Dear Readers, As the festive season wraps its arms around us, I can't help but reflect on the incredible journey we've shared throughout the year. The pages of this Christmas magazine are filled not just with stories and images, but with the essence of teamwork, love, and the unwavering spirit that defines the holiday season. This year has been a rollercoaster, with ups and downs that have tested our resilience and strength. Yet, here we are, united and stronger than ever. It's a testament to the power of coming together, of facing challenges headJen Liiley & Alejandra Boggiano Co-founders- ChristmasIs Not Cancelled on, and of weaving our stories into a tapestry of shared Photo credit: Elizabeth Chomas experiences. In the midst of uncertainties, it's heartwarming to see people coming together to create miracles, big and small. Our magazine is a celebration of these miracles—of the creativity, passion, and dedication of a team that refused to let the challenges of the year define us. The stories within these pages speak of the magic that happens when individuals join hands and work towards a common goal. Christmas is a reminder that love knows no bounds. It's the force that propels us forward, helping us overcome obstacles and inspiring acts of kindness. Our magazine, filled with the warmth of these stories, is a beacon of hope—a declaration that love prevails, even in the face of adversity. In a world that sometimes feels chaotic and unpredictable, the holiday season is a beacon of joy, a reminder that, no matter what, the spirit of Christmas is alive and well. Our work, our stories, and this magazine are proof that “Christmas is not canceled”. Instead, it's an invitation to embrace the magic, to celebrate the moments of joy, and to cherish the bonds that make this season truly special. As you flip through the pages of this magazine, I hope you feel the love, the joy, and the sense of togetherness that define the holiday spirit. Thank you for being a part of our journey, for your support, and for believing in the magic of Christmas. May this season bring you moments of pure joy and the warmth of shared love. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season! With love and gratitude, Alejandra Boggiano Editor-in-Chief
table of contents Books That Bring us Joy Real Life Fairy Tale Cover Story: Lacey Chabert The Business of Christmas Hungry for Movies The Cause Great American Family Semi-Homemade
pg 4-5 pg 6-7 pg 8-10 pg 12-15 pg 16-21 pg 22-27 pg 28-29 pg 30-32
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Photo courtesy of Lorelei Hutch
Photo courtesy of Lorelei Hutch
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Interview by Adua Ring & Jeane Burgess
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“I’m very inspired by the incredible work Jen and Ale (founders of Christmas Is Not Cancelled) do to support so many children in foster care through Christmas Is Not Cancelled. “
“They raise funds to support many charitable organizations that assist children, including providing backpacks full of school supplies each summer to children in foster care, and toys to children in crisis during the holiday season”
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All Photos on this article credit to: Elizabeth Chomas
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sign up at try.frndlytv.com
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Strawberry Coffee Cake 2- 16 oz packages of Pound Cake Mix (I used Betty Crocker) 2 tsp baking soda 3/4 cup water 1- 15 oz can strawberry pie filling 4 eggs 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup sugar 4 tbsp unsalted butter Fresh strawberries, sliced Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
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1. In a large bowl, combine both boxes of pound cake mix and the baking soda. Add the water, pie filling, and eggs. Mix until well combined. 2. In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and butter. Use a pastry cutter or a fork to mix until it resembles small crumbs. 3. Pour half of the batter into a greased 13 x 9 baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the topping. Repeat with the remaining batter and topping. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown. 4. Serve warm and top with fresh strawberry slices and scoops of vanilla ice cream.