If you can't find me at a party, try the dip table!

OMG guys....Christmas is in a week! A week can you believe it. You work so hard to get to that day for it to just fly by. One of my favorite things about going to celebrate Christmas is the food. But I sometimes have a hard time eating at other peoples houses due to my gluten allergy. Luckily I have the most amazing family who always makes sure I have something to eat, especially my mom and Angie. Both of them go out of the way to make sure I can eat when I am invited over. And they are both amazing cooks so I am always so glad when they say they made me something gluten free, because I know its going to be good!

 

One of my favorite things I look forward too, and not just at Christmas, but any time I go to a party is dips. I love dips. There is something about a dip and chip that satisfies me to no end. I could just eat dip and chips and be 100% good. But it is Christmas time, so I went to Pinterest and found the most amazing Gluten-Free dips that would go good this holiday season. I copied their photo and put the link below each one so you can go to their website and get the recipe. I have not made any of these but I plan on it.

 

 

Spinach and Artichoke Dip- 

The combination between these 2 plus parmesan cheese just makes my mouth happy. A lot of them have onions so I tend to opt out of that option for myself when I make it. (or when my mom makes it, I beg her to leave them out!)  

http://homecookingmemories.com/slow-cooker-spinach-and-artichoke-dip/#_a5y_p=2054538

 

 

Buffalo Chicken Dip-

I love buffalo sauce. One of my favorite flavors. I am extremely picky on chicken so I loved how she shredded it, instead of cubed it.

http://www.jolynneshane.com/gluten-free-buffalo-chicken-dip.html

 

 

Loaded Baked Potato Dip-

Potatoes, bacon and cheese- I mean do I really need to say more. And then she pairs it with Ruffles. Done and Done!

http://www.budgetsavvydiva.com/2013/11/loaded-baked-potato-dip-recipe/

 

 

Bacon Cheeseburger Dip-

I think I have an obsession with cheese and bacon. I can't help it. But being gluten free, hamburgers are out unless I have a gluten free bun. So this takes the cake for me when it comes to a burger.

http://recipesthatcrock.com/bacon-cheeseburger-crock-pot-dip/#_a5y_p=1398097

 

 

Corn and Bacon Dip-

I use to hate corn. But Bobby has turned me back on it and now I love it. I don't like cream corn, that makes me want to puke. But good ole fashion corn off the cob, is the best. And then you mix it with bacon and cheese and yummy!

http://www.crunchycreamysweet.com/2014/10/04/hot-corn-and-bacon-dip/

 

 

Butterfinger Fruit Dip-

Ok...go ahead and kill me now. Butterfinger is my favorite candy. You want to put a smile on my face, hand me a Butterfinger. But the fact she mixes it with cool whip and few other ingredients, just blows me away. I can't wait to make this.  

http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2014/01/17/butterfinger-fruit-dip/

 

 

Creamy Roasted Corn Avocado Dip-

This is nothing like Guacamole. It's completely different. And thats what I love about it. From what I can tell, it has a smoky flavor to it. I want this so bad right now!

http://petiteallergytreats.blogspot.com/2014/07/creamy-roasted-corn-avocado-dip-dairy.html

 

 

Homemade Salsa-

I have told you before how much I love Kim Rosenberger and her recipes. This is her homemade salsa. I need to convince her to have Eric bring me some to work where I WON'T share it! #sorrynotsorry

http://www.kimshealthyeats.com/fresh-homemade-salsa/

 

 

Don't those all look amazing!

 

But my very 2 favorite dips are 1) my sister's Queso. I am not allowed to share the recipe but if you ever get a chance to have it, be prepared. It is always the first thing to go and is always requested (usually by me) for her to make. Anyone who tries it loves it. Even her husband who doesn't like cheese devours it. And 2) my dad's guacamole. I can't even begin to tell you how he makes it, all I know is the end result is to die for. I always tell him he needs to bottle it and sell it. When I have big parties, I beg him to make me a huge batch and I never have left overs (boo-hoo)!  

 

And now I am hungry!

 

Kara- Queso!

Dad- Guacamole!

Thanks :)   

If I could afford it, I would have a farm full of dogs and live happily ever after!

So you love your dog as much as I love mine and if that is the case, then you love to give them treats. But sometimes, dog treats seem so boring so you want to give them a bite of human food. Or you have that dog that stares you down while you eat, looking like he hasn't eaten in days and makes small gestures to remind you that he is there! But do you really know what is safe for your dog to eat? Before you give over your fully loaded pizza to your best pooch, here is a list of things to stay away from in order for your dog to live a long healthy life.

 

 

Avocado- has a substances called Persin. Harmless to humans who aren't allergic but in large quantities, can be toxic to dogs.

Alcohol- has the same effect as it does on humans but acts much quicker on them. Can cause vomiting, heart problems and even can result in death.

Onions and Garlic- can cause your dog to have anemia, even the smallest amount. It destroys their red blood cells. I always knew onions were very toxic for dogs.

Caffeine- in large quantities can be very fatal. Can cause heart attacks and rapid breathing.

Grapes and Raisins- cause kidney failure and even the smallest amounts can cause illness.

Dairy products- can cause diarrhea and stomach aches

Macadamia nuts- as few as 6 of these nuts can make a dog sick

Candy and Gum- can cause your dogs blood level to drop which can result to liver failure.

Chocolate- can lead to vomit, diarrhea and excessive thirst.

Fat trimmings and bones- can cause pancreatitis and even though you might want to give a dog a bone, they can choke on it and it can also give them splinters in their digestive system.

Any fruit that has a pit/seeds- the fruit itself is ok but the pit/seeds are not. Make sure you throw it away or the pit/seeds can cause inflammation in the small intestines.

Raw eggs and raw meat- can cause skin problems and food poison

Salt- can lead to extreme thirst and sodium ion poisoning

Sugar- can lead to obesity, diabetes and dental problems, just like humans.

Yeast dough- if you like to bake your own bread, make sure your dog doesn't get a hold of the raw stuff. It can expand in their stomach like it does normally. If they eat to much, it can cause death due to their tummy getting to expanded.

Your medicine- I don't know why you would give your dog your cold medicine, but in the off chance you want to, don't do it. It can cause great harm to them.

Random things in your pantry like- Baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, spices, etc. Just keep things up from your dog.

 

 

So you say "I really want to give my dog a treat but you just told me I practically cant give him anything!" Here are some safe dog treats you can give him:

Lean meat- make sure it is cooked properly. Just like you, he needs it cooked to at least medium.

Fresh fruit- just no seeds/pits. The actual fruit part is really good for them.

Carrots, green beans, zucchini and cucumbers as well as cooked potato/sweet potato.

Cooked white rice and pasta- white rice and boiled chicken are great for dogs who have had an upset stomach. Instead of giving them their normal dog food plain, mix a little in and it will help coat their stomach.

Fresh bread- who doesn't like fresh bread!

Honey- only a small amount. No more than a 1/2 teaspoon a day. Good for dogs with allergies. Just make sure you buy local honey for it to have an effect on the allergy part.  

Cheese- just don't over do it or they will become constipated. And yes I know cheese is a Dairy product, but it seems to be the only one safe enough for a small taste.

 

 

 

If you aren't sure if what your dog ate is safe, please don't hesitate to call Poison Control at 888-426-4435 and tell them what they ate. They will instruct you on rather they are ok or if you need to take them in.  

 

Also, when it comes to their dog food, really make sure you know what you are buying. Read the labels. Research the company.  A lot of cheap brands do animal testing or grow their food in a plant rather than grow fresh food and use that. Because we do want to keep them safe and healthy. They give us so much joy, so its only fair we take good care of them!

 

Hallmark Commercial's are the best

Dear Diary,

Yay....I didn't get picked for jury duty! After a long time waiting, I was let go. Civic duty done for a few years!

Can you believe Christmas is in 9 days! That means 8 days left to shop. Or in my case, I start Christmas on the 23rd in my family because we have so many Christmases we do, so technically have 6 days to shop. We do 5 Christmases total. That's a lot! And that is not including just us being together Christmas morning. When we do have children, we will have 6! And I am not complaining. Luckily, we knocked out the shopping last Sunday so I am officially done!

 

I am a crier. Always have been. It's my emotion I show. Some people laugh, some people scream, some people get quite, I cry. Rather I am happy or sad, mad or glad, upset or just in a mood. I can't help it. And I have learned to just deal with it. So has Bobby. Song's make me cry the most. There are certain songs I can not listen too. Just cant. I am a huge blubbery mess and it's not worth it. Another thing that makes me cry, are Hallmark Commercial's. And this time of year, they are the best. They mostly have nothing  to do with Christmas, but I see them played more and more this time of year. I have rallied up my favorites. And before you ask, no I didn't watch them. I went to YouTube and typed in Hallmark Commercial's and just remembered the ones I loved, that made me tear up or had a special meaning to me. Ugh....my eyes get wet just thinking of these!

 

 

And those are just some of the classics. Hallmark gets me every time. I almost always have to change the channel when they come on. They just remind me of the good in the world. That the littlest things in the world can count; that something so small can give so much meaning.

Sorry if I made you cry, join the club!

 

 

 

 

Love, Me

Jury Duty

Hey everyone! Writing this post from the chair of the Dallas County Court office. I got summoned and as my civic duty, here I sit. 

Why do weird people flock to me? Am I just that nice? Look people, I'm here like the rest of you. Doing my best to blend in and not get picked. I have my water, my 3 Quest bars my husband stuck in my purse and the 3rd addition to The Maze Runner trilogy books. That's all I need. I don't need to hear about how this is your  4th time here. Good for you, maybe you'll get picked finally! 
Now if you don't mind I would like to get back to my book and my S'more Quest bar and hope they tell me I can go soon. 

Back to blogging tomorrow (or at least I hope)! 

What's that smell?

I don't know about you, but bobby and I always have a candle burning when we are home. And I only buy from one place, Bath and Body Works. Their 3 wick candles are my favorite candles. I love when they have their 2 for $22. I load up. Since we always burn them, we go through them pretty fast. But I have the best news. Today only, in stores, all 3 wick candles are only $8! OMG....I am going there on my lunch break and loading us up. $8! $8! These are my favorite scents this year.

Butterscotch Toffee- this is what we have going at
my house right now. The first time I lit it, Bobby
walked in the house asking me what I was
baking. I told him it was candle and he has loved
 it ever since. A salty-sweet twist of caramelized
sugar, rich butterscotch & a dash of sea salt.

Fresh Sparking Snow- I haven't bought this one thi
year but I did buy it last year. This has more of berry
smell to it. Sugarberries, holiday pear & icy melon
is the description it says. I remember more of a
cranberry/pear smell but that could have been
last year.



Leaves- I buy this one every year. It is one of my
favorite scents for the season. Golden nectar, ripe
apples & spiced berries. Almost like a cinnamon
apple smell that has been mixed with honey.

Marshmallow Fireplace- it's marshmallows
and fireplace.2 of my favorite things. How could
I not like this smell. Marshmallows, vanilla
cream and wood. A sweet, savory smell that fills
my house.

                             

Pumpkin Gingerbread- Bobby loves Gingerbread. So
whenever I finds something with that flavor or smell,
I tend to get it for him. This smells like Gingerbread,
golden vanilla & fresh creamy pumpkin.

Pumpkin Sugared Doughnut- I haven't had a donut in
almost 6 years. I stopped eating them before I turn 
gluten free and now because I am GF, I really can't eat
them. But I can sure smell them. Baked pumpkin
donut with sugar & spice. (if you know of any
GF donut shops, please let me know. I think
 it's time I had one again!)  

Merry Cookie- Vanilla, butter & sugar. What
more do you need in a candle? It smalls like you
are baking sugar cookies from scratch!
Reminds me of home.
 



Sweater Weather- This was new this season
and I took a chance on it. I am so glad I did. In
my top 5 favorite smells I have ever bought
in a candle. Eucalyptus, juniper berry &
sage. It's like fall meets winter. So you could
use this candle from September to February
if you wanted.







Winter- And now on to my favorite smell EVER! I look
forward to when I can put this scent out. (and now they
make it in the hand pump foam soap, so yes, I have that
too). Pine needles, winter citrus & white woods. I can't
describe why I love it so much. I just smell it and I
am instantly ok. We are almost through the butterscotch
one so this will be put out next week!

 

 

DONT FORGET THEY ARE ONLY $8 TODAY IN THE STORE! GO LOAD UP. THEY MAKE EXCELLENT GIFTS.

and if you aren't sure of a scent to get someone, go with one these 9. I promise they will make a lasting impression.

 

Have a wonderful weekend!



The Joys of Peppermint

 

 

 

 

 

 

I love peppermint. Rather it be peppermint gum, peppermint candy or peppermint oil or real peppermint. And I love peppermint with chocolate. Such a great combination. But I never knew the benefits of it till I did a little research. This is what I found.

 

 

 
 
 
 
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Since the late 90's it was discovered that enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are safe and effective in the treatment of this increasingly prevalent disorder. Most recently, a study published January of this year found that peppermint oil was effective in relieving abdominal pain in diarrhea predominant irritable bowel syndrome.
• Colonic spasm – Peppermint oil has been studied as a safe and effective alternative to drugs.
• Gastric Emptying Disorders – Peppermint has been found to enhance gastric emptying.
• Functional dyspepsia – A 2000 study published in the journal Ailment Pharmacology and Therapy found that 90 mg of peppermint oil and 50 mg of caraway oil resulted in 67% of patients reporting "much or very much improved" in their symptoms of functional dyspepsia.
• Infantile Colic: A 2013 study found that peppermint is at least as effective as the chemical simethicone in the treatment of infantile colic.
• Breastfeeding Associated Nipple Pain and Damage: A 2007 study found that peppermint water prevented nipple cracks and nipple pain in breastfeeding mothers.
• Tuberculosis: A 2009 study found that inhaled essential oil of peppermint was able to rapidly regress tuberculosis inflammation.
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever): A 2001 preclinical study found that extracts of the leaves of peppermint  inhibit histamine release.

  
• Shingles Associated Pain (Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): A 2002 case study found that topical peppermint oil treatment resulted in a near immediate improvement of shingles associated neuropathic pain symptoms.
• Memory problems: A 2006 study found that the simple aroma of peppermint enhances memory and increases alertness in human subjects.
• Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea: A 2013 study found that peppermint oil was found to be effective in reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea, and at reduced cost versus standard drug-based treatment.
• Prostate Cancer: Preclinical research indicates that peppermint contains a compound known as menthol which inhibits prostate cancer growth.
• Radiation Damage: Preclinical research indicates peppermint protects against radiation-induced DNA damage and cell death.
• Herpes Simplex  Virus Type 1: Peppermint has been found to have inhibitory activity against acyclovir-resistant Herpes Simplex virus type 1.
• Dental Caries/Bad Breath: Peppermint oil extract has been found to be superior to the mouthwash chemical chlorhexidine inhibiting Streptococus mutans driven biofilm formation associated with dental caries. This may explain why powdered peppermint leaves were used in the Middle Ages to combat halitosis and whiten teeth.

 

I also will suck on a peppermint candy when I'm nauseous. I find that it settles my stomach almost instantly. It's amazing what the studies have found. I also find it helps me when I have a headache. I use to suffer from really bad headaches (from eating gluten) so I only get them from time to time now. But for some reason, something in the peppermint just helps cure my head. I've decided I am going to incorporate peppermint into my diet from now on. If only for the memory enhancement and to whiten my teeth!

 

I know you may think peppermint is a seasonal thing but don't let it be. Have a little each day and if nothing else, you will always have good breathe!

 

"Then He'll call me some day to my home far away, Where His glory forever I'll share."

I don't know about you but I love The Voice. It is one Bobby and I watch together and we love it every year. This year has for sure been my favorite. I usually cling to one contestant but this year, I had like 6 favorites. We are down to the top 4 and 3 of the top 4 are my all time favorite contestants. The reason for this post is because on Monday night, one of them sang a song that is so near and dear to my heart, The Old Rugged Cross. It was my Maw-Maw's favorite hymn and was played at her funeral. But beyond that, the words to The Old Rugged Cross are so deep and spiritual, it makes me tear up every time I hear it.

 

 

Today's blog is going to be a short one. Sometimes it's better to listen than it is to speak. So I am going to let Craig Wayne Boyd do the speaking for me. If you aren't familiar with the song, here are the lyrics. Craig does a shorter version (sings verses 1 and 4) but the message behind it is just as loud.

 

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suff’ring and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain. 

 

Refrain:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

 

Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.

 

Refrain:

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

 

In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.

 

Refrain:

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

 

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.

 

Refrain:

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

 

 

The main subject of the song is about the Crucifixion and the scripture is taken from is Galatians 6:14 which says "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." (KJV) It was written by George Bennard.

 

George Bennard was in the Salvation Army and after he left, he and his wife became brigade leaders before leaving the organization for the Methodist Church. As a Methodist evangelist, Bennard wrote the first verse of "The Old Rugged Cross" in the fall of 1912 as a response to ridicule that he had received at a revival meeting. During the meetings with other evangelists in 1913, Rev. George Bennard finished "The Old Rugged Cross". The completed version was then performed on June 7th, 1913, by a choir of five, at the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Pokagon. It has then gone to be performed and recorded by so many different artist.

 

Thank you Craig for the reminder I need to hear every day. For reminding me that getting to Jesus Christ in the end is the goal I should strive for every day. Because in the end, I will leave all the worldly possessions behind me and give it all up to be with you. Exchange it all for a crown someday.

 

 

He loves being surrounded by his girls. And why would he not.....?.....We are a lot of fun!

Dear Diary,

I am one lucky girl. I grew up with an amazing dad. A dad that took the time for his girls. A dad that gave us what he could, even in all those hard years. He never complained or showed us any less of a man that he was. When my sister was 15 and I was 11, he started this tradition of taking us shopping for our mom for Christmas. The 4 of us would go to dinner and then my mom would go back home and enjoy a quiet night to herself and dad and his girls would go shopping. That year was their 17th Christmas together so dad bought her 17 different things. It was so much fun. All the years of shopping for my mom with my dad and sister has never gotten old. We've gotten so many different things, eaten at so many different places, gone from ordering a water, to ordering a coke to ordering a bottle of wine. It use to be 3 of us, but now my sweet Lou gets to come along. Dad says any of his girls can come. So that means Hayden stays home and if I have all boys, then they stay home. It is what it is and I love it. My sister sent me pictures last night of ones she could find from us going. The early years we don't have because cell phones were a thing of the future, especially a camera on the phone. So she found what she could and here they are.

 2008- I was still in college and Kara was very pregnant with Landry. I love looking back at my hairstyles. I am so glad I have long hair now. Me and short hair just don't go hand and hand. My sister on the other hand can pull off short hair like no other!

 

 

2009- Bobby had not proposed to me yet, but little did I know, 4 hours later he would! What a day! This was an easy time with Landry. She just sat while we wheeled her around.

 

 

2010- And welcome to almost 2 years old Miss. Landry! Who knows what she was upset about but I love this picture so much. We were all doing our best to smile and poor thing just wasn't having it. Life of a toddler.

 

 

2011- No Landry in this photo for some odd reason. But I was a married women meeting up for the very first time. I had always rode with my dad but not this year. Oh look at the long flowing hair. Much better!

 

2012 we were in Disney and just did the shopping there and for some odd reason we did not get a photo from 2013. We did things different so maybe that was the reason. Kara and I could not remember why we didn't.

 

 

 And here we are to last night, 2014. Every year my mom always tells my dad to not buy her a lot or that they aren't buying each other gifts because of some reason and every year he just says "yes dear" knowing he will buy her something. Kara and I just laugh at the two of them all the time. They act like they are dating. They look at each other like they are dating. They flirt and laugh and kiss and set a wonderful example for Kara, Landry and I.

 

 

Thank you Dad for all the memories you have given us on this night. What you mean to Kara and I, could never be touched. You set an example of what a husband should be like and what a daddy should be like. You keep God always as the line leader of your life and are a constant reminder of the good God gives. You take care of us, you make us laugh, your rough and gruff tone is easily melted with a hug or an "oh dad!". Landry loves you to the moon and back and so do Kara and I. So just thank you dad, thank you for it all. Thank you for taking the time for your girls. You always say it's your favorite place to be, it's your heaven on earth. I am just glad I get to be apart of it. I love you!

 

 

Love, Me

 

P.S. I need a new coat! I didn't realize how old that black, puffy coat was until I saw it back in photos. Once you find a coat that works, I guess you hang on to it. Well in my situation, that is true.

 

Wrapping Paper ideas for Christmas

What a weekend! Bobby and I actually had a Saturday to ourselves. Not that we don't love being with family or friends, but it was so nice just the two of us and nothing planned. We slept in, had breakfast together, he went to the gym while I tidied up and finished reading my book and then he got back home and we decided to go Christmas shopping. And we got 3/4 done. It is such a relief to be almost done. Christmas is in 3 and 1/3 weeks but it's going to come so fast!

 

One of my favorite things to do is wrap. I love wrapping Christmas gifts. I love making them so pretty. Wrapping gifts really feeds my artistic side and Bobby doesn't complain because he doesn't have to do them. I love going over the top on wrapping gifts too. I know there are some people I wrap for that don't care, like my nieces and nephews. So you wont ever see me wrap a gift for them with pretty bows and ribbon. It's usually just paper and maybe a to/from sticker. On theirs, I sometimes just write on the paper. I know it's trashy but they are all under the age of 6 and they just tear into anyways. But on the other people in my life (mostly the women), I try to make it so pretty! Big bows, ribbon, maybe an ornament or something cute. I went to Pinterest (because we all know how much I LOVE Pin) and found these awesome wrapping ideas I am going to try out this year. Not only do they look pretty when you give it to someone, but they look even prettier under your tree. I can't wait to start wrapping!

 

 

 

 

 

This looks easy. Brown paper sack wrapping, dark string, fake greenery, white paint and the end of a paint brush and a cute to/from card. Wrap the gift in paper sack wrapping, take the end of the paint brush and dip it in the white paint and put as little or as many dots on the paper. Let it dry and then add the ribbon, greenery and card. Done

 

 

 

 

 

 

For those creative children in your life.....sometimes waiting to open gifts can be torture! So give them something to do before they open their gift. They will have fun and not bug you that whole 15 minutes they have to wait!

 

 

 

 

Kent and Colton's school they attend always sells the best paper. And this year, they sold chalk paper. I bought 2 roles because I knew I would use it this year. The only problem with using chalk, is that it can rub off easy. So use a painter instead and get creative. Each one can be different. Like for my Landry bug, I might draw Peppa Pig on hers. And for Colton, I might draw Batman. And for my mom, maybe a Christmas tree. Or you can have your children draw on them for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Again, I love the brown paper bag look. It is simple and classic and can be for a female or a male. And then with their name simply written, just so elegant.  

 



 

 

 

 

Unless you are my friend Jasmine and have a weird thing towards cotton balls, this is such a cute idea. You just pull the cotton balls apart to make the fluff. They make large cotton balls and they come like 70 to a pack and its like $2! Pretty cheap and cute decorating.

 

 

 I know a lot of people who like all of their Christmas gifts to look the same. This is a really cute and fun idea. Black and white go with anything. You can add any color to it to match. You can even do different color ribbon to give it an extra pop without changing the look from under your tree.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Again, black goes with everything. And no, it may not be the first color you think of when you hear Christmas, but its what you do with it that can make your present look Christmassy. Black and gold remind me of my Toy Tiger days so maybe that's why I love these colors so much. Go Irving Tigers!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unless you are my family, this would be really cute. And by that I mean, we have so many D's, K's and B's in my family, I couldn't just put a B on it and know who it's for. But I could put an A and it be for Angie. Or for that friend you get a gift for, you could easily do this. You can even cut out the name with paper and glue it on. Doesn't have to be complicated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I love this. It's so simple but so elegant. It all matches without matching. I love those snowflakes and they could easily become an ornament for someone's tree. Just tie clear string to the end and bam. You can find these at Hobby Lobby or any place that sells Christmas things. It's all about being creative with the things you find.

 

 

                                                              So unless you don't have dogs, this could work. Or just wait to put the candy on them till when you leave. Such a simple and cute idea for children. And you don't have to use white paper. Any paper would go, especially when there is candy attached to it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I love glitter. Any time I can decorate with glitter I do. And this is probably the cheapest way to get someone's name on the paper without it looking trashy. Elmer's glue and glitter! Done

 

 

 

 

                                         And this my friends is so something I would do. Anytime I can draw, I do. This would take the most time but be the most rewarding. That person is most likely not gonna want to open your gift after all that hard work. Outline it with a pencil first before you get the sharpie to it. And make sure you draw light enough to erase but dark enough for you to see.

 

 

 

 

In my next house, I will have a wrapping room. Full of paper and glue and tape and scissors and bows and ribbon and glitter and pens. And no more sitting down on the ground, braking my back wrapping 20 gifts in a row! Ugh. I will have a station for it all. And it will all be organized. But for now, it's a mess and the floor and the hour I spend trying to walk my back out after I get up.

 

 

 

Also wanted to let you know that I started a new party on my Younique page. You are just in time to order and get it in by Christmas. Younique makes a wonderful gift for all those special people in your life. Rather it be the 3D mascara or a fun eye pigment color for your girlfriends. Younique has it all. Anyone who makes a purchase in this party will receive either a free eye pigment with any $40 purchase or a free lip-gloss with any $50 purchase. Party ends Saturday, December 13th at midnight. So make sure you get your orders in. If you do qualify for the freebie, I will reach out to you after I have seen you bought.

 

https://www.youniqueproducts.com/DaniLynnLewis/party/1053051/view

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Monday