Monday, November 11, 2024

Crafting Heartfelt Holiday Cards and a delicious recipe by Josie Riviera

As the days grow shorter, November is a great time to prepare for the holidays. One of my favorite traditions is making handmade holiday cards. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to connect with your loved ones. But it’s also a labor of love.

Crafting Holiday Cards:

Gathering Supplies
Start by gathering your supplies: blank cards, colorful paper, scissors, glue, and decorative elements like stamps, stickers, and ribbon. Don’t forget a good pen for writing your messages. You can find these materials at a local craft store or even around your home.

Personal Touches
Think about the recipients of your cards and what might make them smile. Do they love traditional holiday motifs like snowflakes and reindeer, or would they appreciate something more whimsical, like a playful penguin or a cozy cabin scene? Use these ideas to guide your designs.

Creative Techniques
Experiment with different techniques to make your cards unique. Try layering paper to create a 3D effect, or use glitter (my granddaughters love this!) for a festive sparkle. Stamping is an easy way to add detailed designs, and pretty ribbon can make your cards feel extra special. Don’t worry about making them perfect—handmade cards are charming because they’re personal

Messages from the Heart
Inside each card, write a personal message. Reflect on your memories with the recipient, express your gratitude, or share your hopes for the coming year. A handwritten note can mean so much more than a pre-printed greeting. It’s a chance to connect and let your loved ones know you’re thinking of them.

As a bonus, I’m sharing a simple and fun recipe, perfect for a crafting break.

 

Pumpkin Spice Mug Cake

It’s ready in just a few minutes and captures the flavors of the season.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • A small pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a microwave-safe mug, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
  2. Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and milk to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
  3. Microwave on high for 1 to 1.5 minutes, or until the cake has risen and is cooked through.
  4. Let it cool for a minute before enjoying your delicious pumpkin spice mug cake.

I wish you a wonderful November!

If you have any crafting tips, please share them in the comments below.


Mark your calendars for a fabulous Black Friday sale on November 29th.★★ Experience the magic of the holidays with my sweet, clean, and wholesome romance boxed set, Holiday Hearts Volume 4, for just 99 cents, normally $9.99!★★

This collection includes: ✨ A Christmas Puppy to Cherish: Max and Sarah discover that love and faith are the greatest gifts of all.

A Chocolate-Box Christmas Wish: Cora and Patrick find healing and romance in their small California hometown.

A Chocolate-Box Irish Wedding: Colum and Keira get a second chance at love in their seaside Irish town.

These heartwarming stories celebrate the joy, blessings, and true meaning of Christmas. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer!

Grab your copy of Holiday Hearts Volume 4 today before the price goes up!


Josie Riviera is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, historical, and inspirational romances that read like Hallmark movies. She lives in the Charlotte, NC, area with her wonderfully support husband. They share their home with an adorable Shih Tzu, who constantly needs grooming, and live in an old house forever needing renovation.


Sign up for her newsletter and get a FREE ebook on her website: josieriviera.com


No comments:

Post a Comment