Holiday Family Fun e Book

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PRESENTS

Page 2

2006 ModernSage.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Holiday Family Fun

Table of Contents:
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS.......................................................................................................................................................3
Thanks a Million...........................................................................................................................................................................3
A Fun Idea! ................................................................................................................................................................................3
In My Family..................................................................................................................................................................................3
Round the Turkey: A Grateful Thanksgiving...............................................................................................................4
A Fun Idea! ................................................................................................................................................................................4
Tattered Sails................................................................................................................................................................................4
A Fun Idea!......................................................................................................................................................................................4
HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS BOOKS..............................................................................................................................................5
Katy and the Big Snow............................................................................................................................................................5
Snowflake Bentle........................................................................................................................................................................5
A Fun Idea! ................................................................................................................................................................................5
Thank You From Around the World..................................................................................................................................6
CRAFTY GIFT IDEAS.......................................................................................................................................................................7
Planting Gratitude! ....................................................................................................................................................................7
Plant Pals.........................................................................................................................................................................................8
A Fun idea! .................................................................................................................................................................................8
HOLIDAY CRAFT IDEAS................................................................................................................................................................9
Falling Leaves ...............................................................................................................................................................................9
Easy Squash Turkey................................................................................................................................................................10
Tabletop Turkeys ......................................................................................................................................................................10
Im Thankful for You Treat Bags.................................................................................................................................11
Holiday Piatas ..........................................................................................................................................................................12
Make Your Own Holiday Prints .........................................................................................................................................13
A Fun Idea! ..............................................................................................................................................................................14
Silver Bells....................................................................................................................................................................................14
Lacy Snowflakes........................................................................................................................................................................16
A Cheerful Snowman ..............................................................................................................................................................17
Colorful Sparklers.....................................................................................................................................................................18
Lacy Angels ..................................................................................................................................................................................19
Aluminum Foil Menorah........................................................................................................................................................20
Kiddish Cup Necklace.............................................................................................................................................................21
Reaching Out and Giving Back to Others ........................................................................................................................22
RECIPES FOR GIFTING...............................................................................................................................................................23
Thanksgiving Blessing Mix..................................................................................................................................................23
Candy Cane Sled........................................................................................................................................................................23
Snickerdoodle Mix....................................................................................................................................................................24
Herb Dip Mix................................................................................................................................................................................25
Bacon Flavored Dip Mix.........................................................................................................................................................25
Sesame Cheese Dip Mix ........................................................................................................................................................26
Onion Cheese Dip Mix.............................................................................................................................................................26
Vegetable Dip Mix.....................................................................................................................................................................27
Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Mix ..........................................................................................................................................27
Instant Cappuccino..................................................................................................................................................................28
Cappuccino Mocha Mix...........................................................................................................................................................28
Cafe Cappuccino........................................................................................................................................................................28
Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar.................................................................................................................................29
Milk Bath Mix...............................................................................................................................................................................29
Page 3


BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Teaching children to help others and give thanks is something we strive to do all year long, however, it is
especially important during the holidays when we stop to celebrate our blessings and both give and
receive gifts.

Team ModernSage would like to share a few book selections to help you share the spirit of giving with
your child.

Thanks a Million
By Nikki Grimes. Illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera

Nikki Grimes is an award-winning author who through this book of poems
will help your child give thought to true thankfulness. Each poem in the
book conveys a message of thankfulness. People in various life
circumstances express their gratitude for friends, family, including the gift of
a warm night in a homeless shelter and a thank you in sign language. The
16 poems in the book include a rebus, a riddle, haiku, and other verse
forms.

A favorite poem from the book describes thank you as a seed planted in
the garden of your heart. You wont be disappointed by this thoughtful
book selection!

A Fun Idea!

After completing one of the gift or craft ideas, have your child write a thank
you poem of their own and surprise a friend or family member with this unique thank you gift. Plus,
check out the Planting Gratitude activity as a companion to this wonderful book.

In My Family
Written and illustrated Carmen Lomas Garza.

Carmen Garza Lomas celebrates her family and childhood growing up in a small
Texas town. In this colorful bilingual book we meet many of her extended family,
including her grandparents as they prepare and stir-fry fresh-cut cactus pads in the
kitchen. The author shares in family traditions and celebrations - her cousins
wedding (where the bride is blessed by her mother), a miracle involving the Virgin of
Guadalupe (which appeared on a water tower of a nearby ranch), and a family
birthday cook-out where a great uncle consoles a crying young child. The vibrant
illustrations accentuate the warm and colorful family life in this Mexican American community. Note: This
book has received numerous awards and honors, including the 1997 Childrens Book of Distinction.

Page 4


Round the Turkey: A Grateful Thanksgiving
Written by Leslie Kimmelman. Illustrated by Nancy Cote.

Through this entertaining and sweet book, we meet Jesse and his extended family as
they gather around the Thanksgiving dinner table. The opening 2-page spread is a
drawing of a tree with drawings of Jesses family members arranged in a family tree.
As the family sits down to dinner, Jesses grandmother suggests they go around the
table and share what they are grateful for this Thanksgiving Day. Each persons
response is written in a rhyming verse. Uncle Dave and Aunt Terry are thankful for
the daughter they are adopting from a faraway land. Pre-teen Susan is thankful for
her speech therapist, while Nelson is thankful for his pets. And, Jesses mom and dad are thankful for
their messy and noisy children. This cheerful and colorful book helps us appreciate the big and little
things in life!

A Fun Idea!

Gather a large piece of paper and some family photos (Kids get permission first to use any photos!).
Draw and color a tree trunk, branches and leaves. Arrange the photos to form a family tree and glue to
the tree branches. Are you missing photos for some family members? See if you can locate them through
cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Tattered Sails
Written by Verla Kay. Illustrated by Dan Adreasen.

Verla Kay takes us on a journey full of hope and hardship from England to
the New World. Beautiful watercolors full of emotion highlight the rhythmic
verses that tell the story of Canvas billows, Salty Breeze, Water glistens,
Azure Seas. Of course, all is not pleasant on the voyage, as she describes
wormy biscuits, lice and rats. This is a good selection for young and old
alike as we remember the sacrifices made by the early settlers.

A Fun Idea!
As you read Tattered Sails to your child, a niece, a nephew, a grandchild or a
favorite young friend, mark off a 3 foot square area with tape. Ask them to
pretend they are a passenger on the ship in the story and this is the space they
have to themselves.

Page 5


HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS BOOKS

Katy and the Big Snow

by Virginia Lee Burton
ISBN: 0395185629

Virginia Lee Burton brings a charming and brave snowplow to life in this classic tale
of determination and bravery. During the summer Katy is a bulldozer, but in the
winter she dons her snow plow. However, past winters have been mild, and Katy the
Snowplow has not been of much use, so she thinks. But, a blizzard hits Geoppolis
and disaster strikes! Power lines have toppled. The doctor cannot get his patient to
the hospital, and the fire department needs to reach a house that is on fire. Katy saves the day amidst
the heavy, blowing snows. The cheerful illustrations make one almost wish for snow!

Snowflake Bentley

by Jacqueline Briggs Martin. Illustrated by Mary Azarian
ISBN: 0395861624

The Snowflake Bentley is the true story of Wilson Bentley who became
known as The Snowflake Man. At the age of fifteen, he was given a
microscope. In later years, he meshed a microscope and a camera and
became the first person to photograph snow crystals. Snowflake Bentley
won the 1999 Caldecott award (a prestigious award in childrens literature
for illustrations) for its carved woodcut illustrations.

A Fun Idea!

After reading this story, gather white paper and scissors and make snowflakes to hang and enjoy.

The Big Snow

by Berta.Hader. Ilustrated by Elmer Hader
ISBN: 0689717571

This 1949 Caldecott recipient is an endearing animal story. Your child will enjoy
watching the animals prepare for winter. The birds fly south and mammals arrange
their burrows. Despite their planning, the woodland creatures need the food human
friends leave for them throughout the cold and snow. The illustrations are a mix of soft
water colors detailed drawings.

Page 6


The Tomten

by Astrid Lindgren
ISBN: 0698115910

A wonderfully warm tale from Swedish author Astrid Lindgren (author of Pippi
Longstocking)Tomten is a gnome who lives on a farm, but only comes out at
night to keep watch over the farm as the farmer and his family sleep. He visits
the animals, assuring them spring will soon come. This is a cozy story, perfect
for bedtime!

Thank You From Around the World

Country Thank You

Apache Dohje
Cantonese/Chinese Dohje (Thank you for a gift)
French Merci
German Danke
Greek Efcharisto
Hawaiian Mahalo
Hebrew Toda
Hindi Shukriya
Indonesia Makasih
Italian Grazie
Japanese Arigato
Korea Komapsumnida
Lithuania Achiu
Navaho Ahhee'
Nepali Dhanyabaad
Norway, Scotland Takk
Polish Dzieki
Spanish Gracias
Swedish/Finnish Jag tackar
Thailand Khawp khun
Ukranian Dyakooyu

Source: http://www.elite.net/~runner/jennifers/thankyou.htm

Page 7


CRAFTY GIFT IDEAS

Planting Gratitude!

This gift idea is inspired by the poem Reward in Nikki Grimes
book Thanks a Million. After decorating a clay pot and planting
seeds or a bulb, copy the poem onto a note card and give to a
family member or friend to say Youre loved and appreciated!

Ages: 3 and up (Using self-adhesive foam shapes make this
activity very toddler-friendly!)

What youll need:
Insect and flower foam shapes with self-adhesive backing
Small terra cotta pot
Potting mix
Flower seeds or an amaryllis bulb (available loose at
garden centers)
Optional: glitter glue for additional decoration.
Optional: a note card or card stock for the thank you
poem.

Directions:
1. Decorate the terra cotta pot with the foam shapes.
2. Optional: embellish with glitter glue. Place the pot on its side and decorate one section at a time,
allowing the glue to dry thoroughly before moving onto another section. If the glitter glue is
applied when the pot is in an upright position, the glue will run.
3. Fill the pot with potting mix and the seeds (or bulb).
4. Copy the poem Reward from page 4 of Nikki Grimes book Thanks A Million onto a piece of
paper, card stock or note card. Or, write a thank you poem of your own!

Note: Provide care instructions for the seeds or bulb so the recipient can enjoy the blooms of your
thankfulness for a long time!

Page 8


Plant Pals

The possibilities are endless with this gift
idea. These fun decorations can be used
to add whimsy to any potted plant,
including a holiday poinsettia.

Wooden hand-shaped cut outs can be
painted to look like a Thanksgiving turkey
and integrated into your holiday
centerpiece for a colorful display.

Ages: 3 and up (Very young children can use crayons or water-
soluble markers to color the wooden cut-outs rather than
paint.)

What youll need:
Unfinished wooden cut out shapes (Available at any major craft store)
Craft sticks
Craft paint of various colors
Small craft paintbrushes
Glitter, glitter glue, wiggly eyes.
Glue or hot glue Note: Only adults should handle a hot glue gun.
Newspaper or other materials to protect the work surface.

Directions:
1. Cover the work surface with newspapers.
2. Paint the wooden cutout (s) and craft sticks (unless colored craft sticks were purchased). Set aside
to dry completely
3. When dry, decorate the painted cutout with additional paint, glitter glue, glitter or wiggly eyes.
4. Hot glue the craft stick to the back of the cut-out (This step should only be completed by an adult.

A Fun idea!

Invite a few of your childs friends over for a painting party. Ask each to bring 2 small potted plants, such
as ivy. Have each child make 2 Plant Pals. Deliver the Plant Pals and plants to a local nursing home or
childrens hospital.

Page 9


HOLIDAY CRAFT IDEAS

Falling Leaves

Remember ironing leaves between wax
paper as a child? Try this
new twist on a favorite childhood craft.

Ages: 4 and up
Adult Supervision Required

What youll need:
Leaves and twigs gathered from outside
Wax paper
Jute or other string
Iron
Optional: grosgrain ribbon. Use in place of jute or string.
Optional: fishing wire

Directions:

1. Gather leaves and a few sticks. The sticks should
Be approximately inches long.
2. Place leaves on wax paper. Leave plenty of
Space between leaves.
3. Cover with a piece of wax paper.
4. Press with hot iron.
5. Allow to cool.
6. Cut out the leaves leaving a wide border around the leaf. If the cut is too
close to the leaf, the wax paper will separate.
7. Cut pieces of jute of varying lengths.
8. Tape one end of the jute to the back of the leaf cut-out and tie the
other end to the twig. Repeat this step of all of the leaves.
9. Cut a piece of fishing wire to use as a hanger.
10. Tie one end of the fishing wire to one end of the twig and the
Other end of the fishing wire to the opposite end of the twig.
11. Optional: Use fishing wire to double up on the leaves. Use grosgrain ribbon and hot glue to
attach the leaves to the twig.
Page 10


Easy Squash Turkey

This craft is a great opportunity to take a nature hike and gather the supplies needed to make these
festive turkey decorations.

Ages: 5 and Up

What youll need:
Small round squash
Acorns
Fall leaves
Small pine cone
2 wiggly eyes
Construction paper
Scissors
Glue gun and glue sticks Note: Adult supervision required.

Directions:
1. Remove the acorn tops and hot glue them to the bottom of the squash to form fee.
2. Glue on the leaves to form tail feathers.
3. Glue the pinecone onto the front center of the squash to form the face.
4. Attach the wiggly eyes to the pinecone.
5. Cut a beak and wattle from the construction paper and attach to the pinecone.

Tabletop Turkeys

Ages: 3 and Up

Note: The shape of red delicious apples help the turkey sit without much help on the Thanksgiving
table!

What youll need:
Large red delicious apples.
Box of toothpicks
Gum drops or colored mini-marshmallows
Construction paper to make the turkeys head

Directions:
6. Slide 3 gumdrops onto a toothpick. This will be the first feather.
7. Continue making feathers to fill the body of the apple.
8. Place the feathers on the widest end of the apple.
9. Cut a head from construction paper and draw in the eyes and beak.
10. Make a slit in the head side of the apple and slide the construction paper into the slit.
11. Make one for each guest at the table to take home or eat!

Page 11


Im Thankful for You Treat Bags

An ordinary brown lunch bag can become a gift of love with crayons, markers
and any other (optional) craft materials.and, dont forget the love!

Plus, these thoughtful gift bags can be used anytime you have guests over and
can be tailored to the occasion. For Thanksgiving, use brown lunch bags and
decorate with orange, yellow, red and brown paint, markers or crayons. For
Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanza, use white lunch bags.

Ages: 3 and Up

What youll need:
Brown or white paper lunch bags
Markers, crayons or colored pencils
Optional: sequins, glitter, ribbon, tissue paper, chenille sticks

Directions:

1. Show your child how the bag will open and sit on the table. This will help them keep their drawings
going in the right direction! Flatten the bag and place on the work surface.
2. Leave a space at the top of the bag unmarked. This will be folded and secured with a ribbon at the
end.
3. Write Thankfulness Bag or I Am Thankful For You on the bag.
4. Next, write reasons why you are thankful for the person who will be receiving your gift.
5. Decorate the bag to fit the occasion. (Have little ones make 2 handprints on the bag by painting
one hand at a time and pressing onto the bag.)
6. Place a homemade gift or other gift into the bag.
7. Fold down the top one time and punch two holes in the center about an 1 apart.
8. Thread a decorative ribbon or piece of curling ribbon through the holes and tie.

Note: Place these at the dinner table for each guest, or surprise a friend or neighbor in need to let them
know they are appreciated.

Page 12


Holiday Piatas

It is a Christmas tradition in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries to break a
piata during the time called Posada celebrated from December 16
th
to the 24
th
. Using
party hats, you can make these colorful piata decorations. They can also be used as a
party favor for guests to take home for any celebration, including New Years!. (This is
also a fun birthday party craft.)

Ages: 4 and up. Younger children will need an extra pair of hands.

What youll need:
Cone-shaped party hats
Colored paper, tissue paper, sequins, roll of streamers, glitter
Decorative cord or fishing wire.
Tape
Glue
Scissors

Directions:

1. Optional: Fill a zip top sandwich bag with nuts, raisins or other dried fruit. Close and set aside. It
will be placed inside one of the hats Tape two party hats (or drinking cups) together with the points
facing out, as shown in the photograph. Glue can be used on the drinking cups in lieu of tape.
2. Cut colored paper in various sizes and shapes.
3. Spread glue over one half of the piata and begin attaching the pieces of paper in a random
design.
4. Do the same for the bottom half.
5. Optional: glue sequins or glitter onto the colored paper.
6. Glue a piece of streamer paper around the center to hide the seam where the two cups are taped
together.
7. Cut a 6-8 length of streamer paper. Then, cut the streamer in half lengthwise to make thin
strips. Repeat several times.
8. Bring one end of the streamers together, pinch and twist.
9. Glue this end to the bottom of the piata.
10. Set aside to dry.
11. Hot glue a piece of decorative thread or clear fishing wire to the top and make a loop.
12. Hang and enjoy.

Note: These make colorful decorations hanging from a light fixture or on the back of each guests chair.

Adapted from: KinderArt.com
*Cone-shaped drinking cups may be used in lieu of cone shaped party hats.

Page 13


Make Your Own Holiday Prints

This activity is based on an ancient Native American pottery printing
technique. Native Americans used clay rollers to press designs into their
pottery.

This version of roller printing can be used to make gift wrap, gift tags,
greeting cards and place cards for any holiday occasion. Plus, check out a
festive holiday table idea below.

Ages: 4 and up (Note: Younger children may need assistance gluing the
string on the roller, but once the roller is dry, everyone will enjoy creating
designs!)

What youll need:
Several empty paper towel rolls
Cotton string
Bottle of glue
Plate
Scissors
Paper, card stock or a roll of white paper.
Washable tempra paint
Paint brushes (preferably larger sized brushes)
Newspaper to protect the work surface

Directions:

Cotton string is glued onto the empty paper towel tube and set aside to dry. Once the glue is
thoroughly dried, it will be covered with paint and rolled onto paper. Therefore, have older children
think about the final design. What do they want it to look like? How large do they want it to be?
They might want to cut a piece of paper to fit the roller and draw out a few designs on the paper
before transferring it to the roller.

1. Cover work surface with newspaper or other material.
2. Cut pieces of string into various lengths.
3. Pour glue onto plate and dip into the glue. Completely cover the strings with glue.
4. Press the string onto the roller into the desired design. Older children may want to apply extra
glue around the string.
5. Important! Leave room on either end of the roller to use as a handle when rolling the painted
design.
6. When the design is completely glued, set the roller on one end to dry overnight.
7. When the roller is completely dry, its time to paint!
8. Paint can be applied in two ways brushed on or rolled on.
9. Once the paint is amply applied, roll it onto the paper. Roll once in one direction, lift and check out
your print!
10. To apply a second color, either use a different roller that you have made or wipe off excess paint
with paper towels and apply the new color.

Adapted from: Holiday Cards For You to Make by Susan Purdy. J.P. Lippincott Company.

Page 14


A Fun Idea!

Cut sheets from a white roll of paper the size of placemats. Roll designs onto the placemats. When
dry laminate both sides of the placemat with clear contact paper. This is an easy way children of all
ages can help create a colorful table setting!

Have your child make a festive set of New Years placemats by cutting small pieces of confetti from
construction paper and sprinkling them on the placemat before applying the top piece of contact
paper.

Silver Bells

Your young artist will enjoy making and decorating a shiny set of silver bells to
ring in the holiday season.

Ages: 4-8

What youll need:
Aluminum foil
Glue
Bell template (see below)
Heavy paper or cardstock
Thick craft yarn
Optional: glitter glue, sequins, glitter

Directions:

1. Copy or trace the bell template onto heavy cardstock, a lightweight cardboard or construction
paper. Do this three times.
2. If you are tracing the template, mark the cut lines on the back of the circles. This is the back
side of the bell.
3. Cut out the circles.
4. Tear off a piece of foil at least 6 inches square.
5. Glue the foil to the top side of the circle. Let dry.
6. Trim the foil around the edges of the circle.
7. Turn the circle back side up and cut along the lines.

8. Decorate the foil with glitter, glitter glue and sequins and let dry completely.
Page 15

9. Cut a piece of yarn 12-14 long.
10. Wrap the circles around the yarn to form a bell shape.
11. Tape of glue on the under side of the bell to secure.
12. Optional: Have your child write their initials and age under one of the bells, so youll always know
when this keepsake was lovingly crafted.
13. Make a loop at the top of the yarn display and enjoy your silver bells!

Page 16


Lacy Snowflakes

Decorate your windows with these lacy snowflakes all through the winter!

Ages: 5 and Up

What youll need:
Package of white doilies
Glue or hot glue (Adult supervision required with hot glue.)
5 drinking straws
Heavy paper, construction paper, lightweight cardboard or cardstock
Fishing wire
Optional: glitter glue, sequins, glitter

Directions:

1. Draw a 2 circle on a piece of heavy paper or lightweight cardboard. (The round top from a spice
container is the perfect size!)
2. Cut the straws into 6 pieces, each 4 in length.
3. Cover one side of the circle with a generous amount of glue.
4. Place one end of the straws onto the glue, spacing them to look like snowflakes.
5. Let dry.
6. Place the snowflake on a work surface with the plain circle facing up.
7. Tear or cut off pieces from a doily and glue them onto the front of the snowflake.
8. Optional: When this side is dry, turn the snowflake over and glue additional pieces onto the other
side. Cover the glue with a second circle.
9. Decorate the center circles with glitter, glitter glue or sequins.
10. Attach a piece of fishing wire and hang from a window.

Page 17


A Cheerful Snowman

Children will enjoy dressing their own snowman and creating a winter scene.

Ages: 3 and Up

What youll need:
Package of white doilies
Package of 3 white doilies
A piece of blue construction paper or blue poster board
A few small twigs
2 cotton balls (colored cotton balls work very well!)
Crayons, markers or colored pencils.
White craft or tempra paint (washable)
A straw, old tooth brush, cotton swabs or paintbrush.
Optional: glitter glue, sequins, glitter, pieces of fabric, buttons

Directions:

9. Glue 1 large doily onto the blue paper. (This snowman will fill the paper, so glue this doily close to
the bottom edge of the paper.)
10. Glue the second large doily onto the paper, overlapping the first, to create the top half of the
snowmans body.
11. Use the 3 doily to glue on the head.
12. Glue the cotton balls on for ear muffs.
13. Break the twigs into small pieces to use as the arms.
14. Glue the arms onto the body.
15. Decorate the snowman with markers, crayon, glitter, pieces of fabric, buttons.
16. Use the white paint to make a snowy background. Try one of these fun options:
a. Dip the old toothbrush in white paint and brush onto the blue background.
b. Drop large droplets of paint onto the paper, blow through the straw to spread the paint and
make large snowflakes.
c. Dip a cotton swab into the white paint and dab on snowflakes.
d. Use a paint brush to add snowflakes to the background.

Page 18


Colorful Sparklers

This is a great craft for even a preschooler! They will enjoy making these
colorful ornaments and giving them away as fun gifts.

Ages: 3 and Up

What youll need:
A package of sparkly chenille sticks (silver or gold)
1 bag of pony beads (preferably with a sparkle finish)

Directions:

1. Make a small loop at one end of the chenille stick and twist it closed.
2. String beads onto the stick and leave a 1 free space at the end of the stick.
3. Fashion the chenille stick into a circle shape.
4. Thread the open end of the chenille stick through the loop so the 1 of free space can be
fashioned into a hook. Pinch the loop closed to secure.
5. Fashion a hook with the un-beaded portion of the chenille stick.
6. Have your child wrap their sparkle ornament in tissue paper or let them make a gift bag by
decorating a lunch bag with crayons, markers, paint or stick-on foam shapes.

Page 19


Lacy Angels

Ages: 3 and Up (Using contact paper in lieu of glue makes this a perfect
activity for your youngest crafter.)

What youll need:
A package of 6 doilies
1 roll of contact paper
Colored sequins, glitter
Markers
Scissors

Directions:

1. Fold 1 doily in half. Then, in half again.
2. Open it up and cut along the fold lines. One of these pieces will be the body.
3. Fold a second doily in half three times. Open up and there will be 8 folded sections.
4. Cut along these folds. Two of these pieces are the wings.
5. Cut a circle for the head.
6. Arrange the pieces to form an angel.
7. Decorate with sequins. Sprinkle glitter on top of the angel.
8. Place second piece of contact paper over the angel and smooth.
9. Cut around the shape and attach a string, fishing wire or a decorate string to make a hanger.

Note: You can also make star designs by folding a doily in half 3 times. Arrange 5 of the pieces on,
with points facing out, into a star shape. Decorate with glitter and sequins. Top with a second piece of
contact paper.

Page 20


Aluminum Foil Menorah

Ages: Children ages 5 and up this craft reminding us of the miracle of Hanukkah.

Taken from: "A Year of Crafts for Kids" by Kathy Ross

What youll need:
Shoe box lid
Aluminum foil
2 foil cupcake pan liners
Front from an empty cereal box
Blue glitter
Rick rack with a metallic finish
Glue
Scissors
9 candles, each 10 high

Directions:

1. Cut nine circles from the cereal box cardboard. They should be 1 wide.
2. Place one circle on the bottom of the foil cupcake pan liner.
3. Place a second foil wrapper inside, on top of the cardboard circle.
4. Make 9 of these candle holders.
5. Cover the shoebox lid with aluminum foil. This will be the base of the menorah.
6. Place a strip of masking tape all the way around the side (or lip ) of the lid.
7. Cover this tape with plenty of glue. Sprinkle blue glitter on the glut.
8. Allow the glue to dry completely.
9. When the glue is dry, run a line of glue all the way around this glittered edge.
10. Place the rick rack over this line of glue. Set aside to dry.
11. Next, place one of the candle holders on the foil-covered box top. It should be off to the side. This
is the shamash. It is used to light the other candles.
12. Arrange the other candle holders on the top and glue the candle holders in place.
13. Place in an area to be displayed. Place a candle in each holder.

WARNING: The candles in this craft are for decoration and should not be lit.

Page 21


Kiddish Cup Necklace

Ages: Children ages 6

Taken from: "A Year of Crafts for Kids" by Kathy Ross

What youll need:
Twist-off top from a soda bottle
Pipe cleaner (also called chenille stick)
wide flat button
Gold rick rack
Thin gold cord
Masking tape
Paper clip
Scissors
Glue

Directions:

1. Cut a piece of pipe cleaner 1 long. Bend one end to the right and the other to the left to form an
S. But, leave the center part straight.
2. Tape one hooked end of the pipe cleaner to the center of the button to make the base of the cup,
tape the other end to the center top of the bottle top to make the bowl of the cup.
3. Cover the entire cup with aluminum foil.
4. Place a strip of masking tape around the side of the cup. Place a think strip of glue on this tape.
5. Place the gold rick rack on this tape.
6. Tie the gold cord around the stem of the cup. To help the necklace stay upright when it is worn,
glue the sides of the cord to the top of the cup.
7. Use the paper clip to hold the cord in place until it dries.
8. Make a knot with the two loose ends so the necklace can be worn around your neck!

Page 22


Reaching Out and Giving Back to Others

Plant pansies and ivy in a lightweight pot and deliver to a womens shelter.
Buy various fruits several varieties of apples, pears, oranges, nectarines, and arrange in a
basket. Drop it off at a hospice facility for patients, families and staff to enjoy. Or, deliver a fruit
basket to hospital staff who must work holidays.
Bake some goodies for the firemen at your local fire station.
Visit a neighbor or friend who is elderly or housebound and do a few chores around their home
rake leaves, wash windows, etc.
Call a local nursing home and find out which residents do not have family with which to spend the
holidays. Make them an ornament or card and pay them a visit.

Note: Contact any agencies to make arrangements and obtain approval before delivering any gifts.
Page 23


RECIPES FOR GIFTING

Home made gifts come from the heart. Show your friends and family how much you care by giving
them a home made gift of love this year. We have compiled a list of yummy recipes for you to
package and give to your loved ones!

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix

Each ingredient in this snack mix symbolizes something associated with Thanksgiving.

2 cups Bugles brand corn snacks - shaped as a cornucopia, a horn of plenty.

2 cups pretzels - represent arms folded in thanks and prayer.

1 cup candy corn - during the first winter food supplies became so scarce that the Pilgrims were each
allotted five kernels of corn per day because food was so scarce.

1 cup dried or candy fruits - Thanksgiving is the celebration of the harvest.

1 cup peanuts or sunflower seeds - seeds represent the potential of a bountiful
harvest for the next season if the sees are planted and well tended.

In a large bowl mix all ingredients together. Package in a holiday gift bag, can or jar. Attach a note of
thanks and give to a friend or family member.

Candy Cane Sled
This is a fun craft to attach to a holiday gift. Older children enjoy this activity!
Ages: 5 and Up

What youll need:
2 candy canes
1 Hershey bar (or other flat candy bar)
Small piece of wrapping paper
1 piece of curling ribbon
Tape and scissors

Directions:
1. Wrap the candy bar in the piece of wrapping paper.
2. Tape the candy canes to the bottom of the candy bar on either side to make runners for the sled.
3. Cut the curling ribbon to be the rope on the front of the sled.
4. Tape both ends of the ribbon to the bottom of the candy bar, near the front of the sled.
5. Bring the ribbon up, making the rope pull the sled.
Page 24


Snickerdoodle Mix

2 3/4 cups all purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. cream of tartar
1 1/2 cups sugar

In a large bowl, combine the ingredients with a whisk. Store the
mix in an airtight container.

Attach this to the Jar:

Snickerdoodles
Makes about 5 dozen cookies

1 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 eggs
1 package Snickerdoodle Mix
1/2 cup sugar
1 Tbsp. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In the large bowl of an electric
mixer, cream the butter until light; add the eggs and beat on low
speed until the mixture is smooth. Add the Snickerdoodle Mix and
continue to beat on low speed until the dough begins to form.
Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Shape the dough
into 1-inch balls and roll in the cinnamon-sugar blend. Arrange
on ungreased baking sheets 2 inches apart and bake for 16 to 19
minutes, or until light tan. Transfer to wire racks to cool.

Page 25


Herb Dip Mix

1/4 cup dried parsley flakes
1/4 cup dried thyme leaves
2 tablespoons dried tarragon leaves
2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
3 teaspoons garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper.

Combine all and mix well. Store in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Stir or shake before using. Use as a
seasoning in recipes.

Attach this to the jar:

Herb Mix Dip
Use 1 tablespoon of the mix with 3/4 cup sour cream, cup mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon lemon
juice. Blend well. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours. Serve with assorted fresh vegetables.
Yield 1 cup dip.

Bacon Flavored Dip Mix
Servings: 1
2 Tbsp. Instant Bacon Bits
1 Tbsp. Instant Minced Onion
1 tsp. Instant Beef Bouillon
1/8 tsp. Minced Garlic
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl; blend well. Spoon mixture onto a 6 inch square of aluminum foil
and fold to make airtight. Label as Bacon Flavored Dip Mix. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 6
months. Makes 1 package (about 3 Tbsp.) of mix.
Bacon Flavored Dip: Combine 1 cup of sour cream and 1 package of mix. Chill at least 1 hour before
serving. Makes about 1 cup of dip.
VARIATIONS: Substitute 1 cup yogurt, 1 cup cottage cheese or 1 (8 oz) package of softened cream
cheese for sour cream.

Page 26


Sesame Cheese Dip Mix
1 Tbsp. Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 tsp. Toasted Sesame Seeds
1/2 tsp. Salt
1/2 tsp. Celery Seed
1 x Dash Pepper
1/8 tsp. Garlic Powder
and fold to make airtight. Label as Sesame Cheese Dip Mix. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 4
months. Makes 1 package (about 2 Tbsp.) of mix. This recipe can be increased to make
more packages.
Sesame Cheese Dip: Combine 1 cup of sour cream and 1 package of mix. Chill at least 1 hour before
serving. Makes about 1 cup of dip.
VARIATION: Substitute 1 cup yogurt for sour cream.

Onion Cheese Dip Mix
1 Tbsp. Instant Minced Onion
1 Tbsp. Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 tsp. Instant Beef Bouillon
1/4 tsp. Garlic Salt
and fold to make airtight. Label as Onion Cheese Dip Mix. Store in a cool dry place and use within 3 to 4
months. Makes 1 package (about 3 Tbsp.) of mix. This recipe may be increased to make more packages of
mix.
Onion Cheese Dip: Combine 1 cup sour cream with 1 package of mix. Chill at least 1 hour before serving.
Makes about 1 cup of dip.
VARIATION: Substitute 1 cup cottage cheese or 1 (8 oz) package of softened cream cheese for sour
cream.

Page 27


Vegetable Dip Mix
1 Tbsp. Dried Chives
1/2 tsp. Dill Weed
1 tsp. Garlic Salt
1/2 tsp. Paprika
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl: blend well. Spoon mixture onto a 6 inch square of aluminum foil,
and fold to make airtight. Label as Vegetable Dip Mix. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 6 months.
Makes 1 package (about 2 Tbsp.) of mix.
Vegetable Dip: Combine 1 Tbsp. lemon juice, 1 cup Mayonnaise, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 package of mix.
Chill at least 1 hour before serving. Makes about 2 cups of dip.

Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Mix
3/4 cup white sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
8 peanut butter cup candy, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
Mix together the flour, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside. Layer ingredients in order given in a 1
quart ''wide mouth'' canning jar. Press each layer firmly in place. It will be a tight fit.
Add chopped peanut butter cups last.
Attach these directions to Jar:
Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
Remove peanut butter cups from jar. Set aside. Empty remaining cookie mix into large mixing
bowl. Use your hands to thoroughly blend mix. Add 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened at room
temperature. DO NOT USE DIET MARGARINE. Add in 1 egg, slightly beaten, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
Mix until completely blended. You will need to finish mixing with your hands. Mix in peanut butter
cups. Shape into walnut sized balls. Place 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 375
degrees F (190 degrees C) for 12 to 14 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on
baking sheet. Remove cookies to racks to finish cooling.
Makes 2 1/2 dozen cookies.

Page 28


Instant Cappuccino
1 c. powdered creamer
1 c. powdered chocolate milk mix
2/3 c. instant coffee
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
Mix all ingredients together.
Use 1 heaping Tbsp.. per cup of boiling water. Store in airtight container.

Cappuccino Mocha Mix
6 Tbsp. plus 2 tsp. instant espresso coffee
powder
3 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. unsweetened cocoa
1 1/4 cups powdered nondairy creamer, plain or Irish
cream
1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
In a medium bowl, stir together espresso coffee powder, cocoa, nondairy creamer, sugar and cinnamon.
Store tightly covered.
For the label:
For each cup of cappuccino, measure 4 tablespoons mix into a coffee mug and stir in 6 oz. of boiling
water. Makes 2 1/2 cups of mix ( enough to 10 servings)

Cafe Cappuccino
1/2 cup instant coffee
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup nonfat dry milk solids
1/2 tsp. dried orange peel, mashed
Stir ingredients together. Process in a blender until powdered.
Use 2 Tbsp. of mixture for each cup of hot water.

Page 29


Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
Mix the salt and baking soda in with the flour, then layer the ingredients into the jar. Use scissors to cut a
9 inch diameter circle from calico. Place over lid and secure with rubber band. Tie on a raffia or ribbon bow
to cover rubber band.
Enclose a card with the following mixing and baking directions:
Chocolate Chip Cookies:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F . Sift dry ingredients through a colander to separate the chocolate chips
from other ingredients. Beat 1 cup of unsalted butter or margarine in a medium bowl. Beat sifted
ingredients into butter until blended. In a small bowl, beat 1 egg with 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Mix beaten
egg mixture into butter mixture until blended. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop teaspoonfuls of batter, spaced
well apart, onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake 8 minutes or until lightly browned.
Makes 4 dozen

Milk Bath Mix
Dry milk
Scented oil -perfume oil or essential oil
Mix 1 cup of dry milk with 5-8 drops of oil. Mix well. Add more oil for a stronger scent. Place in a container
for gift giving.
Include a card with directions: To use, add to running bath water. You come out soft and smelling good!

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