Last December, I bought some Hanukkah craft kits at Target when they were 70% off. They sat in the stockpile just waiting for Holiday time. It was so nice to pull them out this year, when we felt like being creative.

Each kit came with felt shapes, stickers, eyes, and glue dots. Everything worked well except the glue. According to the instructions, ages 4+ can use it, but I found little fingers to have a lot of trouble unpeeling the dots and they definitely were not sticky enough (take a look at Yellow Dreidel; he lost an eye).

Since I only paid $1.50 per kit, it was a lot of entertainment for a low price, and I’d buy them again. For the next go-round, however, I’d use regular glue and toss the annoying glue dots.

When the crafts were finished, it was on to the cookies. I wanted to make sugar cookie cut-outs in Hanukkah shapes, but after a long search, the Menorah and Star cutters are still missing. (No idea how or why!) Instead, we made a family favorite, Outrageous Cookies.

These are rich, full of peanut butter and chocolate chips, but very delicious, and yes, all of them were eaten that day.

I love having a quiet holiday at home when everyone is getting along and enjoying each other’s company.

How is Hanukkah celebrated at your house?