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Celebrate with Joy
December 2021
It's the most Joyful time of the year!
Opening ornaments that have been tucked away all year is like opening a gift of memories.
The True Gift of Joy!
Some people decorate their homes and Christmas trees on Thanksgiving Day. We like to decorate the weekend after Thanksgiving. Opening ornaments that have been tucked away all year is like opening a gift of memories.
The history behind Christmas ornaments was thought to have started in Germany in the 1600’s. In the 1800’s the tradition came to America. The ornaments that adorned the trees were made of things that could be found around the house, such as popcorn, cranberries, paper streamers, and even metal foil. Bits of foil reflected the light in the room which made the tree glisten. This is where the silver tinsel many people use came from. We used to call them icicles and they would be found all over the house during the holidays. After the holidays we would find an occasion icicle stuck to one of our socks.
Ornaments can bring a flood of happy and sad memories. It might be an ornament that a loved one gave us that may no longer be alive.
We have several ornaments that were given to our son, Blake. Some years when we unwrap the ornaments it brings tears to our eyes and we share a story about his life. Other ornaments make us laugh because it was given to us as part of a running joke in our family.
What ornament holds a special place in your heart?
Look at that ornament and thank God for the memories attached and take a few moments to reflect.
Joy is everywhere this time of year!
Tis the season for Joy! Be on the lookout for joyful products wherever you go.
Speaking of Joyful items...
This fabulous shirt has brought Joy into my life! Kind and thoughtful gifts are the hallmark of the holiday season.
Just a reminder to choose Joy today and every day!
Martha Washington Candy
This is a classic candy made with chocolate, coconut, and pecans. It's perfect for your family holiday gathering!
| Ingredients | Quantity | Directions |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered Sugar | 2 boxes | Mix all ingredients in one bowl with a lid. |
| Margarine | 2 sticks | Put it in refrigerator to chill over night. |
| Coconut | 2 cups | The next day take the container with the heavenly candy out of refrigerator and begin rolling into bite size balls. |
| Eagle Brand Milk | 1 can | Put back in fridge to set up and get firm. |
| Vanilla | 1 tsp | Melt dipping chocolate (whatever kind you prefer). I prefer semisweet chocolate. I like those small containers of bakers chocolate you can put in the microwave. |
| Chopped Pecans | 2 cups (optional) | Use spoon or toothpick to dip balls in chocolate and put on a cookie sheet with parchment paper. They will begin to set up. I like to keep mine in fridge to last longer. Enjoy! |
Elly & Grace
If you want some cute tshirts, jewelry, candles, hats, or stickers check out my new favorite place to shop online.
Please use the affiliate link below to purchase the items.
You will love the soft and comfortable tshirts. I have two tshirts that say, "Choose Joy." I purchased one that has a nativity that says, "Joy." I purchased the bar necklace that says, "Choose Joy."
Podcasts
Look out for Joy!
Double Trouble
With Tammy Whitehurst and Adria Wilkins
