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7 Secrets to Hosting a Party You’ll Actually Enjoy

November 21, 2025 by Amy Slenker-Smith Leave a Comment

party

It’s party time! Maybe you’re hosting Thanksgiving, or pulling together a festive dinner? Each December, we host our annual holiday party—a gathering that now welcomes over 75 friends and neighbors. This year marks our 26th celebration. It’s truly a labor of love and one of our favorite traditions. Along the way, we’ve learned a lot. Whether your party is big or small, these lessons might make your gathering a little easier and a lot more joyful. Keep It Simple No surprise here: we simplified. We do less. Years ago, party prep took over our lives. I used to be scrambling until the last hour. Now? Decorating took just a few hours last week. Back then, I had to declutter and rearrange every room to make space for guests—clearing counters, stashing things in closets. It was like creating a path through a maze of our own stuff. Why didn’t I just donate it? Minimalist homes are always ready to entertain. If It’s Not Broken, Don’t Fix It For a long time, my husband started each menu from …

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How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

October 18, 2024 by Amy Slenker-Smith Leave a Comment

vanilla

Every year, I make Homemade Vanilla Extract as Christmas gifts. It’s a hit with friends and family and super easy to make. The only catch….it takes time to steep. About 4-6 weeks before you can use it in baking. And the longer the better! So, now is a great time to get started! Want a Simple 🎁 Gift Tag for your Homemade Vanilla Extract?  Click HERE  for your FREE digital download. And if you are reading this in December, you can still make it. One year, I told recipients to wait 4 weeks before using it. Don’t let perfection be the enemy of good. I like to order supplies in early November. Needing to make this gift early actually helps with the holiday crazy.  Vanilla jars sit happily in the pantry, while I carry on managing the December calendar. Shopping List Vodka - I choose a mid-priced brand of good quality Vanilla Beans - I like these Glass Bottles - I prefer this style for a tall vanilla bean Pint or 1/2 Pint Mason Jars work well and are …

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