
This Christmas, did you find the KitchenAid attachment that you've been wanting under the tree? Or perhaps receive the edible gift of your dreams?
Before the holidays, my friend Daisy presented me with some scrumptious
peppermint bark, and I was elated!

Mommy Dearest,
I sent my godson a scooter for his birthday and just received a thank-you note saying that he returned the present because he preferred something else. I don't mind that he exchanged the gift since I just guessed that the ride on was something a nine-year-old would like, but I thought mentioning it in the note was rather rude. We live in different states and I never would have known had he not told me.

For those of us who are passionate about interior design and home decorating, the holidays are often a great time to feather our nests, thanks to the generous gifts of friends and family. What was your favorite holiday gift this year? Was it a
subscription to Domino?

My kids make a killing at Christmas because we have an incredibly generous family and a large circle of friends. But after watching my tots be overwhelmed by gifts in past, this year I broke the rules and allowed them to open some presents early. When my sister came over with a sack of goodies for the lil ones, I let them tear into them.

Keri Russell makes sure her lil guy River Deary knows the true meaning of Christmas. When asked about their plans,
the Bedtime Stories star said:
We’re having all the parents at my house this Christmas and we told the grandparents, “No one go crazy. One gift for the kid,” which translates to like five.

When it comes to
holiday presents, the men in my life are incredibly easy to please: Both my dad and my guy love to receive gourmet gifts, like quality fruits and nuts. Hence, I knew this recipe for smoky cashews would be the perfect
edible gift for both of them. If you're strapped for both time and cash, this gift is your best bet: It only requires a few unfussy ingredients and 20 minutes of time.

Rich, creamy, and luxurious, pate is one of my favorite foods. However, it's not something I consume or make on an everyday basis. In fact, before Saturday, I had never made pate.

Our
12 Days of Edible Gifts continues with a juicy homemade jelly. I used to think that jams and jellies took hours to can, but I'm glad I realized was wrong. This recipe for
pomegranate jelly takes only 15 minutes of active time, and costs under $10 to make.

Tough financial times are cause for even the jolliest of fellows to cut back on expenses this Christmas. If you're looking for ways to make the most of your money this holiday season and still celebrate to the fullest with your children, consider these tips!
- Cut back on presents by having “Santa” hide them so your children will delight in finding them.