Holiday rituals give us structure and provide links to our families and our cultures. When caring for a cancer patient, some holiday festivities might be difficult to attend or engage in. National Cookie Day on December 4th is a reminder that not all rituals are complicated, some are easy and sweet. Bakers across the country warm up the ovens for holiday baking, and we enjoy giving tins of cookies to friends and family all season long. Baking cookies in the comfort of your own home is a relatively easy and stress-free activity to do with your kiddo that results in some tasty treats for all to enjoy!

Cookies are a beloved treat enjoyed by many and used around the world to celebrate special occasions. The English word “cookie” comes from the Dutch word “koek,” or cake. There’s no better way to enjoy an afternoon with a friend or family member than baking cookies. Cookies are also a great gift to include in care packages for other families that may be having a hard time during the holiday season.

There are thousands of cookie recipes to choose from, so we picked a few that are personal favorites and not too time intensive. Some of the following cookie flavors are holiday options while others are classic favorites. These recipes are all low sugar or sugar free. Give the kids a jar of sprinkles and you’re all set. Happy baking!

Recipes

• Chocolate chip cookies from Taste of Home
• Sugar cookies from The Big Man’s World
• Gingerbread cookies from The Sugar Free Diva
• Peanut butter cookies from All Recipes
• Snicker doodle cookies from Maebell’s Simple Easy Recipes

You’ll definitely need a warm beverage to enjoy with the cookies you baked. Hot chocolate, apple cider and chai are a few of the delicious drink recipes we’ve chosen to share with you. These recipes are all low sugar or sugar free as well.

• Hot chocolate from Ditch the Carbs
• Apple cider from A Full Living
• Chai latte from The Busy Baker
• Egg nog from The Daily Meal
• Red velvet tea latte from Gourmande in the Kitchen

Other Fun Activities for the Holidays

Some other fun ideas for indoor holiday activities on National Cookie Day include: board games, charades, card games, a tea party, completing puzzles, reading books and holiday movies. A few of my personal favorite holiday movies include:

• Home Alone: “When little Kevin McCallister is accidentally left behind when his family dashes off on a Christmas trip, he is left to defend his family’s home from two bumbling burglars until the relatives return.”
• A Christmas Story: “In this holiday classic, Ralphie, a young boy growing up in the ‘40’s, dreams of owning a Red Rider BB gun. He sets out to convince the world this is the perfect gift.”
• Elf: “One Christmas Eve long ago, a baby crawled into Santa’s bag of toys raised as an elf. Buddy goes looking for his true place in the world-in New York City.”
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas: The Grinch tells the story of a cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas, only to have this heart changed by a young girl’s generous holiday spirit.”
• Polar Express: “A doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.”

Need Holiday Support?

Here To Serve understands the holidays can be difficult for families with a sick loved one. Caring for a cancer patient is exhausting. Remember, we are here to support you!  If you are a family with a newly diagnosed cancer child or know of a family who finds themselves in this challenging situation, please contact Here to Serve.

Please click on the Get Help button from our homepage. Wishing you a healthy and blessed Holiday Season filled with laughter, delicious food, and plenty of sprinkles!

By Hayley Charles

All content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. Always consult a medical provider in your particular area of need before making significant changes in your medical decisions or lifestyle.