Christmas is all about celebrations and get-togethers. The love and affection you feel at this time are unmatched by any other. A bevy of wonderful people coming together and sharing the Christmas spirit is what Christmas is all about. This time also marks the joy of giving. More importantly, it emphasizes the love you put into what you give.

The winter nights, the smell of freshly cut Christmas trees, the sparkling lights, and the fragrance of baked cookies instantly turn on the festive mode in you. This feeling is enough to inspire you to share the happiness you feel on this day. Many prefer visiting friends and giving them gifts; many even share the gifts with the homeless on the streets. What is common that brings everyone together on this day is meeting loved ones and giving a token of care and love.

While the gifts are an excellent way to share this happiness on Christmas, giving cards with your love notes and thoughts to the people you care about has a special place. You can also design your Christmas cards to give them a personalized touch. When you put effort into designing a Christmas card, it shows, and your family and friends feel privileged to be part of your circle. If you are also thinking of sending customized cards to your loved ones this Christmas, then below are some ideas that you can use to get the best holiday card this year.

Christmas card design ideas

Idea 1: ditch the square

It is very common to see most of the cards coming in squares and rectangles. You can make your Christmas cards stand out from the rest by changing the shape of your card. Ditch the square shape and opt for something unconventional. For example, rounded cards would look good. You can also go for ticket pattern cards; there are also bracket patterned cards available online; you can just decide what shape you want your car to be in and let them know the design specification you would like to see on your Christmas card to make it unique.

Idea 2: Make a collage

Whenever you are searching for a Christmas card, you often find different ways of sending best wishes to your friends and loved ones by choosing or for the photo portraying your kids. sending holiday photo cards has been a tradition on Christmas for as long as there were photographs, but this tradition has always upgraded and changed with time. So today, you can just move on with a new theme of building a photo collage that can be added to the Christmas card, and you can design the placement of photographs on these cards. When sending a photo card, it is very difficult to choose one photograph from so many memories you have. This idea would help you choose more than one photograph, maybe even five, to get a beautiful collage and share different moments from your life to send your best wishes to your loved ones.

Idea 3: handmade cookies

Cookies and Cards go hand in hand with Christmas nights. You would have mostly seen people visit their friends and family on Christmas Eve to share their gratitude and love for one another, and cookies make this time really special. So even if you are not able to visit your friends and decide on sending holiday cards, you can add a touch of your love by packing a small handmade cookie along with the Holiday card in the card envelope. You can use this for friends you are visiting also. It is not necessary that the handmade cookies are meant only to send to family and friends whom you couldn’t meet this Christmas. You can carry them with you to your friends when you are visiting them so you can design the shape of the cookie for them, and they would know how deeply you care and take efforts in making cookies for them as well. You can also design the shape of these cookies and decorate them as you like.

The final word

Finally, you have to understand that designing your own Christmas cards is a way of feeling happy and sharing them with others. There are many ways in which you can design your own Christmas cards, but if you have limited time and decide on buying cards online, you don’t have to feel guilty. You can even design the cards you order online. You can follow the above-given points, or you can go ahead and take creative freedom in designing Christmas cards.

 

Chef Javier Burillo has some delicious recipes for Thanksgiving pies, and we’ve got them for you. If you’d like the recipes, just click on the following links:

Pumpkin Pie

This Thanksgiving favorite is fantastic. So full of nutrients, it is a healthy treat your family will love!

Make sure to use ripe pumpkins to get the best flavor and aroma of this pie. New England varieties like Sugar or Cheese pumpkin are considered ideal for baking if you can find New England varieties. A good alternative is regular big-sized pumpkins which are available in the supermarkets up to the holiday season.

Mix 1 egg, 3/4 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Pour into a pie shell or pastry you made yourself or used store-bought refrigerated pie crusts. Place in the oven at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 325 degrees for 25 minutes.

Rhubarb Pie

This is a very popular pie in the United States. The beautiful red color makes it stand out from other pies, but its sweet flavor makes it a winner.

Make sure to use fresh rhubarb stalks for this easy yet tasty pie recipe. Fill your pastry or refrigerated pie crust with about 1 cup of chopped rhubarb. Pour a mixture of 1/2 cup sugar, 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon over the rhubarb. Cover with a crust you made yourself or used store-bought refrigerated pie crusts. Arrange slits for steam on the top of the pastry, then place in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Lemon Meringue Pie

This is one of those classic American desserts that has become part of our traditions on Thanksgiving Day. Lemon lovers will love it! If your family loves citrus too then, you need to try this recipe.

Make sure to use fresh lemons for this pie. It will give the pie a much better flavor and aroma than using artificial flavoring. The zest of 3 lemons should be enough for 1 cup of juice. Pour the lemon juice over 4 egg yolks beaten until smooth, then mix in 1 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel (add more if you like it extra tart), and 7 tablespoons butter. Bring this mixture to a simmer on low heat, constantly stirring with a whisk or wooden spoon. Now add your prepared pastry or refrigerated pie crusts into the oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, then 350 degrees for 10 minutes more.

Spicy Apple Pie

Apples are great fruits that can be eaten fresh or baked into delicious treats. This recipe is perfect for both occasions. Try it out and see how your family enjoys this tasty pie!

Mix 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder, and crushed cloves (if you like) in a bowl. Take 4 cups of peeled and sliced apples (about five medium-sized ones), then pour the mixture over these slices along with 3 tablespoons butter cut into small pieces. Place all this in an oven-friendly dish or pastry lined with dough crusts that have been refrigerated until ready to use or made yourself—Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. If you’d like a little extra tartness to the filling, add a total of 3 tablespoons of sugar and a teaspoon of lemon juice into a bowl, then mix until no lumps remain.

 

While Silicon Valley is not having the best of luck with colleges and universities, its culture may end up influencing higher education in ways that we cannot now predict. In the past few years, the number of high-tech companies in San Francisco has grown by leaps and bounds, yielding an ever-increasing demand for employees with technical skills. To meet that need, San Francisco Bay University will start this fall offering one-year, four-course “micro degrees.” At a modest cost of $1,500 each, the micro degrees are intended to be completed within six months. The courses needed for most degrees can be taken at night or on weekends.

Types of Degrees

Big Tech companies need people who understand how to apply their technology to real-world problems. Therefore, they are looking for people with a strong technical background who also have business sense and can communicate effectively. The following are the types of degree programs that students will be able to study:

Business and Technology Management

These degree programs focus on the development and management of technology in a business environment. Courses cover digital marketing, entrepreneurship and innovation, financial statement analysis, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and dynamic modeling with spreadsheets.

Legal Studies

The legal studies degree provides students with a broad understanding of law in today’s society. Students learn about intellectual property, health care and regulation, consumer, business, and employment law. They also learn about legal research and writing as well as effective communication strategies for lawyers.

Computer Science

Coding and computer science skills are highly sought after in Big Tech, and the computer science degree offers courses designed to teach students how to apply these skills in business settings. Courses include:

• iOS application development.
• Introduction to software design.
• Programming languages and paradigms.
• iOS app development with Swift 2.
• Object-oriented software engineering using C#.
• Cloud computing technologies.
• Digital forensics.

Information Technology

The information technology degree provides the technical foundation students need to get a job in Big Tech. Courses include information security, computer networking, telecommunications, database systems using Microsoft SQL Server, cloud computing, UNIX operating system fundamentals, and ethical hacking.

Immersive Technologies

In addition to traditional classes taught online or on campus, San Francisco Bay University offers “immersive” learning environments. These immersive courses combine lectures, readings, and online or in-person study sessions led by a live instructor who facilitates group activities. They also incorporate video presentations created specifically for the course to introduce new concepts and reinforce key points throughout the program.

Data Science

Data science involves the discovery and mining of patterns in large data sets. The degree focuses on several data analysis methods that students can apply to practical problems, including predictive modeling, machine learning, statistical modeling and inference, optimization, simulation, time-series analysis, text mining, and natural language processing.

Getting Hired

Once they have completed their degrees, graduates will be prepared for careers in Big Tech. As the demand for data scientists has grown, salaries have skyrocketed. As a result, students who choose the right educational track will have an advantage in the job market.

 

Adam Seger is a well-known and respected Chicago mixologist. Adam has been the lead bartender at the famed fine-dining restaurant Everest in Chicago for many years. In addition to his longstanding reputation as a chef’s chef, he is also an authority on cocktails and spirits. I highly recommend trying these at home!

All recipes are courtesy of Adam Seger and were created by the team at Everest restaurant.

The Dirty Shamrock

The “Dirty” in this cocktail comes from a touch of Fernet Branca, a bitter Italian liqueur with a minty and slightly spicy character. A great way to add depth to the drink is to rinse the glass with Guinness Stout before mixing.

• 2 oz Irish Whiskey (or Cognac)
• 1 oz Red Breast and 1/2 oz Green Chartreuse (combined)
• 1/4 – 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass. Add ice, cover, and shake well for 10 seconds—strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, including the rinse.

Whiskey Sour

• 2 oz. Bourbon or Rye Whiskey (or Cognac)
• 1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1/4 oz. Simple Syrup (or 1/2 oz. Agave nectar syrup)
• 3-5 dashes Angostura Bitters (optional)

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass. Add ice, cover, and shake well for 10 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, optionally including the rinse from the mixing glass.

The Red Snapper

A jazzy twist on a classic cocktail that pairs tequila with red curaçao for an orange hue and pomegranate juice for a little extra sweetness.

• 2 oz Reposado Tequila
• 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 3/4 oz Red Curacao
• 3/4 oz Pomegranate Juice

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass. Add ice, cover, and shake well for 10 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, optionally including the rinse from the mixing glass.

The Effervescent Orange

A riff on a classic orange sour that uses sparkling wine to add effervescence and a touch of honey for some added sweetness.

• 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey (or Cognac)
• 1 oz Fresh Orange Juice
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (or 3/4oz Agave Nectar Syrup)
• 3-5 dashes Angostura Bitters (optional)
• 1 tsp. Honey Mix (optional)

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass. Add ice, cover, and shake well for 10 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass or champagne flute, optionally including the rinse from the mixing glass.

The Big Four Ice Pick

This classic cocktail is given a rich and interesting twist by combining dark rum with Bénédictine liqueur and luxardo maraschino liqueur.

• 2 oz Dark Rum
• 1/2 oz Bénédictine D.O.M Liqueur
• 1/4 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass. Add ice, cover, and shake well for 10 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, optionally including the rinse from the mixing glass.

The Forbidden Tiki

A twist on the Mai Tai that is tart and refreshing thanks to pineapple juice and lemon/lime juice in place of orgeat syrup. The rum selection here is up to you, but I like using an aged rum like Appleton Estate 12 Year to give some extra richness.

• 2 oz. Dark Rum (or Appleton Estate 12 Year)
• 3/4 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
• 1/4 oz Passion Fruit Syrup
• 1/4 oz Demerara Simple Syrup

In a mixing glass, muddle the lime juice, lemon juice, and passion fruit syrup. Add ice, dark rum, Appleton Estate 12 Year Rum, and stir well. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, optionally including the rinse from the mixing glass.

The Smoking Jacket

A riff on the classic Boulevardier that uses Cynar, a bitter liqueur from Italy that adds depth and complexity to the drink. The cigars here are simply an optional flavor component and can be swapped out for fresh fruit or another garnish of your choosing.

• 1 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey (or Cognac)
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth (Carpano Antica Formula)
• 1 oz Cynar

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass. Add ice, cover, and shake well for 10 seconds—strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, including the rinse from the mixing glass.

Children can get restless and moody pretty fast when the weather’s bad and they’re stuck inside. If your little ones are cranky and you don’t know how to make them happy, take a look at these helpful ideas. The team at Uptown Jungle in Chandler knows how to keep children entertained and they’d like to share some of their knowledge with you.

What are the best indoor activities for kids?

If you kids are bored out of their minds and you can’t take them outside to play, what should you do? If they’re going stir-crazy and are on the verge of a tantrum, here’s what can save the say. While they may miss playing outside and enjoying the sunshine, these activities will instantly put them in a great mood.

Doing arts and crafts

Kids are creative and imaginative, so let their imagination shine by teaching them how to do fun DIY projects. You can usually do a lot with simple supplies you already have lying around the house, like some glue, paper, and glitter.

Cooking and baking

You can have a great time in the kitchen together. Teach them how to make cookies or another one of their favorite recipes. There are some simple, kid-friendly ones you can easily find online. And the best thing? They’ll get to enjoy a delicious treat at the end and they’ll be proud of making it on their own.

Drawing and coloring

These are great quiet activities that most children enjoy very much. Even if your little one isn’t very artistic, you can search for how-to-draw tutorials for kids online. This way, the activity won’t only be enjoyable – it will be educational as well.

Singing and dancing

Having your kids put on a talent show is always lots of fun. They can make funny costumes and practice their numbers before they go “on stage”. Let them pick their favorite songs to sing and dance to, impersonate their favorite cartoon characters, or do magic tricks – anything goes!

Playing dress-up

Let them take out their best Halloween costumes and dress up as their favorite characters. Or, let them borrow your clothes and play pretend. It can get very funny and kids typically love playing different parts and putting on funny voices that go with their costumes.

Playing board games

This classic never gets old. The whole family can enjoy it and it can bring out your competitive spirit. There are many available options and you certainly already have some at home. Let your children choose the one they want to play and get started!

Building a blanket fort

Make a comfy blanket fort and put up some fairy lights to create a special, cozy atmosphere at home. Take some toys and books inside the fort and spend the whole day talking, playing together and telling stories to your little princess or prince. It’ll be just like camping, only better!

Doing jigsaw puzzles

Here’s another excellent, stimulating activity. Not only will it keep your little ones busy for hours on end, but it will also help their minds grow and develop. It’s a perfect way to improve concentration, which means they may be more focused on schoolwork when they go back to school.

Visiting an indoor playground

If outdoor playgrounds are not an option, you can still get out of the house and drive your kids to a fun trampoline park. They have a lot of safe and versatile play equipment that your kids will love exploring. This type of play is also great for their bodies and minds.

Horse racing is one of the oldest organized sports in the world. Archaeologists have found evidence that horse races were held during ancient Greek times, and there are records of horse racing taking place in Rome as early as 240 BC. Today, it’s still a popular sport with many people worldwide. It’s also an expensive hobby because horses are major investments for their owners!

The breeds used today vary depending on where you live around the world, but some common ones include Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, and Standardbreds. These three breeds have been around for a long time and they’re mostly found in North America, though other parts of the world have their own breeds to offer as well!

Quarter Horses

Quarter Horses are a popular breed of horse, they’re known for being able to run fast and jump over obstacles. The average height is about 15 hands tall, which is about 58 inches from the ground to the withers. There are many famous Quarter Horse races around the world – one of them is The Kentucky Derby! You can find this breed in North America as well as other parts of the world like South America and Australia. One interesting fact about Quarter Horses is that they have been bred with Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, Arabians, Morgans, and other breeds to create new types of horses that might be more suited for certain needs or environments

Thoroughbreds

Thoroughbreds are known to be one of the oldest breeds of horses. They’re also one of the most popular ones in horse racing today. One reason for this is that they’re known for their agility and endurance. The Thoroughbred breed was developed by crossing Arabian, Barb, and other breeds to create a fast running horse with stamina. The average height is about 15 hands tall, which is about 58 inches from the ground to the withers. This breed is found in North America as well as other parts of the world like South America and Australia.

Standardbreds

Standardbreds are another breed used for horse racing. They have a history of being used in teams for pulling carts to help people with their work. The name “Standardbred” actually comes from how they were measured – the distance between the horses’ withers is set at 40 inches, which is the standard. This breed can be used for racing as well as other types of competitive events.

Horses are a popular animal in horse racing, but there are many breeds that can be used for the sport. For more information on horses and how to get the most out of the races, be sure to check out Timeform’s top tips. Brushing up your knowledge will make a world of difference.