Hey you guys.
Today I want to get into the importance of holiday traditions. As a mom, I'm always looking for cool ways to make memories with my little one. I love hearing the excitement in his voice, as he anticipates activities throughout the holiday season. Below, I've listed some fun ways you can start making Christmas traditions of your own...

Deck The Halls
Decorating not only gets you into the holiday spirit, it's also a great way to implement family traditions. Back when I used to celebrate Thanksgiving, my sisters and I would always go to the movies after dinner. The following day we'd start decorating for Christmas, since school was out. We'd put up the tree, and switch the living room decor to match our holiday color scheme. Sometimes, we would make paper snowflakes and paste them in the windows.   I always looked forward to this as a kid. ​So, instead of randomly putting up the tree each year. Reserve a special date for everyone to get excited about.

In The Kitchen
As a true yardie, there are two Caribbean treats I'm guaranteed each year, an Easter Bun, and a Christmas Rum Cake. ​I can still remember my grandmother pulling out a large jar of rum soaked fruits each holiday season in preparation for the cake. Are there any special Christmas treats in your culture? Why not try your hand at making one? Don't worry, epic fails make the best stories. But, if baking really isn't your thing, there are plenty of options when it comes to pre-made cookie dough. Gather the family, and decorate them for a fun holiday activity.

Out And About
Traditions don't have to take place at home. Ice skating at Riverbank, shopping followed by hot chocolate in the city, or driving through a Christmas village, are all awesome activities for making memories during the holidays. I recently took my little one to Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo. In addition to all the beautiful lights, and performances, we made s'mores, and rode the holiday train. Weekend getaways at the cabin are another fun option. But, if you simply despise the cold, Christmas on the beach also works well. ​You can be that family that vacations in the tropics for the holidays. 

Let The Games Begin
Not only is it important to include the little ones in the activities, you should empower them to create traditions also. My little guy is really into Nintendo's Super Mario. So, when LEGO did a collaboration with the franchise, we were all over it. Now, we rebuild each set around Christmas, creating a new world each day, We end on Christmas Eve, when he's allowed to open the latest addition. We then, run through the entire course. So, let your little one take center stage and come up with a cool tradition based on their interests.

​Movie Marathon
Lastly, schedule a movie marathon. Spend the day watching all your favorite holiday movies. If your schedule doesn't allow for a full on marathon, plan a few movie nights instead. With all the streaming services available, you're sure to find something to watch (Disney+ has all the good stuff).  Add some gourmet popcorn and theater snacks to create the perfect viewing experience.

I hope this ​inspires you to create some awesome traditions, you and your family will enjoy for years to come!

Until next time,
Mimi☺️

Hey you guys.
Is anyone else a bit of a late bird?
If you tend to fall behind schedule during the holidays, then, find yourself playing kitchen door bouncer... Try this pre dinner platter to please your hungry, dinner, guests.
At the core, are three simple recipes (all linked below), bacon wrapped dated, zucchini chips, and garlic bread. Then, simply add one type of vegetable, a fruit (fresh or dried), a bit of cheese, and some nuts. Finish is off with some type of sauce, or dip, that compliments at least 2-3 items on the platter.
The concept is derived from your basic charcuterie board or ​graze box. However, I find that adding cooked items, takes it to another level. Also, the majority of items can be portioned out by specified amounts, which makes shopping and prep simpler. While you can create a large platter or board for serving, I prefer using smaller vessels, for each guest (as pictured above).

​

Recipe for Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

I hope you give these recipes a try. I promise, they will not disappoint. 

Until next time,
​Mimi☺️

Hey you guys.
Still having trouble finding the perfect holiday gifts? Well, I've put together a gift guide that covers all of the things... Most of the things. So stop procrastinating, and let's get this thing done.😉
I've included links to everything for your convenience.

1. For rest And relaxation:
    Aromatherapy Shower Steamers
    Scented Candle
    Weighted Blanket
    Super Plush Robe

2. For making a house, a home:
    Echo Show
    Smart Plug
    Steel Baking Pan Set
    Oven-Safe Food Storage Set
    Air Fryer Toaster Oven

3. For the love of entertaining:
    Tiered Serving Tray
    Charcuterie Board
    Bartender Kit
​    Wifi Porter

4. For the love of the game:
    Oversized Checkers
    Blank Slate
    Laser Tag
    Phone Gaming Controller
        (for Android)
        (for iPhone)
  
5. For focus on fitness:
    Resistance Bands Set
    Wrist/Ankle  Weights
    Fitness Tracker Watch
    Muscle Massage Gun

6. For working from home:
    Essential Oil Scent Diffuser
    Wireless Phone Charger
​    Electric Thermos 

7. For a personal touch:
    Monogrammed Tassel Key Chain
    Monogrammed Scarf
    Monogrammed AirPods Case

8. For an adventure:
    Portable Solar Charger
    LifeStraw Water Bottle
    UVC Sterilizer   

9. For discovering a new hobby:
    Wood Burning Kit
    Cake Decorating Kit
​    Sketching/Drawing Set    
​    Cricut Maker 3

10. For losers... of things: 
    Apple AirTag 
    (compatible with find my iPhone)

​I hope this helps you find the perfect gifts for the ones you love!  

Until Next Time,
Mimi ☺️

​Photo by George Dolgikh @ Giftpundits.com from Pexels

Hey you guys.
Today I'm sharing one of my favorite holiday drink recipes. It's like eggnog, with a twist. So if you like creamy, milk based beverages, this one's right up your alley... or chimney🥴

Hey you guys!
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas 🎶. So, I'm sharing a few tips on how to fill your home with the holiday spirit.
1. Holiday Scents
An easy way to prep your home for the holidays is to incorporate traditional holiday fragrances, Scented candles and Essential Oil diffusers are a quick way to fill the room with Christmas cheer. Another way to introduce holiday smells is with scented hand wash. Get a refreshing whiff of peppermint or pine every time you wash your hands. If you're not into traditional holiday smells, simply switching up the scents around your home will make for a pleasant surprise. I've switched from linen breeze to sandalwood and it has been quite the treat. 

2. Merry & Light
Lighting is a perfect way to set the mood for the holidays. Candles add a beautiful glow to any space (try going battery operated for added safety). String lights aren't just for decorating the tree. Add them around your home for a whimsical flair. Once the sun goes down, power up the lights, and relax. 

3. Cozy Up
With temperatures dropping, it's time to break out the faux fur and chunky, knit, throw blankets. Try adding them to your living room, bedrooms, and any other areas you like to get cozy in. Not only are they practical, they add warmth and texture to your space. Another way to get cozy this holiday season is with loungewear. Get out your polar fleece, and thermal knits, in your favorite holiday prints. Finish the look with some fluffy house slippers to stay cute, and cozy throughout the season. 

4. Sounds of The Season
In addition to your favorite holiday playlist, try introducing some natural sounds into the mix. Nothing says Christmas like the sound of a crackling fire. If you don't have a fireplace, turn your TV into one (via YouTube). I've linked some of my favorites below. Blizzards are also right in line with the season. I've linked some of those as well.
Fireplace: https://youtu.be/L_LUpnjgPso
Blizzard: https://youtu.be/7BrIJrjxVxA
Blend: https://youtu.be/Q1C3WTws3g4

​5. Festive Treats
Lastly, bring in some holiday flavors with a few festive treats. Swap the sweets in your candy dish with some peppermint bark or candy canes. Also, try adding some holiday themed syrups and creamers to your coffee bar, to create the perfect holiday beverage. This tip is not only festive, but, delicious too. 

I hope these tips get you right into the spirit of the holidays☺️

​


​Video by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels