1/2 cup sea salt
4-6 drops of peppermint oil
2-3 drops of red food coloring
Place 1 cup of epsom salt and 1/4 cup of sea salt in a bowl or reuseable plastic bag. Add 2-3 drops of peppermint oil and 2-3 drops of the red food coloring. Place remaining salts and peppermint oil in a 2nd bowl. Mix all ingredients well. Layer red and white salts in a clear bottle or decorative jar. Tie with a ribbon and small candy canes.
1 cup of cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp cloves
Mix all ingredients until a dough is formed and has the consistency of playdough. Add more applesauce or cinnamon as needed. Roll flat, dusting countertop and rolling pin with cinnamon if dough sticks. Cut out shapes with a knife or christmas cookie cutters. Use a toothpick to make a hole for hanging. Dry at room temperature for 5-7 days turning over at the end of the 3rd day to ensure even drying.
paint - color of your choice
picture - close-ups work best
acid-free glue for back of photo
hot glue gun
ribbon
Paint clean jar lid with desired color and let dry. Cut picture to fit inside jar lid, and carefully glue inside. Be sure to use acid-free photo safe glue to be sure your pictures last as long as possible. You can use ribbon or beads to decorate the outer edge of the lid. Loop a piece of ribbon and make a bow and use hot glue to attach to top of lid to hang.
**This makes a great family tradition. You can start making these each year and add a date to the back so you can see your childs growth. Also makes a great gift to them when they are older and have their own family.
1/4 c. whole cloves
1/2 lemon, halved
1/2 orange, halved
1 qt. water
Combine all ingredients in saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer as long as desired (may use crock pot). Check often and add additional water if needed. Mixture may be stored in refrigerator several days and reused. Makes your house smell great.
