5 Easy and Affordable DIY Christmas Decorations for Your Home

Are you looking to add some holiday cheer to your home without breaking the bank? DIY Christmas decorations are a great way to get into the holiday spirit while also saving money. Here are 5 easy and affordable DIY Christmas decorations that you and your family can make together:

 

Paper snowflakes: All you need is some white paper, scissors, and a little bit of creativity to make these classic Christmas decorations. Simply fold a piece of paper in half, then fold it in half again to create a triangle. Cut out different shapes and patterns on the folded edge, then unfold the paper to reveal your unique snowflake design. Hang them up on your windows or on a string of lights for a festive touch.

Cinnamon stick ornaments: These sweet-smelling ornaments are a cinch to make and only require a few ingredients. Simply mix together equal parts cinnamon, applesauce, and white glue, then roll the mixture into small balls. Press a cinnamon stick into each ball, then let them dry for a few hours or overnight. Once they're dry, you can hang them on your tree or use them to decorate wreaths or garlands.

Popcorn and cranberry garland: This traditional garland is both easy and affordable to make. Simply thread some popcorn and cranberries onto a piece of string or ribbon, and hang it up on your tree or around your mantle. You can also add some spices to the popcorn before threading it onto the string for an extra festive scent.

Bottle brush tree centerpieces: These miniature trees are a cute and quirky addition to any holiday table. You can find bottle brush trees at most craft stores, or you can make your own by bending wire into a tree shape and attaching small branches or twigs to it. Place them in a small pot or jar, and decorate with miniature ornaments, tinsel, or small lights.

Handprint wreath: This adorable wreath is a fun way to incorporate the whole family into your holiday decorations. Simply trace each family member's hand onto some green construction paper, then cut out the handprints and glue them onto a cardboard circle to create a wreath shape. Add some ribbon or other decorative elements to finish off the wreath.

With a little bit of creativity and some basic materials, you can easily create these fun and affordable DIY Christmas decorations for your home. Happy crafting!

5 Fun and Festive Holiday Activities for the Whole Family

The holiday season is all about spending quality time with loved ones and creating lasting memories. Here are 5 fun and festive activities that the whole family can enjoy together:

Decorate Gingerbread Houses: This classic holiday activity is a fun and tasty way to get creative. Purchase a gingerbread house kit or make your own gingerbread pieces and use frosting and candy to decorate. You can also add your own personal touches with icing and other edible decorations.

Watch Classic Holiday Movies: Gather around the TV and snuggle up with blankets and hot cocoa as you watch classic holiday movies together. From "It's a Wonderful Life" to "Elf," there are plenty of heartwarming and entertaining films to choose from.

Have a Hot Cocoa Bar: Make your own hot cocoa bar with a variety of flavors and toppings for a cozy and festive evening in. Set out mugs, hot cocoa mix, and toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and chocolate chips for everyone to customize their own hot cocoa.

Go Caroling: Gather a group of friends or family members and head out into the neighborhood to sing carols. You can also visit local nursing homes or hospitals to spread holiday cheer to those who may not have the opportunity to be with loved ones.

Make Homemade Ornaments: Get crafty and make your own holiday decorations with this fun and festive activity. Use materials like beads, glitter, and ribbon to create unique ornaments that will add a personal touch to your tree. You can also make ornaments as gifts for friends and family.

We hope these fun and festive holiday activities inspire you 

to create lasting memories with your loved ones. 

Happy holidays!

10 Unique and Delicious Holiday Recipes to Try This Season

The holiday season is all about indulging in tasty treats and trying new flavors. If you're looking to mix things up in the kitchen this year, we've got some unique and delicious holiday recipes that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.

1. Spiced Mulled Wine

Add some warmth to your holiday party with this cozy and aromatic drink. Simply combine red wine, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise in a saucepan and simmer until heated through. Garnish with orange slices and serve in mugs.

2. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your veggie game with this sweet and savory side dish. Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and maple syrup, then roast in the oven until crispy. Sprinkle with pecans and cranberries for extra holiday cheer.

3. Bourbon Peach Pecan Pie

This twist on classic pecan pie is sure to be a hit with bourbon lovers. Combine bourbon, chopped peaches, and pecans in a pie crust, then top with a mixture of eggs, brown sugar, and butter. Bake until golden brown and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

4. Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Baguette

This appetizer is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its combination of creamy brie and tart cranberries. Slice a baguette and stuff with brie and cranberry sauce, then bake until the cheese is melted. Serve with a side of chutney or honey for dipping.

5. Eggnog French Toast

Start your holiday morning off right with this decadent breakfast treat. Dip slices of bread in a mixture of eggnog, eggs, and nutmeg, then fry until golden brown. Top with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup.

6. Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Turkey

Give your Thanksgiving turkey a flavorful twist with this rosemary and garlic rub. Mix together olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary, then rub all over the turkey. Roast until tender and juicy, basting with the pan juices as it cooks.

7. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Crumble

This classic Thanksgiving side dish gets a tasty upgrade with a marshmallow crumble topping. Mash sweet potatoes with butter, sugar, and milk, then top with a mixture of marshmallows and breadcrumbs. Bake until the marshmallows are gooey and golden.

8. Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and flavorful gingerbread cake. Mix together molasses, sugar, eggs, and spices, then bake in a bundt pan. Top with a creamy cream cheese frosting and serve with a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

9.Slow Cooker Mulled Cider

Make your holiday entertaining a breeze with this slow cooker mulled cider recipe. Simply combine apple cider, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise in a slow cooker and let it simmer for a few hours. Serve in mugs and garnish with orange slices.

10. Peppermint Bark

This classic holiday treat is easy to make and always a hit. Melt chocolate and spread it onto a lined baking sheet, then top with crushed peppermint candies. Let it cool and harden, then break it into pieces and enjoy!

We hope these unique and delicious holiday recipes inspire you to try something new in the kitchen this season. Happy cooking!

Welcome to Jingle and Jangle!

Hello and welcome to Jingle and Jangle! We are so excited to share our love of the holiday season with you. Whether you're a seasoned pro at celebrating the holidays or are looking for new and creative ways to get into the festive spirit, we've got you covered.

On our blog, you'll find all sorts of holiday inspiration, including gift ideas, recipes, decorating tips, and ideas for holiday events and activities. We'll also be sharing stories and traditions from different cultures and around the world, so you can learn about new ways to celebrate the season.

We hope you'll join us on this festive journey and become a part of the Jingle and Jangle community. Be sure to follow us and stay tuned for all of the holiday cheer to come!