Have a Taffy Pull

Before the invention of the television, radio, and computer families used to spend evenings together. They would gather in the parlor or kitchen and actually interact together, playing games, reading books, and talking. One of the things that families also used to enjoy was pulling taffy. A taffy pull is a fun family activity. The taffy takes about twenty minutes to pull so you are guaranteed to have at least that much time to talk to your kids. If you have little kids they can pull a small amount, but most of the burden of pulling will be upon the … Continue reading

How Not to Go Broke Celebrating Halloween

(All treat no trick) You don’t need to be a parent to know that celebrating Halloween is not cheap. These days dressing up as a naughty nun and gorging on 100 Grand bars can really set you back, and not just spiritually. The cost of costumes, candy, decorations and fillings for cavities caused by giving into your Laffy Taffy addiction is scary expensive. And, if you have multiple kids to costume and provide school treats for, the total cost of the holiday can be even more frightening. In 2011, Halloween surpassed Valentine’s Day as the second most expensive holiday celebrated … Continue reading

Candy Making

For some reason several years ago I started making candies at Christmas time instead of my traditional cakes, cookies and brownies. It’s kind of odd now that I think about it because I don’t have a candy thermometer, or a double boiler, or any other type of equipment one uses to make candy. Nonetheless, I’ve learned to ‘eyeball’ confections such that most of what I make turns out decent enough to give as a gift. Candy making is an art and once you learn the terminology, it’s a lot easier than it might seem. Here is a quick reference list … Continue reading

Celebrate Pioneer Day

Pioneer Day is July 24th. Whether or not you had any ancestors who crossed the plains in search of religious freedom, better farmland, or even gold, this month is a great time to remember the many men, women, and children, who made the long trek across the plains to settle the west. So take some time this month to celebrate the pioneers. Share Pioneer Stories Pioneer stories are a great way to share the pioneering spirit with your children. Many stories are faith promoting; others express the dangers of pioneer life, while some are humorous. If you had ancestors who … Continue reading