Goodies and Toasties!

 Hello all.  I hope you are all well this fine Tuesday.  It is warming up already this morning - today will be our warmest day for a while.  It is overcast - hoping to see a little sun.  Saw sun yesterday and that is always a joy and just so needed.  A real mood lifter.  Hoping to go out in a while and try to finish up my shopping.  Taking advantage of the weather.  Just some small things needed and a few more gift cards.  Then it will be on to packing goody bags and making all the homemade goodies.

This sure takes me back to the images seen in the 50's and 60's!

Most people probably have their gifts bought. - but for those who need a few ideas - here are a couple of homemade goodies you can make.  These are always a hit and taste so good.

                                              BANANA BREAD

Banana bread is always a hit.  I make smaller mini loaves.  This recipe is easy as it uses baking mix - but you can do completely from scratch.  Wrap up in foil or cellophane tie a pretty ribbon and have a nice office or neighbor gift.

                                            STIR STCKS OR SPOONS

Coffee stir sticks (or hot chocolate) are always super easy and fun.  

(click on the recipes to see larger)

                                               SUGARED PECANS

These sugared nuts are the ones I have made many, many times.  They are just sooooo yummy and tasty.  Really easy to make.  Place in some little baggies and tie a ribbon - sweet treat.

I came across this recipe and I am going to make it this year.  Now I will kind of do it MY way.  I will use whatever nuts I find available and inexpensive.  I have dried cranberries and all the other stuff.  Nothing etched in stone that says you have to do it as stated.   Use what you like.

I am not sure what they call a bag - assuming 12-16 oz.

I know nuts are not the cheapest ingredient - but it is Christmas time!  For some reason nuts seem to go with the holidays!  I even remember nuts in shell in my stockings as a child!

Are you all staying warm and cozy?  I have been wearing my snuggy socks the past few days.  They sure do keep the tootsies warm.  I have 3 or 4 pair of these - and they are a blessing.  So many ways to stay warm.  I always wear layers in my shirts.  I have throws and afgans in several spots - for a quick snuggle up! 

If it is super cold and I have to be outside, I have one pair of 'sort of' leggins that go on under the jeans.  They help a lot!!  Or wear sweats over jeans or flannel pants.

Keep bundled up outside.  Keep your head covered and your hands and ears as well!

So, some easy and quick ideas for treats to gift or just to have at home and ways to stay warm and cozy.

Have a super great day and gift a smile or kind word to someone - it costs nothing!!!!