Five Little Things

Dear friends, before I sign off for the holidays, I just wanted to take a quick minute to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for cooking with me, sending your notes and comments, connecting with me on social media, and listening to the podcast, all year long. Every time I hear from you, it is a gift, and I am forever grateful that you are part of the Kitchen Confidante family! I wish you all a blessed and delicious holiday season!

Here are Five Little Things I loved this week:

1. A Full House

My daughter is home from school, which means our home feels complete again!

2. Holiday Traditions, Old and New

We will enjoy old traditions and family favorites this Christmas – sushi and baking teddy bear bread (I hope to share this recipe one day with you!) on Christmas Eve and making Gingerbread French Toast and Lobster Corn Chowder on Christmas Day.

But I love trying out new recipes, and I’ve been baking many batches of Orange Ricotta Chocolate Chip Cookies after my friend Patty brought some to our cookie exchange the other week. Here is a wonderful recipe (similar to what Patty made) by Cooking Classy. I also made some Reindeer Chow based on this recipe by Brown Eyed Baker.

If you’re looking for last-minute recipes and homemade gifts, check out my Recipes for a Last-Minute Holiday!

3. True Gifts

Learning about the truest gifts of the holidays is what brings the most joy.

4. Rom Com Genious

If you love sappy Hallmark Christmas movies (come on, admit it, you do), have you seen United Airline’s genius holiday rom-com ad?

Now that you’ve seen the trailer, I know you want to see the whole film. Here you go! (It’s under 6 minutes, and simply adorable).

5. Elevator Express

Located in Natick Mall in Massachusetts, Santa’s Elevator Express might be the most magical elevator ever. Here it is, captured by @wildernesthomestead on TikTok.

@wildernesthomestead Reserved a 6:45 slot back in October and it was a great time to go! Even the walk in line was empty. #magic #magicofchristmas #magicofchildhood #christmasmagic #triplets #triplethood #christmaswithkids #santaelevator #mallsanta #parentsoftiktok #toddlersoftiktok ♬ original sound – Esra Mese

Stay joyful, and happy holidays!