New LEGO Holiday Sets

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Whether you love adorable polar bears or whimsical penguins, you’ll have a hard time choosing between these cute new kits. The Polar Bear & Gift Pack ($9.99) is great for kids seven and up and comes with 142 pieces.

The LEGO Christmas Penguin ($14.99) is also bringing whimsy, with the ability to rotate, move its wings and stand next to a Christmas tree and three presents.

The penguin set is perfect for kids eight and older and comes with 244 pieces. Both sets will launch on Oct. 1 at LEGO.com and at LEGO stores.

 

All photos: Courtesy of LEGO

Starbucks Holiday Cups

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Photo credit: Starbucks

Photo credit: Starbucks

Starbucks' reusable tumblers for the holidays are the cutest cups of the bunch. First up is a swirly, sparkly cup with dashes of red, green, and pink with a pink lid and straw. Think holidays, but make it glam and all for $18.95! You can definitely use this through Valentine's Day with no one batting an eyelash. Next up, Starbucks is staying on the shimmering train it's been on the last few seasons with this shiny pink grid cold cup. This is truly an evergreen purchase you'll be carrying around through next summer and beyond and it'll run you $19.95.

Photo credit: Suzi Pratt

Photo credit: Suzi Pratt

The brand's Christmas Blend this year is inspired by the original 1984 recipe, which has all the cozy notes of herbs, baking spices, and a chocolate finish. This coffee will be available alongside bags of Holiday Blend and Christmas Blend Espresso Roast. 

Starbucks Holiday Treats

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Photo credit: Connor Surdi

Photo credit: Connor Surdi

This year, enjoy the Peppermint Mocha, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Caramel Brulee Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, and Eggnog Latte at U.S. stores starting tomorrow, Friday November 6.

Second only to the cozy and festive coffee drinks are the cups that house them, and this year, we have possibly the most adorable ones in recent memory. The designs, seen in the photo above, are called Ribbon, Dot, Sparkle and Brand Wrap in case you want to sound very knowledgeable to your barista.

PLUS, Starbucks is indeed giving away a free collectible red holiday cup (shown above!) to customers who order a handcrafted holiday beverage (AKA all of the ones we just mentioned) on November 6 at participating stores in the U.S. Look at its cute little pattern! That's one holiday gift we can get behind. Just be quick if you can because these are only available while supplies last.

Photo credit: Starbucks

Photo credit: Starbucks

Finally, we're on to the food, and this year Starbucks will offer a new Cranberry Orange Scone in its bakery case that is sure to pair perfectly with any of its holiday drinks. You'll also see the return of the Sugar Plum Danish, Cranberry Bliss Bar, Snowman Cookie, and Snowman Cake Pop.

Tips For An Affordable Holiday Party

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Holiday parties are a fun part of the season, and hosting one can be a blast. The trick is to throw a fun party without spending your gift shopping budget to make it happen. Luckily, there are some easy ways to make your party fun without breaking the bank. (See also: 7 Budget Gifts You Can Bring to a Holiday Party)

PARE DOWN THE GUEST LIST

The more the merrier, right? It's not quite that simple if you're the host (AKA the treasurer). Consider whittling down your guest list for the party and you'll save a good chunk of change while providing a more intimate gathering. If you still want to invite that old co-worker, fitness instructor, and the mailman, then go for a potluck or BYOB (more on that in a moment).

GET THE TIMING RIGHT

If you don't want to serve a full meal and deal with all of the requirements it brings, try having your party at a non-eating time. Eight at night or later is acceptable for not providing dinner unless you state otherwise. Plus, many people will go out to eat just before, and therefore won't need a snack until later. If you'd like to have a less boozy gathering that won't last until the wee hours, a Sunday evening party is perfect. For a (nearly) booze-less gathering, host a cookie or tree-trimming party in the afternoon, and you can squeeze by with warm cider and cookies.

DECORATE RESOURCEFULLY

There's no need to blow your budget on party decorations. For lighting, simply gather all of the candles you own and cluster them on a main table before lighting them. Or buy a couple of strings of cheap holiday lights and stick them in jars. Instead of buying expensive flowers, take trimmings from an evergreen tree, branches with berries, and pine cones and make a seasonal arrangement.

One of the easiest ways to decorate for a party is to use food. Put those pretty cookies you made (or your nice friend brought over) on a platter. Put pretty citrus on plates and in bowls for decoration, and then use them for cocktails or snacking. Fill bowls with candy that guests can snack on and take home.

You can even make decorating the central theme. Have a tree-trimming party and either have everyone make decorations as an activity when they arrive or bring an ornament with them as their contribution to the party.

BYO ALL SORTS OF THINGS

Don't be afraid to ask guests to bring key items with them to your party. The most common example is to have people bring their own drinks, such as wine. This tried-and-true method can majorly cut down on a big party budget eater: alcohol. You can get more creative with BYOB and have people bring a mixer and you supply the liquor for a nice cocktail bar (or reverse it and have your guests bring the booze). Or have a holiday wine tasting, and have everyone bring a bottle to share.

Throw a cookie party this year — ask guests to bring cookies to share and create a sweet display. Supply a salty snack or two and something to drink and you're done! If you're having a smaller gathering, have guests specifically bring cookies for decorating andprovide the icing and sprinkles for a fun afternoon.

FEED YOUR GUESTS (WITHOUT GOING BROKE)

Food can be a major expense for holiday parties, but you don't have to spend big to have a great time. A potluck is a classic way to nearly eliminate this expense, and it's a fun way to socialize and sample new dishes. Try basing your potluck party around a theme, even if that's just "holiday meal," and let everyone know what you're making as the main course so they can plan accordingly.

It's no secret that when it comes to food, it's almost always cheaper to do it yourself. So forget catering, and get thee to the kitchen! Even if you're not a cook, you can whip up some easy but satisfying snacks. Try swapping a pricey cheese platter for a homemade cheese ball with crackers and crudites (slice the veggies yourself — it's much cheaper than buying them cut up at the grocery). Bread fills people up, so put out a variety of crostini to nibble on. And a bowl of homemade popcorn is super cheap and always a hit.

If you can stand the clean up, use your own "real" dishes, utensils and glasses. If your crowd is too big or the lack of a dishwasher makes it all feel impossible, head to your local dollar store for disposables.

FESTIVE DRINKING THE CHEAP WAY

If you're offering up drinks as part of your party deal, a great way to please a crowd is with punch. It frees you up to use cheaper booze without anyone being the wiser, and you can stretch the alcohol with mixers. An apple cider punch or mulled wine are great for a winter party and can go a long way.

If you want to serve a proper cocktail, consider using prosecco. It tastes and looks festive, but for the taste and the bubbles, it costs much less than it's counterparts.

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

No party is complete without a soundtrack. Find holiday playlists on an online streaming or radio service and just press play. Put Christmas movies that you own or are streaming for free on your TV in the background (or perhaps a crackling fireplace). Mix things up by playing games like Celebrity, Who Am I? and Mafia, all of which are totally free and great fun with a group.

AFFORDABLE GIFTING

If you'd like to include a gifting element, an always fun and budget-friendly game of Secret Santa is an easy solution. Set a spending limit as low as you like and let people get creative. That way, everyone (including you) only has to buy one gift instead of 15, and it's a fun party game. You can also send your guests home with gifts, but make them dual purpose: gift your party decorations (such as ornaments), or pack everyone little gift bags with an assortment of the cookies they brought.

Source: Wisebread.com

Baby Yoda Cookies

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Just use an angel cookie cutter, trim off the top and there it is- Baby Yoda! Use brown and green icing to decorate.
Here's the sugar cookie recipe: 

    1 1/2 cups butter, softened 

    2 cups white sugar 

    4 eggs 

    1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

    5 cups all-purpose flour 

    2 teaspoons baking powder 

    1 teaspoon salt 


In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour (or overnight).    Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with any cookie cutter. Place cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.    Bake 6 to 8 minutes in preheated oven. Cool completely. 


Icing Recipe: 
In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar and butter with spoon or electric mixer on low speed. Stir in vanilla and 1 tablespoon of the milk. Gradually beat in just enough remaining milk to make frosting smooth and spreadable. If frosting is too thick, beat in more milk, a few drops at a time.


First, I doubled the recipe and mixed everything in my Kitchen Aid mixer. My grandma mixed most of her cookies with a spoon, the old-school way. 

Then I wrapped everything in wax paper to chill for a few hours. Then get out your angel cookie cutters and start cutting out.

Photo Source Unknown

Holiday Shipping Deadlines

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FedEx Shipping Deadlines

  • December 9th – FedEx SmartPost
  • December 16th – FedEx Ground and FedEx Home Delivery
  • December 19th – FedEx Express Saver
  • December 20th – both FedEx 2Day and 2Day A.M.
  • December 23rd – FedEx First Overnight, Priority Overnight, and Standard Overnight
  • December 25th – FedEx SameDay, SameDay City Priority, or SameDay City Direct,

Go here for more details about FedEx’s 2019 holiday ordering deadlines, or download the printable version.

 

 

USPS Shipping Deadlines

Go here for more details about USPS’s 2019 holiday ordering deadlines.

 

UPS Shipping Deadlines

  • December 13th – UPS Ground
  • December 19th – UPS 3-Day Select
  • December 20th – UPS 2nd Day Air
  • December 23rd – UPS Next Day Air

20+ Crayola Holiday Printables

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Cookie Cutter Fudge

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This wonderful idea is from Craftymorning. All you need are plastic cookie cutters, Target regularly has these on sale or clearance, especially around Thanksgiving. Here is how to make this fun gift idea from Bettycrocker.com:

Ingredients

1 1/2
 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1
 cup peanut butter chips
1
 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2
 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened SAVE $
1
 teaspoon vanilla
Betty Crocker™ white or red decorator icing (in 4.25-ounce tube), if desired
Candies, if desired

Steps

  • 1
    Place each of six 3x1/2-inch mitten-shaped cookie cutters, or other cookie cutters in a simple shape, on 5-inch square of foil. Seal foil tightly around outside of each cookie cutter. Place on cookie sheet. Lightly spray cookie cutters with cooking spray.
  • 2
    In 4-cup microwavable measuring cup, mix chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, milk and butter. Microwave uncovered on High 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until chips are almost melted. Stir in vanilla.
  • 3
    Pour mixture into cookie cutter molds, filling to tops of molds. Refrigerate uncovered about 2 hours or until firm. Decorate with icing and candies.
  • 4
    Carefully remove foil. Gently press fudge out of molds to serve.

100+ Stocking Stuffer Gift Ideas

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Here are 133 fun and affordable stocking stuffer ideas for everyone!

 

For the Little Kids: 

1. Playdoh
2. Bubble bath
3. Bathtub crayons
4. Pacifier
5. Cute socks
6. Baby/Tot photo book 
7. Dum Dum lollipops (not for the youngest kids!)
8. Bubbles
9. Character band-aids
10. Board book 
11. Character spoon and fork set
12. Character kids cup (Target “dollar spot” often has these)

For the Older Kids:

13. Noise maker (shakers, tambourine, maracas, whistle)
14. Mini box of sugar cereal
15. Stickers – especially scratch n’ sniff stickers 
16. Pez
17. Tape 
18. Chinese paper yo-yo 
19. Candy necklace
20. Stretchy bugs/critters 
21. Silly straws
22. Glow sticks
23. Astronaut Ice cream 
24. Lip gloss/lipstick
25. Mini nail polish 
26. Fruit snacks
27. McDonald’s gift card 
28. Matchbox cars
29. Slap bracelets
30. Kazoo
31. Crayola Model Magic packs
32. Lego or Playmobil mini figures
33. Food shaped erasers 
34. Glow in the dark stars and planets
35. Heat bags 
36. Dress up jewelry
37. Earrings
38. Travel game
39. Webkinz or other small stuffed animal
40. Fancy scissors
41. Silly socks
42. Box of crayons
43. Coloring Book
44. Silly putty
45. Can of silly string
46. Animal sponge capsules
47. Expandable t-shirt, towel or washcloth
48. Glue sticks
49. Markers
50. Watercolor paints
51. Origami paper
52. Disposable camera
53. Rearview spy glasses
54. Smencils-scented pencils

Teen Gifts:

55. Earbuds
56. USB Flash drive
57. iTunes gift card
58. Stretchy book covers
59. Diary with invisible ink pen
60. Cell phone cover
61. Embroidery thread for friendship bracelets
62. Beef jerky
63. Gift card to bowling alley or skating rink
64. Makeup
65. Funky pens
66. Gel pens and black paper
67. Perfume
68. Nail polish in funky colors
69. Manicure pen
70. Lanyard for keys
71. Keychain
72. Wallet

Mom Gifts:

73. Coffee shop gift card
74. Nail polish
75. Scented hand lotion
76. Scented hand sanitizer 
77. Camera memory card 
78. Costume jewelry (earrings)
79. Gift card for a pedicure 
80. Keychain charms of kids with initials 
81. Package of decorative buttons (for crafting)
82. Knitting needles or crochet hooks
83. Crochet or knitting pattern book
84. Fancy hand soaps (particularly from Bath & Body Works!)
85. Seeds
86. Scrapbooking ribbons, tags, embellishments, etc.
87. Fancy cupcake liners
88. Beaded bookmark
89. Fancy scissors
90. Scrapbook paper 
91. Gourmet coffee
92. Specialty tea
93. Ped Egg or pumice stone
94. Votive candles
95. Icing tips/bags
96. Mascara
97. Box of dollar store note cards
98. Chocolates

Dad Gifts:

99. Coffee shop gift card
100. Drill bits
101. Tool keyring 
102. Mini flashlight
103. Gift card to bowling alley
104. Wallet
105. Tape measure
106. USB flash drive
107. Picture hanging hardware 
108. Nails & screws
109. 3M hooks
110. Car charger for cell phone
111. Beef jerky
112. Car wash gift card
113. Golf tees
114. Golf balls
115. Pocket Farkle

Practical Gifts:

116. Barrettes / pony tail holders
117. Comb
118. Calculator
119. Book light
120. Pencil sharpener
121. Deodorant
122. Toothbrush
123. Kids toothpaste
124. Dental floss

For Anyone:

125. Favorite candy bar
126. Snack packages (cheese crackers, cookies, etc.)
127. Hand Sanitizer
128. Gum
129. Sudoku book
130. Christmas ornament 
131. Hand and foot warming packs 
132. Slipper socks
133. Hot chocolate packets

15+ Gift Ideas For Grandparents

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Here are some fun and thoughtful ideas for gifts for grandma, grandpa, or other senior relative. Many of these ideas I have given to my mom, dad and mother in law!

General Gift Ideas:

  1. Flowers – Especially in the middle of winter, flowers are a nice surprise.
  2. Homemade Cards – Drawings, cards, art projects are always a welcome gift for the grandparents. It is a creative way for kids to keep in touch with grandma and grandpa!
  3. iPad or Laptop - Speaking of keeping in touch, I find being able to contact far away family and friends with an iPad is amazing! We can Skype or Facetime on the iPad, along with email and chatting. These are two great options to help everyone stay in touch.
  4. Homemade Meal or Dessert – OR If you aren't up to cooking (or baking), consider sending Mrs. Field's cookies or Cheryl's. I've ordered from both for my family and they loved them!
  5. Gift Baskets- Put together a basket of your loved ones favorite treats. Whether it is beauty products, food, books or more, the ideas are endless!
  6. Dinner out – Enjoying a meal out is one of the most fun gifts you can give. Especially when someone is in a nursing home, getting out for a few hours is a nice treat.
  7. Thank You’s on Facebook – My son likes to send Nana little notes on Facebook, it's a nice way for them to keep in touch.
  8. Art Projects – Consider framing art work or making a scrapbook of your child's artwork.
  9. A Kindle-  Kindles can store so many books. This would be a perfect solution for a grandparent who wants all their books in one place, likes to travel or who would like the convenience of instant book delivery!
  10. Gift Cards – Gift cards are always appreciated, especially if they are a surprise! Ask what their favorite stores are, think Amazon, Target and more!
  11. Magazine Subscription – Just like me, Janet loves to read magazines. It's always fun to get a surprise magazine subscription in the mail. My mom loves magazines too.
  12. A Party – Don't forget all the milestone events coming up in your loved ones life, like birthdays and anniversaries. 
  13. CD’s or MP3 Player- Many of my elderly relatives love listening to music. An iPod would make a nice gift!
  14. Books- My Mom loves to read and sending her a few books is always a treat for her.
  15. Photo Collages – I've made several photo collages with a mix of old photos and newer ones. Photo books are also a nice gift. Two of my favorite sites include Shutterfly . 
  16. Eddie Bauer blanket. Cozy and soft, my mom loves fleece blankets. 

 

 

Hobbies and Fun:

Gift ideas can be personalized to focus on the person’s personal interests and hobbies such as:

  1. Stationery and stamp- My grandmother Esther loved to collect stamps. When she passed away 10 years ago, I inherited her stamp collection . I like going through it and remembering all the fun we had looking at the stamps.
  2. Supplies for knitting or crocheting- My mom loves knitting and sending her yarn and other supplies is always appreciated.
  3. Pet care supplies- Does your loved one love pets? Put together a box of pet care supplies, toys and more.
  4. Plants, herbs, or flowers- Last year for Mother’s Day, I sent my mom a rose bush. It was one of her favorite gifts because it will bloom every year!
  5. Bird feeders and food- My mom loves feeding the birds and sending her a birdwatcher’s book or bird seed is something she enjoys.

20+ Holiday Gifts for Teachers

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  1. Target Gift Card
  2. Amazon.com Gift Card
  3. Barnes and Noble Gift Card
  4. class gift
  5. spa gift card
  6. Christmas ornament (Hallmark is a good source)
  7. homemade card or craft made by the student
  8. baked goods – (May want to skip if you aren't aware of their tastes, food allergies, etc.)
  9. basket of gourmet coffees or gourmet teas
  10. note pads or thank you cards
  11. Decorate a 6 pack of root beer with brown pipe cleaners, craft eyes, and craft poms. Then print and attach this cute coordinating “We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Root Beer” FREE gift tag.
  12. bouquet of flowers
  13. bottle of wine or eggnog
  14. Williams Sonoma dish towel wrapped around their Winter Forest dish soap
  15. gift basket with bag of coffee, travel mug and a magazine 
  16. Gumball Tubes. Fill plastic tubes with colorful gumballs and other sweet treats as a afternoon pick me up. 
  17. Get a box of brownie mix along with an oven mitt and kitchen tools and attach all the items with a holiday bow and then print out and attach this Have a Sweet Holiday Gift Tag!
  18. Clay Heart Necklace. Spread the love by forming small hearts out of clay
  19. Teacher Supplies
  20. Teacup Candles
  21. Get a package of gingerbread cookie mix, white icing, and a gingerbread man cookie cutter and attach all the items with a holiday bow and then pair with this cute “Merry Christmas” gingerbread man gift tag.
  22. Chocolate Chip Cookies
  23. For the tea lover, place tea packets, honey, and a fresh lemon inside a large mug. For the coffee lover, place K-cups and mini flavored syrups in a large mug. For chocolate lovers, place hot chocolate, marshmallows, and chocolate candy inside the mug. Then attach this coordinating “Warmest Holiday Wishes” FREE gift tag.
  24. Festive Socks
  25. Heart Themed Jar
  26. Bucket of Sunshine

LEGO Advent Printable Calendar

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PRINTABLE LEGO ADVENT CALENDAR WITH BUILD IDEAS

PRINTABLE LEGO ADVENT CALENDAR – BLANK

Print your calendar, laminate and then make scratch off paint, it's super easy!

Mix paint and dish soap in a ratio of 2 parts paint to 1 part dish soap.

Stir paint until it is well mixed.

Cover the area that you’d like to be scratchable with packing tape.  You can either cover the whole area or just cover the part that you’re planning on painting.  

Cover your scratch-off areas with paint.

You’ll need about 3 coats of paint and the layers will make the paint more opaque.

Let each coat of paint dry and then add more layers.

OR Buy Scratch Off Labels here! 

Need LEGOs? Pick up the LEGO Classic Kit here!

Thanks SouthernSavers!

Holiday Gift Card Deals

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APPLEBEE’S

Through January 6th, 2019, whenever you buy a $50 Applebee’s eGift Card, you’ll receive a $10 bonus card (bonus card valid until 3/3/19). Go here for more details.

BAHAMA BREEZE

Through January 2nd, 2019, get $20 in bonus cards with every $50 Bahama Breeze gift card purchase. One $10 bonus card will be valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19, and the other $10 bonus card will be valid 2/1/19 – 3/31/19 (except for 2/14/19). Head herefor more details.

BARNES & NOBLE

Through November 19th, 2018, for every $75 in Barnes & Noble gift cards you purchase in a single transaction, you’ll receive a $10 eGift card (eGift card valid 12/26/18 – 3/1/19). 

BENIHANA

Through December 31st, 2018, buy $50 in Benihana gift cards, receive a $10 promotional card (promotional card valid 1/2/19 – 3/31/19). Head here for more details.

BJ’S RESTAURANT BREWHOUSE

Through January 1st, 2019, buy $50 in BJ’s gift cards, and receive a $10 bonus card AND 20% off VIP Card; or buy $100 in gift cards, receive a $25 bonus card AND 20% off VIP Card (bonus card and VIP card valid 1/1/19 – 2/13/19). Go here for more details.

BLAZE PIZZA

For a limited time, buy $25 in Blaze Pizza gift cards, get a free pizza pass (pizza pass valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Head here for more details.

 

BONEFISH GRILL

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $50 in Bonefish Grill gift cards you purchase, you’ll receive a $10 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 2/10/19). Go here for more information.

BUCCA DI BEPPO

Through December 31st, 2018, buy a $50 Bucca di Beppo gift card and receive a $10 Reward Card (valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Head here for more details.

CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN

Through January 1st, 2019, buy $100 in California Pizza Kitchen gift cards and receive a $20 promotional card. Plus, buy your gift card before 11/21 and get an additional $10 bonus card, along with the $20 promotional card. Check out theirFacebook page for more details or go here to order.

 

CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL

Through December 31st, 2018, buy $50 in Carabba’s Italian Grill gift cards and receive a $10 promotional card (promo card valid 1/1/19 – 2/10/19). Head here for more details.

THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY

Typically during Black Friday, for every $25 Cheesecake Factory gift card purchased online (including either plastic gift cards or electronic gift cards), you’ll receive two FREE slices of Cheesecake or Layer Cake in the form of eSlice of Joy Cards. Keep in mind that there’s no info on this as of yet, but they will likely have this promotion available again this year. Stay tuned…

CHILI’S

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $50 Chili’s gift card purchased, you’ll receive a $10 holiday bonus card (bonus Card valid 1/1/19 – 2/6/19). Head here for more details.

CLAIM JUMPER

Through December 24th, 2017, buy a $50 Claim Jumper gift card, and receive a $10 reward card (reward card valid 1/1/19 – 5/31/19). Go here for more details.

 

DENNY’S

Through December 25th, 2018, for every $25 Denny’s gift card purchased, you’ll receive $50 worth of Denny’s coupons. Note that a $1.95 shipping and handling fee is applied to each order. Head here for more details.

DSW

Through December 26th, 2018, purchase $50, $100, or $150 in DSW gift cards and get a $5, $20, or $30 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/4/19-1/26/19). Go here for more details.

EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD

For a limited time, buy $500 or more in Eddie V’s gift cards, and receive an elegant martini set along with an additional gift card worth 10% off your purchase. Head here for more details.

FIRST WATCH

Through December 31st, for every $100 gift card you purchase, receive $20 in bonus bucks (bonus bucks valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Check out their Facebook page for more details or go here to order.

FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $100 in Fleming’s gift card purchases you make, you’ll receive a $20 bonus card (valid 1/1/19 – 2/10/19)! Head here for more details.

FOGO DE CHÃO

Through December 31st, 2018, with every $150 in Fogo de Chão gift card purchases you make, you’ll receive a $25 bonus eCard (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 3/31/19)! Go here for more details.

IHOP

Now through December 31st, 2018, get a $5 bonus coupon with every $25 IHOP gift card purchase (bonus coupon valid through 1/31/19). Head here and scroll down for more details.

JAMBA JUICE

For a limited time, buy $25 in Jamba Juice gift cards, and get a $5 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Go herefor more details.

 

KROGER

Through December 10th, with every participating gift card purchase you make, you’ll receive 4x in Fuel Perks! Head herefor more details. Also, be sure to check your Kroger account for various gift card offers!

LANDRY’S, INC. RESTAURANTS

Through December 24th, 2018, buy a $50 Landry’s gift card and receive a free $10 rewards card, OR buy a $100 Landry’s gift card and receive a free $20 rewards card! Your reward card will be valid 1/1/19 – 5/31/19. Go here to order or to check out the terms and conditions for more details.

LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU ENTERPRISES

Through December 30th, 2018, receive a $25 bonus card for every $100 Lettuce Entertain You gift card purchased (bonus card valid 1/2/19 – 4/10/19). Head here for more details.

LOGAN’S STEAKHOUSE

Through December 31st, 2018, get a $10 bonus card for every $50 in gift cards purchased. Bonus cards are not valid in NC, SC, or Augusta, GA, and expire 2/13/2019 (they are not redeemable on the day issued). Go here for more details.

 

LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE

For a limited time, for every $25 Longhorn Steakhouse gift card purchased online, you’ll receive a $5 bonus gift card (bonus gift card valid 1/1/19-2/3/19 with purchase of two adult entrees). Head here for more details.

MARCUS THEATRES

Now through January 1st, 2019, get a free $5 Snack Cash with every $25 gift card purchase! Go here for more details.

MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT

Through the month of December, buy a $25 Menchie’s gift card in-store only, and receive a $5 Bonus Card while supplies last. Head here for more details.

MOOYAH

For a limited time, buy $25 in MOOYAH gift cards and get $5 off your food/drink purchase in the same transaction. Gohere and scroll down for more details.

MORTON’S STEAKHOUSE

Through December 24th, buy a $250 Morton’s gift card and receive a free $50 reward card! Your reward card will be valid 1/1/19 – 5/31/19. Head here for more details.

NOODLES & COMPANY

Through December 31st, 2018 buy a $25 Noodles & Company gift card, and receive a $5 bonus card (bonus card is valid through 1/15/19). Go here for more details.

O’CHARLEYS

Through November 22nd, 2018, for every $25 O’Charley’s gift cards you purchase in-store or online, you’ll receive a $5 reward card (reward card valid 1/1/19 – 2/13/19). You’ll also get a $5 off $10 purchase coupon. Head here for more details.

OLGA’S KITCHEN

For a limited time, buy a $100 gift card and get $30 in bonus bucks. Or, buy $25 gift card and get $5 bonus bucks. Go herefor more details.

 

OLIVE GARDEN

Through December 30th, 2018, for every $50 in Olive Garden gift cards you purchase, you’ll receive a $10 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/2/19 – 2/10/19). Head here for more details.

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $50 in Outback Steakhouse gift cards you purchase, you’ll receive a $10 promotion card (promotion card valid 1/1/19 – 2/10/19). Go here for more details.

PANERA BREAD

Through December 31st, 2018 for every $50 in Panera Bread gift cards you purchase, you’ll receive a $10 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 1/22/19). Head here for more details.

P.F. CHANG’S

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $100 in P.F. Chang’s gift cards you purchase, you’ll receive a $20 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Go here for more details.

PORTILLO’S

For a limited time, purchase $50 worth of gift cards and receive a bonus $10 promotional card valid from Dec. 26th, 2018 – March 21st, 2019. The promotional card will be valid to redeem both online and in store. Go here for more details.

 

RED ROBIN

For a limited time, receive a $5 bonus buck reward for every $25 Red Robin gift card purchase (bonus buck rewards valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Head here for more details.

RED LOBSTER

For a limited time, spend $50 on Red Lobster gift cards, and get a $10 coupon to use in January (valid 1/1/19 – 1/31/19). Gohere for more details.

REGAL THEATRES

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $50 in Regal gift cards purchased at a participating location you will receive a $10 concessions bonus card (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Head here for more details.

ROY’S RESTAURANT

Through December 31st, 2018, buy $100 in Roy’s gift cards, and receive a $30 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 2/12/19). Go here for more details and go here to purchase a gift card.

 

RUBY TUESDAY

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $50 in Ruby Tuesday Gift Cards you buy in-store or online, you’ll receive a free $15 bonus card (bonus card valid 1/2/19 – 3/5/19). Head here for more details.

RUSTY BUCKET

Through December 30th, 2018, for every $50 in Rusty Bucket gift cards you purchase, receive a $10 bonus card (bonus bard valid 1/2/19 – 2/28/19). Go here for more details.

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Through December 31st, 2018, buy $250 worth of more of gift cards, and receive a 10% bonus card (bonus card valid 1/1/19 – 3/31/19). Head here for more details.

SOMA

Through December 24th, 2018, buy $100 in Soma Gift cards and receive a $20 money card (money card valid 1/8/19 – 2/2/19 in Soma boutiques and outlets). Go here for more details.

 

STEAK ‘N SHAKE

Through December 31st, 2018, receive a free $5 certificate when you buy $20 in Steak ‘n Shake gift cards (certificate valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Head here for more details.

TEXAS DE BRAZIL

Through December 21st, 2018, for every $100 Texas de Brazil gift card purchase you’ll receive an additional $25 bonus certificate, and for every $50 gift card purchase you’ll receive $10 bonus certificate (bonus certificate valid 1/1/19 – 3/14/19)! Go here for more details.

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

For a limited time, for every $30 you buy in Texas Roadhouse gift card purchased online, you’ll receive a $5 bonus eGift card (bonus gift card will be emailed to you within 48 hours of purchase; max. bonus is $100) – note that these offers may vary by region. Head here for more details.

 

THE CHILDREN’S PLACE

Through December 25th, 2018, buy a $50 The Children’s Place gift card and receive a $10 bonus card! Or, buy a $75 gift card to get a $15 bonus card, or buy a $100 gift card and get a $20 bonus card. Bonus cards valid 12/26/18-2/2/19. Gohere for more details.

T.G.I. FRIDAY’S

Through December 31st, 2018, for every $25 you spend on T.G.I. Friday’s gift cards, you’ll receive a Bonus Bites card worth $5 (Bonus Bites valid 1/1/19 – 2/28/19). Head here for more details.

TONY ROMA’S

For a limited time, for every $50 in Tony Roma’s eGift Cards you purchase, you’ll receive $15 in Roma Bucks (Roma Bucks valid 1/1/19 – 3/22/19). Roma Bucks are not valid at Las Vegas, NV; Newark, NJ; or Waikiki, HI, locations. Head here for more details.

UNO CHICAGO GRILL

Through January 1st, 2019, buy a $25 Uno’s gift card, receive a $5 bonus voucher (bonus voucher valid 1/2/19 – 2/13/19). Go here for more details.

YARD HOUSE

Through December 31st, 2018, buy a $50 Yard House gift card, receive a $10 Bonus Card (Bonus Card valid 1/2/19 – 3/31/19). Head here for more details.

Grandma's Sugar Cookies

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My grandma Esther, who passed away in 2003, was known for her sugar cookies. She also made rum balls, spritz cookies and more. I have started making her sugar cookies with my son Cam! 

Here's the recipe: 

    1 1/2 cups butter, softened 

    2 cups white sugar 

    4 eggs 

    1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

    5 cups all-purpose flour 

    2 teaspoons baking powder 

    1 teaspoon salt 


 In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour (or overnight).    Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with any cookie cutter. Place cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.    Bake 6 to 8 minutes in preheated oven. Cool completely. 

And here is her icing recipe, though on these cookies we used a different type of icing. This makes a shiny, drizzly icing that hardens to a shiny finish. It works well with adding food coloring too. 

Icing Recipe: 

  •     1 cup confectioners' sugar
  •     2 teaspoons milk
  •     2 teaspoons light corn syrup
  •     1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  •     assorted food coloring

    In a small bowl, stir together confectioners' sugar and milk until smooth. Beat in corn syrup and almond extract until icing is smooth and glossy. If icing is too thick, add more corn syrup. 
    Divide into separate bowls, and add food colorings to each to desired intensity. Dip cookies, or paint them with a brush. 

First, I doubled the recipe and mixed everything in my Kitchen Aid mixer. My grandma mixed most of her cookies with a spoon, the old-school way. 

Then I wrapped everything in wax paper to chill for a few hours: 

Now it's ready to roll! I got out my cookie cutters, including 2 vintage cookie cutters from my grandma. You can find everything you need on ebay for perfect Christmas cookies.