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Handmade Christmas Wrapping Paper Craft

Are you looking to start a new Christmas tradition? How about making handmade Christmas wrapping paper for all of your gifts? Doing Christmas crafts as a family activity is a great way to celebrate the holiday season. Best of all, making homemade gift wrap is an easy project for all ages.

Materials Needed:

  • Sponges of any size and shape
  • Scissors
  • Butcher paper, newsprint, or other types of packing paper (You can purchase rolls of brown shipping paper at your local dollar store).
  • Paint
  • Containers for paint
  • Markers

Instructions:

  1. Cut sponges into various shapes, for example, Christmas trees, gift boxes, stars, candy canes, and ornaments. (Help younger children cut the sponges into shapes.)
  2. Spread your choice of paper on a flat surface.
  3. Squirt small amounts of paint in your container.
  4. Dip your cut sponge into the paint.
  5. Make certain the paint covers the entire sponge for a clear shape.
  6. Press sponge on to the paper. When you are finished, simply rinse the sponges of the entire paint residue. You can use the sponges more than once.
  7. Continue the process until you reach your desired design.
  8. Allow the paint shapes to dry.
  9. Use markers to add outlines, Christmas songs, Bible verses, names, or other designs to your gift wrap.
  10. Now, wrap your Christmas gifts and enjoy it.

Homemade gift wrap is an excellent way to provide a personalized touch to your presents. Use your imagination to create numerous sheets of wrapping paper. Set the mood for family fun by playing Christmas music, drinking hot chocolate, and eating snacks.

Rebecca Reviewed It: LitJoy Subscription Box-Magical Alley

LitJoy has a series of new Magical Subscription Boxes. Now, this is my first purchase of a magical theme box from LitJoy. I cannot even begin to express my amazement. If you are a fan of The Wizarding World, I recommend checking into this subscription box right now. I promise you will not be sorry.

The theme of the first box was Magical Alley. All of the products are high-quality items. The box was just packed. As a subscriber, you have the option to add on products too. If you are a current subscriber who has not received the box, this blog contains massive spoilers.

Here’s the first sneak peek.

Now, the purchase of the box comes with the option of adding on the polybag. I highly recommend getting the bag to protect the artwork on the box.

Last warning, spoiler alert, here are the items in this Magical Alley Subscription Box by LitJoy.

  1. Harry & Hagrid Photo Strip: Can you imagine Harry and Hagrid getting their picture taken on their first trip to Diagon Alley? This is such a cute idea. I can imagine Hagrid squeezing into a photo booth to make a lasting memory for Harry.
  2. Magical Menagerie: As an animal lover, one of my first stops in Diagon Alley would e the Magical Menagerie. Can you imagine all the animals? The three-toed frog is adorable. The collectible box was designed by Tim Beeren.
  3. Collectible Spell Coin: Designed by Maggie Rose Studio, the coin depicts the unlocking charm, Alohomora. Each crate in the Magical Subscription Boxes will contain a magical coin. I cannot wait to see the rest.
  4. Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour: Who wouldn’t want to stop and get some ice cream? Imagine all the witches and wizards passing by the little shop. Of course, sending ice cream would be difficult. Mixed by Riddles Tea Shoppe, the container’s tea bags were made just for the subscription box.
  5. Ollivander’s: Of course, no visit to Diagon Alley would be complete without getting a wand from Ollivander’s. I am impressed with the packaging and the quality of the wand.
  6. Madame Primpernelle’s: The magnificently designed perfume bottle is a great addition to my collection. I cannot wait to use the beautiful bottle in themed photos.
  7. Weasley Wizard Wheezes Staff Pin: Who wouldn’t want to work at Wizard Wheezes? Can you imagine all the fun? The staff pin is a great addition to my collection.
  8. Eeylop’s Owl Emporium: The golden candle carousel is my favorite in the box. I absolutely love this item. I cannot wait to get a little candle to try it out.
  9. Print & Puzzle: The themed art print is definitely going to be a great addition to my bookshelf. The print is also in a puzzle form. I admit I have been picking up extra puzzles lately. Now, I just need to find the extra time to put them together.
  10. Sweets Shop Key (Add on): I love the add-on options. The sweet shop key is magnificent.
  11. Dark Magic Shop Key (Add on): This is a perfect item for photos.
  12. Key Ring for Alohomora Key Add on Collection: This add-on is to place all the keys on from the collection. What a wonderful display idea.

So, did you get the Magical Alley crate? What is your opinion? What is your favorite? I am definitely getting the next one in the series. I was truly impressed by these products.

 

 

Christmas Fun: Making Plaster Ornaments

Let’s face it, the Christmas season can get busy quickly. Spending high-quality family time together is essential to enjoy the holidays. When you are you looking for fun, family activities to celebrate Christmas, consider making plaster ornaments.

Plaster ornaments are simple to make. You can hang them on your own tree. Or share them with family members as gifts. Kids will love making an ornament for grandma, grandpa, a favorite aunt or uncle.

Materials Needed:

  • Christmas themed molds or pans (The plaster does not harm them, just wash thoroughly after use.)
  • Plaster
  • Throw away containers for mixing plaster. (Remember not to pour remaining plaster down the sink.)
  • Water
  • Paint in various colors
  • Paintbrushes

Instructions:

  1. Place newspapers or other protective materials on your counter.
  2. Mix plaster as directed. Always add the plaster mixture to the water for a smooth and consistent mixture. (Keep in mind, the plaster hardens quickly. You need to have your molds ready to go. You can add a little extra water to provide a bit more time).
  3. Fill the molds completely.
  4. Place hangers into your mold. (Paper clips or pop can tab work great for an instant, inexpensive hanger).
  5. Allow your ornaments to dry completely.
  6. Gently remove the ornaments from the molds. You may need to tap on the mold to loosen the ornament.
  7. Paint the ornaments. (You can also personalize the ornaments with names).

Even younger children can help with the painting process. Just do not forget to add the date on the back. The Christmas ornaments can quickly turn into a lasting treasure.

Sugar Cookies: A Christmas Tradition

Are you looking for another simple way to celebrate the Christmas season? Baking during the holidays is a long-standing tradition. Sugar cookies are a tasty treat to decorate, share, and eat. Helping to reduce the stress of the holiday mad-dash of baking, sugar cookies can be frozen to decorate later.

Dig out your favorite sugar cookie recipe, find a new one on Pinterest, or grab a tube of dough at your local store. Regardless of your method, sugar cookies are a fun way to celebrate the Christmas season.

  1. Bake your cookies from the method of choice.
  2. Allow your batch of sugar cookies to cool.
  3. Frost cookies.
  4. Decorate

Do you want to get the kids involved in making sugar cookies to celebrate the Christmas season? Set out different types of holiday sprinkles, marshmallows, nuts, and other toppings. Then, ask your children to help decorate the cookies. Making up new designs and colors provides added fun. Enjoy the creative process going into each cookie.

Finally, time to eat the cookies! Put a plate of cookies out as part of family night. Share a batch with a neighbor.

You can always add a nice cup of hot chocolate or milk to the celebration. Now, the next challenge, who gets to pick the Christmas movie for family night?

Christmas Pretzel Treats

Is the hustle and bustle of the holiday season keeping you busy? Do you need a quick and easy snack for a holiday gathering or family movie night? Chocolate covered pretzel treats are a fun way to celebrate Christmas. The pretzel treats are an easy make-ahead snack.

Materials Needed:

  • Dipping chocolate (For added Christmas fun, purchase red or green colored dipping cholate)
  • Pretzels of any style will work.
  • Christmas sprinkles, marshmallows, nuts, chocolate chips, shredded coconut

Instructions:

  1. Melt dipping chocolate as directed. You can melt the chocolate in the microwave or use a double boiler pan.
  2. Melt chocolate to desired consistency. Smooth, well-heated chocolate is easy to apply to pretzels.
  3. Dip pretzels in chocolate.
  4. Add sprinkles. For extra fun, allow your children to help decorate with the sprinkles. Creating their own snacks is a great way to get everyone involved.
  5. Allow the chocolate to harden.
  6. You can store the pretzels in a plastic bag or airtight container.

Drawing Prompts for the Christmas Season

Are you and your family spending more time at home this Christmas season? Are you searching for fun, simple activities to do together? How about a daily drawing challenge?

Spending a little time each day drawing can help expand your child’s imagination, increase vocabulary, and enhance fine motor skills. Unsure what to draw? Check out the following drawing prompts for the Christmas season.

  1. Santa
  2. Elf
  3. Candy Cane
  4. Gifts
  5. Star
  6. Angel
  7. Snowman
  8. Snowflakes
  9. Bells
  10. Reindeer
  11. North Pole
  12. Santa’s Sleigh
  13. Toys
  14. Manger
  15. Nativity
  16. Ornaments
  17. Gift Tags
  18. Christmas Stockings
  19. Christmas Wreath
  20. Christmas Tree
  21. Red and Green
  22. Ribbons and Bows
  23. Mistletoe
  24. Christmas Eve
  25. Christmas Day
  26. Snow Globe
  27. Mittens and Scarves
  28. Peace
  29. Love
  30. Animals in the Snow
  31. Welcoming 2021

Drawing is an open-ended activity. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Simply use your imagination.

Self-Care Ideas for December

The holiday season can be stressful. The ongoing pandemic and social distancing increase the strain on your daily demands. During this time, self-care is essential.

  1. Stay hydrated; drink plenty of water or herbal tea.
  2. Go for a long nature walk after a snowfall.
  3. Watch Christmas cartoons.
  4. Go hiking.
  5. Put up Christmas decorations.
  6. Play soft music and take a long hot bubble bath.
  7. Meditate or pray.
  8. Check out beginner yoga or workout videos. (YouTube is a great resource).
  9. Go for a ride and look at Christmas videos.
  10. Call or host a zoom meeting with old friends.
  11. Paint or draw a Christmas scene.
  12. Give yourself an in-home spa treatment.
  13. Declutter a room.
  14. Snuggle under a blanket, sip a warm beverage, and binge-watch your favorite series.
  15. Do crafts.
  16. Keep a journal.
  17. Try a new recipe.
  18. Light candles (or use flameless ones) and put on your favorite playlist.
  19. Sleep in.
  20. Make a new playlist or Christmas one.
  21. Unplug from your devices for an afternoon or the entire day.
  22. Buy a small gift.
  23. Cut out paper snowflakes to hang on your windows.
  24. Christmas Eve—Watch It’s a Wonderful Life or Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
  25. Merry Christmas! Relax and enjoy your day.
  26. Play your favorite songs and sing loudly. If you have neighbors, you may want to sing in your car.
  27. Make your favorite food.
  28. Buy a bouquet of flowers to sit in the middle of your table.
  29. Spend a day reading.
  30. Write your New Year’s Resolutions or create a bucket list.
  31. Happy New Year! Toast 2021.

Photo Prompts for December

The last month of 2020 is finally here, time to reflect and enjoy the holiday season. Are you looking to take pictures throughout the month? Check out the following list of photo prompts for December.

  1. Selfie
  2. Contrast
  3. Seasonal
  4. Religious
  5. Sunrise or Sunset
  6. Warm Beverage
  7. Art
  8. Hats
  9. Signs
  10. 3pm
  11. Light
  12. Nature
  13. Mistletoe or Holly
  14. Love
  15. Silver & Gold
  16. Santa
  17. Snowman
  18. Christmas Décor
  19. Red & Green
  20. Snowflakes (Yes, cut out ones work)
  21. Yule (First Day of the Winter Solstice)
  22. Ribbons & Bows
  23. Tinsel
  24. Christmas Eve Merriment
  25. Christmas Day Fun
  26. Day After
  27. Shapes
  28. Blue
  29. Animal
  30. Friendship
  31. New Year’s Eve Toast

Enjoy this month’s photo prompts. Use December’s photo prompts as a way to have fun with your camera. Print the pictures, share online, and enjoy.

Journal Writing Prompts for December

The last month of 2020 is finally here. Are you still keeping your journal? Or are you just starting? Regardless of where you are at with your journal entries, use these writing prompts to help you through December.

  1. How did last month go for you? Write about your highs and lows for November.
  2. Write down 10 things you hope to accomplish in December.
  3. How is the pandemic in your area? Are the cases rising or decreasing? What are your concerns about the ongoing health crisis? Go into details.
  4. How has the pandemic changed your daily routine?
  5. Free write for 10 minutes. Set a timer and just let your thoughts flow.
  6. What one day from your past would you like to relive again? Why? Go into details.
  7. What major change would you like to implement in your life? What is stopping you from achieving your goal?
  8. What anxieties do you have about the future?
  9. What was the best part of your day today? Why?
  10. What was your biggest challenge or obstacle today? Why?
  11. What activity do you do to relieve stress?
  12. Go outdoors. Memorize what you see. Go back in and write the scene. Remember to focus on your five senses as you write.
  13. What were you doing at 11 am? Go into details.
  14. Write a book or product review.
  15. Write about a difficult time in your life. How did you get through it?
  16. What does your dream home look like? Go into details.
  17. Write about your day from the point of view of your dog or cat.
  18. Write a restaurant or small business review.
  19. What is one thing you want to do right now but can’t?
  20. Write a letter to your future self.
  21. Write about your extended family, your grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.
  22. Describe the view out your window. If it’s dark, write about the night.
  23. Write about your best Christmas as a child.
  24. Christmas Eve–Write about your day.
  25. Merry Christmas! How did you spend the holiday?
  26. What did you learn the most in 2020?
  27. Write a list of at least 10 things you want to personally accomplish in 2021.
  28. Write a list of at least 10 things you want to accomplish as a family or at your place of employment
  29. Write a bucket list for 2021.
  30. What are you hoping for in 2021?
  31. What are your final thoughts for the last day of 2020?

 

Journal Prompts for the Christmas Season

The Christmas season is the perfect time of year to keep a journal. Write down your past memories, traditions, and daily fun. Do you need some journal prompts for the Christmas season? Check out the following list to get you started.

  1. What does the Christmas season mean to you? Go into detail.
  2. What is your favorite part of Christmas? Why?
  3. How does your religious belief fit into your Christmas traditions?
  4. What religious traditions do you practice or attend? A live nativity? A midnight outdoor service?
  5. How will this Christmas season be different?
  6. Is there an annual Christmas community event that you cannot attend this year due to the pandemic? Describe your past experiences at this particular event.
  7. What Christmas stands out the most to you?
  8. What are your favorite types of Christmas decorations in your home? Yard? or Community? What?
  9. What Christmas traditions did you love as a child? Do you still practice them? Why or why not?
  10. What smells remind you the most of the Christmas season? Why?
  11. Did you have Christmas stockings as a child? What was usually inside of your stocking? Do you still do stockings with your family? Why or why not?
  12. What is your favorite Christmas song? Why does this song remind you of the Christmas season?
  13. Finish the sentence. Today I was put in the Christmas season by_____________.
  14. What foods, candy, or other treats remind you the most of Christmas time?
  15. Are you to drive around and look at Christmas lights? What was your favorite? Why did this display stand out the most?
  16. Is there any new Christmas tradition you plan to do?
  17. What is your favorite Christmas movie? Why?
  18. What is your favorite Christmas cartoon? Why?
  19. What one new thing did you do, watch, or bake this Christmas season?
  20. Did you get your family everything on their Christmas list? (Yes, your dog does count). Are there any last minute gifts you need to purchase?
  21. What do you plan to bake or purchase as part of your Christmas celebrations? Why did you make these choices?
  22. Are you ready for your Christmas celebrations? What last minute things do you need to do to prepare?
  23. Christmas Eve—write about your celebrations.
  24. Merry Christmas! Write about your day.
  25. Did your Christmas celebrations go as planned?
  26. What are your hopes for next Christmas?
  27. What was your biggest challenge celebrating Christmas during a pandemic?
  28. Write about your 2020 Christmas season.
  29. Write about 2020, the good and the bad.
  30. How do you plan to celebrate New Year’s Eve?
  31. Write about your hopes and resolutions for 2021.