Christmas stockings add a touch of magic to the holiday season, turning simple surprises into cherished memories. Whether you fill them with sweet treats, small gifts, or heartfelt notes, stockings are a fun and festive way to bring joy to Christmas morning. It’s the little things tucked inside that make the tradition so special.
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Packing lunch for the office is easier and more enjoyable with the right tools. A sturdy thermos keeps soups and drinks warm, while bento boxes make it simple to portion out balanced meals. For even more convenience, an electric lunch box lets you heat food right at your desk. With these handy items, bringing lunch from home becomes a fresher, healthier, and budget-friendly routine.
Holiday wreaths bring timeless charm to any home, and their story goes back centuries. The tradition of Christmas wreaths began in ancient Rome and early northern Europe, where evergreens symbolized strength and hope during the darkest days of winter. Over time, Christians adopted the wreath as a circle of unending life, often decorating it with candles and greenery to welcome the Christmas season. Whether hung on a door or used as a festive centerpiece, a wreath adds a warm, classic touch to holiday décor.
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes This cozy classic is layered with thin-sliced potatoes, rich cream, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection. Simple, comforting, and irresistibly creamy, it’s the perfect side dish for any holiday meal or family dinner.
3-4 russet potatoes
1/2 c. shredded parmesan
1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar (I use a mix)
@ 8oz heavy whipping cream
salt/pepper to taste
cajun seasoning or smoked paprika to taste
Preheat oven to 400*. Wash potatoes and thinly slice. Slice as thin as possible. If using a mandolin–Watch those fingers!!!
Begin layering a 13×9 with 1 layer of potatoes (thicker ones to the outside). Sprinkle with salt and pepper and some parmesan. Another layer of potatoes on top of that, sprinkle with cheese and then drizzle with heavy cream, @ 1/2c. Another 2 layers like these. and drizzle with heavy cream. Then another layer or 2-however it works out. I don’t salt/pepper/spice every layer. The parmesan is naturally salty and most Cajun seasonings have salt. This is not a Cajun dish, but the spice adds a nice flavor! Once you are done layering, drizzle the remaining cream over the top, filling any holes on the side.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes-middle rack. Uncover and bake about 15 more minutes or until browned on top. Remove from oven and let rest 15 minutes before serving.
This makes 8-10 servings. I often halve the recipe and make a smaller version, using a smaller baking dish.
Some great Christmas gift ideas for the chef in your life!
If you have a passionate cook in the family, Christmas is the perfect time to surprise them with tools that make kitchen magic even easier. Consider upgrading their culinary setup with a sous vide machine for perfectly tender meats, a vacuum sealer for fresher ingredients and meal prep, or a set of high-quality knives they’ll reach for daily. Even simple additions—like a sturdy cutting board, precision kitchen scale, or spice grinder—can spark creativity and joy. These thoughtful gifts help the chef you love take their cooking to the next level all year long. This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Combine onions, celery, and green peppers in a large saucepan with 1-2 cans of the chicken broth-simmer until veggies are tender @ 20-30 minutes.
Crumble cornbread and toasted bread together–make sure pieces are small. Add the veggies, mix and then add eggs, soup, salt and pepper. Mix together and then add as much remaining broth to make the mixture juicy.
Pour into a lightly greased deep 13×9 baking dish. Bake at 375* for 45-60 mins.
Looking for thoughtful and budget-friendly Christmas gifts? This list has cozy finds, unique ideas, and must-haves for everyone on your list! ✨ [Affiliate links included]
Looking for a fun new holiday tradition that brings everyone together? Try starting a Christmas Eve Box! Fill a box or basket with cozy, festive goodies—think matching pajamas, a holiday movie, popcorn, hot cocoa mix, and maybe a sweet treat or two. Open it on Christmas Eve to kick off the celebration with warmth and laughter. It’s a simple way to slow down, make memories, and enjoy time together before the big day.
✨ A little box, a lot of joy—start your Christmas Eve tradition this year!
This year begins a new tradition for our family and it’s The Christmas Eve Box! So excited. Below are some items I’m including in ours!
The Cajun Corn Dip is essential in our house hold. It has to be made for every occasion–Pool days, beach trips, Birthdays, Holidays, any time my daughter comes home…….. just always!
It’s simple and easy to make!
2 cans whole kernel corn- I like the bi color! (drain it well)
1 block cream cheese- soft
1 can Rotel-well drained
1/2 c mayo
2 c. shredded cheese- I like the Mexican blend-pre-shredded
Cajun seasoning– this can be tricky. My husband makes his own and I use that, about 1T. Depending on the seasoning you use, you may need to add salt to taste. I just add a pinch, but some Cajun seasonings can be very salty, so BE CAREFUL!! (someday I may give away the recipe for my hubby’s!)
Frito Scoops
Mix all together and bake in a 13×9 baking dish at 375 degrees until starting to brown on top, about 20-30 min. Serve with the Scoops.
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The Peanut Diaries 