A few days ago I shared a delicious Christmas Cookies recipe and D.I.Y gift ideas that make perfect Christmas gifts for teachers, neighbours, etc. Together with McCormick we are getting festive and sharing another gift idea and recipe along with a fantastic giveaway for All Mum Said fans. This one is perfect for not only adults but the kids too.

My kids love getting involved with cooking and we encourage them to try new things, invent flavours by mixing and matching herbs/spices and food. The kitchen is a place for creativity and vision. Which is why the idea below from McCormick is perfect!

Santa’s Festive Fairy Dust

This is a wonderful idea for the kids to get involved and get creative. They can create their very own magical fairy dust for Santa’s Christmas Cookies or make some fairy dust for their teachers. Simply add a teaspoon of four of your favourite spices into the bag, then follow this recipe. If making these as gifts just add a tag with the recipe on the back.

Santa’s Christmas Cookies

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Makes: 42 cookies

Ingredients:
1 cup butter, chopped
1 cup caster sugar
1x 60g egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups plain flour
1 tbsp McCormick Festive Fairy Dust mix
1/2 tsp ground salt

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 180°c. Line baking trays with baking paper.
2. Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla and mix well. Gradually beat in flour, fairy dust mix and salt until well mixed.
3. Roll dough into 1/2 tbsp balls and place on prepared trays. Flatten with a fork.
4. Bake for 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool Christmas cookies on baking tray and remove when cool. Store in airtight container.

*Christmas cookies recipe courtesy of McCormick. You can see more of the McCormick holiday cooking recipes here.

3x PRIZES UP FOR GRABS

Each prize contains: McCormick All Spice Ground 30g, McCormick Cinnamon Ground 32g, McCormick Cinnamon Sugar 60g, McCormick Cloves Whole 25g, McCormick Mixed Spice 30g, McCormick Nutmeg Ground 30g, McCormick Vanillin Sugar 65g, McCormick Ginger Ground 25g, Christmas Tree Cookie Cutter Set, Christmas Stocking. RRP $35.00 (Total prize pool: $105.00)

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

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I love Christmas time. Not only for the magic and tinsel but also the food. The warm aromatic spice-filled food. Actually just make that all food. Today I’m sharing with you a very quick and simple recipe for festive cookies that make the perfect gift for teachers, neighbours, plates of food for class parties, etc. They taste like what I imagine Christmas would if it had a flavour. Each bite is full of texture, warm spice and deliciousness.

Christmas Cookies recipe

INGREDIENTS
1 1/3  cup plain flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup oats
3/4 cup chocolate buttons/smarties (we used red and green)
3/4 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup white sugar
1 tbsp McCormick ground Cinnamon
1/2 tsp McCormick ground Nutmeg
½ tsp McCormick ground All Spice
1 egg
1/2 cup melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD – Standard Cookies
1. Pour all dry ingredients into a bowl.
2. Mix egg, butter and vanilla extract into dry ingredients.
3. Use spatula or large spoon to work it all together.
4. Roll cookie dough into table spoon size balls, place on baking tray (lined with baking paper) and bake at 180°c for approx. 10 minutes or until golden. If you want crunchy cookies leave for an extra 4-5 minutes.
5. Let cool for a few minutes before moving them to cooling rack.

METHOD – Mini Muffin Cookies
1. Follow steps 1-3 as shown above.
2. Spray/grease mini muffin tray.
3. Roll balls to approx. 1/2 teaspoon size and add to mini muffin tray. Bake at 180°c for approx. 7-8 minutes or until golden.
4. Let cool for a few minutes before moving them to cooling rack.

Gift Ideas

Cookies In a Jar
1. Layer all the dry ingredients in a jar.
2. Put some Christmas ribbon around it.
3. Add cooking method including wet ingredients for the gift recipient.

Method for tag: Pour dry cookie mixture from the jar into a bowl. Mix 1 egg, 1/2 cup melted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into dry ingredients. Use back of large spoon to work it all together. Roll cookie dough into tablespoon size balls, place on baking paper lined trays and bake in preheated oven 180°c for about 10 minutes or until golden. Makes 24 cookies.

*This recipe is thanks to McCormick.

Wrapped
1. Cut a piece of baking paper large enough to fit a few cookies in.
2. Pull the baking paper up around the cookies and secure with some Christmas ribbon.

These are great gift ideas as they are cheap, easy to make and delicious!

You can find more recipes and gift guides on All Mum Said.

The post Christmas Cookies recipe + D.I.Y gifts appeared first on All Mum Said.

It is the season of giving and that’s exactly what I’m doing today. The Christmas Giveaway – Day 3 has arrived and once again there are some absolutely amazing prizes up for grabs. A massive thank you to all the contributing businesses and the fantastic fans who support us all.

CABBAGE PATCH KIDS

5x WINNERS!!

Each Prize Contains: 1x Cabbage Patch Kid Babies (randomly selected) – RRP $49.99 (Total prize pool $249.95)

Cabbage Patch Kids have been around for years and many of us have enjoyed them during childhood. I had one when I was a kid and couldn’t wait to give my daughter her first Cabbage Patch Kid. She is a bigger fan than I was! While I love the new Twinkle Toes CPK; these CPK Babies are the perfect size for little hands and lots of cuddles. Adorable, great quality and everything you have come to expect from Cabbage Patch Kids. Perfect for every little girl or boy this Christmas.

JOURNIE

Prize Contains: 1x Vintage Bloom Satchel – RRP $99.00.

This satchel from Journie is more beautiful than words can describe. Vintage is back and Journie makes it sleek, sophisticated and stylish. The brass features combined with the floral print scream ‘Admire Me’ without going over the top. Each side of this gorgeous bag has 2 zip entries which push together with magnetic brass press studs making it not only chic but practical as well. Designed to look perfect by your side this satchel features an adjustable extra long shoulder strap so you can choose the length that’s comfortable for you. The Vintage Bloom Satchel is big enough to carry your belongings but small enough that it’s practical and convenient to use everyday.

SMIGGLE

2 WINNERS!!

Each prize contains: 1x Smiggle Spin & Draw, 1x Smiggle Two Tone Talking Clock and 1x Smiggle Konnichiwa Eraser Set – Prize Pack Value 50.85 (Total Prize pool $101.70) 1x Boy set & 1x Girl set.

Smiggle is always a huge hit with kids (and adults) and this great pack will have your kids occupied for hours. Great quality products, fun items and unique games at affordable prices . Smiggle products are full of colour keeping everyone happy and excited while combining everything that kids love. Smiggle encourages imagination, innovation and laughter.

ALL ABOUT HEIDI

Prize Contains: 1x Heidi Walks seamless shoe – RRP $45.00 (winners choice of colour & size)

These stunning little shoes are crafted from one piece of soft leather. Seamless shoes provide little feet with absolute comfort when they walk. The beautiful baby and toddler shoes from All About Heidi are simply genius as the flower design on the front not only looks delightful but it can also be adjusted by tightening or loosing the knot to suit your little ones foot as they grow. The velcro allows for easy use; when putting on and taking off. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of grip these have as the leather is incredibly soft. I was expecting Poppet to slip over on the tiles with them on however she has not fallen once while wearing them. They provide enough grip that she can run and play in them without hesitation. The hardest thing about these shoes is what colour to purchase as they are available in 10 different colours! These absolutely adorable shoes are available from All About Heidi.

JET EMPIRE

Prize Contains: 1x One Tree Hill bracelet – RRP $45.00 

This is my absolute favourite bracelet at the moment. It is a gorgeous colour, made from beautiful Swarovski pearls and features the “Tree of Life” charm. It sits comfortably on your wrist, is durable and looks divine. This stylish bracelet can be purchased from Jet Empire and is available in 12 different colours so there is something to suit every woman. Absolutely gorgeous piece of jewellery mums,teachers or teens would love!

CHILL FACTOR

3x WINNERS!

Each Prize contains: 1x Colour Blast CHILL FACTOR Slushy Maker – RRP $14.95 (Total prize pool $44.85) – Magenta, Blue & Green.

Summer is almost here but judging by the heat we have experienced my part of the world recently you would think it has already arrived. The Chill Factor Slushy Maker has been pushed to its limits this past week and has been loved by all. The kids have been adding their favourite drinks and creating a slushy within minutes. It’s fast, efficient and keeps everyone cool. A must have this Christmas!! Not to mention the new colours are amazing. Available for purchase from Big W.

TRI NATURE

 Prize contains: 1x Tri Nature Silk Ambrosia Body Moisturiser 250ml Pomegranate, Lime & Green Tea &
1x Tri Nature Bath Salts 400g Plant Based – RRP $38.90

The Tri Nature bath salts are miracle workers. Relax in a bath with these bath salts and feel your aches and stress fade away. Your energy and spirits will be lifted by simply soaking and taking a few minutes for yourself. This is currently on sale for $9.90 for a 400g tub on the Tri Nature website. The Silk Ambrosia Body Moisturiser is invigorating, indulging and full of zest. It awakens your skin and makes it feel fresh in addition to moisturising your body. This Tri Nature moisturiser is uplifting, vibrant and promotes skin elasticity.

WHITE MAGIC

Prize Contains: 1x White Magic Eco Scrubby, 1x White Magic Eco Cloth Dish Drying Mat  (blue) & 1x White Magic Eco Cloth Coaster 4 Pack (forest) – RRP $37.85.

The White Magic Eco Cloth Dish Drying Mat has been a huge hit in my kitchen. I honestly don’t know how I lived without one. Under my dish-drainer is now neat, tidy and water mark free. They are 4x times more absorbent that cotton tea towels and come in a wide range of colours to brighten up your kitchen. I have pink and love it! The White Magic Eco Cloth Coasters are great for cushioning glasses, absorbing heat and protecting furniture from water rings because it is super absorbent. The Eco Scrubby is made from 100% corn starch and is tough enough to scrub cooking disasters clean. You can machine wash this to clean and sterilise it when required. You can purchase any of these 3 products plus a lot more Eco Friendly products from White Magic online.

THE LITTLE BOOK OF HARMONY

Prize includes: 1x The Little Book of Harmony. Written by Kerry Spina – RRP $20.00.

I am very fond of this book. It encourages children to take notice of their choices and the effects it could have on others, both positive and negative. It shares with them in a way that is magical and fun, what truly matters and how they can start their journey to self discovery. I love that The Little Book of Harmony is not just focussing on negative behaviour, it promotes important messages such as forgiveness and gratitude. Kerry is a true genius and I really hope this book flies off the shelves because it is amazing. Encouraging children to love themselves, be creative, how to accept things and so much more by inviting them to think about and discuss their feelings and emotions while reading the book. You can purchase this truly wonderful book from Kids in Harmony.

PIN WORTHY PARTIES

Prize contains: 1x Pin the Nose on Bob the Reindeer – Printable copy

 You have seen it here first! A new rendition of an old classic, meet Pin the Nose on Bob the Reindeer. Bob will be part of a Christmas DIY Party Pack over at Pin Worthy Parties which will be available for sale soon. In the meantime if you want to get your hands on a copy of Bob, the only way to do this is to sign up to their Newsletter. Bob will provide kids and adults hours of fun this holiday season. There will be laughter when you completely miss his face and celebration when you win (just keep an eye out for those that peek). This digital product is fantastic because you can print it at home or if you want it on an A3 (which is the perfect size for this game) simply go to a photo print shop. To use it over and over again simply laminate the pieces.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

While I will do my best to ensure everyone wins the prize they prefer, I cannot guarantee this will happen.

*Some prizes may not arrive prior to Christmas. This is out of my hands. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received 1x of each of these items for the purpose of reviewing. All opinions are my own.

The post Huge Christmas Giveaway – Day 3 appeared first on All Mum Said.

Day 2 of the Huge Christmas Giveaway brings you another amazing selection of prizes. A massive thank you goes out the businesses who donated these wonderful products and to the fans who have joined us at All Mum Said. I appreciate you all and your support does not go unnoticed.

Gardeners Hamper

5x WINNERS!!

Each Prize Contains: 1x 500ml Fresh, New Age Barrier Cream and New Age Revive Skin Conditioner – prize pack RRP $30.85 each  (Total Prize pool: $154.25)

If you find yourself in the garden a lot or know someone who does, this might just be the perfect gift. I know after I’ve been weeding and planting all day it takes a toll on my hands and they require some extra care. These 3 fantastic products from Lightning will undo the damage and leave your hands feeling fresh, clean and conditioned. The barrier cream is wonderful if you are prone to dry skin, it will keep your hands moisturised throughout the day without leaving them with a greasy texture. It is also ideal for soothing grazes, eczema, sun damage and mild burns as is the Revive skin conditioner. Lightning is an Australian owned company that produce Australian made products.

LUNA BLU

Prize Contains: 1x Megan Bag – Denim Spot. RRP $80.00.

I have eyed off the Luna Blu range for a while now but something has always stopped me from purchasing one. My issue with the Luna Blu bags was that I loved all the styled and prints so much, I couldn’t decide which one I wanted the most. I want them all! The Megan bag is a fantastic choice as it is big enough that you can comfortably take all your ‘must have’ items with you but small enough you don’t have to drag it behind you when you fill it. There are 3 internal compartments in addition to other zipped sections, including one on the exterior. The bag itself zips shut so you can be at ease knowing your belongings are safe. Finished with beautiful details and a detachable shoulder strap, this bag is very versatile and stylish. You can use it as an everyday bag or even a chic nappy bag.

Rollercopter

Prize Contains: 1x Air Hogs RC Rollercopter – RRP $69.99.

Air Hogs are always a hit in our house for both young and old. The Rollercopter is easy enough for kids to manoeuvre, fly and control while in the air and on the ground. Each year Air Hogs expand their range with cooler stuff than the previous and this one is no different. Not only can it fly but it can also roll across the floor, up walls and along the ceiling. Gravity is no barrier. Boys and girls of all ages will enjoy hours of endless fun with the Rollercopter and thanks to the rolling cage, you know your Heli is protected.

Gyrofish

Prize Contains: 1x DOSH Wallet – (winners choice) – RRP $89.00.

If you are looking for something unique, minimal and stylish for dad, your man or yourself than you cannot go past the DOSH Luxe wallet from Gyrofish. With the capacity to hold 6 cards this highly durable wallet is streamline and sleek. It is made in Australia with 100% recyclable materials so it not only looks good but is good for the economy and environment. The DOSH wallet is available in a range of great colours, Mr C has the piano one (black and white) and he cannot say enough positive things about it. That’s saying something as he is a hard man to please when it comes to gifts like this. An awesome product from an awesome online store.

Charli Bird

Prize Contains: 1x Ellie silk scarf – RRP $69.95.

Oh my goodness, the range of scarves at Charli Bird are to die for! Designed in France the 100% silk scarves are so soft you just want to touch them repeatedly. The splashes of colour catch your eye but don’t take away from the detail in the scarf itself. They are lightweight so they are perfect for an all year round accessory for the scarf lovers like myself. I have the Amelie silk scarf and it is now my go-to scarf. I love the beautiful colours and the feel of it against my skin. They look stunning in the pictures but they are even more breathtaking in person.

TEE-ZED

Prize Contains: 1x Minnie Magic Table Lamp – RRP $40.00.

This gorgeous Minnie Mouse magic table lamp would make a little girls room complete. If she is scared of the dark this will be a welcomed addition to her decor as it can stay on safely all night. When the lamp is turned on, the background scene magically transforms and Minnie mouse opens her eyes to watch over your precious little one while she sleeps. These delightful Tee-Zed Magic Table Lights are available to purchase from Big W in Disney® characters, Mickey®, Minnie® and Pooh®.

PILLOW PETS Popables

Prize Contains: 1x Pillow Pets popable Monster/Alien  – RRP $29.99.

We all know PILLOW PETS are ‘IN’ right now so it is only natural that the PILLOW PETS Popable will be a huge hit among kids this Christmas. The popable version is a lot of fun and you basically get 2 Pillow Pets for the price of one. I love that both sides are completely different from one another. Just like the original Pillow Pets these are fun, easy to use, great for snuggling and playing with. You can purchase them from Big W or PILLOW PETS online.

HINKLER

2x WINNERS!!

Prize #1 Contains: 1x Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Reality Shock 2015, hard cover book – RRP $29.25.

Prize #2 Contains: 1x Glamour Girl sketchbook~ Learn to be a Catwalk Designer & 1x Glamour Girl Magnetic Dress-Up Dolls – RRP $23.00

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a best selling annual series. We are a huge fan of the Ripley’s books because each year it is filled with amazing stories and unbelievable facts. Popular not only among the adults but children as well; our 7 year old loves fact books and learning about the incredible world we live in. You can purchase Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 2015 from all good book stores.

Glamour Girl: For the aspiring designer in your home the Glamour Girl pack shares tips and tricks to help them find their creative style and express their glamorous side. The sketch book contains stickers, stencils, sketch pages and advice. The Magnetic Dress-Up Dolls are fun to swap and change, try new things on different models.The magnets can be stored away safely and neatly in the provided tin. Hours of fun will be had with this Glamour Girl Pack.

BRAUER

Prize Contains: 6x Brauer Paw Paw Lip Shimmers – RRP $5.50 each. (Total Prize: $33.00)

I find if I have a gorgeous colour on my lips, I am ready for the day. The Paw Paw Lip Shimmers from Brauer are not only pretty colours but they are also natural and moisturise your lips throughout the day. The shimmers are available in a range of colours to suit your style and personality while leaving you with a silky smooth smile. These are my favourite lip shimmers because they are affordable and look great! You can find them in stores or purchase them from Brauer online.

Lil Mister & Sister

2x WINNERS!!

Prize #1 contains: 1x Pink girls blouse size 4 – RRP $15.00

Prize #2 contains: 1x Boys long sleeve 100% cotton top size 5 – RRP $7.00

Lil Mister & Sister offer a range of clothes for kids at affordable prices. The girls top  is available in a couple of gorgeous colours, it’s lightweight and perfect for summer. The boys long sleeve top is really soft, fun and made with 100% cotton. It would be great to put away for the cooler months. You will be able to find something to suit every little boy and girl at Lil Mister & Sister.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

While I will do my best to ensure everyone wins the prize they prefer, I cannot guarantee this will happen.

*Some prizes may not arrive prior to Christmas. This is out of my hands. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received 1x of each of these items for the purpose of reviewing. All opinions are my own.

The post Huge Christmas Giveaway – Day 2 appeared first on All Mum Said.

I don’t know about you but even though my husband thinks he is easy to buy for, I have to strongly disagree! He is a very particular man and I know there are many more like him. So in my Christmas Gift Guide for Men I have included something for every ‘type’ of dad/man and every budget.

Christmas Gift Guide for Men

Under $20

A personalised stubby holder! Whether he is a golfer, a BBQ lover or a car man – he will enjoy this practical gift. It will keep his drink cold and will let him know how loved he is every time he uses it. You can get them from Snapfish for only $14.95.*

For the office man – Dead Fred pen holder is not only comical but handy as well. Saves him from misplacing his pen and gives him something to take his stress out on. Available from The Gifted Man for $19.95.

Under $50 

The book lover – Australia’s Best Unknown Stories and tales you thought you knew or never heard is written by Jim Haynes. From remote outback and cattle stations to coastal towns comes a collection of amazing, eccentric and funny Australian stories, yarns and furphies – most completely unknown along with some you thought you knew. Available from Booktopia for $26.50.*

Know a man who likes to try new things? A Monthly Fix subscription box is perfect for him. Available in 1, 3, 6 & 9 month packages starting at $35.00.

The outdoors man may like the P3 AFS Led Lenser torch. Great quality, strong, light weight and it can project light up to 120 metres away! Available for only $43.00 from Peter’s of Kensington.

Under $100

Have a man that’s always on the move? The DOSH Wallet Luxe is a match made in heaven. Durable, streamline and made in Australia from 100% recycled material. Available at GyroFish from $71.95 in a range of eye catching colours.

The handyman – well this is a no brainer. A Bunnings gift card, available in six card values ($10, $20, $50, $100, $200 or $500)

Over $100

The time-keeper would love this G-Shock Tide watch. It’s shock resistant and pretty much everything else resistant as well. It’s tough, manly and full of features. The   G-Shock Tide G7900A-4D is available for $199 at a range of stockists.

Need ideas for HER?

What are you getting dad, your brother or your man for Christmas?

What’s on your wish list?

*affiliate link

The post Christmas Gift Guide for Men appeared first on All Mum Said.

Mums are the easiest people to buy for because we are (usually) just happy when someone thinks of us. I have put together a Christmas gift guide for women to give a little assistance to those who may not have any idea of what to get the lady of the house. With gifts to suit all budgets there is something for everyone!

Christmas Gift Guide for Women

Under $20

Contour Glitter Candles (3 pack) – Turquoise, Mint, White. Available from Dusk for $10.00.

With the current sale you can get a 20×20 hard over photo book from Snapfish for only $14.00.* To get 65% off ANY of their photo books use code: FESTIVEBK.

Canvas Print 30x45cm from Snapfish.* Use code: FESTIVE60 and get it for $20.00.

Under $50

Wife on the Run – By: Fiona Higgins.* When social media and a mobile phone expose a high school scandal and a husband’s shameful secrets the only thing left to do is … run. In the remarkable new novel from the bestselling author of The Mothers’ Group a beleaguered wife and mother escapes it all on a family road trip – without technology – to reclaim her life and rebuild her family. RRP $23.95 from Booktopia.

Yes Please by: Amy Poehler.* This paperback is a hilarious collection of stories that finds Amy riffing on sex, love, family, friendship and plastic surgery. It is chock-full of great jokes and sage advice (the useful kind, not the annoying kind you didn’t ask for). RRP $25.95 from Booktopia.

Beautiful Swarovski pearls with “Tree of Life” charm from Jet Empire. Available in 12 different colours so there is something to suit every woman. RRP $45.00.

Karlsson Little Big Time Wall Clock is perfect for the clock lovers out there. Available in black or silver for $49.00 from Gyrofish.

Under $100

Viktor & Rolf Bonbon 90ml perfume. This deliciously feminine fragrance is currently on sale at Myer for only $99.00. This is my favourite perfume at the moment – it smells so good!

Over $100

The Emily is gorgeous, compact and versatile. Available in 4 colours and is the perfect size, not too big – not too small. RRP $169.00 from My Best Friend is a Bag.

Need ideas for HIM?

What are you getting your mum, sister or wife for Christmas? What’s on your wish list?

*affiliate link

The post Christmas Gift Guide for Women appeared first on All Mum Said.