Without fail, every time I plan any type of party my main focus goes straight to impressing my guests. I want everything to be perfect, which is unrealistic. Things will not always go according to plan. There are many times that I don’t even enjoy the party because the expectations I created were not met. If you’re like me planning holiday parties can be stressful and costly. I mention costly because often times I buy additional (unnecessary) items just to seem more impressive.

As I have come to realize this habit of mine, and with the holidays approaching I wanted to find ways to make entertaining easier. That’s when I discovered organizedhome.com. I found an article on their page that talks about making entertaining easy and enjoyable. I pulled a few things to share with you that really struck me. If you would like to read the full article I would recommend it.

The article can be found at http://organizedhome.com/kitchen-tips/party-time-four-steps-easy-entertaining

“Too often, we have strict notions about what constitutes hospitality. We think “dinner party” and fret about whether the towels match the shower curtain-and we miss the whole point of the effort.” Are you guilty of this? Maybe not making sure everything in the house matches, but worrying about things that really don’t matter. The whole point is having an enjoyable time with those you care about.

“What does “entertaining” mean to you? Take a moment, and think of what springs to mind. Do you worry about your lack of fine china and polished silver? Do you fret about the furniture? Do you thumb frantically through cookbooks and food magazines, looking for just the right recipes? Do you vow to bar the door to guests until you’ve cleaned the house from attic to cellar? Time for an attitude adjustment! All these concerns are irrelevant to true hospitality.” Wow, talk about a slap in the face. I’m definitely the type of person that doesn’t want any guests over unless my house is spotless. I wonder if that comes from how you’re raised. I grew up in a home where the house had to be clean at all times. Any thoughts on what causes this mindset?

Step One: “put the focus where it belongs: on the guests. It’s helpful to redefine your terms. Do you “entertain” or do you offer hospitality?

Those who entertain take aim on material things: house, food, dishes, decorations. They view each dinner party as a production that must be scheduled, coordinated and directed to perfection. The event takes place in a stage set of polished furniture, cleaned carpet and precisely-set tables. Too often, the “entertainer” is so stressed and exhausted by all the preparation that she doesn’t enjoy her own party! With this mindset, entertaining is a chore, to be done as infrequently as possible.

One who offers hospitality has a different focus: her guests. To her, hospitality is about sharing. Her home welcomes visitors and draws them into the warm family circle as treasured guests. Her values put people before floral centerpieces and ironed napkins. She may engage in as much preparation as the “entertainer,” but she knows that when a guest feels truly welcome, the state of the floors is unimportant.

Start by changing your mind. Will you offer hospitality this holiday season? Or will you stage entertainment? Resolve to put first things–your guests–first on your list. Armed with this mindset, you’ll avoid the perfectionist traps that stand ready to snare the entertainer.”

Step Two: “Do-ahead preparations will take the stress out of drop-in visitors, and free you to enjoy visits from unexpected guests. Purchase or prepare hospitality supplies: crackers, some good cheese (the smellier the better to deter grazing children) frozen cookies or slices of cake. Child-proof the latter by wrapping aluminum foil and labeling as “liver and onions” before you freeze!

Keep a stock of good tea bags and coffee on hand, and assemble a teapot, sugar bowl and creamer, and several good teacups in one spot. Invite your guests to join you in the kitchen as you swish about efficiently, assembling a welcoming snack! ”

Step Three: If you’re going to throw a holiday party, begin early. The busy holiday season is the very last time you want to experience pre-party chaos.

Try this 10-point holiday party game plan:

1-Set the date

2-Make a guest list

3-Get the word out early

4-Plan food & drink

5-Rehearse your recipes

6-Map your house (Decide what layout you will have for your party)

7-Make your house party friendly

8-Figure out how/when you’re going to get everything done. Shopping, cooking, cleaning, etc.

9-Enjoy your party!

10-Handle mishaps with grace

Remember to have a Happy Holiday Season!

Food, food, and more food! It’s normal during the holidays to feel a little overwhelmed by all the endless amounts of food. New Year’s is a few short weeks away and a perfect time to start a healthier eating resolution. If you’re on a diet or trying to watch your weight during the holidays don’t feel trapped and miserable. Instead eat what you want, but in small portions.

Along with endless amounts of food, the holidays also bring endless parties and visitors. If you’re hosting a Christmas party this year stock up on some of these tasty appetizer recipes to serve your guests. If you’re pressed for time a lot of these recipes are easy to make or you can even find some in the stores that are premade. Here is a list of 25 different holiday appetizers that are not only visually appealing, but delicious. Every day we will be posting each recipe on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/klondikebrands so take a look and see the images you can also follow the link to each recipe on this page.

Meatballs

http://www.ohsodelicioso.com/2011/11/sweet-n-sour-meatballs.html

Cheese Platter

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vByd_zhRVvs/UNM_r5OXlzI/AAAAAAAAauE/9zerz-LiuFI/s1600/IMG_7337-001. JPG

Pinwheels

http://www.recipegirl.com/2007/05/27/cranberry-feta-pinwheels/#_a5y_p=1034149

Crab Rangoon

http://www.recipelion.com/Appetizers/Easy-Crab-Rangoon-Recipe/ct/1

Strawberry Santa’s    

http://www.justapinch.com/recipes/appetizer/fruit-appetizer/strawberry-santas.html

Cheese Ball

http://www.justapinch.com/recipes/appetizer/cheese-appetizer/holiday-cheese-ball-6.html

Marinated Mushrooms

http://www.dinnersanddreams.net/2011/10/mushroom-skewers.html

Penguin Appetizer

http://homecookinginmontana.blogspot.com/2009/01/olive-penguin-appetizers.html

Vegetable Christmas Tree

http://www.irwinlife.com/health/kids/nutrition-for-kids/healthy-festive-and-fun-holiday-treats/

 White Chocolate Dipped Cherries

http://simpleprovisions.com.au/2012/12/19/cherries-dipped-in-white-chocolate/

 Cream Puffs

http://www.thesweetslife.com/2013/04/finding-time-in-2013-cream-puffs.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheSweetsLife+%28The+Sweets+Life%29&utm_content=Yahoo!+Mail

 Shrimp Cocktail

http://nourishpaleofoods.com/2012/12/09/holiday-shrimp-cocktail/comment-page-1/

 Stuffed Peppers

http://rollmeouttahere.blogspot.com/2010/08/stuffed-mini-peppers.html

 Bruschetta

http://slimpickinskitchen.com/2012/12/sparkling-blueberry-pomegranate-bruschetta/

 Bacon & Potato Bites

http://www.klondikebrands.com/recipes/cheesy-bacon-potato-rounds

 Fudge

http://southernbite.com/2010/12/01/holiday-fudge/

 Truffles

http://www.bakedperfection.com/2009/11/cookie-dough-truffles-and-my-first-give.html

 Roasted Mini Potatoes

http://www.yumsugar.com/Mini-Twiced-Baked-Potato-Recipe-14751332

 Spinach Artichoke Dip

http://top10-appetizer-recipes.blogspot.com/2013/10/spinach-artichoke-dip.html

 Onion Dip

http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/14614077/carmalized-onion-dip/

 Smoked Salmon

http://www.snackpicks.com/en_US/holidays-and-occasions/mothers-day/mothers-day-brunch.html

Mozzarella Sticks

http://noshingwiththenolands.com/mouth-watering-mondays-42/

Queso Dip

http://www.motherthyme.com/2013/10/sausage-queso-dip.html

 Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

http://www.thekitchenismyplayground.com/2011/12/christmas-white-chocolate-dipped.html

 Fruit Kabobs

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/d3/86/2f/d3862ff52a163b5d2cea4ea3b35a6d99. jpg

 

 

 

Each year during the Christmas holiday it seems as if prices increase and it becomes more difficult to buy some of the things I want. Decorating for the holidays is something I look forward to each year, but with a tight budget it makes it difficult. This year to satisfy my desire to decorate I found 10 do-it-yourself Christmas ornaments that will be fun to make with friends and family. Also, these new ornaments will give my old Christmas tree a new feel and look without breaking the bank!

*If you like the ornaments follow the link below the image to find out what you need and how to make it. Ornaments were chosen based on appearance, minimal supplies, and easy to create.

Cupcake Ornaments

http://www.forbes.com/sites/jaysondemers/2013/09/24/the-top-7-social-media-marketing-trends-that-will-dominate-2014/2/

Ombre Glass Ornament

http://www.ivillage.com/easy-diy-christmas-ornaments/7-b-502807#505771

Christmas Berry Ornament

http://www.ivillage.com/easy-diy-christmas-ornaments/7-b-502807#505774

 Button Wreath Ornament

http://www.ivillage.com/easy-diy-christmas-ornaments/7-b-502807#505785

String Ornament

http://www.ivillage.com/easy-diy-christmas-ornaments/7-b-502807#505793

Monogram Ornament

http://www.ivillage.com/easy-diy-christmas-ornaments/7-b-502807#505800

Tree Ornament

http://www.ivillage.com/easy-diy-christmas-ornaments/7-b-502807#505809

Reindeer Ornament

http://www.ivillage.com/easy-diy-christmas-ornaments/7-b-502807#505814

CD Ornament

http://www.cremedelacraft.com/2012/11/DIYOrnaments.html

Pom-pom Garland

http://www.takethesidestreet.com/2010/11/glitter-pom-pom-garland.html

I remember standing in line on the day after Thanksgiving to see Santa arrive at the local mall on a fire truck and then patiently (I’m sure) waiting to sit on his lap to tell him what my heart desired for Christmas that year. Every family has a different tradition when it comes to Santa Claus. Things that we did as children to get ready for Santa or things our children did that are indelibly etched in our minds. For instance, when I was a child, we would make Sugar Cookies for Santa and set them out with milk for the tubby guy. Now, I have it on very good authority that Santa’s favorite cookies are Oatmeal Chocolate Chip from a specific local bakery, and that is what my children leave out for Santa. But I remember one snowy Christmas Eve when I overlooked my Mom duties by forgetting to purchase Santa’s treats which instigated a riot and a late night drive to the only open store to procure Santa’s cookies. Each Christmas holiday we store away these Santa memories and the ones we love the most, we try to pass along to the generations after us.

Possibly my most impactful Santa memory was a gift that I received from my grandparents when I was 9. They gave me a book called A Child’s Christmas Cookbook, originally published in the Victorian Era, this book is full of the most beautiful pen and ink illustrations of Santa Claus. It epitomizes the true meaning of Christmas, not the materialistic side of the holiday that we see displayed in today’s society. It describes how to treat Grandpapa when he comes to visit for Christmas; because we all know he has a sweet tooth, by making him cinnamon and sugar toast for breakfast or how to be helpful to Mother, who must be tired after putting up all the decorations by making your own sandwich for lunch. I didn’t realize it when I was 9, but I now cherish the feeling that a book like this hearkens, true connection and care for your family and friends.

I thought I would include a few of the wonderful ideas from this book.

You’re nice to your pets all year round. So why not plan a picnic just for them? Just because it’s Christmas…Give your dog a dog biscuit. Cats like ice cream. Birds a small slice of apple…And turtles – now, how do you have a picnic with a turtle? Well, Alice did…
A gift is something that you make and when it’s half-past November, gifts should be finished and ready to wrap. Such as Pomander Balls
These spicy scented fancies were hung in linen closets, once-upon-a-time. Place unpeeled apple on a pie tin. Stick in whole cloves. Very gently. All over. The more, the better. Roll it in 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon. Bake in warm oven for about three hours. When it cools, wrap in a scrap of lace, net or nylon stocking. Tie with ribbon. Leave long ends for hanging. Does Mother have an old bonnet with flowers? Use those for decoration.

I’m always struck by how everything was used, and nothing went to waste. A trait that we don’t often use any more. I think if each of us, in our own way looks for ways to be closer to others in this festive time, we personify the Spirit of Santa throughout the entire season and keep these precious memories of Santa alive.

How do you remember Santa?

Photo found at http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/8e/2b/2e/8e2b2e3967844e03c9e7d2ed3ca5993e.jpg

 

Food, food, and more food! It’s normal during the holidays to feel a little overwhelmed by all the endless amounts of food. New Year’s is a few short weeks away and a perfect time to start a healthier eating resolution. If you’re on a diet or trying to watch your weight during the holidays don’t feel trapped and miserable. Instead eat what you want, but in small portions.

Along with endless amounts of food, the holidays also bring endless parties and visitors. If you’re hosting a Christmas party this year stock up on some of these tasty appetizer recipes to serve your guests. If you’re pressed for time a lot of these recipes are easy to make or you can even find some in the stores that are premade. Here is a list of 25 different holiday appetizers that are not only visually appealing, but delicious. Every day we will be posting each recipe on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/klondikebrands so take a look and see the images you can also follow the link to each recipe on this page.

1.     Meatballs

http://www.ohsodelicioso.com/2011/11/sweet-n-sour-meatballs.html

2.     Cheese Platter

3.     Pinwheels

http://www.recipegirl.com/2007/05/27/cranberry-feta-pinwheels/#_a5y_p=1034149

4.     Crab Rangoon

http://www.recipelion.com/Appetizers/Easy-Crab-Rangoon-Recipe/ct/1

5.     Strawberry Santa’s    

http://www.justapinch.com/recipes/appetizer/fruit-appetizer/strawberry-santas.html

6.     Cheese Ball

http://www.justapinch.com/recipes/appetizer/cheese-appetizer/holiday-cheese-ball-6.html

7.     Marinated Mushrooms

http://www.dinnersanddreams.net/2011/10/mushroom-skewers.html

8.     Penguin Appetizer

http://homecookinginmontana.blogspot.com/2009/01/olive-penguin-appetizers.html

9.     Vegetable Christmas Tree

http://www.irwinlife.com/health/kids/nutrition-for-kids/healthy-festive-and-fun-holiday-treats/

10.   White Chocolate Dipped Cherries

http://simpleprovisions.com.au/2012/12/19/cherries-dipped-in-white-chocolate/

11.   Cream Puffs

http://www.thesweetslife.com/2013/04/finding-time-in-2013-cream-puffs.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheSweetsLife+%28The+Sweets+Life%29&utm_content=Yahoo!+Mail

12.   Shrimp Cocktail

http://nourishpaleofoods.com/2012/12/09/holiday-shrimp-cocktail/comment-page-1/

13.    Stuffed Peppers

http://rollmeouttahere.blogspot.com/2010/08/stuffed-mini-peppers.html

14.     Bruschetta

http://slimpickinskitchen.com/2012/12/sparkling-blueberry-pomegranate-bruschetta/

15.     Bacon & Potato Bites

http://www.klondikebrands.com/recipes/cheesy-bacon-potato-rounds

16.     Fudge

http://southernbite.com/2010/12/01/holiday-fudge/

17.     Truffles

http://www.bakedperfection.com/2009/11/cookie-dough-truffles-and-my-first-give.html

18.      Roasted Mini Potatoes

http://www.yumsugar.com/Mini-Twiced-Baked-Potato-Recipe-14751332

19.       Spinach Artichoke Dip

http://top10-appetizer-recipes.blogspot.com/2013/10/spinach-artichoke-dip.html

20.     Onion Dip

http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/14614077/carmalized-onion-dip/

21.      Smoked Salmon

http://www.snackpicks.com/en_US/holidays-and-occasions/mothers-day/mothers-day-brunch.html

22.     Mozzarella Sticks

http://noshingwiththenolands.com/mouth-watering-mondays-42/

23.      Queso Dip

http://www.motherthyme.com/2013/10/sausage-queso-dip.html

24.     Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

http://www.thekitchenismyplayground.com/2011/12/christmas-white-chocolate-dipped.html

25.      Fruit Kabobs

As I’m starting to plan for Thanksgiving I can’t help but make a list of what side dishes to prepare this year. Can there really be too many side dishes in one meal? Side dishes are a big reason why Thanksgiving excites me each year. Don’t get me wrong the turkey is great, but without all those amazing sides the meal would be a little dull. If I only had one side to choose it would definitely be mashed potatoes, but here are 25 amazing side dish recipes that will surely be a hit on your table and in your tummy.

1.      Sweet Potato Casserole

http://www.cookingclassy.com/2012/11/browned-butter-sweet-potato-casserole/

2.      Cranberry Sauce

http://www.ilovevegan.com/portfolio/cranberry-sauce/

3.      Stuffing

http://www.hgtv.com/entertaining/sage-onion-and-smoked-bacon-stuffing/index.html

4.      Mashed Potatoes

http://www.klondikebrands.com/recipes/mashed-potatoes-johnnys-gravy

5.      Oven-Roasted Asparagus

http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/11/oven-roasted-asparagus/

6.      Green Bean Casserole

http://homechefdecuisine.com/green-bean-casserole/side-dish/

7.      Dinner Rolls

http://wwwbunnysovencom.blogspot.com/2013/10/delicious-classic-dinner-rolls.html?m=1

8.      Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

http://m.cookingchanneltv.com/recipes/sunny-anderson/pan-roasted-brussels-sprouts-with-bacon.html

9.      Creamed Corn

http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/creamed_corn/

10.  Mac and Cheese

http://thatwhichnourishes.com/2013/07/05/the-mac-and-cheese/

11.  Honey Glazed Carrots

http://www.dessertnowdinnerlater.com/2013/03/honey-glazed-carrots.html

12.  Potato Salad

http://www.klondikebrands.com/recipes/quick-potato-salad

13.  Corn Bread

http://mytableforeight.blogspot.com/search/label/Moist%20Corn%20Bread

14.  Glazed Pearl Onions

http://www.edamam.com/recipe/sugar-glazed-pearl-onions-055c5825285f8ccae2eda661dc6a1b85/pearl+onions

15.  Squash

http://www.bettycrocker.com/tips/tipslibrary/ingredients/how-to-cook-winter-squash

16.  Macaroni Salad

http://eathealthyandstuff.com/2013/08/30/macaroni-salad/

17.  Broccoli Salad

http://canopi.com/content/2013/3/25/broccoli-salad/?_szp=223161

18. Veggie Tray with Dill Dip

http://themerrythought.com/recipes/autumn-veggie-platter-dill-dip/

19.  Turkey Gravy

http://www.familybalancesheet.org/2012/11/turkey-gravy-recipe.html

20.  Stuffed Mushrooms

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/stuffed-mushrooms-recipe-wdy1113

21.  Fruit Salad

http://www.foodlve.com/article2.php?url=secret-fruit-salad-1891

22.  Jello Salad

http://www.food.com/recipe/dry-jell-o-salad-jello-cottage-cheese-fruit-salad-95290

23.  Snicker Salad

http://www.chef-in-training.com/2012/09/snickers-caramel-apple-salad/

24.  Green Salad with Croutons

http://www.recipe.com/green-salad-with-cranberry-vinaigrette-and-croutons/

25.  Deviled Eggs

http://spoonful.com/recipes/deviled-eggs-0

Halloween:

What you need: Three class bottles, orange spray paint, white spray paint, and yellow spray paint (you could also use crafting paint).

Instructions: First spray the bottles with white paint. Let dry and then spray with white paint again if first coating wasn’t thick enough. Let dry and spray 2/3 of the bottle orange leaving the top white. Once paint has dried paint the bottom 1/3 portion yellow. Let dry. Now you have candy corn decorations.

What you need: Masking tape, two paper plates, and two sheets of black paper, your choice of streamer colors for the face and hair of your monster.

Instructions: Have fun and be creative!

Thanksgiving:

What you need: Dried corn cornels, burlap string, fake leaves, three candles, and three candle holders of assorted sizes.

Instructions: Fill candle holder with corn cornels. Wrap the leaf with string around the candle then place in candle holder.

What you need: Picture frame, chalk, chalkboard paint (you can find this at Walmart).

Instructions: Depending on what frame you choose you can paint the cardboard, which is the back layer of the frame or you can paint the glass. Paint with at least two coats of chalkboard paint. Once dry you can draw a pumpkin or whatever you would like! The best part about this craft is you can use it all year long and just draw different pictures!

Christmas:

What you need: Christmas ordainments and ribbon.

Instructions: Cut ribbon in different sizes and tie on ordainments. Then attach on light fixture.

What you need: Different ribbon or fabric of your choice and a Styrofoam wreath (found in craft stores).

Instructions: Cute all ribbon/fabric the same size. The pieces should fit around the Styrofoam wreath with a few inches to spare to you can tie the ribbon together in a couple of knots. Tie ribbon closely around the wreath until it is completely covered.

Images were found at www.pinterest.com

Traditions are a great way to create lasting memories that will carry on in your family for years and years. Traditions are something that you and your family can expect every year, which makes the season something to look forward to.

As a child, I remember spending Thanksgiving at my grandparents’ home where my extended family would gather.  As the ladies took over the kitchen, the cousins would play while the men would sit around, watch football and catch up.  The table would be spread with every kind of dish you could imagine.  Of course we always had the main components, turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing and the like, but then we would get a myriad of dishes that we would only get at Thanksgiving, like Pistachio Salad and Candied Yams.  Not to mention the array of different pies we would have!  My Great-Aunt Marion was a wonderful cook, and I remember one year in particular when she made 9 different kinds of pies, heavenly! Then, once our stomachs were on the brink of exploding, we would sit down and play board games together.  Many wonderful memories were made at Thanksgivings past sitting around the game table.

That’s an example of what traditions should be like, memories that carry on with us and brings the family together. Now that I’m older and having my own family it’s time to start making traditions that my kids will be able to carry on with them. It’s important to establish traditions that are easy to do every year, such as going on a drive Christmas Eve to see Christmas lights or go on a hike while Thanksgiving dinner is cooking. Choose things that are simple that don’t require too much time, money, or effort. Those things can cause stress, and would be hard to want to do each year.

The holiday season is a time to build lifelong memories for your family. Traditions help you bond and reconnect with loved ones, friends, and neighbors. At www.cozi.com/live-simply/50-holiday-traditions gives a list of 50 holiday traditions that you can start doing, but I wanted to share some of my favorites.

1. Make traditional dishes for your holiday meals and include foods from your culture or foods you ate growing up. Ask for recipes from relatives to keep your family food traditions alive.
2. Make the same entree for Christmas Eve (such as stew) and Christmas Day (ham or turkey) every year. Or, choose a side-dish that becomes the yearly tradition, even if it’s just for laughs.
3. Check out holiday lights in your area. Get in the car, turn on your holiday playlist, and find brightly lit houses.
4. Walk door to door delivering Christmas cookies after you’ve made a batch.
5. Read holiday books before bed each night. The Polar Express, Santa Mouse, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas are all excellent tales to boost your family’s holiday spirit.
6. Go to a tree farm to locate the perfect Christmas tree. At home, decorate it as a family or let the kids do their thing. Have some treats and hot cider or cocoa on hand to keep energy levels up!
7. Create a holiday playlist that your family listens to in the car or at home. Don’t forget classics like ‘White Christmas,’ ‘I’ll Be Home For Christmas,’ and ‘The 12 Days of Christmas.’
8. Purchase or make a holiday ornament for each child every year. This is a great way to reminisce during holiday decorating.
9. Go through closets and donate gently used clothing (coats are particularly useful this time of year) to a local shelter.
10. Pick names randomly and only give gifts to the person whose name you draw. Set a dollar limit to keep it even and have fun!
11. Spend Thanksgiving night planning your Black Friday. Check out all the sales, map your route, and make your list.
12. Open one gift on Christmas Eve. It’s a great way to get your Christmas pajamas!

Do you want to find a quick, simple, delicious, and impressive appetizer to serve your guest this season? Try Bacon Wrapped Potatoes. This is a definite crowd pleaser.

Ingredients: 8 bacon slices, cut in half crosswise  and 16 small potatoes

Directions: Preheat oven to 400˚ F. Wrap each bacon piece around a potato and secure with a toothpick. Place in a baking dish and bake until bacon is crisp and potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife, 40 to 50 minutes

DELISH!!

This recipe was found at http://www.marthastewart.com

Having friends and family over for the holidays brings fun, laughter, and lasting memories. However, it can also bring stress and unwanted frustrations to the already hectic holiday season. You have a lot going on between holiday shopping, cooking big meals, and keeping up with the schedule. Trying to balance is overwhelming in itself, but then when you have to plan on visitors staying for a few days it can push you over the top. This year, to prepare follow these tips to make this season enjoyable for everyone, including you.

Remember you’re not Santa Clause. Last year I got so caught up in spoiling my family that it took away from enjoying the season. Once Christmas was over I had buyer’s remorse, because I spent more than was necessary and needed. It’s nice to get presents, but you don’t need to go over the top and put the majority of your focus on buying gifts for others that you lose track of what’s important during this time. Christmas is about spending time with family members, not spoiling them rotten. Only give what you can comfortably afford. If you are struggling with money this year do something different than giving lots of gifts, you’ll be happier not just during the holidays, but for the rest of the year. If you have young children consider starting now by having them pick one or two things they really want for Christmas instead of a long list. That way they won’t expect to be spoiled every year and be disappointed when one year they aren’t given as much.

Make room for everyone in your family—even the odd balls. During the holidays you should make everyone feel welcomed, and that might mean putting on a smile and enduring that one crazy aunt. It’s important to prepare yourself mentally if you know an odd or difficult relative will be coming over. Expect imperfection so that when something happens you won’t get upset and worked up about what had happened. Doing whatever you need to do to help you feel more carefree and relaxed will keep you from getting upset.

Take time for yourself. It’s important to show your love to your family during this season, and doing things for them that will make them happy. However, you need to do stuff for yourself so you can also enjoy this time. I think about growing up and how my mother would prepare everything. She would buy all the gifts, and make sure that her children had a great day. I look back now and realize that she never got anything in return. She wasn’t spoiled on Christmas and she didn’t get new things. It wasn’t anything special for her but she made it extra special for the ones she loved. Make time for things that you like to do during this season. Watch your favorite Christmas movie or read your favorite Christmas book. Find time to relax and enjoy this time for yourself, it will make this season more enjoyable and memorable.

It’s okay to say no. It’s common that during this season with everything that is going on you spread yourself too thin. It might be necessary to decline some invitations to holiday events, gatherings, and parties. Decide to set a limit on how many activities you will attend and make sure you’re making an effort to attend ones that include your family.

Make a plan and set boundaries. Plan your shopping early, and don’t wait for until the last minute. The sooner you shop the more likely you will find everything on your checklist, and more time you can spend doing things that will be more enjoyable.

Make this holiday season one to remember!

Who doesn’t love Halloween?  It is my favorite holiday of the year, but it doesn’t come without its pitfalls and issues.  As Halloween is just a few short weeks away, you who have children know how anxious and excited they get to dress up and go trick-or-treating. Children don’t always understand the dangers associated with going door to door and asking for candy from people they don’t know well. Take a look at some safety tips that might help you and your children be safer this year while trick-or-treating.

-Only visit well-lit homes. Most likely homes that are dark means they don’t want trick-or-treat visitors, and you don’t want your kids to be disappointed with not receiving a treat.

-Never accept rides from strangers. Make sure you your children are aware that they should never get into a strangers car or near a car that is offering candy unless there is a group of cars in a designated area passing out candy.

-Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats by strangers. Take the time after your children get home to inspect their treats and take anything out that looks questionable.

-Don’t let your children go trick-or-treating alone. If they aren’t going with you make sure they are with a group.

-Make a designated route for your children to stay on if they are going out without you. This way you will know where they will be if you need to find them.

-Tell your children to never go inside someone’s home.

-Have a set time for your children to be home from trick-or-treating.

-Let your child borrow a cell phone so they can check up regularly with you to make sure everything is okay.

-Don’t go to neighborhoods or homes you don’t know.

-Have a “What if?” conversation with your child to make sure they feel prepared. For example ask “what would you do if someone bigger took your candy?”

-Make sure your child can be seen. Add reflection tape to your child’s costume or have them carry a flashlight.

Have a Spooktacular Halloween!

One of my favorite things about fall is having so many opportunities to eat mashed potatoes, whether it’s mashed potato with turkey gravy for Thanksgiving or mashed potatoes prepared in potato patties for Christmas morning breakfast, mashed potatoes are incorporated in a multitude of meals the next few months. Potatoes are so functional that besides getting to eat lots of mashed potatoes, there is a myriad of ways to prepare them and use them in recipes. The options are endless. This month to help prepare you for the upcoming mashed potato months I’m going to give you 31 days of mashed potato recipes! That’s right I’ll be sharing 31 different recipes on ways to prepare and use mashed potatoes. Impress your family and friends this season with some new delicious recipes.

An easy way to see what recipes are given each day is to like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/klondikebrands

To start the month out I want to share with you one of my favorite recipes, Ultimate Mashed Potatoes using Klondike Rose® potatoes. This tasty recipe is easy, has 6 servings, and only takes 20 minutes to prepare. This is definitely one to remember.

Ingredients:

8-10 Klondike Rose® potatoes

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 ½ cups sour cream

1 cup milk

6 Tbsp. butter, melted

Salt and pepper to taste

Green onions for garnish- if desired

Preparation:

Chop potatoes into chunks and place into large saucepan full of cold, salted water.

Bring to a boil. Boil for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.

Drain water from potatoes.

In a large bowl mix potatoes, cheese, sour cream, milk, and butter. Mash together until smooth and creamy.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped green onions and pepper.

Share your favorite way to prepare mashed potatoes with us on Facebook or comment below. We would love to hear it!

Photo by Lisa Hubbard

In just a few weeks your home is going to change. In the summer your home is just the resting place after fun filled days in the sun. Summer months seem to go by quickly with most people try to spend that time outside as much as possible. But once the weather starts cooling down, fall and winter are upon us our hours spent in the home increase dramatically. Instead of spending time outside in the garden you’re more likely to heat up a warm drink and enjoy a game night. For months you and your family are going to be cooped up inside waiting for summer to come back. In preparation for this time, what do you do to get your home ready for this hibernation? Spring cleaning is designed to give your home a deep clean from the many months of spending the majority of your time inside. The next few months are going to bring lots of time inside, and lots of holiday visitors. Don’t be unprepared this year and follow a few simple tips to make sure you’re ready this season.

Fall cleaning chore checklist:
•Focus on public rooms: living room, family room, entryway, guest bath. Remember, it is the season for family and friends to gather.
•Clean from top to bottom. Vacuum drapes and window treatments. Clean window sills and window wells. Vacuum baseboards and corners.
•Vacuum upholstered furniture, or have professionally cleaned if needed. Move furniture and vacuum beneath and behind it.
•Wash interior windows.
•Turn mattresses front-to-back and end-to-end to equalize wear.
•Launder or clean all bedding: mattress pads, pillows, duvets, blankets, comforters. Tuck the family into a warm and cozy winter bed.
•Schedule professional carpet cleaning early this month! Warm October afternoons speed carpet drying. Carpet cleaning firms get busy by the end of October, so schedule now for best service.
•Prepare the kitchen for holiday cooking. Clean and organized kitchen cabinets, paying particular attention to baking supplies, pans and equipment.
•Clear kitchen counters of all appliances not used within the last week. Clear counters look cleaner–and provide more room for holiday cooking.
•Pull refrigerator away from the wall, and vacuum the condenser coils. For bottom-mounted coils, use a long, narrow brush to clean coils of dust and debris.
•Wash light-diffusing bowls from light fixtures.
•Inspect each appliance. Does it need supplies? Stock up on softener salt now, and avoid staggering over icy sidewalks with heavy bags.
•Check and empty the central vacuum’s collection area.
•Clean electronic air cleaner elements monthly for most efficient operation. Wash them in an empty dishwasher (consult manual for specific product recommendations).
•Clean or replace humidifier elements before the heating season begins.
•Inspect washer hoses for bulges, cracks or splits. Replace them every other year.
•Check dryer exhaust tube and vent for built-up lint, debris or birds’ nests! Make sure the exterior vent door closes tightly when not in use.
•Schedule fall furnace inspections now. Don’t wait for the first cold night!
•Buy a winter’s supply of furnace filters. Change filters monthly for maximum energy savings and indoor comfort. When the right filter is on hand, it’s an easy job!
•Drain sediment from hot water heaters.

The fall cleaning chore checklist was found at http://organizedhome.com/seasonal-spin/fall-cleaning-chore-checklist for more tips and tricks follow the link.

September and the start of what I like to call “the comfort food season” is upon us. One of my favorites is Chicken ala King. The first time I had this dish I was at a dear friend’s home. She used whatever she had ready in the vegetable garden along with a couple fridge items. It was so simple with its creamy texture and fillings flavors that it instantly became one of my go-to recipes. This meal takes the delicious potatoes, peas, and white sauce side dish to a whole new level and it also makes great leftovers! Can it get better than that?

I wanted to share this dish with you because it’s the perfect time to make it. After all the blood, sweat, and sacrifice put exerted in keeping your vegetable garden alive its finally starting to give something back. So go out to your garden, take a trip to the farmers market or head to the grocery store and find some delicious produce to use. This is a great dish because it lets you be creative on what you put in it, use things like; peppers, celery, mushrooms, potatoes, carrots, peas, onions, shallots, just to name a few. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey which makes it another scrumptious way to use Thanksgiving leftovers. The other thing about this dish is what you top it off with. You can use toast, biscuits, rice, noodles, or even rolls (remember Thanksgiving). This is a great dish for those of you who have a garden or people like me who just look in the fridge to try to scrape something up for dinner. It’s an easy recipe to modify and make quick and easy. The recipe I am providing you may take a little longer, but you can always microwave the vegetables first for a few minute and then throw them in a sauté pan. I’m excited for you to try this because it’s one of my favorite dishes! It will definitely be one to remember. Comment below if you try this recipe with something other than what I have listed below. I would love to see what everyone puts in their Chicken ala King.

Ingredients:

2 cups of Klondike Rose® potatoes, chunks
1-1 ½ cups of chicken breast, cubes
1 cup diced onion (You can use whatever you have around. I used yellow onion)
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup peas
3 tbs butter
½ tsp garlic salt
½ seasoning salt (optional)

In a large sauté pan melt butter on medium heat. Add potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic salt, and seasoning salt (you could also cook vegetables in different pans if desired). Every once in a while stir (add a little water or more butter if needed). Allow to cook for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

In a medium size skillet cook chicken all the way through. Once chicken is cooked set aside till potatoes, carrots, onions, are all the way cook through then add chicken. Put on low heat and add sauce and peas. Mix well and serve over toast, biscuits, rice, noodles, or rolls.

Microwave version:

In a large sauté pan melt butter on medium heat and add onions. Put potatoes and carrots into a glass microwave safe bowl with 1/3 cup water, and microwave for 10 minutes. Remove from microwave and drain. In the large sauté pan add the potatoes, carrots, and seasonings. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until vegetables are tender (If you fork can easily go through the vegetable(s) its ready). Then add sauce and peas.

Sauce:

4 tbs butter
4 tbs flour
2 cups milk
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper

Melt butter in sauce pan over low heat. Once butter is melted add flour, salt, and pepper. Wisk frequently until butter and flour are mixed together. Keep wisking while you’re pouring in the milk. Stir until the sauce thickens as it starts to boil.

Next month’s blog is going to be on Fall Favorite Dishes. If you have a favorite recipe I would love to try it. Send me an email with your recipe and where you’re from. You might even see your recipe on next month’s blog post! Can’t wait to hear from you! marketingmanager@potandon.com

Have you ever wondered how you could make a difference in child education? Did you know that Box Tops have been around since 1996, and have made a big difference in child education by paying 10 cents for every one Box Top collected? Alright, I’m with you that doesn’t seem like a lot, but think about it for a second. How many times do you see Box Tops on your groceries at home? For those of you who haven’t noticed I challenge you to look around your kitchen and just count how many you find. Sounds fun right? Make it a game and include your family to help you find as many Box Tops you can. I bet it will surprise you how many you have around.

OK now that you’re done counting just think if you have ten items that have Box Tops that’s $1 your school. It’s money already spent on products in your home that is providing extra money for your child’s school. What is the money used for? Money received by schools helps fund school trips, extracurricular activities, school programs, and more! Just last year in 2012 $80 million was earned through Box Tops for education. You might be thinking, “why would they give that money away?” Well Box Tops believes “every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential”, and Box Tops wants to help “create experiences to help kids grow”. Potandon supports those beliefs and give our support by featuring Box Tops on our Green Giant ®Fresh Klondike Rose ®potatoes the only fresh potatoes that feature Box Tops.

Still wondering how Box Tops Work? Follow these easy steps and you’ll become a pro in no time.

1. Buy your favorite Box Tops products (like Klondike Rose ® potatoes)
2. Clip the Box Tops coupon from each package.
3. Send your Box Tops coupons to school with your kids.

After this is done volunteer coordinators collect, count and mail Box Tops to General Mills and your school will receive cash for every Box Tops label redeemed. It’s simple, it works, and it’s a way to give to your schools. Comment below if you have any stories about the magic of Box Tops in your life. I would love to hear them!

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. There are many fall activities to do that will keep you busy all season long. One of my favorite things to do is make a creamy crockpot potato soup and while it’s cooking take a drive up to the mountains to see the leaves in beautiful orange, yellow, and red colors. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious creamy potato soup recipe follow the link to find a recipe you’re sure to love. http://www.klondikebrands.com/recipes/creamy-crockpot-klondike-potatoes

Here is a list of activities that you’ll want to try this fall.

• Make homemade chili and cinnamon rolls. Invite your friends over to enjoy with you
• Bake an apple crisp
• Have dinner in a pumpkin- sounds weird but it’s delicious
• Roast pumpkin seeds
• Make a crockpot apple cider
• Bake, frost, and decorate cupcakes
• Make pumpkin cookies and take them to a friend- Don’t forget the chocolate chips
• Make caramel apples
• Visit a pumpkin patch
• Take a family photo for your Christmas cards
• Make a haunted gingerbread house with your kids
• Throw a craft party for you and your friends
• Carve/decorate a pumpkin
• Take a walk and collect leaves
• Have an indoor picnic with your kids or sweetheart
• Make a pinecone bird feeder and hang it outside
• Put up the fall decorations
• Make potato stamps with your kids
• Enjoy a family bike ride
• Create a door wreath
• Throw a Halloween party
• Prepare a nature scavenger hunt
• Visit a craft show
• Play in the leaves with your kids

Comment below if you have a favorite thing you like to do during the fall season. I would love to know what other things are out there to do!

In late May, early June you can almost hear a unified cheer from across the country as school age children are released from their captivity, otherwise known as school, to begin their summer break.  As adults, many of us don’t get this three month break, but instead look forward to taking a week or two off and escaping to new experiences and unforgettable memories with our loved ones.  Just as Clark and his family took off towards Wally World, so we too take off to all areas of the earth to experience what we call Vacation.

Now I love summer as much as the next person, but does it appear to any of you that summer seems to operate on fast forward?  As soon as the Summer Solstice begins, time speeds up, days go faster and before you know it, September is here.  I am left wondering, what happened?  How did summer slip away so quickly?  And what did I do to enjoy it?

I challenge you this summer to live it up!  Slide into September screaming, “I did it all and I enjoyed every minute of it!” To give you some fun summer ideas, Klondike Brands is running a Super Summer Vacation Scavenger Hunt.  This creative photo scavenger hunt is happening during the month of July and is a free, nationwide, photojournalistic mobile scavenger hunt, where instead of collecting physical items, you upload photos of found items (fun summer activities) for points.  Top points earners throughout July win prizes that include National Park passes, and gift cards to REI, Sur La Table and Coleman.  Get out and start your summer vacation, and take us along to document the fun!  Click here for more information.

My father is very special! I hope that yours is too! My dad makes me laugh, takes the time to teach me things, and he loves to get out and enjoy life with me and my siblings! I am pretty sure that he is the best Dad’s ever!

There are many lessons that I have learned from my Dad, but I’d like to share 3 of the most important things my dad ever taught me!

Work Hard!

Just showing up is not enough! My father taught me the importance of working hard at a very young age! He was always building something, or working on projects! He would often let me help him! I learned that by working hard, great things are accomplished! I learned that if I work hard now, and don’t mess around, that later I can relax and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done! He taught me to take pride in my work, and to not cut corners! As I get older, people often compliment me on my strong work ethic, and I definitely have my father to thank for that!

Family is the most important thing!

My father implemented the importance of knowing and spending time with family throughout my whole life! We spent a lot of time at my Grandparents’ house, getting to know my cousins, aunts, and uncles! My siblings and I have a very strong bond with our family because of this! Because of those strong family bonds, I have a huge support group to back me up! This is very important and I encourage anyone who doesn’t have a strong bond with their family to change that! A little bit of effort goes a long way!

Always look for ways to help others!

Another lesson I learned from my father was to constantly be on the lookout for ways to help and encourage others! Service was a priority in our family. When someone needed help, we went! We would help the elderly shovel their walks in the winter, and rake their leaves in the fall! We would help people move, fix things, and take meals to people who were sick or hurt. These experiences helped me grow and become a better person. My father is still the first one to volunteer to help when someone is in need! I’m so glad that he taught us the importance of service.

What life lessons have you learned from your father?

Alice Cooper sang it well, when he said, “SCHOOLS OUT FOR THE SUMMER!” The kids are hanging up their book bags and putting away their homework for their summer break! Boy do I wish that I still had a summer break! Nothing to do for 3-4 months! That would be awesome!

Now that your kids are out for the summer, it’s the perfect time to get them in the kitchen helping you make breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Mealtime preparation can be a great bonding experience for you and your child. I remember many occasions where my mom taught me how to cook, and let me help her! It’s a skill I never forgot, nor have I ever regretted learning!

Here are some of our favorite kid friendly recipes for you to make with your kids!

• Purple Potato Pancakes
• Spudnuts
• Gnocchi
• Crispy Potato Puffs
• Lemon Pepper Microwave Potato Chips

What do your kids like to cook with you?

Summertime is one of my favorite seasons! I love to get out and play outdoors! Whether that is camping in the mountains, or swimming at the lake, or working in my garden, being outdoors is very enjoyable!

There are many things that happen in the summer that just don’t happen any other time of the year! There are flowers blooming, and kids playing, and birds singing. And you can’t forget about neighborhood picnics! And what is better for a picnic than potato salad! It’s one of my very favorite summertime salads!

Here are some of our very favorite Potato Salad recipes:

• American Potato Salad
• Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Potato Salad
• Roasted Corn and Potato Salad
• All the Stuffin’ Baked Potato Salad
• Ranch Potato Salad
• Delightfully Creamy Grilled Potato Salad
• Southwestern Potato Salad
• Quick Potato Salad
• Potato Salad Express
• Caesar Potato Salad

Do you have a favorite potato salad recipe?