“Do what you can, with what you have.” ~ Wendy Walker
Hi Reader,
Hey friend! I’m sending out the newsletter early this week. It’s 9 Days until Christmas. I can’t believe it’s almost here. I figured you might have a lot going on this weekend. 🎄
I’ve spent this Christmastime slowing down more - baking and making crafts, sitting by the fire (yes, it’s been chilly here in the South) and watching movies.
I put together a guide if you are still struggling on what to get your child’s Teacher (before school’s out for break next week). What about your Delivery Driver, Hair and Nail Lady, Pastor, Neighbor, etc?
Here are some homemade inexpensive but very thoughtful Cozy Homemade Christmas Gifts you can whip up quick. A little act of kindness goes along way. I love giving gifts to people throughout the year and especially at Christmas time. I know a lot of people are working overtime like retail workers and delivery drivers. Something on this list might just brighten their day.
I have a classic nostalgia Christmas treat for you. My mom made these Magic Cookie Bars every year when I was little. I had no idea what was in them. All I knew was they were delicious! Have you heard of them? Well, I’m brining them back and carrying on my mom’s tradition.
Old Ladder From an Orange Grove - Our Built-in Bookcase
Magic Cookie Bars
Bill and I went to a play last Friday night to see “It’s a Wonderful Life”. It was about 2 1/2 hours long. I have to admit that I was starting to peck some corn during the first half (just a few times haha 🥴).
It was wonderful! We live in a small town and I love little town theaters. The one we went to was so historical and loaded with charm. The acting was fabulous and the music was just beautiful.
One of the things I was mesmerized with was their Christmas Village. It was massive and just kept me in awe as I would look at each one of the houses. Here’s a glimpse at some photos I took. Makes me want to start one myself. I do have about 5 houses. A few are from my grandmother. I just need to find a place to put them. Do you like going to plays?
Acts of Kindness
Here are some “gifts of time” that you can give someone you know. Sometimes doing a nice gesture for someone, goes along way.
Mow someone’s yard (in the South) or shovel snow on their driveway (up North)
Babysit while the parents have a date or during the day so mom can have some “me” time.
I just realized the meaning of the two turtle doves is all about Peace, Love and Friendship. I found this set of adorable doves and hung them at the top of this cute little tree.
Two Turtle Doves
Magic Cookie Bars
These classic, no-fuss magic cookie bars (also known as Hello Dolly Bars or 7-Layer Bars) are gooey, sweet, and incredibly easy to make—just layer the ingredients and bake!
Here are some heartfelt, cozy homemade Christmas gifts that will bring warmth and comfort during the Christmas season. These are perfect for sharing with loved ones, and many draw from classic holiday traditions like baking sweets or crafting useful items.
TIP: If you don’t have fabric scraps to wrap around your canned jars (like apple butter), use printed Christmas napkins (that I’m sure you already have). One napkin will cover 4 jars. Just cut in a square, place it over the lid and tie a ribbon on it. Add a gift tag and you have a cute gift. Make a batch of buttermilk sourdough biscuits to go alongside with it and now it’s an even yummier gift!
Reader, as always, tag me over on Instagram @lhsimpleliving. I love seeing all things simple living and any recipes of mine you make.
P.S. I truly appreciate all the shares, likes, comments on my posts and over on Instagram. It keeps me going everyday to show up and share any wisdom that I may have.
So, go grab a cup of coffee or tea and I hope you enjoy the reading today. Hope you are having a great week!
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I'm Wendy. A wife, empty-nester mama, homemaker, homebaker, gardener and small-time farmer. I love sharing wisdom and mistakes I've learned along the way. Anyone can garden or homestead, no matter where you live. You just have to start somewhere. As a result, I am a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner so I can help others learn the health benefits of eating real food.
“The real things haven’t changed. It is still best to be honest and truthful; to make the most of what we have; to be happy with simple pleasures; and have courage when things go wrong.” ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder
Hi, I’m Wendy. I cook from scratch, creating simple nutritious meals. I’ve been grinding my own flour for 14 years and am passionate about telling others about it. Whether it be bagels or sourdough bread, you can do it too. I love sharing my wisdom and encouraging others that they can homestead no matter where you live. It’s a mindset, so just start somewhere friend! As a result, I am a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner so I can help others learn about the health benefits of eating real food. I also share my garden, chickens, and our new “old” farmhouse. Join my simple living community and sign up for my free newsletter!
