Cookie Exchange

Well it is that time of the year for celebration. My favorite thing during the Christmas season is to throw an annual cookie exchange. Who doesn't like a good cookie and variations to share or eat. This is my 4th time having it. I am so stoked to have it.

I encourage you to try it if you haven't it is fun and a good outing for all you having winter blues.

There are great ideas on pinterest that can help and blogs just for cookie exchanges.

If you are questioning it just do it.

Christmas Crackers

Make your own Christmas Crackers

I love these they are a great tradition to do at dinner time. The kids love them also. Have fun.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lightweight wrapping paper, crepe paper or tissue paper
• Toilet paper rolls (2 per cracker, or one paper towel roll)
• Cracker Snaps (you can buy them at craft stores like Michael’s or online here or here)
• scotch tape
• Glue
• Scissors
• Ribbon
• Candy, toys, trinkets etc. to till it with

Here’s how to make em:

Step 1: Layout your paper, placing one toilet paper roll in the middle. Cut the second roll in half and place one at each edge, leaving about 2 inches between the one in the middle. Use tape to attach the cracker snap lengthwise in the middle of the paper. Tape both ends, but not the middle. (you can also attach the cracker snap in the middle of the rolls, taping the ends to each of the cut rolls)

Step 2: Start rolling the paper around the toilet paper rolls, glue it down as you go, to help keep it’s shape.

Step 3: When you’ve rolled it all the way up, make sure the edge is sealed.

Step 4: Pinch and twist in the paper in the gap between the middle toilet roll and one of the ends. Secure with a ribbon.

Step 5: Fill the open end with candy, toys and trinkets

Step 6: Secure the other end by pinching and twisting like before. Then tie with a ribbon.

And you’re done! If you want you can add additional decorations to the outside, or add the names of your guests and use as place markers at your table.

More ideas on www.talkcraftytome.com