Sign up to get my FREE Pantry Chat Grocery Guide Newsletter Here: tinyurl.com/4nadvnrd. If you're on my email list, your grocery guide will arrive between 6-7 PM tonight (I'm writing a heartfelt message to you now and sharing some family pics I want to include). xoxox, Cassandra :)
I love how you talk about the joy of your upbringing at the same time remembering your mom being practical, resourceful and good at stretching a budget. A real Proverbs 31 woman!! You are inspiring!
I started with buying ornaments wherever we went. I’ve been married almost 37 years and every time I put those ornaments on the tree I remember the trip! I love that!! Thanks for your video I enjoyed it very much !
Oh Karen, this is EXACTLY how I hope this tradition builds for my husband and I! The last few years its been nice seeing that we have a growing collection (I have a strict rule that the only ornaments we can buy are from trips, so we actually only have enough to go on the front and now some of the sides of the tree). Merry Christmas to you and yours!
My kids love homemade cranberry juice, but I just take a jar sanitized jar and add clean cranberries sugar to your locking Usually a 1/2 a cup to a 3/4.. Fill it up with water popping in a water bath for like twenty minutes and set it in the cupboards four 6 weeks, my kids say it's the best
That’s how do it too. I just throw it in the jar and can. I either use the berries in the bottom to flavor oatmeal or throw in some muffins or pancakes. Whatever I’m doing when it needs used up.
We have also been opted out of the gifts for christmas pressure - for over 12 years !!!!! we make the holiday super festive - super feasting - super relaxing and it is the best holiday ever ! :) Of course, we don't have kids in the house - but I highly suggest taking off all that pressure to get stuff people don't need - and concentrate on the festive - the music - the food - TV classics - games in the living room - walks to see the lights ....
I absolutely love your coffee chat! I agree 100%! Prices on things for any given holiday skyrocket before that holiday! Why should you treat someone extra special on one day of the year and not any other day of the year? Someone you love should be treated with that special emphasis every single day of the year. Of course, life gets in the way and obligations must be met to work and such. However, I am not a fan of seeing something that would be perfectly suited for someone, buying it for them and then hoarding it along with other items for other people for a certain day. Birthdays and Christmas and Valentine’s Day should not be that day when you all of a sudden do that special thing or get that special thing. If I see something that puts me in mind of someone I’ll give it to them right after I bought it. I may even make a special trip to give it to them. On those gift giving days, gift me time with you. Bring a gift or don’t. I just want to see you so I can give you a hug and probably food and catch up. ❤
I love the ornament idea. If you were to buy a knicknack and display it in your home it would become just another piece of decor. With an ornament you get to revisit those memories every year. I love it. Merry Christmas Cassandra.
EXACTLY!!! There are no franchise store ornaments on my tree so it doesn't look "matchy" or even "pretty"---but it is meaningful to me and my family, which is waaaay more important. Each morning (well, maybe 3 or so during the work week) I love getting up a little early and enjoying my cup of coffee in front of the tree just thinking about the good times I've had, and the ones to come. Merry Christmas to you and yours, friend!
First of all, you are SO pretty! 2nd of all, your parents are adorable. And last, your dad is so cool! He's a living history book full of practical knowledge and experience. Absolutely amazing!
I have been married 42 years. I adore our tree. It is things my kids and now grands have made. Garland I made from fabric scraps. And ALL our trips. We added Santa riding a zebra from Africa this year. Who else has that? Such a sweet walk down memory lane.❤️
Me and my mini went to Bucees for the first time a few months ago when my husband had a load to drop nearby!!! We hadn’t seen him in two months, we spent an hour there and had a really nice lunch & time! We make the most of all the time we can share together no matter how short. Us OTR truckers & military wives sometimes can have it hard this time of the year. It’s even harder for our family because 3 of our 4 children have birthdays in December. Happy Holidays 💜
For years I've celebrated Christmas with my adult kids and grandkids the Saturday after Christmas, and I wait to do all of my shopping for the day after Christmas, I just don't believe in paying a higher price for something that I know will be a lot cheaper in 24hours, I do love your ornaments idea! Godspeed!
I couldn’t agree with you more about Christmas. We do celebrate the holiday to celebrate Jesus. We focus on family, Jesus’s sacrifice for the world, and just enjoying each other’s company. I think it’s good for people to just have a giving heart year round and not on just Dec 25th.
Amen girl! Christmas has really been pushed in America for the economy boost. Most things people receive don’t get used. The whole gift card thing makes sense, trust me I understand but is that really a “gift?” You’re a beautiful lady and I appreciate all the things I’ve learned from you!!!
The one thing I’m thankful for from the Covid era was learning to can and dehydrate. I love the pretty jars on my pantry shelves and am especially grateful now since I’m under the weather with a tummy virus 🦠. A jar of cooked roast beef, carrots, and sliced potatoes along with some seasonings and a couple of tablespoons of potatoes flakes (for thickener) in the crockpot and voila! Instant beef stew. And it was delicious. And since I couldn’t eat much on that day, I had plenty from those three pints for two servings to take for lunches! No added preservatives, nothing but goodness. My present day self was very happy with my past efforts. I also had some leftover chili in the fridge so that was lunch 3 & 4 (hospital worker). I might, MIGHT, bake some garlic bread to add to each meal but it’s probably unnecessary. I think I’ll toss some dehydrated “greens” into the bowls for a veggie zip. Apples needed to be used so that’s my snack. I love how you make me think outside the box and nothing goes to waste. Some co-workers call me cheap, I prefer smart, lol. Have a very merry Christmas! Happy Yule to all.
Hello friend! I praying that your tummy virus is short lived and that you're on the mend. You are EXACTLY right about what I love most about canned foods---the ease of having what you need, when you need it, and how you want it. Your saying reminds me of what I like to say, "the current me loves the future me soooo much" because preserving truly is time and money in the bank! My coworkers likely think the same thing about me, but in my mind I simply cannot justify the cost of fast food, or Door Dash. I'll take homemade any day!
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your printable grocery guide and recipes! I look forward to them and get excited when they appear in my email. Thank you for all the work you do to provide them for us. - Hugs
The first 6 years of 18 with my husband he was in the military and it really sunk in the importance of being in the moment and the calendar has nothing to with it. God bless and merry Christmas to everyone!
This is the first year in years my husband isn't scheduled at the fire station. But our adult children ARE scheduled at the fire station and the emergency room, so we are doing family Christmas on the 29th. Nothing new here! It's all we've ever known! I am looking forward to a sweet and quiet Christmas morning, just us two! Thanks for the recipes! Looking forward to some turkey fritters! Merry Christmas!
Every time I see your videos I want to get in the kitchen! I shop sales primarily and seasonal and I shop pretty basic items. It really makes a difference in the budget. Our local Kwik Trip had russet potatoes $1 for 5 lbs so I canned up 25 lbs and we are indulging in potato dishes. I also got bacon, breads, shredded cheese each for $1 with coupon. I think I’ll can up the cranberries today. We haven’t swapped gifts at all for almost 20 years. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Awww, lady thank you so much! We learn a lot and have tons of fun together. My school kids keep me young, that's for sure! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!
No stress when celebrating the Real Reason for the Season! Ramble on, Farm Girl! I've got 2 gallon bags of cranberry pulp in my freezer that I didn't know what to do with... now I do. Thank you!
Boy oh Boy was this video Choc- full-O goodness. Jammed packed with tips & ideas. One of the many reasons I really enjoy your content. Thanks For sharing 😊💯💜
Hi Cassandra ❤ I like your videos sooo much. It’s like hanging out with a good old friend of mine. You. I hope you have a fantastic Christmas and New year. All the best to you and your family. Peace and love and joy. 🥰
I do much the same thing with my tree. Except, I hang an ornament for everyone/everything I love. Now that I'm old, it's a memorial to long-lost relations, beloved pets, personal achievements, as well. I got all misty-eyed looking at your tree. God bless you and Merry Christmas!
Oh I love that idea, Linda! You get EXACTLY how sentimental ornaments can be. Truly, what is most important are the people we've loved and the memories we shared with them. Merry Christmas to you too, friend!
Wow, turning the leftover juice cranberries into craisins is genius! And I love Chatty Cass, I always learn so much from you! I also wanted to thank you for continuing to share these recipes with us. I recently tried out the pancake battered sausage sticks you shared awhile back, since one of my kids really liked the Aldi ones. He loves them, and I love that I can make a whole pack of those (plus waffles with the leftover batter) for way less money! Merry Christmas to you and your family, I always enjoy seeing them in your videos.
I sooooo understand the desire to side-step the holiday season. My first career was in the performing arts, so all the big holidays with pageantry were my busiest work seasons. My family learned I would visit for the smaller holidays and birthdays. Now that I'm retired and widowed, my ideal Xmas, Thanksgiving and New Year celebrations are focused on choosing to spend time with myself, enjoying a quieter, low-stress life. I may indulge in a few more decadent ingredients or more involved preparations for my meal to stand apart from the everyday.
I love this! I started a “travel tree” with the kids when they were little because it helped control trip expenses and now I have a tree with those ornaments and now I add my own from solo trips! Its my fav part of unpacking decorations!
I’m gonna be the odd man out. I love giving gifts. It gives me great joy watching the faces as they open the presents. For us Christmas presents are “wants. Not needs (this does change based on finances). So usually starting in late summer, I will see something I think a family member would enjoy AND it’s a good price, I will buy it and put it away for Christmas. So each gets a couple special items. My husband and I do not exchange though once in awhile I get surprised. Being a medical family, we do not always celebrate on Christmas though Christmas Eve services are a must for those not at work.
Hi friend! I don’t see what you shared as odd! Sometimes I’m asked why I don’t have/post Christmas, Easter or other holidays and it’s because of what I shared here. Like you, I love gifting, and yes, we buy gifts, but it’s not a full stop production for everyone we know at this time of year. Some gifts I can’t help but give the person in the moment, others I tuck away like you mentioned. The main thing is to not over extend your budget than what’s reasonable for your household (which I’m so glad is NOT what you’re doing)! Merry Christmas!
I absolutely love your videos. You know, you are a very wise young lady. Your mom was your true blessing. Because she taught you very well. I also had a mom like that, and I have also instilled that in my children, even though my boys do not use that.
Aww, thank you, sweet friend! I don't know where I'd be without my parents, and the wisdom they gleaned from theirs because its valuable training both for your wallet and mind that sets you up to make good decisions. I know your children appreciate that you instilled this in them at such a young age now that they are older. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Yes, friend! Mom, Dad and I are still pinching ourselves thinking that we got there "just in time" and "of all the years to go" this year, we did. It was a beautiful trip and we certainly want to return when the time is right. Merry Christmas to you sweet friend!
On the egg soufflé dish... have you ever thot of buzzing cottage cheese with the eggs? A friend told me this when I said I needed to get more protein. I use my stick blender, and wow, does it ever make eggs fluffy! God bless you and Merry Christmas.
Hi friend!. I love all the ornaments you have collected. It really makes everything more special. I will try your yummy recipes. I can't wait to see the family pictures. I wish you guys and your parents a wonderful Christmas. Hugs from my family to yours.🎄
Love this video and agree with spreading the love all year, not just on Christmas. Plus everybody knows that Jesus was not born in the winter...but we persist in celebrating on Dec. 25. Im flight crew and rarely have holidays off with exception of the last few years maybe one holiday off. It's better if everyone can celebrate a week early so that many more folks can attend. Plus it's good for married couples with young kids so both grandparents get a chance to celebrate with the grandkids. It's a win/win.
Still the best channel! Thanks for sharing! I am having a shoulder surgery so this turkey/stuffing recipe will be great for when I can't cook. I will make them ahead and hubby just has to warm them up! Thanks😊
Sharon! Lady, its so good to see you. I just finished a quick prayer that all goes well with your upcoming operation and recovery. Make ahead meals are such a blessing to have on hand.
I tried making pineapple cranberry juice around Thanksgiving and found out that my juicer doesn't really like large amounts of pineapple pretty much by itself. So I have took that mess frozen it in giant cubes for smoothie. I will have e to try your method. Always good to see you. Have a blessed holiday season
Oh I’m so glad to see a new video from you! I found you about 6 or 7 weeks ago and was looking forward to a December grocery guide. I signed up for them when I initially found you but haven’t received one yet and I can’t download them from your blog. I did receive the condiment guide and ferments one but no grocery guide! ❤ from California
Beautiful Estate. I went during the 100th year anniversary in 1995. It is truly the most magnificent home. The grounds are breathtaking. Green house don't get us gardeners talking. The hotels were not built. Love seeing you and your parents. Great memories. Dad the farm boy hated that churn. ha ha but loved the butter. Great pictures in front of the fountain with Biltmore in the background. Chimney Rock the views are amazing. Cassandra thanks for all the recipes. Love artichokes need to use them more. Wishing you and your family a very Blessed and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2025.
Well, until this video -- I thought the Biltmore was just one of my favorite hotels in Coral Gables (LMAO).. Who would have THUNK it. Thanks for sharing!
I didn't know there could be such a thing as leftover stuffing. I never have enough. The gravy shortage was solved years ago, but the stuffing? Never! Going to try the fermented brussels sprouts - yours is the first recipe i've seen that actually looks good. Beautiful Tree!
I know!! It still feels unreal that the hurricane devastated so much. Mom, dad and I still are grateful we had a chance to explore Asheville before it took such a hit. Merry Christmas to you, sweet friend!
Cassandra this is the best video yet. I agree with your sentiments of Christmas. It is not about the consumerism but about Jesus. And thanks for highlighting Asheville and WNC. You all have some valuable photos because my town doesn’t look the same since hurricane Helene. So, this year I am helping some local charities like manna food bank and beloved Asheville to help all the people that are living in tents and were displaced by the storm. Thank God that things are as well as they are here and thanks to all the volunteers that helped after the storm and those that are still here. I also get ornaments from all the places I visit. I could identify with lots from this video. Thank you and Merry Christmas.
Hi friend! Aww, thank you so much-YES, JESUS is the always the focus!!! I cannot tell you how it still feels unreal to know that we had a chance to visit Asheville just months before the hurricane. To know that this happened in your hometown...gracious, there are no words, only prayers and pulling together and I'm so glad to hear that you've been able to connect with volunteers. I know that the rebuilding effort is tremendous (with some folks just getting cleared for drinking water within the last few weeks). I loved hearing that you're an ornament person too! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!
I love going shopping the day after Christmas and getting for the following year’s birthdays or Christmas, etc. One year, my mother’s family wasn’t getting together until a couple days after Christmas because of someone not being available, so the women all agreed to go shopping together 12/26 and do all of our major shopping that day for that weekend’s gathering. That was a TON of fun and so much cheaper!!
SO MUCH CHEAPER, calmer, and....fun! This year folks are getting red and gold mule mugs, with a box of tea, and a pair of cozy socks, a wax melt warmer with snowflake decor and the wax melt scents...the marked down 2024 edition at 75% off. Once you start, you're hooked! Merry Christmas to you and yours friend!
My wife and I love Ashville and the Biltmore, we've been there twice. (We live in Illinois) There's a Hallmark movie called Christmas at the Biltmore you should try and watch. You'll love it.
Hello sweet friend! You are 1000% percent right. Many parts of Asheville and the surrounding cities continue to experience hardship. Hurricanes aren't just highlights in the news, its a life changing event that can take years to fully "recover" from. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
@@BecomingaFarmGirl Thanks! I love your videos, and your shopping methods. I am canning all of my 1st grandson’s food and juice thanks to you. I love buying food within their growing cycle. My latest deal was 40lbs of sweet potatoes for $10. They were 25 cents a pound 💃🏽Happy Holidays to you and your family.
love your gift giving rant. I have been saying this to many of my family members... Unfortunately a made up religions by bored middle aged men and commercialism have taught us we need to stress and buy. Instead enjoy your family, help those around you throughout the year and love life!
Right after holloween, this time of year and right after Christmas, I fined stuff for birthdays and what I call my toy closet that has gifts that could be for all of my kids as fill-in gifts for Christmas and birthdays. I even put some of the stuff they get for Christmass away in the toy closet so they are not getting too many gifts of if something is not age Appropriate like I have had Legos for 3 years that my kids are now starting to play with.
Love your videos as always. My hubby is retired USAF and my dad was a trucker, so I understand totally about the celebrations. Is there another link to the pantry chats & grocery lists? I'm subscribed but I keep getting error messages so I can't see them at all.
Sign up to get my FREE Pantry Chat Grocery Guide Newsletter Here: tinyurl.com/4nadvnrd. If you're on my email list, your grocery guide will arrive between 6-7 PM tonight (I'm writing a heartfelt message to you now and sharing some family pics I want to include). xoxox, Cassandra :)
Every time I watch a videos I get blown away by your talent. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos! You're wonderful!
Hi friend! I appreciate you for saying that. I'm glad you don't mind my antics too much! :) Merry Christmas to you!
Amazing talent
I love how you talk about the joy of your upbringing at the same time remembering your mom being practical, resourceful and good at stretching a budget. A real Proverbs 31 woman!! You are inspiring!
I started with buying ornaments wherever we went. I’ve been married almost 37 years and every time I put those ornaments on the tree I remember the trip! I love that!! Thanks for your video I enjoyed it very much !
Oh Karen, this is EXACTLY how I hope this tradition builds for my husband and I! The last few years its been nice seeing that we have a growing collection (I have a strict rule that the only ornaments we can buy are from trips, so we actually only have enough to go on the front and now some of the sides of the tree). Merry Christmas to you and yours!
My kids love homemade cranberry juice, but I just take a jar sanitized jar and add clean cranberries sugar to your locking Usually a 1/2 a cup to a 3/4.. Fill it up with water popping in a water bath for like twenty minutes and set it in the cupboards four 6 weeks, my kids say it's the best
Oh now THAT'S a twist I've not yet come across! Clever! Thanks for sharing!!!
I've done this and it works great. The pulp can be dehydrated into fruit roll ups. This works with most berries.
That’s how do it too. I just throw it in the jar and can. I either use the berries in the bottom to flavor oatmeal or throw in some muffins or pancakes. Whatever I’m doing when it needs used up.
We have also been opted out of the gifts for christmas pressure - for over 12 years !!!!! we make the holiday super festive - super feasting - super relaxing and it is the best holiday ever ! :) Of course, we don't have kids in the house - but I highly suggest taking off all that pressure to get stuff people don't need - and concentrate on the festive - the music - the food - TV classics - games in the living room - walks to see the lights ....
You make the most delicious looking meals. I love watching your show.
Oh thank you! You needn't be a master chef (I'm certainly not) to get good meals on the table. Merry Christmas, friend!
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Thank you, & Merry Christmas to you, also,
I have been watching for 1.5 years+ and love EVERYTHING about your channel!! ❤
Awww, friend you are too sweet. I can't tell you how much your support means!! Truly!! Merry Christmas to you and yours!
I absolutely love your coffee chat! I agree 100%!
Prices on things for any given holiday skyrocket before that holiday! Why should you treat someone extra special on one day of the year and not any other day of the year? Someone you love should be treated with that special emphasis every single day of the year. Of course, life gets in the way and obligations must be met to work and such. However, I am not a fan of seeing something that would be perfectly suited for someone, buying it for them and then hoarding it along with other items for other people for a certain day. Birthdays and Christmas and Valentine’s Day should not be that day when you all of a sudden do that special thing or get that special thing. If I see something that puts me in mind of someone I’ll give it to them right after I bought it. I may even make a special trip to give it to them. On those gift giving days, gift me time with you. Bring a gift or don’t. I just want to see you so I can give you a hug and probably food and catch up.
❤
I love the ornament idea. If you were to buy a knicknack and display it in your home it would become just another piece of decor. With an ornament you get to revisit those memories every year. I love it. Merry Christmas Cassandra.
EXACTLY!!! There are no franchise store ornaments on my tree so it doesn't look "matchy" or even "pretty"---but it is meaningful to me and my family, which is waaaay more important. Each morning (well, maybe 3 or so during the work week) I love getting up a little early and enjoying my cup of coffee in front of the tree just thinking about the good times I've had, and the ones to come. Merry Christmas to you and yours, friend!
First of all, you are SO pretty! 2nd of all, your parents are adorable. And last, your dad is so cool! He's a living history book full of practical knowledge and experience. Absolutely amazing!
My daughter and I visited the Biltmore in 2021, so lovely!!!!!!!!!!
As a resident of NC was glad we did!!!!!
I have been married 42 years. I adore our tree. It is things my kids and now grands have made. Garland I made from fabric scraps. And ALL our trips. We added Santa riding a zebra from Africa this year. Who else has that? Such a sweet walk down memory lane.❤️
I love how real you are….. thank you for sharing you!!!!❤
Haha, a bit crazy, but yes, I like to keep things real. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
@@BecomingaFarmGirl and a very Merry Christmas to you and your family. I just got on your email list. Thank you 😊
Me and my mini went to Bucees for the first time a few months ago when my husband had a load to drop nearby!!! We hadn’t seen him in two months, we spent an hour there and had a really nice lunch & time!
We make the most of all the time we can share together no matter how short. Us OTR truckers & military wives sometimes can have it hard this time of the year. It’s even harder for our family because 3 of our 4 children have birthdays in December.
Happy Holidays 💜
I get so hungry watching your videos…and you are so lucky to have your parents here still and you can go travel together 🌞
Going on tour with you is amazing!
For years I've celebrated Christmas with my adult kids and grandkids the Saturday after Christmas, and I wait to do all of my shopping for the day after Christmas, I just don't believe in paying a higher price for something that I know will be a lot cheaper in 24hours,
I do love your ornaments idea!
Godspeed!
I couldn’t agree with you more about Christmas. We do celebrate the holiday to celebrate Jesus. We focus on family, Jesus’s sacrifice for the world, and just enjoying each other’s company. I think it’s good for people to just have a giving heart year round and not on just Dec 25th.
Your videos are so delightful and informative, and it isn’t hard to see what is important to you. Thank you for sharing your life with us. God bless.
Amen girl! Christmas has really been pushed in America for the economy boost. Most things people receive don’t get used. The whole gift card thing makes sense, trust me I understand but is that really a “gift?” You’re a beautiful lady and I appreciate all the things I’ve learned from you!!!
Cassandra, you always have the best looking recipes!
The one thing I’m thankful for from the Covid era was learning to can and dehydrate. I love the pretty jars on my pantry shelves and am especially grateful now since I’m under the weather with a tummy virus 🦠. A jar of cooked roast beef, carrots, and sliced potatoes along with some seasonings and a couple of tablespoons of potatoes flakes (for thickener) in the crockpot and voila! Instant beef stew. And it was delicious. And since I couldn’t eat much on that day, I had plenty from those three pints for two servings to take for lunches! No added preservatives, nothing but goodness. My present day self was very happy with my past efforts. I also had some leftover chili in the fridge so that was lunch 3 & 4 (hospital worker). I might, MIGHT, bake some garlic bread to add to each meal but it’s probably unnecessary. I think I’ll toss some dehydrated “greens” into the bowls for a veggie zip. Apples needed to be used so that’s my snack. I love how you make me think outside the box and nothing goes to waste. Some co-workers call me cheap, I prefer smart, lol. Have a very merry Christmas! Happy Yule to all.
Hello friend! I praying that your tummy virus is short lived and that you're on the mend. You are EXACTLY right about what I love most about canned foods---the ease of having what you need, when you need it, and how you want it. Your saying reminds me of what I like to say, "the current me loves the future me soooo much" because preserving truly is time and money in the bank! My coworkers likely think the same thing about me, but in my mind I simply cannot justify the cost of fast food, or Door Dash. I'll take homemade any day!
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your printable grocery guide and recipes! I look forward to them and get excited when they appear in my email. Thank you for all the work you do to provide them for us. - Hugs
I love all of the effort , and information that goes into your videos. You share so much! Thank you!
I absolutely loved your sharing of your ornament memories!
The first 6 years of 18 with my husband he was in the military and it really sunk in the importance of being in the moment and the calendar has nothing to with it. God bless and merry Christmas to everyone!
This is the first year in years my husband isn't scheduled at the fire station. But our adult children ARE scheduled at the fire station and the emergency room, so we are doing family Christmas on the 29th. Nothing new here! It's all we've ever known! I am looking forward to a sweet and quiet Christmas morning, just us two! Thanks for the recipes! Looking forward to some turkey fritters! Merry Christmas!
Every time I see your videos I want to get in the kitchen! I shop sales primarily and seasonal and I shop pretty basic items. It really makes a difference in the budget. Our local Kwik Trip had russet potatoes $1 for 5 lbs so I canned up 25 lbs and we are indulging in potato dishes. I also got bacon, breads, shredded cheese each for $1 with coupon. I think I’ll can up the cranberries today. We haven’t swapped gifts at all for almost 20 years. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Have the best Christmas holiday!!
I'm jealous of your students getting to hang with you on a daily basis. Blessings to your family in the year to come ❤️
Awww, lady thank you so much! We learn a lot and have tons of fun together. My school kids keep me young, that's for sure! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!
Im so glad you got to see it before Helene....its a beautiful place for sure
You and your dad seem to have a wonderful relationship- treasure it 💕
Oh my garlic! Do you have a video about that jar of garlic? How to? All your recipes look delicious.
Thanks!
No stress when celebrating the Real Reason for the Season!
Ramble on, Farm Girl!
I've got 2 gallon bags of cranberry pulp in my freezer that I didn't know what to do with... now I do. Thank you!
Boy oh Boy was this video Choc- full-O goodness. Jammed packed with tips & ideas. One of the many reasons I really enjoy your content. Thanks For sharing 😊💯💜
Hi Cassandra ❤ I like your videos sooo much. It’s like hanging out with a good old friend of mine. You. I hope you have a fantastic Christmas and New year. All the best to you and your family. Peace and love and joy. 🥰
I do much the same thing with my tree. Except, I hang an ornament for everyone/everything I love. Now that I'm old, it's a memorial to long-lost relations, beloved pets, personal achievements, as well. I got all misty-eyed looking at your tree. God bless you and Merry Christmas!
Oh I love that idea, Linda! You get EXACTLY how sentimental ornaments can be. Truly, what is most important are the people we've loved and the memories we shared with them. Merry Christmas to you too, friend!
I love your relationship with your Dad ❤ I was this way with my grandfather,..... 💕 Precious 💕
I always wanted to visit the Biltmore Estate. You went at the perfect time.
Wow, turning the leftover juice cranberries into craisins is genius! And I love Chatty Cass, I always learn so much from you! I also wanted to thank you for continuing to share these recipes with us. I recently tried out the pancake battered sausage sticks you shared awhile back, since one of my kids really liked the Aldi ones. He loves them, and I love that I can make a whole pack of those (plus waffles with the leftover batter) for way less money! Merry Christmas to you and your family, I always enjoy seeing them in your videos.
I sooooo understand the desire to side-step the holiday season. My first career was in the performing arts, so all the big holidays with pageantry were my busiest work seasons. My family learned I would visit for the smaller holidays and birthdays. Now that I'm retired and widowed, my ideal Xmas, Thanksgiving and New Year celebrations are focused on choosing to spend time with myself, enjoying a quieter, low-stress life. I may indulge in a few more decadent ingredients or more involved preparations for my meal to stand apart from the everyday.
I love this! I started a “travel tree” with the kids when they were little because it helped control trip expenses and now I have a tree with those ornaments and now I add my own from solo trips! Its my fav part of unpacking decorations!
I’m gonna be the odd man out. I love giving gifts. It gives me great joy watching the faces as they open the presents. For us Christmas presents are “wants. Not needs (this does change based on finances). So usually starting in late summer, I will see something I think a family member would enjoy AND it’s a good price, I will buy it and put it away for Christmas. So each gets a couple special items. My husband and I do not exchange though once in awhile I get surprised. Being a medical family, we do not always celebrate on Christmas though Christmas Eve services are a must for those not at work.
Hi friend! I don’t see what you shared as odd! Sometimes I’m asked why I don’t have/post Christmas, Easter or other holidays and it’s because of what I shared here. Like you, I love gifting, and yes, we buy gifts, but it’s not a full stop production for everyone we know at this time of year. Some gifts I can’t help but give the person in the moment, others I tuck away like you mentioned. The main thing is to not over extend your budget than what’s reasonable for your household (which I’m so glad is NOT what you’re doing)! Merry Christmas!
The kiss in front of the tree was adorable 😍 I love your videos! Thanks for sharing 💜
Love you, kiddo! Your hubby must love your cooking. Great video today. Thanks for sharing a bit of your life.
Hi Stephanie! Oh my husband is a spoiled one that's for sure! But hey, I love cooking and he loves eating! Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Amazing you got to go before the hurricane came through!
Merry Christmas Cassandra and Family!
Love love love your channel! Merry Christmas!
I absolutely love your videos. You know, you are a very wise young lady. Your mom was your true blessing. Because she taught you very well. I also had a mom like that, and I have also instilled that in my children, even though my boys do not use that.
Aww, thank you, sweet friend! I don't know where I'd be without my parents, and the wisdom they gleaned from theirs because its valuable training both for your wallet and mind that sets you up to make good decisions. I know your children appreciate that you instilled this in them at such a young age now that they are older. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
So that's Chimney Rock and Lake Lure prior to the "hurricane". WOW!
Yes, friend! Mom, Dad and I are still pinching ourselves thinking that we got there "just in time" and "of all the years to go" this year, we did. It was a beautiful trip and we certainly want to return when the time is right. Merry Christmas to you sweet friend!
@@BecomingaFarmGirl Back at beautiful you and your beautiful family!
Merry Christmas🥰
Love your videos! Truly enjoyed the the coffee chat. Thank you!
On the egg soufflé dish... have you ever thot of buzzing cottage cheese with the eggs? A friend told me this when I said I needed to get more protein. I use my stick blender, and wow, does it ever make eggs fluffy! God bless you and Merry Christmas.
Love watching your parents 😊.
Your father is a wealth of knowledge, I am so happy to learn from him! Another lovely chat this month, so happy to see you again Cassandra!
Hi friend!. I love all the ornaments you have collected. It really makes everything more special. I will try your yummy recipes. I can't wait to see the family pictures. I wish you guys and your parents a wonderful Christmas. Hugs from my family to yours.🎄
Love this video and agree with spreading the love all year, not just on Christmas. Plus everybody knows that Jesus was not born in the winter...but we persist in celebrating on Dec. 25.
Im flight crew and rarely have holidays off with exception of the last few years maybe one holiday off. It's better if everyone can celebrate a week early so that many more folks can attend. Plus it's good for married couples with young kids so both grandparents get a chance to celebrate with the grandkids. It's a win/win.
Still the best channel! Thanks for sharing! I am having a shoulder surgery so this turkey/stuffing recipe will be great for when I can't cook. I will make them ahead and hubby just has to warm them up! Thanks😊
Sharon! Lady, its so good to see you. I just finished a quick prayer that all goes well with your upcoming operation and recovery. Make ahead meals are such a blessing to have on hand.
@@BecomingaFarmGirlthanks for the wishes; you are adorable!❤
I tried making pineapple cranberry juice around Thanksgiving and found out that my juicer doesn't really like large amounts of pineapple pretty much by itself. So I have took that mess frozen it in giant cubes for smoothie. I will have e to try your method. Always good to see you. Have a blessed holiday season
Oh I’m so glad to see a new video from you! I found you about 6 or 7 weeks ago and was looking forward to a December grocery guide. I signed up for them when I initially found you but haven’t received one yet and I can’t download them from your blog. I did receive the condiment guide and ferments one but no grocery guide! ❤ from California
WOW.... the recipes look great!!!
Beautiful Estate. I went during the 100th year anniversary in 1995. It is truly the most magnificent home. The grounds are breathtaking. Green house don't get us gardeners talking. The hotels were not built. Love seeing you and your parents. Great memories. Dad the farm boy hated that churn. ha ha but loved the butter. Great pictures in front of the fountain with Biltmore in the background. Chimney Rock the views are amazing. Cassandra thanks for all the recipes. Love artichokes need to use them more. Wishing you and your family a very Blessed and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2025.
Happy Holidays! Sending love from Louisiana! ❤
My mom and sister go to Biltmore almost every year for their Christmas displays. They absolutely love it and I think you and your mom would, too.
Love your videos and the content. Makes my homesteading through you wonderful.😅
I buy my niece an ornament every year. She loves them and often want to play with them.
Well, until this video -- I thought the Biltmore was just one of my favorite hotels in Coral Gables (LMAO).. Who would have THUNK it. Thanks for sharing!
love these videos
Aww, thank you friend!!!
I didn't know there could be such a thing as leftover stuffing. I never have enough. The gravy shortage was solved years ago, but the stuffing? Never! Going to try the fermented brussels sprouts - yours is the first recipe i've seen that actually looks good. Beautiful Tree!
you are AMAZING 😍
Loved a glimpse of NC pre hurricane!
I know!! It still feels unreal that the hurricane devastated so much. Mom, dad and I still are grateful we had a chance to explore Asheville before it took such a hit. Merry Christmas to you, sweet friend!
Loved the tour of biltmore cassandra. Thank you
Love the Biltmore. It was really worth the drive.
Love your video... As usual. Your dad is so knowledgeable! You are so fortunate to have him❤
Isn't he? And yes, I cherish him so much. He's my very best friend. Merry Christmas, sweet friend!
Yall went at the right time 😢
We buy ornaments from our travels too. We have so many memories on the tree
Hey Lisa! Good to see you girl and Merry Christmas to you and yours!
@BecomingaFarmGirl and also to you!
Cassandra this is the best video yet. I agree with your sentiments of Christmas. It is not about the consumerism but about Jesus. And thanks for highlighting Asheville and WNC. You all have some valuable photos because my town doesn’t look the same since hurricane Helene. So, this year I am helping some local charities like manna food bank and beloved Asheville to help all the people that are living in tents and were displaced by the storm. Thank God that things are as well as they are here and thanks to all the volunteers that helped after the storm and those that are still here. I also get ornaments from all the places I visit. I could identify with lots from this video. Thank you and Merry Christmas.
Hi friend! Aww, thank you so much-YES, JESUS is the always the focus!!! I cannot tell you how it still feels unreal to know that we had a chance to visit Asheville just months before the hurricane. To know that this happened in your hometown...gracious, there are no words, only prayers and pulling together and I'm so glad to hear that you've been able to connect with volunteers. I know that the rebuilding effort is tremendous (with some folks just getting cleared for drinking water within the last few weeks). I loved hearing that you're an ornament person too! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!
I love your grocery guides with your videos. Thank you!!
Thank you so much, I'm glad you like them!
I saw the Biltmore during their Christmas season around Thanksgiving a couple years ago.
Cassandra Merry Christmas and many blessings to you and your beautiful family. The garlic in the jar, what are they packed in tyvm 😊
Thank you. 🎄🎄🎅🏻🎅🏻👍🏻👍🏻
You're very welcome! :)
Thank you for sharing, your so together ....Love that! Love the Gift and value giving concept.
Aww, I'm happy to hear this! Merry Christmas to you and yours friend!
I love going shopping the day after Christmas and getting for the following year’s birthdays or Christmas, etc. One year, my mother’s family wasn’t getting together until a couple days after Christmas because of someone not being available, so the women all agreed to go shopping together 12/26 and do all of our major shopping that day for that weekend’s gathering. That was a TON of fun and so much cheaper!!
SO MUCH CHEAPER, calmer, and....fun! This year folks are getting red and gold mule mugs, with a box of tea, and a pair of cozy socks, a wax melt warmer with snowflake decor and the wax melt scents...the marked down 2024 edition at 75% off. Once you start, you're hooked! Merry Christmas to you and yours friend!
So excited to see you today. I'm watching with coffee and a snack.Always taking notes. Hope you and your family are well.😍
Aww, thanks sweet friend! I'm glad you're here!
My wife and I love Ashville and the Biltmore, we've been there twice. (We live in Illinois) There's a Hallmark movie called Christmas at the Biltmore you should try and watch. You'll love it.
Glad you were able to visit before Hurricane Helene hit that area. Please continue to pray for all who suffered loss.
Hello sweet friend! You are 1000% percent right. Many parts of Asheville and the surrounding cities continue to experience hardship. Hurricanes aren't just highlights in the news, its a life changing event that can take years to fully "recover" from. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Happy holidays! Good show❤ blessings
Thank you, sweet friend! Happy holidays to you and yours!
Happy holidays to my favorite farm girl and the farm girl family! 🎁
Awww, thank you so much for the warm wishes, friend! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video!
I d like to know the size of the bag you used for straining & where it was purchased, please. Mine are to small
Amen Happy birthday Jesus
Happy Birthday, Jesus!!! Keep the Christ in Christmas!!!
Thank you for this video! I appreciate you sharing so much. I am new to the channel but so grateful to listen and learn.
Welcome, my new farm girl friend! Thanks for saying hi! Merry Christmas to you!
Of course and thank you again for sharing so much valuable info. Merry Christmas!
I just made some cranberry juice 2 days ago. I streamed mine. It is awesome! Thanks for the idea about the mandarin oranges to make orange
Hey Chae! Always lovely to see you. Happy holidays to you and yours!
@@BecomingaFarmGirl Thanks! I love your videos, and your shopping methods. I am canning all of my 1st grandson’s food and juice thanks to you. I love buying food within their growing cycle. My latest deal was 40lbs of sweet potatoes for $10. They were 25 cents a pound 💃🏽Happy Holidays to you and your family.
Merry Christmas Cassandra!!!!! I hope you and your followers have a dreamy Christmas and New Year’s.
Merry Christmas, sweet friend! You are too kind!
I like to add ginger bug to homemade juice. Tasty soda.
Omg i cant believe you have a job outside of doing all of that! Beautiful recipees.
Yes! I work full-time as a teacher. I do what I can (not perfectly) and little by little, it adds up. Merry Christmas, sweet friend!
love your gift giving rant. I have been saying this to many of my family members... Unfortunately a made up religions by bored middle aged men and commercialism have taught us we need to stress and buy. Instead enjoy your family, help those around you throughout the year and love life!
You rock girl!
Awww, as do you sweet friend! Merry Christmas!
@BecomingaFarmGirl merry Christmas to you too
Oh Woman! You are my Hero!
You're laying the compliments on thick, aren't ya?! Don't make me blush :)
Right after holloween, this time of year and right after Christmas, I fined stuff for birthdays and what I call my toy closet that has gifts that could be for all of my kids as fill-in gifts for Christmas and birthdays. I even put some of the stuff they get for Christmass away in the toy closet so they are not getting too many gifts of if something is not age Appropriate like I have had Legos for 3 years that my kids are now starting to play with.
Love your videos as always. My hubby is retired USAF and my dad was a trucker, so I understand totally about the celebrations. Is there another link to the pantry chats & grocery lists? I'm subscribed but I keep getting error messages so I can't see them at all.
👏👏👏