Category: Christmas Recipes

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas

By Cyndi – Posted on

happy holidays and a holly jolly merry christmas

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas

Christmas 2025 is going to be spectacular. I can feel it.

And what better way to celebrate the season than with family, dear friends and song.

Christmas is such a joyful holiday that comes into our hearts warming our homes throughout the holiday season.

Each and every year I go all out decorating my home for Christmas.

My Christmas decorations are as pretty as Princess Grace.

The reason that I decorate my home from my living and all the way into my kitchen is simple; I love how they make my home look.

I especially love how my Christmas decorations make me feel, which is emotional, cozy and comfy. And when my home illumines with my white Christmas lights, it seems like the lights flow well into the moonlit sky.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays and Prosperity To All

What makes a Merry Christmas and this sensational holiday happy?

For me it’s my family and home. It’s also the emotion that blankets me from the crown of my head to the souls of my feet.

The warmth that overtakes me like a whirlwind is the same feeling that I have felt since I was a child. This amazing sensation has always been a major and profound part of my life for as long as I can remember. I truly love the remarkable feeling of the holiday season.

This time of year gives me so much hope, joy and peace. Having this kind of love and joy is truly beautiful and it is, at least for me and my loved one, the meaning of good cheer.

Enjoying this kind of wealth and prosperity are the riches that delivers an abundance of happiness into my life every year every Christmas.

Holidays Are Happy When Christmas Is Merry

When I hear the words Merry Christmas I also hear Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year and one more song that literally melts my heart and that song is O Holy Night.

These songs put me in a deeper Christmas mood and I just enjoy listening to them all season long and beyond.

When I turn my home into a winter-wonderland my son smiles because he  knows how happy celebrating Christmas makes me and besides he loves it too!

As October draws near I’ll be listening to some of the greatest Christmas classics from some of the best recording artists ever. Holiday traditions will be celebrated once again this year with gratefulness, compassion and good cheer.

The Christmas Season and Happy Holidays Are Coming Soon

Christmas lights, will once again, create a warm atmosphere along with red and gold Christmas ornaments. I’m looking forward to seeing them brighten the corner space in my living room. Happy faces will grace this place.

Gold reindeer will be a centerpiece under my sofa table to add a bit of sparkling glitter.

A beautiful brown wooden tray will adorn my coffee table this Christmas. On this lovely brown tray I’ll add my red Christmas hurricanes as well and of course I can’t forget to add my special baked treats. Brownies will be the main attraction and who doesn’t love a rich dark chocolate brownie. I may have to go and bake some at this very moment!

What about you? How will you make your Christmas merry and your holiday happy this year? I’m sure you have your Christmas list for the most wonderful time of the year.

It’s never too early to prepare for Christmas is it?

It’s a holly jolly feeling that makes me sing merry and bright and may your Christmas be bright.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays everyone! 

Sincerely, Cyn

www.christmasevermore.com

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Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Brownie Mix

By Cyndi – Posted on

A Christmas Tradition That Melts In My Mouth Every Holiday Season

Ghiradelli Dark Chocolate Brownie Mix for the Holiday Season

Ghirardelli’s dark chocolate brownies melt your heart as they warm your mouth.

Good Day Christmas Luminaries,

Today I want to talk about Ghirardelli’s Premium Dark Chocolate Brownie Mix.

One of the things I love about Christmas is baking. 

My family and I love brownies. If I bake Ghirardelli’s dark brownies and nothing else for the holidays I’ll be just as happy as if someone had baked a dozen different desserts for me.

Have you ever used a recipe only to find that it needed your extra special touch? Well, that’s how I feel about these decadent brownies. Now, don’t get me wrong, these babies are more than scrumptious and I love them just the way they are when they come out of my oven.

Here’s the thing with me and these brownies. Although I simply love these moist squares I like to do something a little different with them.

The recipe calls for oil, water and one egg. I find these brownies to be super fudgey (is there such a word).

And even though I do enjoy fudgey brownies, I love cake-like brownies so much more. So to make my brownies more cakey, I add two large eggs to the recipe. You can also add a little coffee to the mix if you really want to bring out the chocolate favor. 

Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Brownies Are The Perfect Blend of Decadence and Goodness

Ghirardelli Dark Brownie Mix for the Holiday Season

These brownies maybe from a box, but they are just as delicious as if they had been made from scratch. That’s how wonderful they are.

Furthermore, these brownies are not too sweet at all. That’s another thing that I love about them.

At one time I was hooked on Duncan Hines’ brownies, but once I discovered Ghirardelli’s dark chocolate brownies, I have not looked back.

They are more expensive than other brands that you find in the supermarket, but they are more than worth spending a bit more.

Another thing that I love about this brownie mix is that they come with chocolate chip morsels added in the mix. If you’re a chocolate lover like me you’re going to love when you bite into your brownie square and a chocolate morsel meets your mouth and make you feel like you’re on another planet because that’s just how good they really are.

Every Time I Bake These Brownies I Add More Chocolate Chip Morsels To The Mix

Wait! I have to tell you this. The other thing that I add to the mix sometimes is peanut butter morsels and you know why? You guessed it. I love peanut butter.

You know chocolate and peanut butter going well together and the two are indeed a marriage made in my heart.

When the chocolate chip morsels and peanut butter morsels are poured and baked into the mix you have a dessert so special that guests would not be able to tell if you made them from scratch unless you told them, but why would you! 

Each and every year at Christmas I bake a bunch of brownies for my family. It is with pleasure that I go into my kitchen to whip up these mouth-watering chocolate squares. I love that I get to watch my family enjoy this one very special dessert every year every Christmas. 

Believe me when I tell you that it doesn’t take long for our hands to reach into the cake plate to grab one brownie, then two and three until they are all gone. 

I think it maybe time for me to get out the Ghirardelli dark chocolate brownie that I bought from Target yesterday because after all Christmas, for me, is everyday!

Why don’t you make yourself some Ghirardelli dark chocolate brownies and treat your family to a special kind of love.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Cyndi

www.christmasevermore.com

 

 

Festive Christmas Crafts and DIY

By Cyndi – Posted on

Deck the Halls (and Your Home!) with These Festive Christmas Crafts

Christmas crafts for your home

Christmas crafts for your home and a little DIY? Let’s go!The air is getting crisper, the carols are starting to play, and the anticipation for Christmas is building! What better way to embrace the holiday spirit than with some fun and festive Christmas crafts? Not only is crafting a delightful activity for all ages, but it also adds a personal touch to your decorations and gift-giving.

Forget the generic store-bought ornaments and embrace the joy of creating something unique and meaningful. Here are a few Christmas craft ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

1. DIY Ornament Extravaganza:

  • Salt Dough Ornaments: A classic for a reason! Mix flour, salt, and water, roll it out, and use cookie cutters to create festive shapes. Bake them, let them cool, and unleash your inner artist with paint, glitter, and embellishments. These make wonderful keepsakes and gifts.
  • Cinnamon Stick Bundles: Simply bundle cinnamon sticks together with twine, adding berries, pine sprigs, or miniature pinecones for a rustic and fragrant ornament. The natural scent will fill your home with holiday warmth.
  • Beaded Snowflake Ornaments: Use pipe cleaners or wire as a base and string on a variety of beads to create dazzling snowflake ornaments. Experiment with different colors and bead sizes for unique designs.

2. Rustic Home Decor Charms:

  • Pinecone Wreath: Gather fallen pinecones and glue them onto a foam wreath form. Add a festive ribbon, berries, or a dusting of faux snow for a charming rustic wreath.
  • Mason Jar Snow Globes: Transform a simple mason jar into a winter wonderland. Glue miniature figurines and faux snow to the inside of the lid, fill the jar with water and glitter, and screw the lid on tightly. Shake and watch the magic happen!
  • Yarn-Wrapped Christmas Trees: Cut out a cardboard triangle and wrap it tightly with colorful yarn. Embellish with buttons, beads, or small pom-poms for a whimsical and cozy decoration.

3. Thoughtful Handmade Gifts:

  • Personalized Mugs: Purchase plain mugs and use permanent markers or special ceramic paint to create custom designs. Add initials, favorite quotes, or festive illustrations for a truly unique and thoughtful gift.
  • Homemade Bath Bombs: Whip up a batch of homemade bath bombs using baking soda, citric acid, essential oils, and your favorite scents. Wrap them in cellophane bags and tie with ribbon for a luxurious and relaxing gift.
  • Cozy Knitted Scarves or Beanies: If you’re handy with knitting needles, a handmade scarf or beanie is a warm and appreciated gift, especially during the cold winter months. Choose their favorite colors and a soft, comfortable yarn.

Tips for Successful Christmas Crafting:

  • Plan Ahead: Decide on your projects and gather the necessary supplies in advance.
  • Embrace Imperfection: Don’t strive for perfection! Handmade crafts are all about the charm of imperfection.
  • Get the Family Involved: Crafting is a great activity for the whole family. Get everyone involved and create lasting memories.
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Try different techniques, colors, and materials to personalize your crafts.
  • Enjoy the Process: Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of creating something beautiful and festive.

This Christmas, step away from the commercial hustle and bustle and embrace the joy of handmade crafts. Not only will you create beautiful decorations and thoughtful gifts, but you’ll also create lasting memories and a deeper connection to the holiday spirit. So, gather your supplies, put on some festive music, and get crafting! Let your creativity shine and create a truly magical Christmas.

Let’s create some Christmas crafts for your home and celebrate the holiday season.

Merry Christmas Friends.

Cyn

www.kingofchristmas.com

 

Christmas Morning Through Loving Eyes

By Cyndi – Posted on

The Magic Still Lingers: Christmas Morning Through Grown-Up Eyes

Christmas Morning Traditions and Joy

Christmas morning traditions and joy awaken us to love.

Christmas morning. The words alone conjure up a whirlwind of nostalgia, a heady mix of sugar-fueled excitement and the comforting warmth of family. We remember the feeling of anticipation, the frantic tearing of wrapping paper, the sheer, unadulterated joy of discovering the treasures

Santa had left behind. But what happens when we grow up? Does the magic of Christmas morning simply fade, replaced by the more practical realities of adulthood?

While the childlike wonder may soften around the edges, the magic of Christmas morning, I believe, simply transforms. It morphs from a focus on personal gain to a celebration of connection, tradition, and heartfelt giving.

Gone are the days of bounding out of bed at the crack of dawn, driven by the lust for new toys. Now, the morning often begins with a quiet cup of coffee, a moment to appreciate the peaceful stillness before the family chaos erupts.

We might steal a glance at the twinkling lights on the tree, a silent acknowledgment of the shared memories and the history it represents.

The focus shifts from receiving to giving. The anticipation now lies in witnessing the reactions of loved ones as they open the gifts we carefully selected, hoping they capture the essence of our relationship.

The joy comes not from the thrill of a new gadget, but from the warmth of a hug, the genuine delight on a child’s face, or the knowing smile of a partner who appreciates the thought that went into a present.

Christmas Traditions Last Forevermore In The Spirit of Love

Traditions become even more important. The familiar rituals, from the specific type of breakfast eaten (pancakes shaped like reindeer, anyone?) to the order in which presents are opened, become anchors in a sea of change. They are the threads that connect generations, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences that strengthens family bonds.

Perhaps the most profound shift is in our understanding of the true meaning of Christmas. As children, we might have focused on the presents, but as adults, we begin to appreciate the deeper message of hope, peace, and goodwill.

Christmas morning becomes a reminder to be grateful for what we have, to cherish the people in our lives, and to extend kindness and compassion to those in need.

While the frantic energy of childhood Christmases may be replaced with a more measured pace, the magic remains. It’s in the shared laughter, the cozy atmosphere, the feeling of belonging, and the simple act of being present with loved ones.

This year, as you gather around the tree on Christmas morning, take a moment to appreciate the evolving magic. Embrace the traditions, cherish the connections, and remember that the true spirit of Christmas lies not in the gifts we receive, but in the love we share. Because even though we’ve grown up, the magic of Christmas morning, in its own unique way, still lingers. 

Christmas morning traditions and joy is the spirit that brings us peace.

Merry Christmas everybody.

Cyn

www.kingofchristmas.com

How To Have a Delightful Christmas Brunch

By Cyndi – Posted on

It’s Christmas Morning and Time To Enjoy a Wonderful Christmas Brunch

A Festive and Delicious Christmas Brunch

How to have a festive and delicious Christmas Brunch.

Looking for a festive and delicious way to celebrate Christmas morning? Skip the presents for a bit and gather around a delightful Christmas brunch!

From sweet treats to savory delights, there’s a perfect recipe to satisfy every palate. Imagine fluffy cinnamon rolls dripping with icing, alongside a cheesy strata packed with sausage and vegetables.

Or perhaps a lighter option like a vibrant fruit salad served with homemade granola and yogurt parfaits.

With a little planning and preparation, you can create a memorable and stress-free brunch that will become a cherished holiday tradition.

Enjoy a festive and delicious Christmas Brunch and have a Merry Christmas!

Cyndi

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Feeling the Christmas Vibes All Year Long

By Cyndi – Posted on

When Feeling the Vibes of Christmas You Plan for the Holiday Season

Happy Saturday Christmas Friends,

I am in my happy space, my bedroom office, feeling all warm, comfy, cozy and Christmasy.

Feeling the cold that February invited when she arrived I am loving this vibrant cold season. It reminds me of Christmas and its great wonder and splendor.

The winter season is my favorite time of year. My plan is to enjoy every second of the season because it is going to hot enough, soon enough and long enough.

Embracing the winter months never fail to deliver tremendous joy to me every year. Ever since I was a child I have loved and adored the Ber months.

Starting in September when I decorate my home with Autumn, I patiently await winter’s arrival and the moment I feel its amazing presence I start decorating for Christmas. 

Although it’s a new year and I know that warmer days are ahead, as slong as it is still freezing and snowing out, I am going to bask in this wondrous time. 

Christmas Vibes Are In the Air

Deeply moved with Christmas vibes today, February is the month that I start planning for Christmas. I shop for Christmas gifts and I stock up on the essentials that I need for Christmastime.

One of the many things that make Christmas super special to me is baking. Stumbling upon this amazing website, Divas Can Cook, I have tried several of her recipes and I have not been disappointed. I am not the best baker in the world, but I still love to bake for my family and they appreciate my desserts. It’s a part of our Christmas tradition.

The reason I shop so early for Christmas gifts and stock up on staples for my home is because I don’t want to run around trying to find the things I need for the joyous holiday season at the last moment. 

Here’s what I’ll be buying in a few weeks for the holidays: Feeling the Christmas vibes is real and alive.

  • Pam Baking Spray
  • Olive Oil
  • Seasonings for Thanksgiving and Christmas
  • Mayo
  • Carnation Milk
  • Cranberry Sauce
  • Elbow Macaroni

Planning and preparing for the Christmas season early brings me immense joy. It’s all part of celebrating the most wonderful time of the year.

This year I’ll be incorporating a few new from scratch recipes that include a few pasta dishes. I think the Italian in me is longing for something with a twist for Christmas 2025. 

I need my creativity to flourish this year and I am going to see to it that it does in more ways than one.

Well, I hope everyone has a fantastic Saturday. It’s time for to create some new designs right now because Christmas will be coming up and over the hills soon and I have got to be ready.

Here’s wishing you a very Merry Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Cyn

www.godsvirtuouswomenentrepreneurs.com  

The Best Sweet Potato Pie Ever

By Cyndi – Posted on

A Recipe of Sweet, Sweeter, Sweetness Called Sweet Potato Pie

 

The Best Sweet Potato Pie

The best sweet potato pie recipe is here!

My mother, God bless her, made a sweet potato pie that was too good to be true. She was the greatest cook and baker.

I watched her every move in the kitchen and remember every ingredient that lovingly went into that thick strong glass bowl each and every time she created deliciousness all throughout the year. 

At Thanksgiving I could smell those tasty pies permeating throughout our home. When they touched my tongue my tummy smiled.

Now I bake these same pies at Thanksgiving and Christmas. My husband and children love them.

Here’s the recipe.

  • Five large sweet potatoes
  • Butter
  • Carnation Milk
  • White sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Nutmeg
  • Ginger
  • Cinnamon 
  • 3 frozen pie shells

Christmas Friends I do not measure any of my ingredients. All I can suggest is that you use them to your liking, your own taste. 

One thing I can tell you is that I do bake my pies for about an hour. They turn out perfectly amazing every time. Brown and tan in color with rich velvety goodness define this heavenly warm slice of love.

Have yourself a very amazing Merry Christmas,

Cyndi

www.achampagnechristmas.com

Moist and Delicious Dark Chocolate Brownies

By Cyndi – Posted on

The Best Dark Chocolate Brownies Baking in the Oven
Desserts for the Christmas Holiday

One of the best desserts for the Christmas holiday is Ghirardelli brownies.

I am a brownie lover. Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Brownies are my absolute favorite. They are rich in dark chocolate and just plain mouth watering comfort food delicious.

When I first discovered these rich and moist brownies I went strictly by the recipe on the back of the box which is one egg, a quarter cup of water and a half cup of oil. This recipe was good, but because I love cake-like brownies I decided to change this amazing recipe a bit to my liking. 

Now when I bake the brownies I add two eggs instead of one. I also add a little more water and an extra teaspoon of olive oil. Olive oil brings out the dark chocolate flavor in these super moist brownies.

These brownies yield about 24 cake-like brownies depending on how I cut them vertically and horizontally.

Desserts for the Christmas holiday is something that my family and I look forward during the holiday season.

Every year at Christmastime and all throughout the holidays I bake 2-3 batches of these sweeties. My family gobbles them up in a day. 

I keep at least nine boxes on hand every year. This year I grabbed all nine boxes while they were on sale at Big Lots. 

My family always enjoy eating these brownies with a tall bottle of spring water. The two go well together but that’s because we adore water.

Should you decide to try these brownies, please let me know your thoughts.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Everyone. 

Cyndi

Email: cyndisdesignz@gmail.com

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