Easy Christmas Cookie Bar Recipes

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
We have been so busy the last couple months we have had barely any time to spend in the kitchen. I am seriously behind on my holiday baking. This weekend will be my first weekend at home in the last two months and I am hoping to get a lot of accomplished in the kitchen. I have a lot of people expecting baked treats for gifts and I want to try out a few new holiday recipes for myself.

I have rounded up a few of my favorite easy cookie bar recipes that would be great for Christmas treats.

Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Sugar Cookie Bars with Buttercream Frosting

Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Monster Cookie Bars
A few more great recipes to try:
No Bake Oatmeal Scotchies
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple Frosting
Triple Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
Monster Cookies
Double Chocolate Chip Cookie Sandwiches

10 Christmas Traditions To Start This Year

Whether it is maintaining long held family traditions or creating new ones, traditions are very important to me. I have always viewed them as a way to connect with the past and maintain bonds with family and friends. Traditions are a huge part of who we are. I talked briefly about how important traditions are to me almost two years ago.

Below are ten of my favorite Christmas traditions that make the holidays special. You should be a few to start this year.

ONE // Host a Cookie decorating party. This is my favorite Christmas tradition. My family has engaged in this tradition my entire life. My mom makes the most amazing fudge but has never been what I would call a baker but my dad has always told our family that she always said she wanted children to bake Christmas cookies with. Our Christmas cookies have became much better looking throughout the years but we still laugh about how ugly they used to be when we were children.

TWO // Watch a production of The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol, or other holiday-themed show. This is a recent tradition me and my sisters started. For the last several years we always attend a production of The Nutcracker. It is a fun day to get dressed up, have a nice meal together, and get in the holiday spirit.

THREE // Christmas pajamas. This isn't a tradition that I have ever taken part in but I would love to start it. Receiving pajamas each Christmas Eve to wear on Christmas morning sounds like an adorable idea to make sure you have something cute to wear in all of those photos taken Christmas morning. Here are some beautiful picks.

FOUR // Find a way to give back. Giving back is always important and especially so during the holidays. Small actions can help make sure that no one feels left out, alone, or forgotten during this time of the year.

FIVE // Have a Christmas movie night. Pop some popcorn, put on your coziest pajamas, and watch your favorite Christmas movies. There are few easier ways to get into the holiday spirit and this is a great way to have a relaxing evening when getting bogged down by holiday stress. My favorite Christmas movie is Miracle on 34th Street. What is yours?

SIX // Buy a special Christmas tree ornament each year. This is a great way to mark milestones and it is fun to take the ornaments out each year and recall all of the memories attached.

SEVEN // View the Christmas lights in your neighborhood. This is a tradition my family took part in when I was little and it is something I really miss. It was always fun bundling up, piling into the car, and driving around our neighborhood looking at the Christmas lights while listening to holiday music.

EIGHT // Have a game night with a hot chocolate bar. This is a fun way to have friends over for a casual night and homemade hot chocolate is a decadent treat.

NINE // Make choosing a Christmas tree an event. Involve your entire family, visit a Christmas tree farm, sip apple cider, and choose the perfect tree.

TEN // Send out Christmas cards. Jessica and I host a Christmas card exchange each year. It is a simple act that lets others know you are thinking about them.

What are your favorite Christmas traditions?

image via: Studio DIY, edited by Sunny Days and Starry Nights

Chit Chat: Time to Relax

YAY! Tomorrow is my last day of work until after the new year! I have been so busy lately with teaching, taking college classes, teaching after school tutoring, and all of the Christmas related tasks that I have needed to complete. It has started taking its toll on me. Last week on Thursday I was so sick that I almost left work early, but I toughed it out and then only missed Friday. This week has been way busy too. I had meetings all day Tuesday, then another meeting after school on Wednesday, and then I also have after school tutoring today. Tomorrow is the last day for the year!

I have so many plans for break. Plans that include a lot of relaxing, watching old Christmas movies, baking up a storm of sweet treats in the kitchen, and visiting with friends and family. I have a little work that I want to do for school and a few things that I still need to finish before Christmas. Are you finished with all of your Christmas shopping and ready to give out gifts? I just have a few small things to get for stockings and I need to get my cat's presents. Mr. Cat has a stocking and he expects lots of toy mice to beat up and cat treats to munch on when he has defeated the mice invasion.

I'm excited for break. It fills like I have been a busy busy bee lately trying to meet all my deadlines for assignments and to do everything school administrators expect of me. I am ready to sleep in and to take my time to enjoy Christmas. Earlier this week I shared with you 10 Ways Beat Holiday Stress and I plan to do all of these things over break! What are your plans for Christmas? How are you going to enjoy the holiday season?



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All I Want for Christmas: Jessica's List

A week or so ago Tracy shared her Christmas wishlist with you, so today I thought I would share mine. All of these are items I would love to have in the future. Most of them are things that I think would make any room look even better, but a few of them are items just for me. What are you wishing you get for Christmas?

Scallop Statement Pinboard - This would be a perfect way to display some of my favorite photos, quotes, or jewels all in one place. Plus I love the gold edge.

Bunny Alarm Clock - This whimsical little alarm clock is the perfect touch for my nightstand.

Kate Spade Ear Crawlers - I love the ombre effect with these different shades of blue, don't you?

Glitter Heels - These will add a little sparkle to any look. I would even love wearing them with jeans and a tee.

Faux Leather Gloves - These gloves are only $16 and would look great with anything.

Kate Spade Collar Necklace - This necklace is gorgeous! It would definitely dazzle in any crowd.

Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream Perfume - I have always been a huge fan of Marc Jacobs fragrances and this happens to be one that I do not have.

Wishbox - This adorable clear box, would be a great way to display some beautiful items.

Monogram Coin Purse - These are so cute. I love tassel details and the colors are beautiful.

Meow Tray - Gold and white are a classic color combination. This would look great on any table.

Ring Ring Holder - At only $17, I would love this just to use as a table decor piece.

Jane Austen Classics - Reading is one of my favorite things to do. I am a collector of books with beautiful covers. Pride and Prejudice happens to be one of my favorite books, so I would love to own this beautiful one.

Reversible Tote - This tote would be perfect for work or when I am busy on the go.

Martha Stewart Cake Stand - Any cake we made would look even more delicious is in this beautiful cake stand.

Celestial Coaster Set - I am in love with all of the color options! It would be so hard for me to choose just which one I would want.

Striped Sneakers - At only $35 these slip-on sneakers would be great for any casual look.

Christmas Pajamas

Classic Tartan Flannel Pajamas / Cotton Yeti Pajama Set (these are adorable!) / Dreamy Cotton Pajamas / Stella McCartney Pajamas / Cotton Textured Dot Sleep Set / Stripe Sleep Set / Medallion Pink Sateen Pajama Set / Sparkle Plaid Pajamas
I know so many people who have a Christmas tradition of the entire family receiving pajamas on Christmas Eve so they will have them to wear on Christmas morning. Does your family do this? Christmas pajamas isn't something my family ever did but I think it sounds wonderful. Buying or receiving new pajamas is always a special treat. I have rounded up a few great options above. My favorites are these classic tartan pajamas and these pajamas with adorable little yetis on them.

Chit Chat: Christmas Gifts

So I'm curious... Do you buy yourself a Christmas gift?

I do. I really cannot remember when this little yearly ritual started for me, but I am pretty certain that it was at some point while I was in college. I always buy clothes and shoes when I need them (okay also sometimes when I want them) but otherwise I do not make a lot of purchases. However, every year at Christmas time I treat myself to one or two items that I want not need. It is never anything extravagant but I pick out something pretty and fun that I would not typically otherwise purchase. Sometimes it is something that I have wanted for a long time.

For years my coworkers have teased me about my tradition but the other day I heard that 67% of people purchase themselves at least one gift during the holiday season. It seems I fall in the majority and now I am beginning to wonder if a few of my coworkers are just unwilling to admit they get themselves a gift at Christmas.

If you are planning on getting yourself a little something for the holidays but haven't done so yet make sure to check out our gift guides.

Gifts for the Bookworm
Gifts for the Glamour Girl
Gifts for the Sophisticated Socialite
Gifts for the Homebody
Gifts for the Rocker Chick
Gifts for the Party Planner


image via: Luella & June

Stocking Stuffer Ideas

'Why Hello' Mug - Faux Fur Pom Pom Clip - ban.do iPhone Case - Crystal Statement Necklace - Tassel Key Chain - Nail Polish Set - Kate Spade Gloves - Kate Spade Socks - Tortoiseshell Sunglasses - Origins Gift Set - Blush Velvet Stocking - Kate Spade Watch - Crystal and Stone Statement Collar - Present Studs - Pom Pom Slippers - Holiday Candy - Kate Spade Compact Mirror

This post contains stocking stuffer ideas for any girl in your life. Every girl would love to receive any of these items in her stocking on Christmas morning. A new iPhone case would definitely make me a happy girl. I am in desperate need of a new one. When it comes to adding makeup to a stocking nail polish is always a safe bet. Most girls will use it even if they don't wear other makeup. I love a good glittery nail polish. When it comes to earrings, not all girls wear big earrings, so beautiful studs are a great way to go. But, my favorite item above is this one. It is stunning and looks so expensive, but it is so affordable. I would wear it all the time.

Stylish For Less: Party Dresses Under $100

I attended my first Christmas party of the season last Saturday and had an incredible time. One of my favorite things this time of the year is all of the gatherings, festivities, and events where we come together with those we love and those that are important to us. Dressing up for all of these holiday celebrations is part of the fun. I have rounded up 20 party dresses under $100 because we are all watching our budgets this time of the year.

Still stumped on what to wear to all of the holiday parties this season? Look here.

Wise Words: Christmas

I think this is something that we all need to remember. Christmas is about something more.



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All I Want For Christmas

How is your Christmas shopping going? I finished up almost everything by Cyber Monday (even managed to pick up a couple things for myself). I have 1 more present left to purchase. I hope to pick it up soon so I can get all of my gifts wrapped, under the tree, and then forget all about the crazy busy stores until after the holidays.

Meanwhile, I have rounded a Christmas wish list of items I would not mind spotting under my tree come Christmas morning.

Frends BaubleBar Headphones // Because any girl who loves sparkle and music as much as me should own bejeweled headphones.

Evening Belles Lucinda Clutch // I have been swooning over this clutch for months. It just may be one of the prettiest things ever.

Erica Flats // I'm a flats kind of girl and foxes are just too adorable.

Ear Crawlers // They are a little edgy while still being very feminine.

Maise Keychain // A #stockingstuffer every girl would love.

Fame and Flowers Necklace // It is always fun adding new additions to my growing statement necklace collection. Plus, this one is rose gold.

Ginger Jar // Ginger Jars are stylish and sophisticated. While all colors are wonderful nothing beats classic blue and white.

Bow Slippers // For keeping my toes cute and warm this winter.

Journal // This journal is beautiful but if you are not a fan of A Midsummer Night's Dream there are four other pretty ones to choose from.

Leather Pouch // Scallops. Enough said.

Geode in Brass Caliper // The perfect desk, coffee table, or bookcase accessory.

Marine True Liquid Body Soap // A little luxury.

Burberry Nail Polish // Burberry polishes apply easy and dry fast which is very important if you have a hard time sitting still long enough for your polish to dry like me.

Myers Lemon Tree // Since I received my first cactus a few months ago I have developed a huge thing for live plants. This pretty little lemon tree might be somewhat harder to care for but it would be a beautiful addition to a home and the blooms would smell amazing.

Bow Leather Gloves // They are a chic cold weather necessity.

Patterned Socks // The cutest socks and only $7.

Charlotte Table Lamp // I love home decor statement pieces.

What To Wear: To A Christmas Party

Collarless Coat / Embellished Sweater / Flute Glass / Flower Drop Earrings / Crystal Bracelet / NARS Lipstick - Jungle Red / My Burberry Festive / Gold Pleat Midi Skirt / Evening Belles Lucinda Clutch / Bow Pumps
Wow, the first few days back at work after a holiday are rough. Now I am officially in the mindset where I want to be doing nothing but relaxing and celebrating the holidays not stuck behind a desk for hours and hours. Not to mention that I am not a fan of 5 am wake ups.

This upcoming Saturday Jessica and I are traveling out of town to attend our first Christmas party of the season. Over the last month I have been collecting a sizable amount of holiday party appropriate attire, including a skirt similar to this gold pleated midi skirt. It looks so pretty on and the gold is so festive. I have been swooning over this clutch for months. It also comes in several other colors.

My social calendar is booked until mid-January. It is going to be busy but this next month is going to be fun. Plus, only 3 more weeks of work and then I have a full 2 weeks off to relax and enjoy the holidays. Will you be attending any Christmas parties this year?

Gift Guide For The Sophisticated Socialite

Belted Coat (on sale!) / Tassel Earrings / iPhone Case / Elements of Style / Rose Quartz Bookends (these are amazing) / butter LONDON Set / Round Sunglasses / Tortoise Box / Bag Charm / Pom Pom Slippers / Trunk / Fringe Top / Faux Fur Stole ($40) / Earmuffs / Gold Picture Frame / Tassel Key Chain (personalized!) / Jewelry Box / Tory Burch for Fitbit Bracelet / Elie Saab Coffee Table Book / Nespresso / Leopard Booties / The Lip Scrub / Tassel Pouch (love this!) / Leather Gloves / Present Studs / Handbag / Padfolio / Silk-Satin Playsuit
This gift guide includes gifts for that stylish it girl you know, the girl with an impeccable sense of style, she is trend-setting, she always surrounds herself with the finest in all aspects of life, she leaves the best impression on everyone she meets, and she is often described as iconic.

A few of my top picks for the sophisticated socialite are these statement making tassel earrings, this useful suitcase for traveling the world, this versatile clutch, and these stylish leather gloves.

Some more gift ideas for the sophisticated socialite under $30!

P.S. There is still time to join our Christmas Card Exchange. Don't miss out.

Gift Guide for the Homebody

The Lip Scrub - Beeswax Candle - Metallic Pillow love the shine - "You are the Best" Mug - Agate Coasters beautiful - UGG Cable Knit Throw - Note Card Set - Pom Pom Slippers adorable - Eat More Dessert Book - Kate Spade Apron - Polka Dot Sweater - Godiva Truffle Box - Silk Pajama Set comfort in style - Kate Spade Vase - Recipe Box be a chef - Copper Tea Kettle - Mixed Goblets - Pizza Stone yum! - Copper Canister - Polka Dot Sneakers stylish and comfortable - Glass Canisters - Gold Zig Zag Pillow

These are gift ideas for the girl who loves the comforts of home. She enjoys a quiet evening at home in her pajamas. She would rather have friends over for dinner and a movie than spend the night out on the town. This girl enjoys the simple pleasures in life like homemade pizza and a comfy blanket.

Don't forget to email your name and address if you want to join our Christmas card exchange.

Other gift ideas for the party planner are below and all of these are under $30:

Gift Guide for the Party Planner

Metallic Fit and Flare Dress LOVE! - Monthly Planner - Gold Stripe Notebook - Thank You Cards - Luxe Flutes - Eat More Dessert Cookbook - Gold Bar Cart my favorite item - Wine Bottle Stoppers stunning - Kate Spade Shaker - Corkscrew - Martha Stewart Plate - Cake Knife and Server - Reversible Gift Wrapping so cute - Cheese Board and Knife - Stemless Wine Glasses - Metallic Dish Set love these - Embossed Cake Stand with Dome - Gold Pitcher beautiful - Cheers Coasters - 3 Tier Cupcake Stand - Jimmy Choo Shoes love the sparkle - Cake Stand with Mini Dome - Glitter Clutch

These are gift ideas for the girl who is always up for a party, most likely she's the one throwing it. She is always ready to celebrate any occasion big or small. She knows how to dazzle the crowd and she's always up for having some fun with friends. This gift guide contains items like these shoes and this clutch that will help the party planner sparkle at the party.

Don't forget to email your name and address if you want to join our Christmas card exchange.

Other gift ideas for the party planner are below and all of these are under $30:

Christmas Card

Tree on a Flatbed / You Filthy Animal / Plaid Ribbon / Making Spirits Bright / Christmas Bunny / Holiday Circle / Wintergreen Christmas / Bright Joy / Merry and Bright / Joy
It seems I have unintentionally jumped head on into the holiday spirit. I kept trying to tell myself that it was too early to get caught up in the holidays but after listening to Christmas music on my way to and from work last week plus the posting of our Christmas Card Exchange it was hard not to. I have now ordered several Christmas gifts. Over the weekend I even put up my Christmas tree. I decided two months to enjoy the lights was way better than one month.

Now it is time to pick out Christmas cards for this year. I have been browsing online and have came up with a lot of great options. My absolute favorite is this one. It made me laugh out loud as soon as I saw it and I was reminded of my sister Tiffany's favorite Christmas movie from our childhood. I am positive we watched Home Alone several dozen times. Plus the cute little French bulldog is adorable. Unfortunately I don't think that I can get this card shipped to the US.

Have you started prepping for the upcoming holidays yet?

If you love snail mail and would like to receive some pretty Christmas cards make sure you sign up for our Christmas Card Exchange.

Merry Christmas!

It's Christmas Eve! We are so excited to spend time with our family and to have a break from work. We will be spending the evening at our Grandma's house to exchange gifts with relatives and to enjoy some delicious snacks. Tomorrow is Christmas and we will be surrounded with family and spending the day together. We will begin with opening presents and a huge breakfast. I always love watching everyone open their gifts and seeing their delight at how thoughtful others were in choosing their gifts. We will laugh and talk all day. The only thing that could make it better would be snow. Then we could spend time outside in the cold.

We will be taking a break the next few days to enjoy the holidays. We wish you all a very jolly Christmas.


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On The Menu: Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

This recipe for Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect holiday recipe. These bars are easy to make and they smell and taste delicious. The warm spices make this gingerbread the perfect companion to a huge mug of hot chocolate. When I removed the pan from the oven I was worried my bars would be too hard but they had the perfect texture. I made mid-week and they had totally vanished within a couple days.

Ingredients:
½ cup butter, melted
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla
⅓ cup molasses
1 egg
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 cups flour
1 tablespoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese
¼ cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Grease a 9×13″ baking pan and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and molasses.
4. Add egg and stir until completely incorporated.
5. Add baking soda, flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg and salt and mix until well combined. Press dough evenly into the bottom of greased pan.
6. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes and let cool. Do not over cook.

Directions for Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Cream butter and cream cheese together in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla and beat until smooth and cream.
3. Frost the tops of cooled Gingerbread Cookie Bars.
4. Cut into squares and serve.
5. Garnish with a little nutmeg.

Recipe obtained from here.

Holiday Hair Embellishments

Tomorrow is my last day of work before I take off for a little Christmas break and I am so excited for the start of a two week vacation. Everything has been such a whirlwind the last few weeks that I don't feel like I have adequately gotten myself in the holiday spirit. I am ready to spend a few days doing nothing but baking, listening to Christmas music, wrapping gifts, and wearing sparkly clothes.

I am the worst when it comes to styling my hair. It is almost always worn down in loose waves or up in a low bun. For the holidays though I am going to try to kick it up a notch while still keeping it simple. Isn't it amazing how pretty just adding an holiday inspired accessory can make a no-fuss hairstyle look? Something as simple as just adding a red ribbon looks so festive.

How will you be styling your hair for the holidays?

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DIY: Glitter Confetti Ornament

We love decorating for the holidays and making everything beautiful. With multiple Christmas trees and lots of lights, it's easy to see how much holiday cheer is around our house. As kids we would love for the tree to go up. After Christmas whenever mom would try to take it down we would cry and beg her to leave it up. Some years she would have to catch us all gone so that she could take it down. So this craft was perfect for us. It is an easy DIY Christmas ornament. What's even better is that there are only a few supplies needed and it can be made in less than ten minutes. This would also be an easy craft to do with kids.



Supplies
Clear Ornaments
Glitter (colors of your choice, we chose purple, pink, and turquoise)
Colorful Confetti

1. Gather your supplies. The amount you need will vary based on the size of the ornaments you are making and on the amount of them you want.
2. Pull the tops of the ornaments and pour some of each color of glitter into them. Then pour confetti into them. You want to fill them 2/3 of the way full.
3. Put the tops back on the ornaments and the shake them up to mix up the glitter and confetti. Then hang them on the tree and enjoy.

What to Wear: Christmas at Grandma's

Black Coat stay perfectly warm - Bar Stud Earrings - Bar Necklace - Crossbody Bag - Damask Print Dress beautiful print - Black Tights - Tory Burch Flats - Come to Bed Red Butter London wonderful color

We always go to Grandma's house on the holidays. Aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. all gather at my grandma's house to exchange gifts and to have Christmas dinner. We all bring something for the meal so that no one person has to go all out on the food. We laugh, talk, and catch up with each other. In thinking about dressing for the holidays at a grandparent's house or another relatives for that matter, I want to look nice but not over the top. This dress is perfect for a family get-together. It is polished but not revealing. Adding simple accessories and flats also keep the look from getting too dressy. What will you be wearing for holiday with the relatives?