Morning All
Hope that your preparations for Christmas are going well?!
Kids love being a part of the festive holiday season of Christmas, and by letting them make gifts for others it teaches them so much. They learn how to create, organize, and the value of hard work to achieve their goals. More importantly it gives them a moral compass of giving through love and compassion for others.
There are easy homemade gifts that young children can make to give to family, friends and neighbors. By taking a few moments out of your busy holiday schedule, you can exemplify the true spirit of love not only for others, but for your kids as well. Besides these easy craft gift ideas are inexpensive and a lot of fun to make. So create a new family tradition of homemade gift making with your kid.
Simplified gifts for kids to make at Christmas can be most anything. For example, give your kid a chance to make a handy latch hook rug for someone they love. Most major discount stores carry them, and you can start your kid off with a small sized one to give as a gift. Designs include everything from a cat to flowers. There are no little pieces of dangerous items to keep up with such as needles or sharp scissors. The tiny yard threads can be separated into small storage containers and dispensed as needed. The latch hook itself has no sharp parts to be concerned with; however you may want to warn your kid not to run with the curved tool.
The canvas is clearly marked with the placement of colored yarn, and the back can be taped, and later quick stitched by you so it will hold securely. Another fun homemade gift that your kid can make is fleece scarves. Material can be found at different fabric and craft stores. The material comes in a variety of designs, both solid and different holiday print themes. With a little help from you kids can cut and measure the width and length desired. Edges can be left plain or cut into short strips on the end to add a little flare. Kids can even wrap it their selves too by rolling it tightly and securing it with a ribbon.
Another type of homemade gift kids can make for Christmas time is by painting a light weight balsa wood type box, which then can be decorated for storing small personal items such as stamps or trinkets. Small colored beads or faux jewels can be glued on the lid, and a picture of them can be placed on the inside of the box top. A cardboard bottom can be added for extra support along with a felt lining to jazz it up. Dating the top of the box will make it a keepsake for sure. Kids like to give other box type gifts such as the clear plastic formed boxes.
Many companies on the internet carry them, and for a little extra you can buy one with a slit in the top that would make a great piggy bank gift for their friends. Again, this box can be painted with permanent paint, and glue can be applied to stick a multi colored ribbon on it. Kids might like to add a penny into the box to keep their friends guessing.
Other types of gifts for kids to make can be easy ribbon bookmarks or even ribbon jewelry. Also, plain pillow covers for the bed can be decorated by your kid by dipping their hands in paint and printing their name on the pillow. Grand parents really love these types of gifts from their grandkids because it’s not only useful, but it’s very close to their hearts every night they lay down for the night. You can help your kid create all of these easy projects quickly, and it will mean so much to them and to others, especially for those that live far away.
Just remember to let your kid do as much as they can because they want to be able to say they made it themselves, even though it’s tempting to correct the small mistakes they may make, it’s just as easy to look away knowing they made it with all of the love in their hearts – which is the true spirit of Christmas.
Take care
Paul
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Christmas Caroling: Singing in the Snow
Morning Alll!
Everyone can enjoy the sweet sound of children of all ages singing their little hearts out to a lone guitar—no matter how out of tune they might be. They don’t have to be children either, adults can have some mighty fine voices too.
Carolers never quite have that same heartfelt warmth about them like on television, so don’t allow that to put you off your game. Usually once you get going, you don’t want to stop right up until the hot chocolate is brought out.
Choose your place carefully, that is, provided you’re not going door to door. You’ll want to select a place that is frequently populated, even into the later hours of the evening, but is a good enough area that you’re not worried about getting mugged. That can really put a damper on your Christmas cheer. If you are going to say, set up camp outside a business, make sure to check with the business owner first, just in case.
No matter where you decide to go, make sure that you are fully prepared. Everyone can enjoy a mug of something steaming after being out in the cold, and it is best not to disappoint. There’s always the chance that someone will forget the lyrics to ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ and will mumble it up too. Little booklets are handy for a good reason.
If you plan to have a musical instrument there to help keep the pitch right on target, it’s best to get a proper music stand to hold any and all sheet music that might be needed. A guitar works especially well because then the guitarist can sing too, but other instruments might sound prettier to go with the occasion. Flutes work perfectly because most carols have a higher melody that it can reach easily, or perhaps a clarinet or two to keep things in perspective. Saxophones can really spruce up your singing but they’re best with jazz styled songs.
If you don’t have enough musicians to add some harmonic tunes, or you don’t have enough people in general to sing, then don’t worry too much. So long as your carolers have a vague sense of the song, they’ll be able to fumble around the melody well enough.
When deciding upon your repertoire, make sure to go overboard and overstock. The worst thing that can happen is being out in the snow, singing until your voice cracks, only to find that unless you want to repeat some more songs, you don’t have any others. You might only get half of them done before the younger ones decide they’d like to get out of the cold weather, but it’s better to be prepared in the long run. The last thing you want is to be caught short.
Some of the best carols to sing aren’t necessarily the classics. Sure ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’, or ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ might sound pretty, but it’s always nice to have some more, cough, amusing refrains. ‘I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus’ is guaranteed to plaster a grin on a passerby’s face.
For some really, cough, intriguing harmonies, try taking a traditional carol and changing the lyrics around to make it humorous. The kids, not to mention the adults, will get a kick out of turning ‘Silent Night’ into ‘Jailbird Flight’. Or you can start from scratch and get your own lyrics and hymn. Unfortunately, that’s not nearly as easy as we’d like it to be. Luckily, we can always use the Internet to find some entertaining like ‘I’m Getting Nuttin’ for Christmas!’
‘I’m Getting Nuttin’ for Christmas’ is about a kid who does lots of pranks like ‘I spilled some ink on Mommy’s rug; I made Tommy eat a bug! Bought some gum with a penny slug; somebody snitched on me!’ The chorus repeats the title, says Mommy and Daddy are mad. This repeats using the title again, and then admits ‘Cause I ain’t been nuttin’ but bad!’
No matter where you go or what you sing, keep the spirit of the season alive and going. Caroling is an age-long tradition—and there’s a good reason it has lasted so long and is close to so many hearts. The kids will thank you for it later.
Take care!
Paul
Everyone can enjoy the sweet sound of children of all ages singing their little hearts out to a lone guitar—no matter how out of tune they might be. They don’t have to be children either, adults can have some mighty fine voices too.
Carolers never quite have that same heartfelt warmth about them like on television, so don’t allow that to put you off your game. Usually once you get going, you don’t want to stop right up until the hot chocolate is brought out.
Choose your place carefully, that is, provided you’re not going door to door. You’ll want to select a place that is frequently populated, even into the later hours of the evening, but is a good enough area that you’re not worried about getting mugged. That can really put a damper on your Christmas cheer. If you are going to say, set up camp outside a business, make sure to check with the business owner first, just in case.
No matter where you decide to go, make sure that you are fully prepared. Everyone can enjoy a mug of something steaming after being out in the cold, and it is best not to disappoint. There’s always the chance that someone will forget the lyrics to ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ and will mumble it up too. Little booklets are handy for a good reason.
If you plan to have a musical instrument there to help keep the pitch right on target, it’s best to get a proper music stand to hold any and all sheet music that might be needed. A guitar works especially well because then the guitarist can sing too, but other instruments might sound prettier to go with the occasion. Flutes work perfectly because most carols have a higher melody that it can reach easily, or perhaps a clarinet or two to keep things in perspective. Saxophones can really spruce up your singing but they’re best with jazz styled songs.
If you don’t have enough musicians to add some harmonic tunes, or you don’t have enough people in general to sing, then don’t worry too much. So long as your carolers have a vague sense of the song, they’ll be able to fumble around the melody well enough.
When deciding upon your repertoire, make sure to go overboard and overstock. The worst thing that can happen is being out in the snow, singing until your voice cracks, only to find that unless you want to repeat some more songs, you don’t have any others. You might only get half of them done before the younger ones decide they’d like to get out of the cold weather, but it’s better to be prepared in the long run. The last thing you want is to be caught short.
Some of the best carols to sing aren’t necessarily the classics. Sure ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’, or ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ might sound pretty, but it’s always nice to have some more, cough, amusing refrains. ‘I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus’ is guaranteed to plaster a grin on a passerby’s face.
For some really, cough, intriguing harmonies, try taking a traditional carol and changing the lyrics around to make it humorous. The kids, not to mention the adults, will get a kick out of turning ‘Silent Night’ into ‘Jailbird Flight’. Or you can start from scratch and get your own lyrics and hymn. Unfortunately, that’s not nearly as easy as we’d like it to be. Luckily, we can always use the Internet to find some entertaining like ‘I’m Getting Nuttin’ for Christmas!’
‘I’m Getting Nuttin’ for Christmas’ is about a kid who does lots of pranks like ‘I spilled some ink on Mommy’s rug; I made Tommy eat a bug! Bought some gum with a penny slug; somebody snitched on me!’ The chorus repeats the title, says Mommy and Daddy are mad. This repeats using the title again, and then admits ‘Cause I ain’t been nuttin’ but bad!’
No matter where you go or what you sing, keep the spirit of the season alive and going. Caroling is an age-long tradition—and there’s a good reason it has lasted so long and is close to so many hearts. The kids will thank you for it later.
Take care!
Paul
Monday, November 28, 2005
Holiday Shopping Online: Tips for Buying Online
Morning again!
With Christmas quickly approaching, more and more people are turning to the Internet to make holiday purchases. But, where are the best places to shop? How can you be sure your purchases will be secure? What happens if something you buy online needs to be returned? Read on to find some helpful tips for holiday shopping online.
Where to Shop
Finding an online store is the easy part. Most major retailers have an online store and many additional stores can be found only online. To shop at a specific store, simply type the store name into a search engine and you will be sure to find the store right away. In general, stores that you are familiar with are the best places to shop online. This is because you have a greater assurance that these stores provide a secure shopping experience and that they will back their products. In addition, making an exchange or returning an item is much easier, because it can be taken back to the “real world” store.
But, there are many great stores that are only found online. Many of these stores provide great deals, especially since they don’t have the costly overhead expenses of maintaining a real store. Before making a purchase over the Internet at one of these stores, however, be sure the store provides a secure connection. This reduces, and almost eliminates, the possibility of someone hacking into your personal information. Finding out if a store provides a secure connection is not difficult, as it will proudly display this fact at its virtual checkout line.
In addition, most computers will actually inform you that you are entering into a secure area. This is especially true if you have a virus protector, such as Norton or McAfee, on your computer (and if you are spending time browsing the Internet, you should certainly have one of these).
The best thing about finding stores online is that you can shop anywhere in the world. This opens up your gift buying opportunities – making it possible to buy for even the hardest to buy for person on your list!
Look for Hidden Charges
Just like when shopping at real stores, it is best to comparison shop when shopping online. Many online stores offer competitive prices. At the same time, shopping online can incur hidden charges. Be sure to check into shipping and handling charges. Some online stores provide free shipping and handling while others can be quite costly. Also, don’t forget about taxes, some stores already add these costs in their price quote while others do not.
Purchasing an Item
Once you have found the perfect Christmas gift, and completed your comparison shopping, it’s time to make your purchase. Most online stores will let you use a credit card to make a purchase. This can be done directly on the site. Other online stores will require that you fax your credit card information.
For those without a credit card, or who are not comfortable using a credit card online, most stores have a check or money order policy. The advantage of using a credit card, however, is that most credit cards will remove a charge if there is a dispute over a charge, which provides you with extra protection when making an online purchase.
After completing your purchase, be sure to print out your order. This serves as your receipt and provides proof of your purchase. The order should also include a confirmation number, which makes it easier for you to check on and track your order.
Returning an Item
If you do decide to make a purchase from an online store that does not have a real store in your area, make sure to protect yourself and only buy from stores with a clear, stated return policy. It should also provide details as to how to file a complaint if merchandise is damaged or fails to meet expectations.
Also, look for virtual stores that include complete contact information, including an address, phone number, fax number, and e-mail address. Avoid stores that only provide a PO Box number. A store with a real street address is more likely to be legitimate and have your best interest in mind.
If you do run into a problem with a product, communicate with the online retailer through letters or e-mails, and be sure to keep copies of the correspondence.
Online shopping can reduce the stress of holiday shopping. By being a smart consumer, you can find the best deals, access a wider variety of goods, and enjoy a spectacular Christmas.
Take care
Paul
With Christmas quickly approaching, more and more people are turning to the Internet to make holiday purchases. But, where are the best places to shop? How can you be sure your purchases will be secure? What happens if something you buy online needs to be returned? Read on to find some helpful tips for holiday shopping online.
Where to Shop
Finding an online store is the easy part. Most major retailers have an online store and many additional stores can be found only online. To shop at a specific store, simply type the store name into a search engine and you will be sure to find the store right away. In general, stores that you are familiar with are the best places to shop online. This is because you have a greater assurance that these stores provide a secure shopping experience and that they will back their products. In addition, making an exchange or returning an item is much easier, because it can be taken back to the “real world” store.
But, there are many great stores that are only found online. Many of these stores provide great deals, especially since they don’t have the costly overhead expenses of maintaining a real store. Before making a purchase over the Internet at one of these stores, however, be sure the store provides a secure connection. This reduces, and almost eliminates, the possibility of someone hacking into your personal information. Finding out if a store provides a secure connection is not difficult, as it will proudly display this fact at its virtual checkout line.
In addition, most computers will actually inform you that you are entering into a secure area. This is especially true if you have a virus protector, such as Norton or McAfee, on your computer (and if you are spending time browsing the Internet, you should certainly have one of these).
The best thing about finding stores online is that you can shop anywhere in the world. This opens up your gift buying opportunities – making it possible to buy for even the hardest to buy for person on your list!
Look for Hidden Charges
Just like when shopping at real stores, it is best to comparison shop when shopping online. Many online stores offer competitive prices. At the same time, shopping online can incur hidden charges. Be sure to check into shipping and handling charges. Some online stores provide free shipping and handling while others can be quite costly. Also, don’t forget about taxes, some stores already add these costs in their price quote while others do not.
Purchasing an Item
Once you have found the perfect Christmas gift, and completed your comparison shopping, it’s time to make your purchase. Most online stores will let you use a credit card to make a purchase. This can be done directly on the site. Other online stores will require that you fax your credit card information.
For those without a credit card, or who are not comfortable using a credit card online, most stores have a check or money order policy. The advantage of using a credit card, however, is that most credit cards will remove a charge if there is a dispute over a charge, which provides you with extra protection when making an online purchase.
After completing your purchase, be sure to print out your order. This serves as your receipt and provides proof of your purchase. The order should also include a confirmation number, which makes it easier for you to check on and track your order.
Returning an Item
If you do decide to make a purchase from an online store that does not have a real store in your area, make sure to protect yourself and only buy from stores with a clear, stated return policy. It should also provide details as to how to file a complaint if merchandise is damaged or fails to meet expectations.
Also, look for virtual stores that include complete contact information, including an address, phone number, fax number, and e-mail address. Avoid stores that only provide a PO Box number. A store with a real street address is more likely to be legitimate and have your best interest in mind.
If you do run into a problem with a product, communicate with the online retailer through letters or e-mails, and be sure to keep copies of the correspondence.
Online shopping can reduce the stress of holiday shopping. By being a smart consumer, you can find the best deals, access a wider variety of goods, and enjoy a spectacular Christmas.
Take care
Paul
10 Christmas Gifts That Anyone Will Love
Morning All
With Christmas right around the corner, the pressure is on to find the perfect gift for the people on our holiday lists. But, finding the perfect gift can sometimes be more difficult than it seems. Luckily, your problems have been solved. Read on to discover 10 Christmas gifts that anyone will love.
1. Scented candles, incense, and scented oils
Scented candles and incense are an old favorite standby. With their pleasant scent and subtle ability to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere, how can you go wrong with scented candles and incense? Some scented candles can be costly. But, many dollar stores stock a variety of attractive scented candles, candleholders, and incense. Furthermore, they come in a wide array of scents to suit anybody’s taste.
Scented oils and oil diffusers are not as common as scented candles and incense. They can, however, still provide an alluring aroma and offer a slight change from traditional candles. In addition, diffusers come in a variety of designs to suit a person’s personal style.
2. Massage
Everyone enjoys the pleasure of a stress-reducing massage. It soothes aching muscles and rejuvenates both the mind and body. One easy way to provide the gift of massage is to buy a massage chair. Massage chairs create a kneading action, similar to that provided by a professional masseuse. Many have different speed settings to adjust the intensity of the massage and to focus on specific areas.
Or, take the gift of massage to a higher level. Buy that special someone on your list a gift certificate to a certified massage therapist. Better still, for a more approach, buy a few bottles of massage oil and place them in an attractive basket and give it as a gift – then provide the massage yourself!
3. Chocolate
Most everyone loves chocolate. To top it off, current research has indicated that eating quality, plain chocolate helps protect the body from high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health problems. Satisfy your loved one’s sweet tooth while showing you care by improving his health!
4. Sleepwear
Sleep is something we all do! Furthermore, there is nothing better than getting a good, restful night’s sleep. Help that person on your list get to sleep with some nice, cozy pajamas, a comfy robe or a warm pair of slippers. Or, for a sexy night’s sleep, buy that someone special a set of silky night gown or boxers – a Christmas gift you’ll both enjoy!
5. Plants or flowers
By the time Christmas rolls around, many people are suffering from a case of the winter blues. Help liven up someone’s winter by purchasing a new plant or a flower arrangement – remind your loved one that spring is right around the corner!
6. Music
Music also offers an escape from reality. Even if you don’t know what bands your loved one enjoys, you can rarely go wrong when purchasing a classical CD or a new age selection. These CD’s will help your loved one relax and perhaps even help her get to sleep on a restless night.
7. Bath oil
A wide variety of bath oils are available for both men and women. Not only does it provide for a sweet-smelling bath, but it can provide for a much-needed aromatherapy session of relaxation after a long day.
8. Yoga or gym memberships
Provide that special person on your list with a fun way to burn off excess energy, relieve stress, and stay healthy. Purchase a gift certificate to a local gym or nearby yoga class. To take it a step further, create a basket with a yoga mat, videos, a towel, and a water bottle.
9. Quilts
Everyone appreciates a nice, warm quilt – especially during the winter months of Christmastime. Buy a quilt for someone on your list and he will remember you every time he snuggles up to it in bed or covers up in front of the TV.
10. Herbal tea and flavored coffee
Herbal tea and coffee come in a vast array of flavors. In addition, herbal tea can serve many purposes – from teas to relax the body and aid with sleeping to teas that reenergize the body. Put together a decorated box filled with a variety of tea and coffee flavors and recipient will think of you for months to come as he sips away at the variety of flavors.
Christmas is a time to share and give. With these holiday tips, you will be sure to have a wonderful Christmas to remember.
Take care
Paul
With Christmas right around the corner, the pressure is on to find the perfect gift for the people on our holiday lists. But, finding the perfect gift can sometimes be more difficult than it seems. Luckily, your problems have been solved. Read on to discover 10 Christmas gifts that anyone will love.
1. Scented candles, incense, and scented oils
Scented candles and incense are an old favorite standby. With their pleasant scent and subtle ability to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere, how can you go wrong with scented candles and incense? Some scented candles can be costly. But, many dollar stores stock a variety of attractive scented candles, candleholders, and incense. Furthermore, they come in a wide array of scents to suit anybody’s taste.
Scented oils and oil diffusers are not as common as scented candles and incense. They can, however, still provide an alluring aroma and offer a slight change from traditional candles. In addition, diffusers come in a variety of designs to suit a person’s personal style.
2. Massage
Everyone enjoys the pleasure of a stress-reducing massage. It soothes aching muscles and rejuvenates both the mind and body. One easy way to provide the gift of massage is to buy a massage chair. Massage chairs create a kneading action, similar to that provided by a professional masseuse. Many have different speed settings to adjust the intensity of the massage and to focus on specific areas.
Or, take the gift of massage to a higher level. Buy that special someone on your list a gift certificate to a certified massage therapist. Better still, for a more approach, buy a few bottles of massage oil and place them in an attractive basket and give it as a gift – then provide the massage yourself!
3. Chocolate
Most everyone loves chocolate. To top it off, current research has indicated that eating quality, plain chocolate helps protect the body from high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health problems. Satisfy your loved one’s sweet tooth while showing you care by improving his health!
4. Sleepwear
Sleep is something we all do! Furthermore, there is nothing better than getting a good, restful night’s sleep. Help that person on your list get to sleep with some nice, cozy pajamas, a comfy robe or a warm pair of slippers. Or, for a sexy night’s sleep, buy that someone special a set of silky night gown or boxers – a Christmas gift you’ll both enjoy!
5. Plants or flowers
By the time Christmas rolls around, many people are suffering from a case of the winter blues. Help liven up someone’s winter by purchasing a new plant or a flower arrangement – remind your loved one that spring is right around the corner!
6. Music
Music also offers an escape from reality. Even if you don’t know what bands your loved one enjoys, you can rarely go wrong when purchasing a classical CD or a new age selection. These CD’s will help your loved one relax and perhaps even help her get to sleep on a restless night.
7. Bath oil
A wide variety of bath oils are available for both men and women. Not only does it provide for a sweet-smelling bath, but it can provide for a much-needed aromatherapy session of relaxation after a long day.
8. Yoga or gym memberships
Provide that special person on your list with a fun way to burn off excess energy, relieve stress, and stay healthy. Purchase a gift certificate to a local gym or nearby yoga class. To take it a step further, create a basket with a yoga mat, videos, a towel, and a water bottle.
9. Quilts
Everyone appreciates a nice, warm quilt – especially during the winter months of Christmastime. Buy a quilt for someone on your list and he will remember you every time he snuggles up to it in bed or covers up in front of the TV.
10. Herbal tea and flavored coffee
Herbal tea and coffee come in a vast array of flavors. In addition, herbal tea can serve many purposes – from teas to relax the body and aid with sleeping to teas that reenergize the body. Put together a decorated box filled with a variety of tea and coffee flavors and recipient will think of you for months to come as he sips away at the variety of flavors.
Christmas is a time to share and give. With these holiday tips, you will be sure to have a wonderful Christmas to remember.
Take care
Paul
Sunday, November 27, 2005
I hate wrappping presents!
Morning All
I don't know about you but I am not good at wrapping presents! I look at the wonderful way that some people manage to wrap presents and think - if only!
Well here are a few tips that you might find helpful if you are in the same boat as me!
Traditionally, when you think of gift wrapping, you visualize ribbons, wrapping paper, tape, and scissors. But in our modern society, we need to accommodate modern people as well. As working men and women, some of us don’t have the time to properly wrap gifts, as well, for whatever reason, some of us just don’t enjoy elaborate gift wrapping. For those of us who fit this latter profile, know that you have options. We will be giving tips about the traditional as well as not so traditional alternatives in gift wrapping, to ensure that your gift giving will be a success no matter which profile you fall under.
For the traditionalists who enjoy the classical gift wrapping, you will need your wrapping paper, tape, scissor, and ribbon. First of all, you’ll need to select an appropriate style of wrapping paper, so for what occasion are you giving this gift? Nowadays, wrapping papers come in many different varieties, from birthdays and weddings, to Easter and Christmas. So make sure you choose one that gives the right impression. You’ll want one that communicates to the recipient what the purpose is for you to send him/her a gift.
Now, how do you keep your paper strait and aligned? Many companies offer wrapping paper with grids marked on its backside of the design; cut along these lines and you can be confident that there wouldn’t be a jig-saw edge to match the flat side. These grids also come in handy when you’re trying to measure how much wrapping paper you’ll need to cut out, so use them as much as you can, that’s what they’re there for.
After making sure that the wrapping paper you measured out is one and half times the size of the object on every dimension, you can proceed with the taping. First you’ll want to put a piece of tape exactly in the middle where both ends of the wrapping paper meets. Next, you’ll ensure the fit is snug on all sides, and secure the centre connecting point with more tape to keep the form rigid. Now you crease the ends, knocking in two end flaps that are parallel to the other, establishing a triangular fold in the middle of both sides. Reinforce the crease; fold the triangle flap from bottom to top, then finish sealing the edge by overlapping the top triangle flap over the bottom one, and tape. Ribbons are optional, but if you choose to use them, make sure that you curl them with the non-sharp end of the scissors.
But what if you’re not a traditionalist? Well, we’ve got some ideas for you that will save you all the hassle with traditional wrapping while still “wrapping” your present.
Chances are, you don’t have the time to do the wrapping, but you still want to give a gift that’s aesthetically pleasing, so here’s what you can do. Look for an alternative that you’ll be satisfied with. Although alternatives to paper wrapping are not as common, or may not be as economical, they are definitely are available. One thing you can use is fabric. A fabric bag, or design material will create a warm and unique experience for the recipient. Make sure that the material fully covers the gift, so that it can be sealed by a single strip of ribbon. This’ll make gesture that this is intended to be an extra special. Finish off the wrapping by making a simple bow.
Decorated boxes provide for a quick and easy way to deliver your gift without having to deal with the hassle of paper gift wrapping. The key here is making sure your gift is appropriately sized for the box. Stuff the interior with tissue wrap, close the lid and finish with a simple ribbon tied into a bow.
The last option that we’ll mention here are gift bags. They convey the message of convenience with a flare of elegance. Gift bags are easy, and quick. Just place your parcel in the bag, and crunch up tissue papers to top off the bag and voila. No ribbon required.
So no matter how busy or inept you feel, there is a way for you to wrap a pretty present.
Take care and happy wrapping!
Paul
I don't know about you but I am not good at wrapping presents! I look at the wonderful way that some people manage to wrap presents and think - if only!
Well here are a few tips that you might find helpful if you are in the same boat as me!
Traditionally, when you think of gift wrapping, you visualize ribbons, wrapping paper, tape, and scissors. But in our modern society, we need to accommodate modern people as well. As working men and women, some of us don’t have the time to properly wrap gifts, as well, for whatever reason, some of us just don’t enjoy elaborate gift wrapping. For those of us who fit this latter profile, know that you have options. We will be giving tips about the traditional as well as not so traditional alternatives in gift wrapping, to ensure that your gift giving will be a success no matter which profile you fall under.
For the traditionalists who enjoy the classical gift wrapping, you will need your wrapping paper, tape, scissor, and ribbon. First of all, you’ll need to select an appropriate style of wrapping paper, so for what occasion are you giving this gift? Nowadays, wrapping papers come in many different varieties, from birthdays and weddings, to Easter and Christmas. So make sure you choose one that gives the right impression. You’ll want one that communicates to the recipient what the purpose is for you to send him/her a gift.
Now, how do you keep your paper strait and aligned? Many companies offer wrapping paper with grids marked on its backside of the design; cut along these lines and you can be confident that there wouldn’t be a jig-saw edge to match the flat side. These grids also come in handy when you’re trying to measure how much wrapping paper you’ll need to cut out, so use them as much as you can, that’s what they’re there for.
After making sure that the wrapping paper you measured out is one and half times the size of the object on every dimension, you can proceed with the taping. First you’ll want to put a piece of tape exactly in the middle where both ends of the wrapping paper meets. Next, you’ll ensure the fit is snug on all sides, and secure the centre connecting point with more tape to keep the form rigid. Now you crease the ends, knocking in two end flaps that are parallel to the other, establishing a triangular fold in the middle of both sides. Reinforce the crease; fold the triangle flap from bottom to top, then finish sealing the edge by overlapping the top triangle flap over the bottom one, and tape. Ribbons are optional, but if you choose to use them, make sure that you curl them with the non-sharp end of the scissors.
But what if you’re not a traditionalist? Well, we’ve got some ideas for you that will save you all the hassle with traditional wrapping while still “wrapping” your present.
Chances are, you don’t have the time to do the wrapping, but you still want to give a gift that’s aesthetically pleasing, so here’s what you can do. Look for an alternative that you’ll be satisfied with. Although alternatives to paper wrapping are not as common, or may not be as economical, they are definitely are available. One thing you can use is fabric. A fabric bag, or design material will create a warm and unique experience for the recipient. Make sure that the material fully covers the gift, so that it can be sealed by a single strip of ribbon. This’ll make gesture that this is intended to be an extra special. Finish off the wrapping by making a simple bow.
Decorated boxes provide for a quick and easy way to deliver your gift without having to deal with the hassle of paper gift wrapping. The key here is making sure your gift is appropriately sized for the box. Stuff the interior with tissue wrap, close the lid and finish with a simple ribbon tied into a bow.
The last option that we’ll mention here are gift bags. They convey the message of convenience with a flare of elegance. Gift bags are easy, and quick. Just place your parcel in the bag, and crunch up tissue papers to top off the bag and voila. No ribbon required.
So no matter how busy or inept you feel, there is a way for you to wrap a pretty present.
Take care and happy wrapping!
Paul
Buying for those you work with
Morning All
Have you given any thought to what you buy for those you work with?
It is difficult every holiday season to find the perfect gifts for your co-workers. You do not want to seem like a Scrooge, yet you can not spend your entire holiday budget on the office and have nothing left for the family. You may also be faced with the common dilemma that despite the five days a week you spend with these people, you are not quite close enough to now how to get buy them a personal gift. If you take the time to do some advance planning you may be able to give gifts confidently, find the perfect gifts for your co-workers, and keep some of your holiday bonus to boot.
If you have not waited until the last minute you are already on the right track. Do not make purchases out of desperation. This is when you spend three times more than you had planned only to wonder why you did not buy the item for your self. Buying items in bulk is a great time saver and you will have the enough perfect gifts for all your co-workers and maybe some friends and neighbors. A classic tradition is the gift basket. The gift basket may sound generic, but it is actually one of the most personable of all gifts if you take the time to make it personalized from you. You may not be able to buy in bulk a personalized gift for a bunch of different people with different interests. You can however make the basket unique to you. Create a basket that will say, “This is a present from your favorite co-worker.”; something that they will look at in there living room and remember you. It will be okay that everyone has the same basket because they will all be talking about the great “theme” basket they got from you for weeks.
Perhaps you may do a movie theme this year. Your basket will consist of microwave popcorn, candy, a classic DVD, gift certificates to your local rental store. Emergency-kits are perfect gifts for your co-workers, because who would not appreciate you thinking of them? Simply go to your local discount store and buy travel packs of your basic first-aid items, a gallon of water, beef jerky, a flash light, and you have emergency kits for your co-worker’s car trunks. Get creative and maybe a theme that is related to your company would also be a great idea.
If Christmas at the office means dipping just a little bit deeper in to the pocket for your co-workers, personalizing items is a nice way to add that extra touch.
There are plenty of malls with engraving kiosks that will personalize just about anything. Once again you can buy your perfect gifts for your co-workers, anything from paper weights to baseballs, and have them engraved with a funny inside joke at the office. Maybe you have a special affirmation or quote that you like to share, or even just your co-workers name on a small desk clock is one step up from a just a small desk clock. Personalizing is a great idea for book ends, plaques, picture frames, or even mouse pads.
If you feel you would like to make a long lasting impression this Christmas at the office, monthly gift clubs are definitely the way to go. You can find many well known companies that will provide catalogs for you to order anywhere from three, six, to twelve month gift clubs. For the nature and garden lover, you can have a new set of organic bulbs delivered ready to bloom on a monthly basis. Even better, you can have them delivered in bloom.
The perfect gifts for your co-workers can come once a month in all shapes and forms; like chocolate from around the world, beer from the continents, three bottles of wine a month, a case of wine a month! Gourmet meals and desserts are a neat treat for the working parent, these too can be shipped from anywhere around the world. Great gift ideas for your co-workers are not such a difficult task, if you start early, and think out of the box.
Hope that has helped prompt your thinking!
Take care
Paul
Have you given any thought to what you buy for those you work with?
It is difficult every holiday season to find the perfect gifts for your co-workers. You do not want to seem like a Scrooge, yet you can not spend your entire holiday budget on the office and have nothing left for the family. You may also be faced with the common dilemma that despite the five days a week you spend with these people, you are not quite close enough to now how to get buy them a personal gift. If you take the time to do some advance planning you may be able to give gifts confidently, find the perfect gifts for your co-workers, and keep some of your holiday bonus to boot.
If you have not waited until the last minute you are already on the right track. Do not make purchases out of desperation. This is when you spend three times more than you had planned only to wonder why you did not buy the item for your self. Buying items in bulk is a great time saver and you will have the enough perfect gifts for all your co-workers and maybe some friends and neighbors. A classic tradition is the gift basket. The gift basket may sound generic, but it is actually one of the most personable of all gifts if you take the time to make it personalized from you. You may not be able to buy in bulk a personalized gift for a bunch of different people with different interests. You can however make the basket unique to you. Create a basket that will say, “This is a present from your favorite co-worker.”; something that they will look at in there living room and remember you. It will be okay that everyone has the same basket because they will all be talking about the great “theme” basket they got from you for weeks.
Perhaps you may do a movie theme this year. Your basket will consist of microwave popcorn, candy, a classic DVD, gift certificates to your local rental store. Emergency-kits are perfect gifts for your co-workers, because who would not appreciate you thinking of them? Simply go to your local discount store and buy travel packs of your basic first-aid items, a gallon of water, beef jerky, a flash light, and you have emergency kits for your co-worker’s car trunks. Get creative and maybe a theme that is related to your company would also be a great idea.
If Christmas at the office means dipping just a little bit deeper in to the pocket for your co-workers, personalizing items is a nice way to add that extra touch.
There are plenty of malls with engraving kiosks that will personalize just about anything. Once again you can buy your perfect gifts for your co-workers, anything from paper weights to baseballs, and have them engraved with a funny inside joke at the office. Maybe you have a special affirmation or quote that you like to share, or even just your co-workers name on a small desk clock is one step up from a just a small desk clock. Personalizing is a great idea for book ends, plaques, picture frames, or even mouse pads.
If you feel you would like to make a long lasting impression this Christmas at the office, monthly gift clubs are definitely the way to go. You can find many well known companies that will provide catalogs for you to order anywhere from three, six, to twelve month gift clubs. For the nature and garden lover, you can have a new set of organic bulbs delivered ready to bloom on a monthly basis. Even better, you can have them delivered in bloom.
The perfect gifts for your co-workers can come once a month in all shapes and forms; like chocolate from around the world, beer from the continents, three bottles of wine a month, a case of wine a month! Gourmet meals and desserts are a neat treat for the working parent, these too can be shipped from anywhere around the world. Great gift ideas for your co-workers are not such a difficult task, if you start early, and think out of the box.
Hope that has helped prompt your thinking!
Take care
Paul
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Making memories for the Future - scrap booking!
Hi All
If your tired of seeing a shoebox full of mementos and pictures thrown carelessly into an already over stuffed closet, then you might want to consider learning the fun hobby of scrap booking. It’s true that there are some people that become so addicted to the craft that they decide to go into business for themselves, either by being a sales representative of scrapbook supplies or by teaching classes on it. Either way by learning the art of it you will ensure that your pictures and other keepsakes are safely kept in a decorative album. However, you will need to get a few basic supplies to start, but then you can graduate to creating special themed books for the seasons, such as Christmas. It might surprise you to learn about the themed ideas available for you to create.
When starting your basic supply kit you will need to realize that the different qualities of supplies vary. A good rule of thumb is to start small, but buy quality. There is a slightly higher expense, but you will not have to replace them over and again. A good idea to learn scrapping techniques is to take a beginners class, and practice your hobby with help and how to books and videos. This way you can practice without anyone seeing your learning steps into the world of scrapping .Beginning craft scrapping sets are available at any craft or discount stores, and the kits will contain the needed paper backgrounds and frames. Most kits include for beginners scissors, glue and stamps. Stamps are hole-punch devices that come in a variety of decorative shapes for the occasion, as for example a Christmas tree stamps or a smiling friendly snowman. After you become comfortable with the basics of scrap booking, you can move up in the world of stamping by purchasing other neat items, such as paper crimps, eyelet tools for threading, felt tip pins, red eye removal pins, templates for different shapes and letters, glue removal solutions, layouts, stickers, and a host of other type of decorative add-ons such as flowers and faux jewels.
Now that you know a few of the how-to of beginning your scrap book experience, and the basic supplies needed, you can then begin to start to think about all of the different scrap booking ideas that you can create for the Christmas holiday season. A word of caution needs to be injected here though, always make sure that you buy all of your paper products that are lignin and acid - free. These additives to paper products can damage and yellow your cherished memories in a few short years. The different types of themed Christmas scrap booking ideas will leave you in awe. You can always add to your themed list by using your imagination and creativity for themes. Take a glance at a few of the themed ideas.
If your tired of seeing a shoebox full of mementos and pictures thrown carelessly into an already over stuffed closet, then you might want to consider learning the fun hobby of scrap booking. It’s true that there are some people that become so addicted to the craft that they decide to go into business for themselves, either by being a sales representative of scrapbook supplies or by teaching classes on it. Either way by learning the art of it you will ensure that your pictures and other keepsakes are safely kept in a decorative album. However, you will need to get a few basic supplies to start, but then you can graduate to creating special themed books for the seasons, such as Christmas. It might surprise you to learn about the themed ideas available for you to create.
When starting your basic supply kit you will need to realize that the different qualities of supplies vary. A good rule of thumb is to start small, but buy quality. There is a slightly higher expense, but you will not have to replace them over and again. A good idea to learn scrapping techniques is to take a beginners class, and practice your hobby with help and how to books and videos. This way you can practice without anyone seeing your learning steps into the world of scrapping .Beginning craft scrapping sets are available at any craft or discount stores, and the kits will contain the needed paper backgrounds and frames. Most kits include for beginners scissors, glue and stamps. Stamps are hole-punch devices that come in a variety of decorative shapes for the occasion, as for example a Christmas tree stamps or a smiling friendly snowman. After you become comfortable with the basics of scrap booking, you can move up in the world of stamping by purchasing other neat items, such as paper crimps, eyelet tools for threading, felt tip pins, red eye removal pins, templates for different shapes and letters, glue removal solutions, layouts, stickers, and a host of other type of decorative add-ons such as flowers and faux jewels.
Now that you know a few of the how-to of beginning your scrap book experience, and the basic supplies needed, you can then begin to start to think about all of the different scrap booking ideas that you can create for the Christmas holiday season. A word of caution needs to be injected here though, always make sure that you buy all of your paper products that are lignin and acid - free. These additives to paper products can damage and yellow your cherished memories in a few short years. The different types of themed Christmas scrap booking ideas will leave you in awe. You can always add to your themed list by using your imagination and creativity for themes. Take a glance at a few of the themed ideas.
- Wedding Christmas
- Anniversary Christmas
- First Christmas Together
- Baby’s First Christmas
- Baby’s First Birthday Christmas
- First Communion Christmas
- Home For The Holidays Christmas
- College Year Christmas
- Vacation Christmas
- Family Christmas
- Grandparents Christmas
- Friends Christmas
- New Pet Christmas
- Church Celebration Christmas
- Community First Christmas
- Military Christmas Memories Christmas
- Memorial Christmas
Sit down with a pen and paper in hand and brain storm about the different themed ideas that you can come up, and in no time you will be wondering if there is enough time to do it all! Remember with lots of practice you will be a scrap booking professional.
You will be adding advanced decorative ideas that will make your Christmas scrapbooks as unique and as individualized as you are. Experimentation with adding cute charms, pressed flowers, buttons and snowy white acrylic paints to your photos and keepsakes will make a themed holiday Christmas photo album a work of art to display, and to show to friends any time of the year.
However you begin your scrapping fantasy remember to have a lot of fun, and take you time in learning the art of it. The Christmas season is a time of wonder and magic, and by learning the art of scrapping you will have a valuable resource of artful memories to relive it all again.
Take care
Paul
Christmas is a time of memories
Evening All
As much as I enjoy Christmas with my partner who always makes it an incredible and wonderful time of year I cannot help but remember those who have passed on. It is hard to believe that it is now 15 years since Mum died and as another Christmas approaches she, my Father and all those we have lost are in our thoughts.
Mum passed away on 11th December after a few weeks of rapid decline and her Funeral took place on 18th December. I am sure you can imagine how very little we felt like celebrating Christmas that year. However, Dad was insistent that in some way we would maintain the traditions that Mum had loved and that we would sit down as a Family for Christmas Dinner - as Mum would have wanted us to.
Every Christmas, wherever we were in the world we could always count on coming home to a house full of excitement, laughter and good quality fun with the family. But it was not like that at all and it felt like nothing would ever be the same again. The previous year’s Christmas would forever be the Christmas my entire family can hold on to as a memory that we celebrated Christmas as a complete family. It’s one of those memories that I can, and will never allow myself to forget. It was a time of joy, love, peace, and goodness. Now all that we have is a memory, something that we can only reflect on and never experience again.
Losing a loved one so near Christmas was the worst Christmas I could ever imagine. It clearly was not the same, and can never be the same again. It is also important to remember though, that life does and will go on whether or not you’re ready for it. It is essential to cling on to those who you can lean on to for support in these times of hardship, and sorrow.
People you can depend on will inevitably become the stepping stone of your strength in pulling yourself back together. The blessings of a loving, and supportive family was the most important thing for me.
In times where your hardships are greatest, you will find that it is your family that you can count on to provide that beacon of light to direct you to safer grounds. As difficult it is to suffer such a great loss, it is comforting to know that such a powerful strength is still available to you. You will never value or appreciate the full meaning and worth of family until you’ve tested its unconditional love.
Christmas and holidays are special occasions where we spend quality time with loved ones: family and friends. Although it’s not always possible to spend time with them, take comfort in knowing that there will always be people who genuinely care for us and love us. Take comfort too from the knowledge that those you have lost are still with you.
Take care and God bless
Paul
As much as I enjoy Christmas with my partner who always makes it an incredible and wonderful time of year I cannot help but remember those who have passed on. It is hard to believe that it is now 15 years since Mum died and as another Christmas approaches she, my Father and all those we have lost are in our thoughts.
Mum passed away on 11th December after a few weeks of rapid decline and her Funeral took place on 18th December. I am sure you can imagine how very little we felt like celebrating Christmas that year. However, Dad was insistent that in some way we would maintain the traditions that Mum had loved and that we would sit down as a Family for Christmas Dinner - as Mum would have wanted us to.
Every Christmas, wherever we were in the world we could always count on coming home to a house full of excitement, laughter and good quality fun with the family. But it was not like that at all and it felt like nothing would ever be the same again. The previous year’s Christmas would forever be the Christmas my entire family can hold on to as a memory that we celebrated Christmas as a complete family. It’s one of those memories that I can, and will never allow myself to forget. It was a time of joy, love, peace, and goodness. Now all that we have is a memory, something that we can only reflect on and never experience again.
Losing a loved one so near Christmas was the worst Christmas I could ever imagine. It clearly was not the same, and can never be the same again. It is also important to remember though, that life does and will go on whether or not you’re ready for it. It is essential to cling on to those who you can lean on to for support in these times of hardship, and sorrow.
People you can depend on will inevitably become the stepping stone of your strength in pulling yourself back together. The blessings of a loving, and supportive family was the most important thing for me.
In times where your hardships are greatest, you will find that it is your family that you can count on to provide that beacon of light to direct you to safer grounds. As difficult it is to suffer such a great loss, it is comforting to know that such a powerful strength is still available to you. You will never value or appreciate the full meaning and worth of family until you’ve tested its unconditional love.
Christmas and holidays are special occasions where we spend quality time with loved ones: family and friends. Although it’s not always possible to spend time with them, take comfort in knowing that there will always be people who genuinely care for us and love us. Take comfort too from the knowledge that those you have lost are still with you.
Take care and God bless
Paul
Deck the Halls! Ideas for making your home beautiful this Yuletide!
Evening all
The department stores start decorating for Christmas on the first day of November although sometimes it seems like a lot earlier!
It makes you start to think about how you will deck your house this holiday season. There’s the tree, of course, and the lights, but how will you put it all together? Will you do it just the same as last year, or is there something you can add to bring your home a little extra holiday cheer? With a few tried and true ideas and a few fun and interesting ones, you can combine holiday decorating ideas into a beautiful and welcoming home this year. The first thing to think about is the tree, but then there are also do-it-yourself ideas and also experiments with food to try.
The Christmas tree is the central piece to holiday decorations.
There are a couple of options to consider when decorating your tree. Whether you use a real tree or an ornamental one and whether you have a miniature tree or one that nearly touches ten-foot ceilings, the options are the same. Some people choose to decorate elegantly with matching bulbs and clear lights. These trees range from simple to gaudy, but tend to look the same in each family’s home year after year. If it’s time to change the decorations on your tree, call in the troops. Children offer excellent, quality help when it comes to decorating for Christmas. Let go of the urge for symmetry and have your kids get out the craft supplies.
They will use bright color and exceptional creative impulses. With clay, paper, popcorn and candy canes, you and your kids can spend a few afternoons in the months before Christmas making the tree decorations. With all of the variation and having nothing match, you will be surprised at how balanced and beautiful your tree will look.
If you did cut your tree, save the boughs that you trim from the bottom. Tree greens are very useful in holiday decorating. You can use them to decorate the background for your nativity set or your miniature Christmas village or train set. If it is convenient, put the ends in water so the needles will stay on the branches for as long as possible.
You can also use the greens to make your own wreaths. Lace them with lights or add flowers or holly for added color and interest. As long as you don’t leave them unattended, candles are also versatile decorative items. They may be placed all over the house to create a warm atmosphere. Also try using colors and scents to enhance their usefulness in each room. With a hot-glue gun and candy-canes or holiday-themed miniatures you can decorate your larger candles and candle holders. Making these decorations by yourself is a low-cost way to make your home beautiful. Greenery and candles have a relatively short lifespan, so you will be able to start fresh again next year.
One of the most useful and welcoming Christmas decorations is food. Placing decorative plates and bowls around your home full of fudge, candy canes and cookies says that you have some Christmas spirit. Not only will your guests appreciate a little snack, the Christmas goodies are colorful and add to your decorations. Cinnamon candy can be home-made and the glassy shards are bright red. Sugar cookies can be frosted in red, green, gold, and white. Fudge and other candies can be pressed with colored sugar. To minimize stale food, bake ahead of time and freeze what you don’t put out on your plates.
When guests will be arriving, simply pull out the frozen goodies a couple of hours ahead of time. As your guests wander through your gorgeous home nibbling, you will be sure to get many compliments on how cheery you have made it.
Every year the decorating for the holidays starts all over. You and your kids can get into the excitement when you use some creativity and imagine the kind of atmosphere you’d like to have this Christmas. Sometimes it is nice to pull out the familiar decorations from years past, but sometimes it can be fun to start from scratch.
Trying out some disposable decorations like Christmas greens, candles and snack food will ensure a fresh feeling in this year’s decorating. Use your imagination and have fun making your home ready for holiday entertaining and celebrations. Make the most of the small things and your efforts will be successful.
Take care
Paul
The department stores start decorating for Christmas on the first day of November although sometimes it seems like a lot earlier!
It makes you start to think about how you will deck your house this holiday season. There’s the tree, of course, and the lights, but how will you put it all together? Will you do it just the same as last year, or is there something you can add to bring your home a little extra holiday cheer? With a few tried and true ideas and a few fun and interesting ones, you can combine holiday decorating ideas into a beautiful and welcoming home this year. The first thing to think about is the tree, but then there are also do-it-yourself ideas and also experiments with food to try.
The Christmas tree is the central piece to holiday decorations.There are a couple of options to consider when decorating your tree. Whether you use a real tree or an ornamental one and whether you have a miniature tree or one that nearly touches ten-foot ceilings, the options are the same. Some people choose to decorate elegantly with matching bulbs and clear lights. These trees range from simple to gaudy, but tend to look the same in each family’s home year after year. If it’s time to change the decorations on your tree, call in the troops. Children offer excellent, quality help when it comes to decorating for Christmas. Let go of the urge for symmetry and have your kids get out the craft supplies.
They will use bright color and exceptional creative impulses. With clay, paper, popcorn and candy canes, you and your kids can spend a few afternoons in the months before Christmas making the tree decorations. With all of the variation and having nothing match, you will be surprised at how balanced and beautiful your tree will look.
If you did cut your tree, save the boughs that you trim from the bottom. Tree greens are very useful in holiday decorating. You can use them to decorate the background for your nativity set or your miniature Christmas village or train set. If it is convenient, put the ends in water so the needles will stay on the branches for as long as possible.
You can also use the greens to make your own wreaths. Lace them with lights or add flowers or holly for added color and interest. As long as you don’t leave them unattended, candles are also versatile decorative items. They may be placed all over the house to create a warm atmosphere. Also try using colors and scents to enhance their usefulness in each room. With a hot-glue gun and candy-canes or holiday-themed miniatures you can decorate your larger candles and candle holders. Making these decorations by yourself is a low-cost way to make your home beautiful. Greenery and candles have a relatively short lifespan, so you will be able to start fresh again next year.
One of the most useful and welcoming Christmas decorations is food. Placing decorative plates and bowls around your home full of fudge, candy canes and cookies says that you have some Christmas spirit. Not only will your guests appreciate a little snack, the Christmas goodies are colorful and add to your decorations. Cinnamon candy can be home-made and the glassy shards are bright red. Sugar cookies can be frosted in red, green, gold, and white. Fudge and other candies can be pressed with colored sugar. To minimize stale food, bake ahead of time and freeze what you don’t put out on your plates.
When guests will be arriving, simply pull out the frozen goodies a couple of hours ahead of time. As your guests wander through your gorgeous home nibbling, you will be sure to get many compliments on how cheery you have made it.
Every year the decorating for the holidays starts all over. You and your kids can get into the excitement when you use some creativity and imagine the kind of atmosphere you’d like to have this Christmas. Sometimes it is nice to pull out the familiar decorations from years past, but sometimes it can be fun to start from scratch.
Trying out some disposable decorations like Christmas greens, candles and snack food will ensure a fresh feeling in this year’s decorating. Use your imagination and have fun making your home ready for holiday entertaining and celebrations. Make the most of the small things and your efforts will be successful.
Take care
Paul
Helping Children understand the true meaning of Christmas
Hi again!
The true meaning of Christmas is sometimes crowded out by the frenzy of buying and gift giving. Our children are assaulted on all sides by the secular version of Santa Clause and the TV commercials showing them the latest toys and games. How can we teach our children the true meaning of Christmas, without taking away all the secular revelry?
One way to do that is to celebrate Advent. Advent traditionally starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve. The four weeks leading up to Christmas Day is considered advent. The length of the season depends on which day Christmas falls on for that year. It can last from 22 to 28 days. There are so many ways to make Christmas special and give your children the true meaning. Advent can be the start of daily Bible readings that lead up to the birth of Jesus. Each week has special verses that lead to Christmas Day.
Explain to your child that the gift of the baby Jesus is why we celebrate Christmas and give gifts to others.
Keep an advent calendar and as each day goes by, celebrate that special day with a favorite
Bible verse, or Christmas Carol. The countdown to Christmas is visible and the reason for Christmas is reinforced daily.When Christmas cards begin arriving, make them into an Advent wreath and use your prayer time to pray for the senders of the cards. This can instill in a child the need to pray for others, and to thank God for the gift of friends and family.
Engage your whole family in an Advent service project. Collect money or food to give to local charities that see an increased need at this time. Call the Salvation Army for names of families who need “adopted” for the Holiday. Encourage your child to share their good fortune by giving a gift to a child who is needy. The Salvation Army has set up an Angel tree in the mall and a child’s name appears on each paper ornament. Help your child to choose a name and buy a gift for that child to have on Christmas Day. Let your child see you donate to a church’s gift giving project, or send a special package to a missionary family.
The nativity set is also an important part of Christmas traditions. Let your child help set it up and tell them stories about the animals as you set them out. One tradition is to set up the manger scene and each day move the figures in a little closer to Baby Jesus’ manger.
Have a craft time when all the family gets together to make a craft that will be a new ornament
on the tree or a new Christmas decoration they will treasure from year to year.Sing the Christmas carols with your children. The songs of Christmas that we grew up with are still out there for us to enjoy with our children. Take them as a group to sing carols in a nursing home. The people in nursing homes love children and Christmas and sometimes don’t have family members or young children in their own families to visit them.
Adopt a grandma or grandpa from the inhabitants of the home. The staff can tell you who gets visitors and who doesn’t. Let your child pick out a small gift to give them, help them to wrap it and make it special for them. Give them a sense of giving and the good feeling it provides.
On Christmas Eve, we conclude the celebration of the Advent season.
A birthday cake for Jesus and the Happy Birthday song will reinforce that Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Prepare a nativity play, or put on your own nativity scene complete with little angels and your family pets as part of the scenery.Christmas Day is an important time to instill in your child the true meaning of Christmas. Start with a prayer of thanks for the most wonderful gift of all, and have each of them say a word of thanks for another family member. Instead of rushing to drag the gifts from under the tree, prayer and family time will help your child realize that Christmas is about the greatest gift of all. The birth of Jesus
Take care and God bless you and your family
Paul
The Origins of the Christmas Tree
Hi All
Whether it's a towering 10Ft real tree or a smaller fake tree we all like to decorate our homes with a Christmas Tree at this special time of the year!
The origins of the Christmas tree, like many other Christmas traditions originated in Germany. In the 7th century a monk from Devonshire traveled to Germany to preach the word of God. He spent time in Thuringia, an area of Germany which became the center of the Christmas Decoration industry. Legend says he used the triangular shape of the fir tree to describe the Trinity of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. People began revering the fir tree instead of the traditional oak. The original Christmas trees were hung, upside down from ceilings as a symbol of Christianity.
In Latvia, the first decorated tree appeared in 1510. Martin Luther is said to have been coming home and seeing the stars shining brightly through the fir trees and lighted the dark night, decided to add candles to his tree.
Christmas trees have been decorated with many different items. Food items were the symbol of plenty and paper flowers were symbolic of the tree in the Garden of Eden. Red flowers symbolized knowledge and white ones for innocence.
Another staple of the decorated Christmas tree is tinsel. It too originated in Germany around 1610. An interesting fact is that the original tinsel was actually made with pulled silver. It was durable, but did tarnish quickly. Silver was used for tinsel up to the mid 20th century.
Georgian Kings brought the first Christmas trees to England. Since the English didn’t like the German Monarchy, they didn’t copy their court by putting up Christmas Trees.
A few families did have Christmas trees as a result of the influence of their German neighbors. The Christmas tree didn’t grow into popularity among the English until the reign of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The German born Prince had the family standing around the Christmas tree and it was illustrated in the London News. Since Queen Victoria was very popular the tradition began to be copied and quickly spread from England to the shores of The East Coast in American society.
The first trees were decorated with silver tinsel, silver wire ornaments, small beads and candles. The decorations were home-made and young ladies spent hours working on Christmas crafts. They sewed little pouches for secret gifts, made paper baskets in which sugared almonds were placed and made beautiful angels to sit on top of the tree.
Glass ornaments appeared around 1870. They were imported from Thuringia to England and became a status symbol. The more glass ornaments on the tree, the better the social status. Flags also became popular to decorate the tree as the British Empire grew. Flags of allied countries as well as the Empire were hung on the patriotic trees.
In the 1800’s many innovations came along to change the Christmas tree forever. The introduction of electric lights, in 1882 and metal hooks for hanging decorations on the tree safely are just a couple.
Trees sat on tables until the late 1800’s. Each family member had a tree on the table and his or her gifts were placed around their own tree. They began to stand on the floor and came in larger varieties and sizes. Soon manufactured trees began appearing. The tree wavered in popularity due to times of mourning for Queen Victoria, wars, and hard times.
Large trees were decorated and erected in public places to help the morale of the people during the hard times.
Real Christmas trees are still very popular, and what fun it is to go and tag your tree early in the fall and have it ready to be picked up on your specified date. It can be a family tradition with each member looking for the “perfect” tree. In this modern time, the manufactured trees have gained in popularity. These perfectly shaped trees can be put up and taken down without a single needle dropping into the carpet. They are so natural looking that many times it fools everyone. You can even buy pine sprays to put on your tree to make it smell real.
The newest item is the already lit Christmas tree. This was a brilliant idea and simplified life for many households. All you need to do is set up the tree, plug it in and then decorate it. No more messing with strings of tangled lights and wrapping them around the tree.
Enjoy your tree whatever you do!
Take care
Paul
Who is Santa Claus?
Hi
Have you ever wondered who Santa Claus is? Does he really come from Iceland? Why do we always see him in Red and White? Here are some of the stories behind the legend of Father Christmas.
Who doesn’t love the jolly old man dressed in red with his big belly and snowy white beard. The holidays will find Santa Claus everywhere. At the mall, private parties, decorating a lawn or landing on a roof, but do you know where he originated?
The original Santa Claus was St. Nicholas. He is the patron saint of sailors, Sicily, Greece and Russia, and of course children. St. Nicholas was born in Turkey in the fourth century and became widely known for his generosity and devoting his life to Christianity. The Romans imprisoned and tortured him for his beliefs. When Constantine became emperor of Rome, he released Nicholas. St. Nicholas went on giving presents to the poor and especially to the children, explaining Christmas to children as he passed them out.
His name is derived from Sinter Klaas, which is the Dutch name for the mythical saint. Santa Claus is part of the Christmas tradition throughout the English-speaking world, as well as Japan and Latin America.
Other names he is known by are:
Most parents that celebrate Christmas actively try to convince their children of Santa’s existence. They are usually successful until an older sibling or friend whispers the horrifying words, “There is no Santa Claus.” Parents at least try to keep the source of their presents a secret and give Santa Claus the credit for bringing the gifts.
Father Christmas originated in Britain and remains the British name for Santa Claus. He was pictured as a well-fed man in a long green, fur-lined robe. He was known to typify the spirit of cheer at Christmas and was represented as “The Spirit of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol, written by Charles Dickens.
It’s an American tradition for children to leave Santa Claus milk and cookies on his yearly visit and of course, a carrot for Santa’s reindeer. He is known to fit down any chimney and if there isn’t a fireplace in the home, he will create one especially for Christmas Eve. He leaves the same way he came after leaving gifts under the tree and filling all the stockings left by hopeful children.
Many Christian churches discourage the focus on Santa Claus as they feel it takes away from the real focus of the holiday, which is the birth of Jesus. No one knows the actual birth date of Jesus but a clerical decision was made to keep a religious focus into some of the more carnal festivities that people were indulging in during the Yule festivals that originated in by the Romans and Germans.
The myth of Santa Claus is not only perpetuated by parents, but also by the media, malls, and even the post office. Canada has a special zip code for letters to Santa. It is HOH OHO. Many letters and requests are received by the post office every year. Postal workers or volunteers sometimes answer letters. There are special websites for Santa so children can send e-mails to Santa requesting gifts and telling him how good they’ve been the previous year.
One of the more popular Santa Claus comes to town in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. He rides in the last float and then takes up residency in a large portion of one floor. You can find Santa everywhere during the Holidays but Macy’s Santa was made famous in several movies.
Legend has Santa Claus living at the North Pole with Mrs. Claus and the elves. The elves are the production workers that work year-round to make all the toys requested by the millions of children throughout the world. At first, all toys were handmade individually by each elf, but in the modern world, it has been mechanized and toys are created assembly line style.
In whatever form you picture Santa Claus, he is an integral part of the Christmas tradition. He will remain a part as long as the myth of Santa Clause is repeated to each generation.
Does he really exist? Of course he does in our hearts!
Take care
Paul
Have you ever wondered who Santa Claus is? Does he really come from Iceland? Why do we always see him in Red and White? Here are some of the stories behind the legend of Father Christmas.
Who doesn’t love the jolly old man dressed in red with his big belly and snowy white beard. The holidays will find Santa Claus everywhere. At the mall, private parties, decorating a lawn or landing on a roof, but do you know where he originated?
The original Santa Claus was St. Nicholas. He is the patron saint of sailors, Sicily, Greece and Russia, and of course children. St. Nicholas was born in Turkey in the fourth century and became widely known for his generosity and devoting his life to Christianity. The Romans imprisoned and tortured him for his beliefs. When Constantine became emperor of Rome, he released Nicholas. St. Nicholas went on giving presents to the poor and especially to the children, explaining Christmas to children as he passed them out.
His name is derived from Sinter Klaas, which is the Dutch name for the mythical saint. Santa Claus is part of the Christmas tradition throughout the English-speaking world, as well as Japan and Latin America.
Other names he is known by are:
- Father Christmas
- Saint Nick
- Kris Kringle
- Saint Nicholas
- Papa Noel
- Noel Father.
Most parents that celebrate Christmas actively try to convince their children of Santa’s existence. They are usually successful until an older sibling or friend whispers the horrifying words, “There is no Santa Claus.” Parents at least try to keep the source of their presents a secret and give Santa Claus the credit for bringing the gifts.
Father Christmas originated in Britain and remains the British name for Santa Claus. He was pictured as a well-fed man in a long green, fur-lined robe. He was known to typify the spirit of cheer at Christmas and was represented as “The Spirit of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol, written by Charles Dickens.
It’s an American tradition for children to leave Santa Claus milk and cookies on his yearly visit and of course, a carrot for Santa’s reindeer. He is known to fit down any chimney and if there isn’t a fireplace in the home, he will create one especially for Christmas Eve. He leaves the same way he came after leaving gifts under the tree and filling all the stockings left by hopeful children.
Many Christian churches discourage the focus on Santa Claus as they feel it takes away from the real focus of the holiday, which is the birth of Jesus. No one knows the actual birth date of Jesus but a clerical decision was made to keep a religious focus into some of the more carnal festivities that people were indulging in during the Yule festivals that originated in by the Romans and Germans.
The myth of Santa Claus is not only perpetuated by parents, but also by the media, malls, and even the post office. Canada has a special zip code for letters to Santa. It is HOH OHO. Many letters and requests are received by the post office every year. Postal workers or volunteers sometimes answer letters. There are special websites for Santa so children can send e-mails to Santa requesting gifts and telling him how good they’ve been the previous year.
One of the more popular Santa Claus comes to town in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. He rides in the last float and then takes up residency in a large portion of one floor. You can find Santa everywhere during the Holidays but Macy’s Santa was made famous in several movies.
Legend has Santa Claus living at the North Pole with Mrs. Claus and the elves. The elves are the production workers that work year-round to make all the toys requested by the millions of children throughout the world. At first, all toys were handmade individually by each elf, but in the modern world, it has been mechanized and toys are created assembly line style.
In whatever form you picture Santa Claus, he is an integral part of the Christmas tradition. He will remain a part as long as the myth of Santa Clause is repeated to each generation.
Does he really exist? Of course he does in our hearts!
Take care
Paul
Christmas Traditions
Hi again!
Do you have lots of traditions in your family at Christmas Time? They are very much part of our way of life and each year we do some of the same things. Some of them are traditions we have inherited from our parents and others are things which have become special for us.
I thought it would be nice to start by looking at some of the traditions from people from around the world have at Christmas.
Christmas traditions around the world are as colorful and have as much tradition as we do in America. In India, they celebrate Christmas in much the same way as we do. It’s an official holiday, people attend church, and Hindu children that go to missionary school participate in the festivities. The educational system takes a holiday beginning right before Christmas and goes through the first few days of the New Year. They call it Bada din or the big day, and it revolves around shopping and Santa Claus too.
In Japan Christmas in not an official holiday and has less importance than New Year’s Day. Santa Claus is not as important to the Japanese as he is to Americans. New Years Day is the official day to get together with family. Christmas is more a day for lovers. They celebrate by having a special date and strolling around looking at Christmas lights erected by companies to make it feel more romantic. One of the highlights of the Christmas season in Japan is the giving of the Christmas cake, a white-frosted cake symbolizing a birthday cake for Jesus. It often has strawberries on it.
Christmas in the Philippines is started with nine-day dawn masses that start on December 16. The Philippines celebrate the world’s longest Christmas season. Family members eat together on Christmas Eve after midnight mass.
South America is heavily Catholic so the religious aspect is predominating. Their celebrations are a mixture of traditions from both Europe and Native Americans. They have traditions that involve gift giving and family Christmas meals are very important. Villages often act out the events surrounding the birth of the Christ child. Nativity scenes are a major feature of Christmas in South America.
Australia is known for starting a tradition around 1938 of Carols by Candlelight. People gather outdoors and sing carols either on Christmas Eve or an evening right before Christmas. That custom has spread around the world. Australians celebrate Christmas on December 25th even though it’s the middle of the summer season. Obviously a few traditions are different because of the hot weather. It isn’t unusual to see Santa surfing in to the beach for an outdoor barbeque.
In Europe where much of the Christmas traditions originated still, celebrate today as they did many years ago. People usually stay in close family circles and it’s considered sad if you have to spend Christmas alone. Gifts are given but Little Jesus gives them or they know their parents are the ones that bought them. Many people go to Catholic Mass on Christmas Eve and it’s not uncommon for this to be the only time in the year that Church is attended.
Peter brought the Great Christmas in Russia after he finished traveling in the western world late in the 18th century. After decades under communist rule, Christmas was revived around 1992. Russia celebrates Christmas Eve with a twelve-course meal to honor each of the apostles and gifts are given on New Years Day by either Grandfather Frost or his helper the Snow Maiden. Their Christmas traditions also include a “yolka” or Christmas tree.
In Germany, traditions vary by region. Gifts are given on Christmas Eve after a small meal. Gifts are brought by someone who resembles Saint Nicholas or by “Christ Kind” who may represent the Baby Jesus.
Christmas starts with Santa Lucia Day on December 13 for Sweden. Father Christmas brings gifts on Christmas Eve. Companies often celebrate by hosting a lunch for their employees. One of the most interesting traditions of the Swedes is the watching of a Disney special on Christmas Eve at 3 PM.
In Norway, they also have a tradition of watching Disney. Norwegians celebrate on December 24th with large dinners and gifts given by “Juvenescent” to children who have been well behaved. Boxing Day follows a quiet Christmas day and children go door to door to gather treats, gifts and money much as our children do on Halloween. The official end of Christmas is January 6th.
Christmas traditions around the world are varied but all have a central theme. The birth of Christ, gift giving and family traditions are all celebrated in many ways. We may celebrate in a different way, someone other than Santa Clause may deliver the gifts, but Christmas is still celebrated throughout the world as a special day for family.
What Christmas Traditions do your Family have?
Take care
Paul
Do you have lots of traditions in your family at Christmas Time? They are very much part of our way of life and each year we do some of the same things. Some of them are traditions we have inherited from our parents and others are things which have become special for us.
I thought it would be nice to start by looking at some of the traditions from people from around the world have at Christmas.
Christmas traditions around the world are as colorful and have as much tradition as we do in America. In India, they celebrate Christmas in much the same way as we do. It’s an official holiday, people attend church, and Hindu children that go to missionary school participate in the festivities. The educational system takes a holiday beginning right before Christmas and goes through the first few days of the New Year. They call it Bada din or the big day, and it revolves around shopping and Santa Claus too.
In Japan Christmas in not an official holiday and has less importance than New Year’s Day. Santa Claus is not as important to the Japanese as he is to Americans. New Years Day is the official day to get together with family. Christmas is more a day for lovers. They celebrate by having a special date and strolling around looking at Christmas lights erected by companies to make it feel more romantic. One of the highlights of the Christmas season in Japan is the giving of the Christmas cake, a white-frosted cake symbolizing a birthday cake for Jesus. It often has strawberries on it.
Christmas in the Philippines is started with nine-day dawn masses that start on December 16. The Philippines celebrate the world’s longest Christmas season. Family members eat together on Christmas Eve after midnight mass.
South America is heavily Catholic so the religious aspect is predominating. Their celebrations are a mixture of traditions from both Europe and Native Americans. They have traditions that involve gift giving and family Christmas meals are very important. Villages often act out the events surrounding the birth of the Christ child. Nativity scenes are a major feature of Christmas in South America.
Australia is known for starting a tradition around 1938 of Carols by Candlelight. People gather outdoors and sing carols either on Christmas Eve or an evening right before Christmas. That custom has spread around the world. Australians celebrate Christmas on December 25th even though it’s the middle of the summer season. Obviously a few traditions are different because of the hot weather. It isn’t unusual to see Santa surfing in to the beach for an outdoor barbeque.
In Europe where much of the Christmas traditions originated still, celebrate today as they did many years ago. People usually stay in close family circles and it’s considered sad if you have to spend Christmas alone. Gifts are given but Little Jesus gives them or they know their parents are the ones that bought them. Many people go to Catholic Mass on Christmas Eve and it’s not uncommon for this to be the only time in the year that Church is attended.
Peter brought the Great Christmas in Russia after he finished traveling in the western world late in the 18th century. After decades under communist rule, Christmas was revived around 1992. Russia celebrates Christmas Eve with a twelve-course meal to honor each of the apostles and gifts are given on New Years Day by either Grandfather Frost or his helper the Snow Maiden. Their Christmas traditions also include a “yolka” or Christmas tree.
In Germany, traditions vary by region. Gifts are given on Christmas Eve after a small meal. Gifts are brought by someone who resembles Saint Nicholas or by “Christ Kind” who may represent the Baby Jesus.
Christmas starts with Santa Lucia Day on December 13 for Sweden. Father Christmas brings gifts on Christmas Eve. Companies often celebrate by hosting a lunch for their employees. One of the most interesting traditions of the Swedes is the watching of a Disney special on Christmas Eve at 3 PM.
In Norway, they also have a tradition of watching Disney. Norwegians celebrate on December 24th with large dinners and gifts given by “Juvenescent” to children who have been well behaved. Boxing Day follows a quiet Christmas day and children go door to door to gather treats, gifts and money much as our children do on Halloween. The official end of Christmas is January 6th.
Christmas traditions around the world are varied but all have a central theme. The birth of Christ, gift giving and family traditions are all celebrated in many ways. We may celebrate in a different way, someone other than Santa Clause may deliver the gifts, but Christmas is still celebrated throughout the world as a special day for family.
What Christmas Traditions do your Family have?
Take care
Paul
Are you getting ready for Christmas?
Hi to all our friends!
A month from today is Christmas Day! How quickly the season comes round each year! It seems like only yesterday that we were all enjoying the delights of another Christmas and here you are before we know it there's another Christmas upon us.
Have you got everything ready? Are all the presents bought and wrapped waiting to go under the tree? What's that i hear? No! Oh dear well it's a good job that our dear friend Santa has asked us to share some of his very best tips from around the world on how to be absolutely ready to celebrate the very best Christmas you can!
Over the weeks and days leading up to the "Big Day" when we celebrate the birth of Our Lord you will find every piece of advice you could ever want on how to make Christmas truly wonderful for your family!
Take care
Paul {aka Santa's not so little helper :-)}
A month from today is Christmas Day! How quickly the season comes round each year! It seems like only yesterday that we were all enjoying the delights of another Christmas and here you are before we know it there's another Christmas upon us.
Have you got everything ready? Are all the presents bought and wrapped waiting to go under the tree? What's that i hear? No! Oh dear well it's a good job that our dear friend Santa has asked us to share some of his very best tips from around the world on how to be absolutely ready to celebrate the very best Christmas you can!
Over the weeks and days leading up to the "Big Day" when we celebrate the birth of Our Lord you will find every piece of advice you could ever want on how to make Christmas truly wonderful for your family!
Take care
Paul {aka Santa's not so little helper :-)}
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