definitely for adults (such as rum balls and eggnog truffles). Here are a few popular options:

Peppermint Bark

Melt white chocolate, spread it on a baking sheet, and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top. Let it cool and harden before breaking it into pieces.

Gingerbread Truffles

Combine crushed gingerbread cookies with cream cheese, roll the mixture into balls, and dip them in melted chocolate. Decorate with festive sprinkles.

Homemade Caramels

Cook together sugar, butter, corn syrup, and condensed milk until it reaches the desired caramel consistency. Pour it into a greased pan, let it cool, and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

Dip pretzel rods or twists in melted chocolate (you can use white, milk, or dark chocolate) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.

Peppermint Patties

Mix together powdered sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and a little milk to form a dough. Roll it into small balls, flatten them, and dip them in melted chocolate. Let them cool until the chocolate hardens.

Holiday Peppermint Patties

Mix powdered sugar, melted butter, peppermint extract, and a few drops of food coloring (optional) to form a smooth dough. Roll the dough into small discs and let them firm up in the refrigerator. Dip the patties in melted chocolate and let them set.

Maybe you are wondering whether it is worthwhile making Christmas candy at home? If you are hesitating, remember, it can be a fun and rewarding activity for several reasons:

Personalization

When you make Christmas candy at home, you have full control over the ingredients, flavors, and decorations. You can customize the candies to your liking, incorporating your favorite flavors and experimenting with different combinations. And you can ensure that no allergens find their way in.

Festive Atmosphere

Making Christmas candy is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. The process of creating treats, decorating them, and enjoying their festive flavors can bring joy and excitement to your home. It can also be a fun activity to do with family and friends, creating lasting memories together.

Thoughtful Gifts

Homemade Christmas candy can make wonderful gifts for loved ones. You can package the candies in decorative boxes or jars and give them as thoughtful, homemade presents. It shows your care and effort, and recipients will appreciate the personal touch.

Cost Savings

Making Christmas candy at home can often be more cost-effective than buying pre-made treats. You can buy ingredients in bulk and make larger quantities of candy for a fraction of the price of store-bought options. Plus, you can save money on packaging by using your own creative and inexpensive solutions.

Quality and Freshness

Homemade candy allows you to use high-quality ingredients, ensuring the freshness and taste of the treats. You have control over the ingredients you use, avoiding any artificial additives or preservatives that might be present in store-bought candies.

Bonding and Creativity

Making Christmas candy can be a creative outlet, allowing you to experiment with different flavors, textures, and decorations. It can also be a bonding experience as you involve family members or friends in the process, sharing laughs, stories, and the joy of creating something delicious together.

Remember, making Christmas candy is not only about the final product but also about the joy and satisfaction that comes with the process. So, if you enjoy cooking, baking, and indulging in sweet treats, making Christmas candy at home can be a delightful and rewarding activity during the holiday season. With that in mind, here are a few more christmas candy treats to make:

Christmas Fudge

Combine condensed milk, chocolate chips, and your choice of add-ins like nuts, marshmallows, or dried fruits. Heat the mixture until the chocolate melts, then pour it into a greased pan and let it set before cutting into squares.

Snowball Cookies

Make a buttery cookie dough with flour, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Roll the dough into small balls and bake until golden. While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them.

Coconut Snowballs

Mix together shredded coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Roll the mixture into small balls and coat them in more shredded coconut. Chill in the refrigerator until firm.

Candy Cane Marshmallows

Make a batch of homemade marshmallows and add crushed candy canes to the mixture before pouring it into a pan to set. Once cooled and firm, cut the marshmallows into squares and dust them with powdered sugar.

Candy Cane Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Stirrers

Skewer marshmallows on candy cane sticks and dip them in melted chocolate. Let the chocolate set, then use them to stir hot chocolate for a festive twist.

Peppermint Marshmallow Pops

Skewer marshmallows with lollipop sticks. Dip them in melted white chocolate and immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes on top. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Peanut Butter Balls

Mix together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Roll the mixture into small balls and chill them in the refrigerator. Dip the chilled balls in melted chocolate and let them set.

Christmas Crack

Line a baking sheet with saltine crackers. In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar together, then pour it over the crackers. Bake in the oven until the caramel is bubbly. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with melted chocolate. Let it cool and break into pieces.

Rum Balls

Mix together crushed cookies, chopped nuts, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and a splash of rum. Roll the mixture into small balls and coat them in powdered sugar or cocoa powder.

Christmas Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow)

In a large bowl, mix Chex cereal with melted chocolate and peanut butter. Toss the mixture with powdered sugar and add festive-colored M&M’s or other candies.

Chocolate-Covered Cherries

Drain maraschino cherries and pat them dry. Wrap each cherry in a small amount of fondant or marzipan. Dip the wrapped cherries in melted chocolate and let them set.

Holiday Popcorn

Pop plain popcorn and toss it with melted white chocolate. Add crushed candy canes, holiday-themed sprinkles, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and color.

Cinnamon Sugar Pecans

Toss pecan halves in melted butter, then coat them in a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake until toasted and fragrant.

Chocolate-Dipped Apricots

Dip dried apricots in melted dark or milk chocolate and let them cool on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can also sprinkle them with chopped nuts or coconut flakes before the chocolate sets.

Christmas Toffee

Cook together butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt until it reaches a toffee-like consistency. Pour the toffee onto a lined baking sheet, spread it out, and sprinkle it with melted chocolate and crushed nuts. Let it cool and break into pieces.

Almond Butter Crunch

Cook together butter, sugar, and corn syrup until it becomes a caramel. Stir in chopped almonds and spread the mixture on a lined baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into bite-sized pieces.

Eggnog Truffles

Combine white chocolate, eggnog, and a pinch of nutmeg in a saucepan. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool, then roll it into balls and coat them in cocoa powder or grated white chocolate.

Pretzel Turtles

Arrange pretzels in clusters on a baking sheet. Top each pretzel with a caramel candy and bake in the oven until the caramel softens. Remove from the oven and press a pecan half onto each caramel. Let them cool and set.

These are just a few more ideas to add to your list of homemade Christmas candies. Remember to adjust the recipes according to your preferences and dietary restrictions. Have fun making these Christmas candies and enjoy the festive season! Enjoy the process of making these sweet treats and savor the festive flavors!