The Christmas Book is Growing

Did you know that when you get "Regency House Christmas" you've bought all future additions and add-ons--at no extra cost? It's like making an investment in a fund that grows so that your final value is much greater than your initial cost. I research and add new material every year, but you only pay once, upon purchase, for the ebook. This is a great deal, and wonderful news for any Christmas lover or history buff--especially regency fans, of course. So get a copy soon--don't wait for the next Christmas season to come around, because before next season I may have to put an end to this perk. I do love researching the Regency, however, so rest assured that more material is definitely forthcoming! You'll love it.

PS: Technical difficulties getting the new Index and Table of Contents working properly, made me stop posting this December. I didn't feel right continuing to advertise a product I was hoping to offer in a much-improved format, only to be foiled by the technical stuff. If you have the ebook, don't worry; you WILL get the "new and improved ebook" when it is finally as I want it. You'll find it easier to navigate, bigger than ever, and with a full index. The Regency? You've got to love it.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year?

I just saw a great article called Keeping-Christ-In-and-Stress-Out-of-Christmas with some great ideas for over-frenetic souls. If the rush of the season is burning out your joy, you might want to click the link (above) and see the full article.

I believe that keeping Christ in Christmas is THE single most important way to revive flagging hearts and souls. In the Regency Christmas Package, there are a couple of downloads that can help you do just that, not to mention the pages of beautiful poetry and snippets of hymns that emphasize the holiness of the season.

For historic interest as well as an uplift in your spirit, the three famous prayers of Jane Austen--that most famous regency author--are in the book. (Despite all the Hollywood hoopla cashing in on Jane, there isn't much notice of her faith and devotion to the Lord. Her prayers are sweet evidence of them, however, and worthy of being read aloud to the family during a December night at dinner or afterwards. You'll want to print them out to read more than once.)

For times of quiet reflection or boisterous singing, there are two separate downloadable ebooks --both included in the package--of Regency era carols, hymns, ballads and even a short play that can be acted out. Another great print-out you can take advantage of.

If you decide to hold a 19th century night (see my other posts on this page for how to do this easy, yet season-altering activity) you'll want to print out some of the many "Fireside Stories" I stuffed into the book, to enjoy at leisure.

I can guarantee that if you simply plan a few nights--even if you don't get to it until after Christmas--your experience of this holiday will improve. Your family will have new memories to boot. They'll forget most of what was unwrapped rather quickly--but time spent together, either using the games in the book, or some of the reading, or other ideas--will last a lifetime.

PS: I've kept the package at a family-friendly price--in fact, it's a bargain! Over $300 worth of value right now, for less than $15. It's last year's price but bigger and better than ever! You'll discover a new era (the Regency) that you didn't know you loved, and you and your family or friends will discover that Christmas really can be the most wonderful time of the year!

PSS: Price is going up on December 1st or thereabouts. Please hurry!
You can grab a copy using the button on this page, or go here:
The Christmas Book Page Enjoy and be blessed!

Make It Stress-Free

Everyone knows the rush and worry of getting things ready for Christmas--make it easier on yourself by determining to ENJOY the season for a change. I've probably said this before, but it's when we slow down that we can refresh, refuel, relax--and enjoy. That's what my Regency Christmas Package is all about. (It's not just a book--with 39 bonuses, it's a whole package for you!)

If you're still new to the concept of a 19th century Christmastide, let me review: In the early part of the 19th century, the season of Christmas was more about
family and fun than gifts and giving. Sure, there was room for presents, and they did add to the fun, but they were just a small part. Focusing on the frenetic fifteen minutes or half hour of tearing into a pile of gifts is what gets us in trouble today. We spend an inordinate amount of time, money and energy preparing for that one *tiny* part of the holiday.

I'm not here to try and deprive you of that part of Christmas. It's still important. But I do want to help you with perspective, increasing the time spent in areas that will leave you feeling fulfilled and satisfied afterwards, not with the usual lament of All that effort--all that money--and they're still not happy!

(Believe me, I've been there, done that! I started Christmas shopping some years right after the holidays, beginning in January and going on until I felt I had "enough." Well, the definition of "enough" seemed to grow when I started early. By September I felt pretty much done with my family shopping and most of my friends, but I can't think of a single year when I didn't still get little extras right up until the big day. Little extras that add up to big expenditures. And all for fifteen to twenty minutes of chaotic present-opening. It's fun, too, of course, but it just isn't what it's all about!)

A 19th Century Christmastide, right in your own home, can bring a feeling of satisfaction unlike anything in a wrapped box. Here's the idea:

Decorate a little differently, making an effort to use as much live greenery as possible. This may mean waiting an extra week or two to put up a real tree, or real fir wreaths, real ivy and holly, etc. In my Christmas Book are instructions for making decorative sugarplums to beautify things even more. (Edible ones, too!)
It's a look that just can't be copied by artificial things, though the store-bought counterparts are lovely, too.

Next, download bunches and bunches of "Fireside Reading" and "Party Games"--both available in many shapes and sizes from the Christmas Package. Decide on a game or two, choose a story or two. (The choices are varied, and there's something for everyone, from "American Christmastides"--glimpses of the Yule Season back when the country was young--to "Tales of Wonder and Joy" [for kids from three to ninety-three]--and plenty others. You'll find much to interest you or any member of your family. For each 19th century night you want to have, pick something different.)

Before settling down before the fire or hearth (or wood-stove, or an arrangement of scented candles), prepare an authentic olde English recipe (choose from dozens available) such as mull'd cider, wassail, or negus; berry scones or English "biscuits"--or, use one of the many modern cookbooks that come with the Christmas Book, and treat your family to brand new mouth-watering delights.

Do you need my book to have a 19th Century night? No! You can take these ideas and adapt what you already own or have and make do just fine. Be sure to turn off lights (EXCEPT Christmas lights--they are one modern element that is worth keeping); and all noise. If it's a game night you're having,(using games from the book or a bonus book--not computer or video games) some light background music is acceptable. In the book, there are suggestions of period music for a more authentic experience, but you can choose any you like.

If you do get the package (which I've put at the very family-friendly price of only $14.95--less than a large pizza with toppings!--)you make things easier on yourself, and of course get to read all about a Regency Christmas. (What Jane Austen REALLY ate and Charles Dickens remembered.) PLUS the 39 downloads of stories, games, readings, cookbooks, candy-making, gift-giving, etc! You get old carols, ballads, poems and more. Customs, traditions, myth-busters, history, facts, and dozens of beautiful illustrations. I'm even throwing in a new children's coloring book for the littlest members to enjoy while you snuggle up with "Old English Christmases" or "A Puritan Christmas," (or many others).

Making room for just a few 19th century nights during December can change the way you feel about Christmas this year. Choosing just the right "Fireside Reading" can thrill your spirit and give you more Christmas joy than you've had in ages.

Blessings,

Linore
PS: It's a blessing for me and my family when I use the games, stories and recipes from the Christmas Book Package, and I know it will bless you and yours.

Here's a sample recipe from one of 458 pages of yummy treats (from just ONE of your 39 free downloads!)

New England Christmas Cookies

3/4 cup melted shortening
3/4 cup melted butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup of sliced blanched almonds
3 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
3 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

Cream sugar and melted ingredients. Beat eggs and add to creamed mixture. Sift together all dry ingredients and beat into dough. Stir in almonds. Form dough into small rolls and wrap in wax paper. Refrigerate overnight. Slice thin and bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. DO NOT OVERBAKE.

(If you slice very thin, you can have two or three with your favorite Christmas drink, coffee or tea, and still not go overboard on carbs. Just watch carefully during baking because they'll bake up fast.) Enjoy!

Make it Happen!

Wondering how to make this year better than previous ones?
It has to start somewhere.

Have there been elements of past seasons that you do NOT want to re-live?
Something may have to change.
Sometimes, a big change is necessary. Often, however, making little tweaks here or there can make a BIG difference, transforming your overall holiday experience almost effortlessly.

How can this be?

Because it is the little things that add up to an "overall" experience. Consequently, little changes can bring about huge results.

Where to start? I have the perfect suggestion.
Since it's really the quietness of the season that most of us miss or never get to experience, (parades, shows, parties, exhibits are all fun, but it's when you nestle down cosily in front of your own tree, burn a candle, and muse near a fireplace or stove, that peace can descend) it stands to reason that finding a way to include this into your December can enhance your holiday immeasurably. Having loved ones nearby enjoying the same experience multiplies the effect, but even if you're by yourself you can enjoy some soul-renewing warmth.

My Prescription:
A 19th Century night is in order! (Perhaps a mere 19th century hour or two will do.) Here's how to do it: Having my ebook ahead of time will make it all much simpler, but even without it you can still do this.

Turn off the lights except for the tree and other decorations if you have them; If you've already obtained some of your favorite Christmas music, play it very softly, because it's only for background effect. Light some candles, preferably aromatic seasonal ones. If you've a fireplace or wood-burning stove, use it!

Print out a small selection of the numerous choices of "Fireside Reading" that came with your Regency Christmas Book from me.

Now--get comfy. Make sure you're warm. Zip up a holiday treat (from the numerous ideas in the recipe downloads you get with the book.) One of my favorites is
"Fireside Coffee Mix," on page 67 of the "Easy Gifts in a Jar" recipe book. (It's ridiculously easy and inexpensive to make the scrumptious recipes in this ebook, so why do we ever buy the chemical-laden ready-made junk from the store?) So, when you've got a steaming mug of Fireside Coffee or another hot libation of your choice (there are many mouth-watering suggestions in the book) put up your feet, rest your weary head, and:

Enjoy! Savor! Smile! Laugh! Go back in time. To truly experience a 19th century night, you can whip up a wonderful wassail or mulled cider to enhance your evening. (How to make it? It's in the book, of course!)
In another post I'll discuss the various types of wonderful reading I've prepared for you. I have specially hand-picked recommendations for music, too, which will help evoke the era.

When you leave your cosy retreat back in time to resume your 21st century life, you'll find yourself feeling comforted, a bit more rested, and better able to face whatever is before you. How's that for a merry Christmas treat?

More next time,
Stay tuned!
Blessings in abundance,

Linore
PS: With all the new, free bonuses (see below "Make it a Steal" for details)and the ones still coming, it makes getting this book a no-brainer! The value of the package FAR exceeds the cost, and there is a six month money-back guarantee, to boot!

Make it Real

You know, when I wrote Regency House Christmas, I was aiming to tear the veil away from the shroud of mystery over the holiday at the very turn of the 19th century, when the hedonistic regency was about to begin, and England had still not fully recovered from the earlier bans on the holiday. During the process, however, I became so enamored of the quaint customs, the quiet expressions of faith and joy, that I realized history, once again, had something to teach us for today.

When you read my book, I would encourage you to put on a pair of "virtual" headphones (to protect the atmosphere the book creates for you); to snuggle up somewhere quietly and immerse yourself in the period. Select a yummy holiday drink from the free recipe book (the download link is IN the book) before sitting down, or just help yourself to one of your own favorites--and get comfy.

Choose a heartwarming tale, a poem, an excerpt--throw a few logs on the fire if you have one, or light an aromatic candle (fir-tree, balsam, cookie-dough, anything that conjures up a seasonal feeling in the air) and give yourself a virtual bubble-bath of 19th century holiday charm.

When you're ready to return to life, you'll be refreshed.

More ideas ahead. But don't forget--get a copy of the book today before the price goes higher!