For my daughter, step-son, nieces and nephews I've assembled a recipe box or book containing their favorite foods as well as family favorite recipes - from both the bride and groom's families. This is accompanied by cookie sheets, Italian spices, etc. that could be used to make the foods.
Address books with addresses/phone numbers of relatives have also been appreciated. Can include birthdates, anniversary dates, etc. ... View related article.
When my kids were young, any money they received for birthdays, Christmas, odd jobs, etc. was put into their piggy banks. Once a certain amount was saved, half of the money went into their savings accounts, and half was theirs to do with as they wanted (such as purchase Christmas gifts for their siblings, buy a book or video game, or even put into savings also).
Also, when they were in elementary school we would play "Momma's Restuarant" - this involved creating a "menu" with pictures of food, along with their "prices". Each child was given a pile of pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters. They could then decide what they wanted to "order" and determine if they had enough money to "buy" those items. They learned to count out the money, and how to determine change. ... View related article.
The first Christmas after I was married we also had no money to spend on "non-essentials". During November and the early part of December, instead of cracking eggs as I used them, I would poke holes in the ends and blow out the egg, then rinse and dry the shells. I glued bits of wrapping paper, ribbon and glitter on the eggs to transform them into custom ornaments.
When my daughters were small I found a pretty "hat box" and filled it with hats, purses, gloves, etc. from the local Goodwill store to make a "Dress Up" box. This box was used for years...
1 qt. blackberries 1 to 2 c. sugar (to taste) Butter (opt.)
Put blackberries in kettle with small amount of water. Add sugar to taste; cover and cook until berries are done. Strain the berries and discard. Return blackberry juice to kettle, bring to boil and add dumplings. If desired, add a little butter before adding dumplings.
DUMPLINGS:
2 c. self-rising flour 2 tbsp. butter or shortening Milk
Mix like biscuit dough, adding just enough milk to make a stiff dough. Turn out on floured surface, knead until not sticky. Roll out thin and cut into squares. Drop into boiling juice. Reduce heat and cook slowly for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Thicken juice with a flour-water paste; cook 3 minutes longer. NOTE: Cream (evaporated milk) may be poured over individual serving if desired ... View related article.
My daughter used clear plastic tubes (purchased online), then filled them with candy that matched her color scheme. Good & Plenty and licorice would be pretty for your pink, black & white scheme. Glue a pink or white silk flower on the tube cap. ... View related article.
