What I’ve been making, baking, and finding comfort in as Christmas gets closer...

Well, here we are. The final weekend before Christmas. Is it just me, or does it feel like December shorted us an entire week this year? I swear we blinked and suddenly it was Christmas Eve adjacent. Missing week or not, here we are.

This weekend I am crossing off the last few things on my to-do list. I am baking a couple more batches of cookies, including my Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookies, which will forever be my favorite Christmas cookie. I only make them once a year, so I look forward to them every single season.

I also have a few last-minute gifts to buy and, of course, get wrapped up beautifully. Every year I like to add something a little special to the top of my packages. Last year, while antiquing, I stumbled upon a few dozen vintage brass ornaments for under ten dollars, which felt like a small Christmas miracle. This year, I decided to make hand-painted and collaged tags with little trees on them. They are turning out so cute. Once they are finished, I will have to take a photo and share them with you next weekend.

And yes, I did have a moment where I wondered if I really needed a last-minute project this close to Christmas. Should I be spending time hand-painting beads to string on these tags when half of them will likely end up tossed out with the wrapping paper? Probably not. But then I remembered it is not really about the end result. It is about the making. About the process. It has become a little crafty retreat from the rest of the holiday hustle, and I keep finding excuses to sneak down to the studio and work on them instead of doing the things I am supposed to be doing. And I think that exactly what I need.

The same thing happened with the pipe cleaner loop garland I shared on the blog this past week. It is such a simple project, but the result is so nostalgic and charming. I could have happily sat there making strand after strand.

I guess all of this is just a gentle reminder to take a moment to fill up your cup during these final days leading up to Christmas and in the days that follow. It matters. And if one cookie recipe (except for the cream wafers) does not get made so that you can sneak away and paint some wooden beads, or do whatever your heart is craving, the season will still arrive and it will still be just as magical.

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What's on the Blog this Week

Speaking of little joys, there are a few new things on the blog this week that might bring a smile. I especially recommend the Baked Jalapeño Artichoke Dip. It's SO GOOD and I'm looking for any excuse to make it again.

​Pipe Cleaner Loop Garland - NEW!

This nostalgic DIY Pipe Cleaner Loop Garland proves that holiday decorating does not need to be complicated to feel special. With minimal materials and easy assembly, you can create a custom garland to add a festive touch to your home during the holidays.

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​Baked Jalapeño Artichoke Dip - NEW!

This is my new favorite dip! If you’re looking for an easy hot dip that feels classic but not boring, this Baked Jalapeño Artichoke Dip fits the bill. The artichokes add savory flavor, the jalapeños bring a gentle kick, and the cheesy base keeps everything rich and comforting.

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​The Ultimate Christmas Appetizers​

Dreaming of the perfect Christmas spread? Dive into a curated collection of festive holiday appetizers, from timeless classics with a unique twist to show-stopping favorites. Your merry gatherings are about to level up with these delectable bites.

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​Martha Washington Candy - NEW!

Looking for a make-ahead holiday candy recipe? Cherry Coconut Pecan Candies (Martha Washington Candy) are a great choice for Christmas entertaining and gifting. With their creamy center, nutty crunch, cherry kiss, and chocolate coating, they’re a timeless treat that will be appreciated by many.

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​Sweet & Salty Cashew Toffee Pretzels - NEW!

These Sweet & Salty Cashew Toffee Pretzels are the ultimate holiday snack mix. Crunchy pretzels are coated in a buttery toffee glaze and tossed with cashews and toffee bits for the perfect blend of flavors and textures.