Popcorn Anyone?

Of course my tree is not complete without some strands of popcorn draped along its branches, so that is just what I did this week. Popcorn garlands just add a certain warmth to the tree and the room they have decorated. They are super easy to make, and last several years before they get a little soft and need to finally be tossed - NOT eaten!

To make them you'll need:
Dental floss
A sewing needle
A big old bowl of popcorn
A few buttons

For the popcorn just pour a bit of oil in the base of a big pot - enough to just barely coat the bottom and set about 3 kernels in there. As soon as those 3 kernels pop your oil is hot and ready for you to pour in the rest of your kernels. For my 4 quart pot I put 1/2 cup of kernels. Keep giving the pot a good shake while holding the lid tight of course - just to ensure it won't burn. As soon as the popping noises slow down, remove it from the heat cause you're done!

You're ready to string 'em up. Don't try to make your garlands too long or you'll be dealing with mass entanglement and you may just want to give up on your stands and eat the whole bowl. Your tree won't get decorated that way!
I tie a small button to each end of the garland to keep those kernels on there. It does help.



For garlands it is much better to make your own popcorn. Microwave popcorn is too full of mysterious craziness, and bagged popcorn I think would go soggy faster. This is how we always make our popcorn and we think it tastes better this way too.
You'll want to make enough (of course) for snacking cause you know how it goes - one for the garland, three for me, and so on.
Enjoy!