Just A Mom Trying

Is it just me, or do the stores carry less and less for holiday decorations every single year? I was on a mission for garland and ornaments, and I was just thinking: how can this seriously be the way things are now?

I finally tracked down more of the perfect garland I wanted (from the Dollar Tree Dollar Plus section—score!). But my main goal was to switch things up. My tree has been white and gold for years, and I desperately wanted to add multi-colored bulbs for the kids. The great Christmas ornament bulb shortage of 2025 is real.
But forget the lousy stores—it’s time to do what moms do best: IMPROVISE! Time to sprinkle that mom magic again.

The failed store mission ends up being even more special for the kids after all. Last year, we made the cutest snowflakes, snowmen, and wreaths from pipe cleaners.

This year, we are going to make our own salt dough ornaments. They are cheap, super customizable, and the kids get to do a holiday craft (memories for the win).

🍪 Our Simple Salt Dough Recipe
This classic recipe is incredibly easy and safe for all ages.

Ingredient Amount
All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups
Salt: 1 cup
Warm Water: 3/4 cup (add slowly)

Directions:
Mix dry ingredients, then add water slowly to form a firm dough.
Knead it up, roll it out 1/4 inch thick, and cut out your shapes (don’t forget the hole for hanging).
Bake at 250°F for 2-3 hours until hard.
Let cool completely before painting and sealing.

Do you have any favorite traditions? Share your best holiday tradition in the comments below!