First Sunday of Advent 2023

 

Happy First Sunday of Advent, My Lovelies!  

How is your Advent Season so far?  Have you been busy, or are you enjoying the season at a slower pace than normal?  In order to truly enjoy this special season, I've decided to share a few of my favorite Christmas and Advent posts from previous years.  You probably recognize our Advent wreath (above).  I try to style it differently each year:  I added moss, cinnamon scented pinecones, and snow.  I'm also using stark white candles this year.  It might not be as pretty as the fresh flowers I've used in the past, but I think the rustic, natural look is a nice change.  

Today I'm sharing a very easy Christmas cookie that my family loves:  the ever popular date ball.  During Christmas, most Southern parties have the holy trinity of balls:  date, sausage, and bourbon.  We Southerners love our balls!  :/

Southern Date Balls

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar

1 stick butter 

1 egg, well beaten

1 cup pitted dates, finely chopped

1 cup nuts, finely chopped (I like walnuts)

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups Rice Krispies

Confectioner’s sugar

Directions:

Melt butter and sugar in a medium sauce pan over low heat.

Add egg and stir until thoroughly incorporated.

Add dates, nuts and vanilla and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer 10 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in Rice Krispies.

When cool enough to handle, roll into bite-sized balls and roll in confectioner’s sugar.

Easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy!

First Sunday of Advent Reading:  Hope

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness

a light has dawned. […] For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

~Isaiah 9:2, 6-7

Until next time...

Blessings!

Ricki Jill