Scrapbooking Your Christmas Memories

Christmas memories are some of our fondest, most heartwarming ones. So of course we want to preserve them in our scrapbook albums. However, when the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us, we may forget to take particular photos or save certain memorabilia. To help you remember, below is a list of Christmas memories and keepsakes you'll want to capture in your scrapbook album.


Cutting Down the Tree For those who get their trees from a tree farm, cutting down the tree is a favorite Christmas activity. Take pictures of the tree before, during and after the cutting. Journal about who picked out the tree, where you got the tree and what the weather was like that day.

Trimming the Tree Whether your tree is real or artificial, trimming the tree is a special event. Take pictures of the tree in various stages of being decorated. Include people hanging their favorite ornaments, putting on the star or angel, and posing with the fully decorated and lit tree.

Deck the Halls In addition to the tree, you probably have lots of other Christmas decorations throughout the house. Take photos of the foyer, staircase, dining room or any other room you've spruced up for the holidays. If you have outdoor displays and lights, remember to take pictures of them, too.

Traditions We all have our own Christmas traditions such as baking cookies, going caroling, or hosting the neighborhood party. Make sure to capture these special traditions with photos. Keep in mind that journaling is especially important when it comes to traditions. For example, include your family's cookie recipe or some of the words from a favorite Christmas carol.

Letters to Santa/Christmas Lists If you have children who write Christmas lists and/or letters to Santa, make copies before mailing them so that they can be preserved in your scrapbook album. You, your children and your grandchildren will surely enjoy reading those letters together one day.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas Here are some ideas of what to take pictures of on Christmas Eve: the family dinner; a gathering of family and friends; everyone dressed in their "Sunday best" for Christmas Eve mass; stockings hung by the chimney with care; snack/drink/note left for Santa and his reindeer. If Santa leaves the note behind, remember to save it for the scrapbook album.

Christmas Morning If you have young children Christmas morning can be quite chaotic, and it may not be easy to get certain shots. Some to try for are: the kids coming down the stairs and/or into the room with the tree; the tree before all the gifts go flying; the full stockings hanging by the fireplace; everyone with his/her favorite gift; the family breakfast.

Christmas Visiting Whether you're traveling over the river and through the woods or hosting at home, it's hard to get pictures of everyone you're celebrating with. Try for a whole group photo (if the group's not too big) or break it down into smaller groups: the grandparents with the grandchildren; the grandparents with their own children; the men/boys; the women/girls; three or more generations; a photo of each family. Remember to include everyone's name in your journaling.

Christmas Card and Newsletter Particularly if your Christmas card has a picture of your family or children on it, be sure to put it in your scrapbook album. You may also want to include any special cards you received - for example, a baby's first Christmas card from Grandma and Grandpa. And if you write an annual newsletter to send out with your Christmas cards, put a copy of the newsletter in your scrapbook album as well.


Christmas Portraits The holidays tend to be a time for formal/professional portraits: family portraits, portraits of the children, and the traditional picture with Santa. If you saved your children's letters to Santa, you can make a two-page spread of the letters along with the picture of the children on Santa's lap.


Keep this Christmas list of scrapbooking ideas handy during the holiday season, and you'll be sure to capture those precious Christmas memories. If you need any page layout ideas, visit www.scrapbooktown.com/layouts-Christmas.html. Merry Christmas and Happy Scrapping!

3 Ways To Spice Up A Boring Christmas Party

In this article I will tell you how to spice up your Christmas party with three easy-to-use techniques. Christmas might mean fun and enjoyment for your kids, but you know only too well how much extra hard work you have to do during the holiday season! Christmas means that you have to host a little party at your house, as well as make arrangements for your guests. Well, in this modern age, you needn't do all the household chores yourself if you don't want to!

1. For starters, don't do all the work yourself. If you spend the whole Christmas cooking, creating decorations and shopping for gift items, when will you find time to enjoy yourself? Learn to indulge yourself. Call in some of your party guests and ask for their help in making the cookies. Make sure you supply all the raw materials to enable your guests to make the dough and let them have a great time in your kitchen. I am sure your guests will thoroughly enjoy the whole experience!

2. Another thing you can do to ease your nerves is to play board games with your party guests. Monopoly is a very popular board game so if you are good at it, then you can play it with some of the guests. It is a cool way to relieve yourself of some of the stress that automatically adds up during Christmas parties.

3. If you don't want to have too many guests in your room, why not organize a special event outside your house? For example, why not setup a carol singing event and let your guests participate in it? Call in someone with a good voce and let him sing some Christmas carols. If you think that your guests would be spending way too much time at your house, then just start your food party early and then end it with the carol singing.

These are just some of the ways to not only spice up a Christmas party but to relieve some of your workload as well. Remember that Christmas is all about fun and enjoyment. Spend quality time with your family and friends and enjoy yourself. And make sure that you feel comfortable with whatever you do during Christmas. If you don't feel comfortable with your chores, then drop it or let someone else do it in your place. Remember that discomfort only adds to misery, and let me repeat again: Christmas is all about fun and enjoyment.

This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances

De-stress During the Holidays

Preparing your home for the holidays, shopping for the gifts, and of course planning the meals and everything else that goes along with family and friends coming into town for the holidays, can be very stressful. It gets especially hectic when combined with normal stresses such as work, kids , and normal housekeeping. The problem is, with all this going on you may not have time to think, let alone take a break. On the other hand, the only way to stay sane during the holidays is to learn ways to eliminate stress throughout the day or you will surely be up all night thinking of all you have to do the next day.

The best way to eliminate stress during the holidays is to organize your duties. Make a list of everything that needs to be done before the guests arrive. Start early if you have to make room in your home for guests. This way you will have plenty of time to rearrange guest rooms, make reservations for guests that will be staying at hotels, etc... You will also have plenty of time to wash linens, go shopping for gifts, and of course plan your meals in advance and purchase all the food you will need to prepare the dishes.

Above all else, plan time for relaxation. If you only have a few minutes per day to relax, make the most of it. Sit in a room by yourself and listen to the quiet sounds of a table top water fountain. Take a warm bath using aromatherapy candles, bath oils, or even spa bath sets. The only way to eliminate stress is to give yourself a few minutes to relax and think of nothing more than yourself.

You do not have to take hours, but take out time to eat healthy meals, read a chapter of a book per day, or enjoy soaking in a hot tub with bubbles. Remember, the world will not end if you take a break. If you have hectic afternoons, take time for yourself as soon as everyone goes off to school and work, before you begin your day. Just a few minutes will help refresh and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul, so you can accomplish all the many tasks that are involved with every holiday.

If you have little ones, it can be very hard to find a minute to yourself. Add in all the extra chores around the holidays, you may be ready to throw your own tantrum. However, it is imperative during stressful times like these, to remember the true reason behind the holidays. Try to distress as best as possible and take some time for yourself to relax a bit and just partake in part of this joyous season before it passes by and you miss the cheer altogether.

About the Author:
Ron and Jan Stager are the founders of RJS Gifts Enterprises, an online store specializing in unique gifts. They started the company as a means to provide quality customer service as well as a wide selection of housewarming gifts. Their store, YourRJSGiftsEtc.com, offers gifts for any occasion as well as items for the home including garden decor and other home decorations.

Article Source:
http://www.freearticles.co.za/home/home-improvement/interior-design/de-stress-during-holidays.html

Kid`s Favorite Party Christmas Games & Ideas - Santa`s Best Xmas Jokes

What`s Christmas really all about, yes you've got it in one,' "kids." I know us grownups like to party as well but hey come on, you know and I know Christmas would not be the same without watching the kids claw at the Christmas paper wrapped round their toys. Can you really see your Christmas being fulfilled if it were not for those happy smiling faces? Can you even try to imagine Christmas without the squeals of delight that echo through the air brought on by shock, all because Santa gave them what they wanted. Yes without doubt it`s definitely the time of year for the children. If you want this jolly ambience to continue then all you do is bring on the games. Kids love games, end of story. Wouldn`t it be nice this Christmas to give the kids something different. Good are the old traditional games, however "new" brings excitement. It is always best to plan ahead; however it can be a busy time for moms, so why not let the kiddies choose the games. It will not spoil the fun; in fact it can only add more excitement for mommy and her little Christmas elves. Okay we haven`t much time before Christmas is upon us, but believe me, kids don`t think about time, they just get the job done. For stress free party planning you should consider ordering your holiday party supplies, games and jokes on-line.
Christmas Party Games for Kids of all Ages

Many Games will have a specific age for game play so make sure you check this out before purchasing board games or other. One cost effective idea is to give the kids a game each on Christmas day to unwrap. These can then be used for the party entertainment instead of having to buy the games as extras. Twister, Buckaroo, and Operation are ideal. Board games like Monopoly, Ludo, Snakes and Ladders and Cluedo are all recognized games, and why, because they are all fun games to play, and very popular Christmas gifts. If you have been invited over to a friend`s house for dinner over the festive season, bring along a board game.

GIFT WRAP RACE

You will need matching boxes for each team and pre-cut wrapping paper

Have packages wrapped before the game starts. Team the children up.

Each team will be handed a wrapped gift box, wrapping paper sheet for

each player. Place these items on a table or the floor for a gift wrap base. To play the game will include that one team player will leave their group, run to the gift base, unwrap the gift, rewrap the gift, and run back to tag the next team member. The first team to have each member wraps the gift, wins.

SEEK A CHRISTMAS STAR

Kids love hide and seek, whether it be themselves they look for, or that of a star.

Stars can be made by you and the kids in advance; it will be fun and help pass the time away if the kids are bored. Before the Christmas party starts hide stars. Cardboard cutout stars covered with glitter are simple and easy to make. Supervise children at all times regardless of age.

Once again for this game team up the kid's and let them go in search of the stars.

No Christmas party would be the same without playing pass the parcel. It's simple to play, however a game that can have you tense all the way through play

PASS THE PARCEL

Place enough Christmas treats (Christmas candy, sugar canes, and mince pies) in a small box and wrap up. Then place the parcel into a larger box and wrap that as well, and so on, until there are several layers of wrapping. When done ask the children to form a circle. Play Christmas music while passing the "parcel" around from child to child. When the music stops, the child holding the parcel unwraps one layer. Then, play the music and begin passing again. Continue to play until the last wrapper is removed and its content shared out. Always share at the end because there is never a party game yet, that we haven`t seen tears from a loser.

SPEED SNOWBALL

Props you need, will include: Styrofoam balls or balls of white yarn, spoons and mittens for each team player. Be extra vigilant with particular game play items when children use them. Play this game as you would a relay race. Have the kid`s team up. Each player takes turns putting on mittens and balancing a "snowball" on a spoon while racing to the other side of the room. Drop the snowball into a bucket, return to the team, and pass the mittens to the next child and so on. First team to complete the course wins!

SANTA TRIP

Ask the children to sit in a circle. The first child chosen to start the game says," On Christmas Eve I'm traveling with Santa and I'm bringing (something starting with A)". The next child repeats the first object and adds an object beginning with B continue the game through the alphabet.

The real highlight of any children's Christmas party is having Santa visit. Sadly not many parents consider this because they believe they may not pull it off, or that dressing up as Santa will prove too difficult and time consuming. This is about kid`s right so don the beard. You can hire a Santa suit at little cost which can make a big difference in making this a successful Christmas kiddies' party.

Things to remember if Santa is on his way to your Christmas party and that is, some little children may not be comfortable with a Santa, and show fear, do not force them to sit on his lap. Children will come round in their own time when watching other kids jump up onto Santa`s knee. In saying that your child may not, if so, and if frantic with fear take them out of the room. If you are hiring a Santa Claus to come to your party, make sure he has references or is booked through a reputable company. In the UK the old tradition of sitting a child on Santa's knee is not permitted. It is seen as a precaution to keep the child safe, and protect Santa's reputation too. It's a sad world in which we live because of the sad "sicko's" that live in it, (not all) who are the reason behind this tradition being binned.

What is Father Christmas' wife called? Mary Christmas

What goes "oh, oh, oh?? Santa walking backwards

What goes red white red white red white? Santa rolling down a hill

What does Father Christmas always go down the chimney? Because it soots him

Who is Santa's most famous elf? Elfis

What do you call Santa Claus's dog? Santa Paws

Where do Santa's little helpers go to relax? The Elf farm

As the evening unwinds and children yawn while holding dolly and steam engine, sit them down and give them a glass of warm milk and mince pie. Once they have eaten and quenched their thirst, then out with tradition and in with the "NEW" "bedtime story" about the

History of Mince Pies

Mince pies became a regular part of Xmas celebrations as early as the 16th century (Tudor times), when mince pies were coffin or cradle shaped, rather than round as they are now. Mince pies then contained quite a bit of shredded meat in addition to the usual melange of dried fruits.


The crusaders returned from the Holy Land with spices, and it was deemed appropriate to celebrate Christ's birthday with a pie containing spices from his native land. It was important to add three spices (cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg) for the three gifts given to the Christ child by the Magi. It was thought lucky to eat one mince pie on each of the 12 days of Christmas (ending with Epiphany, the 6th of January). Alternatively if you refused to eat a mince pie this would bring bad luck Superstition: The pie mixture should only be stirred in a clockwise direction. To stir it anticlockwise would bring forth bad luck in the future. Your children will learn from this and remember the story for years to come. Telling bedtime stories of a similar nature every night you tuck them up in bed, will have them learn UN-be known to them, as long as the stories come across as bedtime story.

Caring for Your Christmas Cactus

When any flower starts blooming in winter it is a beautiful sight, and there is nothing more beautiful than a Christmas cactus. These wonderful plants for and can be grown indoors, require very little care and come in a variety of colors such as yellow (my favorite ), salmon, pink, fuchsia, white and a combination of all these colors. A Christmas cactus can adapt to low light, but when kept in a very sunny location indoors it will produce more flowers.
The plant grows best in a well draining soil such as those used for growing succulent plants. The Christmas cactus is not as drought tolerant as many people think, but because it is a succulent plant it will retain and store good amount water. Air temperature, light, rate of growth will help determine the length of time between watering and then water when the top of the soil is dry. Cactus prefer warm temperatures but they should be kept away from heat drafts from fireplace or furnace vents

After your plant finishes its blooming, let it rest and do not water for six weeks and as new growth starts to appear repot it with and the replace the top soil with fresh new soil, then start watering, keeping it moist. As the new growth appears in the spring apply a weak solution of liquid houseplant fertilizer at two week intervals.

If you plan to move your Christmas cactus outside during the summer months, keep in mind that direct sunlight will burn the leaves, so find a shady or semi shady location to move them to. As fall approaches slowly start to adjust your plant to the indoors by bringing it in and leaving it indoors a little longer each day.

Christmas cactus only need to be re-potted every two or three years but if you notice roots filling up the pot or that the root system seems to be unhealthy then its time to re-pot, spring is usually best but when re-potting is needed it can be done at any time.


Eudora DeWynter offers tips on Caring for Christmas Cactus on her blog athttp:www.gardentoolguru.com

Christmas Floral Design Ideas for Gifts and Home Decor

Flowers are a unique and special gift to give for Christmas. Anyone can put together these simple arrangements if you follow my simple instructions. The floral design options for Christmas are almost endless. Here are a few ideas: a Christmas centerpiece, small arrangement in a holiday mug or decorative container, gift basket, candle ring, and vase arrangements. Any of these would be perfect to give a friend or family member as a gift or to keep yourself and decorate your home with. There are a variety of floral arrangements available to purchase online if you are not up to putting together your own, just check out the website below.
A gift basket is fun to put together and a great present to give. Basically, all you need to do is find a basket or a Christmas container and put a few things in it. Some things that you could put in the gift basket include, a bud vase with a single flower, such as a red Gerber daisy, rose, or lily, a Christmas movie, a Christmas book, Christmas tree ornaments, holiday cookie cutters, and/or treats. First attach the bud vase in the container with floral clay. Then, if you use a wicker basket, use some festive Christmas tissue paper or other pretty paper to line it. Last arrange the gift items in the basket so it looks pretty and appealing. This would make a great gift for a coworker, teacher, sibling, or that person who just seems to have everything.

Another fun idea is to put a small arrangement together in a holiday mug. Use floral foam as the base of the floral design. First cover the wet floral foam with leather leaf, then add a three white carnations, inserted at different heights, two stems of red pixie carnations, each blossom individually, some baby's breath, and red hypericum berries. You could also add some cedar or other evergreen to the design. For complete instructions and a step by step video, please visit the link below to our website, you will find it under the Christmas section. This small design is charming and will delight the receiver of such a gift.

You could create an arrangement for any size vase, the larger the vase, the more flowers and greens to use. For Christmas time, use red, white and maybe even green flowers (like green button mums). Also choose from a variety of greens and evergreens out there. Accent a red rose in a bud vase with some baby’s breath and cedar. Deep red alstroemeria are especially beautiful. Put white stock in a vase and accent with any red flower.

There are many other flowers that would be perfect to use for Christmas arrangements, the link below will take you to a complete list of flowers, foliage, and evergreens for Christmas floral design.

A Christmas centerpiece can be made in several ways. You can either create a simple centerpiece of an arrangement of flowers in a low crystal container or make a long centerpiece in a plastic centerpiece tray with a variety of evergreens. Written instructions and step by step videos for how to assemble a Christmas centerpiece using a centerpiece tray and evergreens can be found at my website, along with a list of materials and resources where materials can be acquired. You can also look at our blog to see pictures of a beautiful arrangement of flowers in a holiday crystal container. Visit http://www.FreshFlowerIdeas.com/ to find more information about Christmas fresh flower arrangements. Floral design is our specialty and we have lots of ideas for you for the holidays. Fresh Flower Ideas offers how to videos with pictures for every step of assembling fresh flower arrangements. Also visit our regularly updated blog for more ideas and information about flowers as well at http://www.FreshFlowerIdeasInfo.com/

Christmas Wreaths for the Holidays: Fresh and Everlasting

Christmas wreaths are a great way to decorate your home for the holidays. Christmas wreaths can either be purchased online or homemade. There are endless varieties of wreaths you can create yourself. You can either use fresh evergreens to make a wreath for this holiday season or design one from artificial materials that can be enjoyed year after year.
A fresh wreath can be made from a variety of greens. Traditionally, use pine evergreens to make the wreath and embellish with holly leaves, berries, pine cones and maybe a festive bow. Eucalyptus can also be used to make a wreath. Two popular types of eucalyptus include silver dollar and seeded eucalyptus. Accent with berries for color and texture. Other greens that would look great in different combinations for a wreath include: fir, princess pine, oregonia, cedar, boxwood, and salal. You can find at your local craft store wreaths available to buy with a plethora of holiday accessories to add to it if you want to make an everlasting wreath. The selection ranges from pine cones to ornaments, from berries to poinsettias with glitter. With such a selection of picks and swags you are sure to find what you are looking for to make your wreath perfect for Christmas.


Once you have your desired accessories, a Christmas wreath is simple to assemble. You can use hot glue to secure your pieces in the design. If you wish to have the design less permanent, just use wire to secure your accessories. You can also use the pieces of the wreath to hold picks, ribbon, and other accessories in place. If making a Christmas wreath isn't for you, there are many different kinds of Christmas wreaths available to buy online. If you shop an online florist, you can buy wreaths made of fresh evergreens and pine cones or everlasting designs which can be enjoyed year after year. Fresh wreaths can be found made from a variety of materials. A pine wreath decorated with holly and a red bow is very simple and traditional. A fresh evergreen wreath will delight all the visitors to you door during the holiday season.


To see instructional videos on how to assemble Christmas wreaths and other Christmas floral designs, or to order your Christmas wreath online, visit http://www.FreshFlowerIdeas.com/ or http://www.FreshFlowerIdeasInfo.com/

Top 5 Fair Trade Gifts this Christmas - Not Just Coffee and Bananas

Yesterday, The Independent reported that takeaway coffee giant, Starbucks, was to begin sourcing 100 per cent of its coffee fair-trade. In the past, this might have seemed a very bold move for such a large company (especially during a recession), however their move can be seen to highlight the increasing popularity of fair trade goods and the gradual social acceptance that buying fair trade benefits everyone. Christmas is fast approaching and the time for trying to come up with suitable gift ideas is already upon us. So beyond coffee and bananas, what are the best fair trade gifts currently on offer?

5. Stationery. I think it was Freud that said, ‘Deep inside us all there is a portion of our heart devoted to stationery’. Actually, he didn’t. But who can dispute the rush felt when receiving a new notebook, set of pencils, or an eraser in the shape of a stegosaurus. Thankfully, fair trade stationery has wound its way onto the market shelves, and the range of cards, notebooks, and address books is of a quality that truly beats the chain stores.


4. Toys. Giving at Christmas is what the season is all about, and when a child receives a gift they really love, their display of joy and subsequent hyperactivity is something to behold. Today, there is a wide range of fair trade kids stuff available, including traditional wooden toys, children’s instruments, as well as brightly painted money boxes, puzzles and mobiles.

3. Accessories. I admit that this is quite a vague area of gifts, ‘How about I get you an accessory for Christmas?’ But there has also been an upsurge in bits and bobs in the fair trade sector. These range from eco-friendly recycled bags made from newspaper to more durable seeming carriers made from hemp and silk. Batik and sequin purses are also proving very popular this season.

2. Homeware. Homeware is perhaps the most intriguing area of fair trade products. From cutlery carved from coconut wood and plates made from cinnamon sticks set in wood, there are many ingenious designs available for people looking for a slightly more original gift this Christmas.

1. Jewellery. The high street has been looking to the east for jewellery designs for some time now. Today you can get authentic fair trade Indian earrings in a host of traditional colours such as turquoise, onyx, and black – as well as original teardrop, lantern and coral designs. There is also a significant diversity in types of jewellery and this certainly seems to be one of the fastest growing areas of fair trade production. Alongside earrings, there are also pendants, bracelets and necklaces available in abundance.




About the Author
Sarah Maple writes for Indigo Ocean Trading, an online shop dedicated to bringing you stunning hand crafted fair trade gifts created by highly skilled people from places such as Afghanistan, Nepal, Indonesia, South Africa and India. Based in Buckinghamshire, Indigo Ocean provide fair trade jewellery, incense, toys and gifts from all around the world.

World Christmas Customs

Everyone celebrates Christmas in a somewhat similar fashion based on the culture of which they are a part. People in the United States believe that Santa Claus brings presents to all the good little boys and girls. Of course, as we grow up we no longer truly believe in Santa Claus, though we still give gifts.

Some people celebrate on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Meanwhile, other people will choose one day or the other to celebrate. Celebration generally includes a lavish meal, Christmas music and decorations, and time with family and friends before, during, and after the presents.

This Christmas, why not consider other holiday cultures when planning your holiday celebration? You can use the following traditional cultural traditions for your entire family or you can adapt them to be more racy or romantic and use them just for you and your lover.

Belgium
In Belgium, Santa visits all the little children on the 6th of December. While, the entire country celebrates different customs depending on the area, this seems to be relatively common throughout. With this in mind, you might want to sneak your lover a special gift on this day.

Presents are also given on Christmas Day, but these are small gifts to and from family. Gifts are placed under the tree or if you have a fireplace you could place them in a stocking. That would be a perfect opportunity to make a special stocking for his or her eyes only. You can place it near the fire for when you are all alone.

France
In France, Christmas is celebrated with a Christmas tree, as well though it is decorated differently than the American trees. Rather than placing balls, tinsel, and ornaments on the tree, the French trees are often decorated in red ribbons and white wax candles. You could decorate your tree like that this year and if you are going with an adult theme you could buy body part shaped candles in white to fulfill the candle requirement.

Latvia
In Latvia, the 12 days of Christmas are observed. This begins on Christmas Eve and a present is received each day for 12 days. Each present is usually placed under the tree though that is not always necessary. You could put the majority under the tree and steal away one or two just for private viewing!

Hungary
Hungary has Santa delivering presents on December 6th in addition to Christmas. December 6th is a special day that signifies the beginning of the Christmas season. On the fifth, the children clean their rooms and place their shoes outside their door or near the window. When they wake up, they have candies or small presents that have been left for them in their shoes.

If a child does not behave well, they might receive a golden birch (switch) with their present. Although, for children this is in good fun you might want to give it to your naughty adult boy/girl for a hint of a possible Christmas spanking!


Russia
In Russia the more popular holiday is New Year as opposed to Christmas. During this time presents are brought and the holiday is celebrated with church services, food, and family. While some now celebrate Christmas on December 25th many still use the Julian calendar, which moves the celebration to January 7th. Take that time to buy the final special gift of the season, and make sure it is one that they will not soon forget!

About the Author:
Shayla Moore is a writer for http://www.oasislingerie.com She has many intresting topics and ideas for all to read about. Check out more of her articles.

Article Source:
http://www.freearticles.co.za/culture-and-society/world-christmas-customs.html

Christmas is Coming and we Are All Putting on Weight

Author: Samuel Brook

Food glorious food. Oliver Twist wanted some more food but he was rejected.



Over the festive season, we won't be rejected more food. Food will be in abundance. Mince pies, biscuits and festive cakes will be in the workplace, school and college. Someone recently gave me a box of chocolate biscuits, the person knew I was on a diet. With the box of chocolates came a card which read, "God loves those, who love chocolate". That card indirectly had a clear message. "You eat and enjoy these chocolate biscuits, don't worry about the calories." Most of us when we eat anything sugary and sweet we get an instant boost of energy, only to fall as quick as it rises. One chocolate biscuit leads to another!



Then there are the office parties, dinners etc. Extra Christmas dinners, more food, meaning more calories. The consequence means more weight. Darker colder nights means that once we arrive home, we want to shut out winter and stay in and watch T. V. Staying in on a winter's night can lead to opening up those box of chocolates and other goodies.



The T.V. adverts will constantly remind us of all the various Christmas fayre available. Turkeys, joint of meats, savouries and of course those lovely Christmas Cakes and desserts. Those with a sweet tooth will be easily tempted. The supermarkets are offering a variety of festive cakes and pastries. My local supermarket was offering a "buy one get one free" , mini Christmas cake.



It is going to be very hard for most people to go on a diet or weight management program, this time of the year. The New Year, is the time to make that commitment to loose weight, when New Years Resolutions are made.



So, have you ever thought of taking some measures, to at least have some control of controlling your weight over this Festive Season. There is something that we can all do.



Scientific and nutritional experts recommend an increase in dietary fibre and a lower intake of fat and calories to help maintain good health. Unfortunately our Western Festive Diet tends to be high in fat and low in fibre rich foods. Christmas Pudding, Christmas Cake with all the other Festive Cakes are very high in fat. Not to mention those appetising savouries.



So, how can you find Fibre in foods. Natural foods are usually high in fibre (i.e.) wholegrain nuts, seeds, fruit and vegetables. Apples contain a high proportion of fibre, compared to many other fruit and vegetables. For example, there is approximately 4 grams of fibre in one apple. How, about baked or stewed apples for a sweet.



What fibre does is to reduce the amount of time food can spend in the intestinal track. Dietary fibre can help speed up the passage of food and so assist in the removal of toxins and wastes from the body.



Lack of fibre, and this is the danger in the festive season = poor diet and not good for our health and wellbeing. The Guideline Daily Allowance for fibre is 24 grams but it is suggested that 30 grams or more is probably needed for the protection of gut health. Having plenty of fibre will assist us to keep a control on our weight and curb our desire to snack. Keeping up with our daily intake of fibre will help our health and wellbeing.



Have a Happy and Healthy Christmas and maintain good health through the festive season and beyond.

About the Author:
Visit Waterbrookhealth! Further help and advice, phone 0115 9223429 (UK)
Email me on waterbrookhealth@googlemail.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/christmas-is-coming-and-we-are-all-putting-on-weight-673613.html

Christmas in Phnom Penh

As in almost everywhere else in the world, Christmas is as an important religious festival in Cambodia. Though Phnom Penh has only a few Christians; most of them being expatriates and tourists Christmas is a religious celebration that transcends all ethnic and cultural boundaries. The Christmas season brings with it a feeling of hope and good cheer, coupled with the fact that the year is drawing to a close; there is a feeling of optimism and hope of better things to come in the New Year.




Gift giving is an integral part of Christmas in Cambodia, like it would be everywhere else. People give thoughtfully picked out Christmas gifts to their families and loved ones. At this time of year gifts are ways of telling them that you appreciate their role in your life and that they are loved. Shopping malls and stores across Phnom Penh get into the seasonal mood by offering great discounts and seasonal sales; be warned however that the malls are jam packed at this time of the year.




However, the first signs of Christmas are found in the colorful decorations around Phnom Penh, in particular shopping malls and store fronts. Almost the entirety of Phnom Penh is gaily decorated with colorful fairy lights and fresh flowers in full bloom.




Special Christmas dinners can be enjoyed at a Phnom Penh hotel, with traditional Christmas delicacies such as Christmas pudding, minced pies and roast turkey. Dances and other Christmas parties are also organized at many a luxury hotel in Phnom Penh and lets you spend an unforgettable Christmas in Cambodia with your loved ones.

A Christmas Story for people having a bad day:
When four of Santa's elves got sick, the trainee elves did not produce
toys as fast as the regular ones, and Santa began to feel the
Pre-Christmas pressure.
Then Mrs Claus told Santa her Mother was coming to visit, which
stressed Santa even more.
When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were
about to give birth and two others had jumped the fence and were out,
Heaven knows where.
Then when he began to load the sleigh, one of the floorboards cracked,
the toy bag fell to the ground and all the toys were scattered.
Frustrated, Santa went in the house for a cup of apple cider and a
shot of rum. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered
the elves had drank all the
cider and hidden the liquor. In his frustration, he accidentally dropped
the cider jug, and it broke into hundreds of little glass pieces all over
the kitchen floor.
He went to get the broom and found the mice had eaten all the
straw off the end of the broom.
Just then the doorbell rang, and irritated Santa marched to the door,
yanked it open, and there stood a little angel with a great big
Christmas tree.
The angel said very cheerfully, 'Merry Christmas, Santa. Isn't this a
lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Where would you like me to
stick it?'
And so began the tradition of the little angel on top of the Christmas
tree.

Stock Up For Christmas

Did you run out of money for wine last year? Did you end up buying cheap supermarket plonk for Christmas dinner? Well this year, make your Christmas wine plans in advance, and then your wonderful Christmas dinner, which has to be the height of all festivities will be complemented some really delightful wines.

Now is a great time to stock up on your Christmas wine. There are lots of end of bin sales as new wines come in from the vineyards. These end of bin sales allow you to buy classic wines, often at a fraction of their selling price. So even if you are feeling the pinch of the credit crunch, investing in a couple of fantastic bottles of wine will ensure that your Christmas celebration is the best ever.

But Christmas is not just about the right wine to drink with your dinner. It is also a celebration, and so needs some wine for that purpose too. Buying sparkling wine or even Champagne now will save you money. Just before Christmas prices will be higher because of the demand, yes there are always some special offers, but if you look at wine prices now, you will notice that they are at the best level they have been for the last few months. The credit crunch and people not buying wine has bought prices down, making now a great time to invest.

So what are the tips for Christmas? A Champagne to start the day off is always a good idea, but for the big dinner you will need a wine to complement what you will be serving. White wines are usually the ones to go for with white meat, so if you are having turkey, they might be a good choice. However, Christmas dinner is always a very rich meal, where the cacophony of flavours delight your palate. Therefore a white wine may be overawed. So a red wine is probably the best bet.

A Shiraz would be a good choice. It is usually smooth in taste with a fruity flavour, which will complement the Christmas turkey or whatever other meat you serve.


But when thinking of wine to have with your Christmas dinner, don’t forget an aperitif and after-dinner drinks. A sherry makes a great start to the meal and if you are having cheese and biscuits later on in the day, why not invest in a bottle of port wine. But there is no need to stop there. There are excellent Madeira wines or other fortified wines that will make your meal complete.


Fiona Muller is a qualified journalist and has worked in food and drink writing for the last few years. For a great selection of wines, including information on fine wines and tips for tastings, go to www.laithwaites.co.uk

Why Hire a Christmas tree Display?

Christmas is usually a very busy time of year and for most businesses it is very important to get everything organised in advance in order to ensure that everything goes without a hitch. As a business owner or building manager it may fall to you to ensure that your office building, hotel or showroom are decorated to suit the season but with so much to get organised where do you start?

One of the most essential and recognisable decorations or symbols related to Christmas is the Christmas tree and for many centuries now the Christmas tree display has been the focal point of most Christmas celebrations. Many of us take a great deal of pride in our Christmas tree displays in our homes and the process of decorating the tree has become a regular Yule tide activity.

The history of Christmas trees and why we decorate them has a very long and varied history but most historians date the first Christmas tree displays back to Germany in the early 7th century. Over the years there have been many trends and crazes in relation to the types and themes of Christmas tree decorations.

One of the most popular decorations over time was Tinsel, which was invented in Germany in 1610 and at the time was made out of real silver threads. Whilst tinsel still remains popular today alongside electronic flashing lights, baubles, traditional wooden toys and the classic stars and angels which take pride of place on the top of the tree.

Decorating a Christmas tree display in the office however is often just hard work, with the run up to Christmas bringing mountains more paperwork and additional work to clear before the company shuts down for a Christmas break, there is not always enough time to get your Christmas tree display organised.


Getting your Christmas tree just right often takes longer than you might think not to mention having to take it all back down again when the office re-opens in the New Year. In circumstances such as this it is well worth considering hiring a Christmas tree display from a professional interior landscaping company.

Hiring your Christmas tree and other decorations may seem like another expense but in actual fact it can save you a great deal of time and will leave you with a beautiful display to rival the Christmas displays in the surrounding offices. It also means that you will have more time to concentrate on the important Christmas celebrations such as the office Christmas party and the eggnog.

A professional company will be able to supply a range of Christmas trees to suit all your requirements whether you are looking for an artificial or live tree of a particular size or require a specific themed tree. Your Christmas tree display will appear as if by magic on a date specified by you and will be whisked away after the festive season.


Most interior landscapers will also provide additional decorations such as decorative presents for under the tree that match the décor and colours of your chosen Christmas tree display. By choosing to rent a Christmas tree display you will also be able to change the theme of your tree every year without having to fork out for new decorations.

Roses For Christmas – Gift Ideas For Rose Lovers

Roses For Christmas – Gift Ideas For Rose Lovers

By: David Leach

It is said that one of Cleopatra s gifts to Mark Anthony was a bathing room full of scented rose petals, strewn across the floor to a depth of three feet! Personally I m not quite that extravagant or possess such a large rose garden to produce so many fresh petals but I do appreciate the sentiment.

Christmas in the northern hemisphere means we look out over our rose beds of bare canes and some of us miss the summer blooms, the vibrant colors and the delicate scents.

Christmas gifts for rose lovers can help maintain the sentiment and bring joy to an otherwise heavy heart. To help you with your gift giving plans, here are a variety of gift ideas for the rose lovers on your nice list.

Use Your Own Roses

If you have had the foresight to save and dry some of your own roses, why not use them to create a summer memory? A dry rose bud centerpiece or small door wreath both look nice, or how about using a variety of dried petals and a cinnamon stick to make up a potpourri which can easily be presented in a small wooden box topped with a rose bud.

Use Your Rose Hips

These wonderful little berries can be the source of many an unusual and welcomed gift. Boiled they can become a rose hip tea, rich in Vitamin C or added to your door wreath of dried rose buds they complete the Christmas color theme. My Aunt has the best idea however, she uses them to make rose hip jelly. Now wouldn t a pot of that go down well at Christmas time?

Get Crafty with Petals

Dried rose petals, your own or purchased, can be used in paper making, candle making and soap making. They bring color and some scent to all these crafts and their value can easily be enhanced by adding a card with dried and pressed rose buds. Gifts like these become even more poignant if the card noted that the petals being used had been cultivated in your own rose bed!

Crystal and Glass

Okay, so your not into crafts and you forgot to collect and dry your own roses this year. No Problem. What about a single rose made in crystal or a small tiffany style lamp with a rose design motif or, my favorite, a crystal rose shaped pendant? There are some stunning designs available that incorporate rose shapes and colors and these would be perfect for your rose loving friends.

Books and Stuff

Actually I really like to receive a yearly calendar full of rose photographs at this time of year. Books such as 100 English Roses for the American Garden or any of the Peter Beales books make good choices. How about A celebration of Roses – An Illustrated Anthology of Verse and Prose if you prefer a more lyrical outlook, or And Roses for the Table – A Garden of Recipes for the budding chef on your list. Don t forget the notepaper and envelopes with printed rose buds or the yearly subscription to the American Rose Society . Then there is another favorite of mine, a yearly subscription to my favorite magazine The Rose .

Dabble in Oils

Not painting so much, although a nice framed picture of your favorite bloom would be a great idea, but rose oils. It s worth considering for it embraces both ends of the spending spectrum. Rosewater is both useful, fine scented and rather inexpensive, while rose attar (true rose oil!) is both exotic and costly. Who wouldn t like to receive even a small gift in this category?

Small Tools for the Spring

How nice to be reminded that spring will be around again and you will have a new tool to help you produce those superb blooms. My most used small tool is a water probe which is both inexpensive and invaluable. How about small pruners or a sharpening kit for old pruners? The ultimate gift in this category however is a pair of rose gardening gloves, the ones that are thorn proof and have long sleeves, covering the lower arms from scratches. These would really bring a smile to your rose lover friend.

When I was a child I always envied our relatives in Australia at Christmas time, because they got to spend Christmas at the beach, but now I envy them because they have a full rose garden of blooms at Christmas while I, living in the Northern Hemisphere, stare out at bare rose canes. I know the spring is coming so I go hunting for Christmas gifts for my rose loving friends and somehow this bridges the winter gap. Hopefully these ideas can help you with your gifts for your rose loving friends.

Oh, and don t forget, reminding them to get a tetanus shot every ten years is probably the most useful of all gifts, but of course it is a little difficult to wrap!

Author Resource:-> You can learn all about the crafts mentioned above at: http://www.rose-works.com. Crystal, Books, Oils and Small Tools can be seen at: http://www.rose-works.com/rose-works-store.html

Article From Free Article Publishing

Corporate Christmas Customs

By: Rosie Richards

The tradition of giving a hamper packed full of Christmas sweet and savoury treats was began in Victorian times when the wealthy estate owners present their workers with a wicker chest style box which contained a variety of home made preserves, chutneys and puddings. It is believed that the wicker hamper was used for two purposes, firstly that it allowed air to circulate through and help keep food fresher and secondly, when emptied of goodies became a useful and practical gift which could be used for a whole manner of different purposes within a servant’s humble home.

Corporate hampers sent to loyal customers and work colleagues continues this traditional Christmas offering of gifts and has in recent years once again become a fashionable way to say thank you in spectacular style. There are a wide range of Christmas Hampers available which are appropriate and provide the perfect solution to giving luxurious gifts.

Modern versions of Christmas Hampers include those which are presented in contemporary designed trays made from burgundy or chic black cardboard or wood rather than traditional wicker. The majority include festive foods and a bottle of fine wine, however, there are also alternative themed Christmas hampers which contain no alcohol which are the ideal gift for those who abstain through choice or religion.

A classical hamper consisting of a bottle of Warres Warrior Special Reserve Port and a black and gold ceramic jar of the finest handmade blue Stilton cheese is truly a connoisseurs choice. This sophisticated and stylish hamper is packaged in a luxury gift box making it the perfect corporate Christmas gift for any astute lady or gentleman to send to their colleagues and clients to show an appreciation for their loyalty during the past year.

Organic hampers are becoming increasingly popular choices, these hampers have all the traditional Christmas mouth watering goodies but all made with natural, organic ingredients. A trendy black tray which includes handmade strawberry preserve, cheese nibbles with mustard, ploughman s pickle with ale, chocolate and orange biscuits, strawberry and mint cordial and fudge made by Dutchy Originals Organic produce is an elegant hamper which will be appreciated and enjoyed by clients and work colleagues of all ages. The hamper is beautifully presented with natural packaging to ensure the contents arrive safe and secure.

The range of alcohol free hampers include the Fairtrade Flavours which is busting with both sweet and savoury gourmet goodies such as Divine dried sliced mangoes covered in rich dark chocolate, hand roasted Rwanda coffee, Traidcraft wild blossom honey and forest feast Fair Trade tropical mix, offers great alternative with unusual specialities produced in countries all over the world. The contents are entirely Fairtrade and made with the knowledge that the farmers and workers in the developing countries have been given fair terms of trade, decent working conditions and current market prices for their products, which for many sees the re introduction of the traditional reasons for giving Christmas Hampers as a gift to help improve the lives of others.

Author Resource:-> Flowers Direct offers excellent corporate http://www.flowersdirect.co.uk/flowers/send-hampers/cmasshamp.html Christmas Hampers to send this holiday season to the colleagues and bosses that mean the most to you.

Article From Free Article Publishing

Yellow Lab Christmas Stocking

Yellow Lab Christmas Stocking Put out a stocking for your Yellow Lab so St. Nick will be sure to find the right place for all the dog treats. Whether you are starting a new tradition or replacing an old one, this needle point Yellow Lab Christmas stocking will last year after year. For an extra special touch, personalize this stocking with your dog's name embroidered across the top in white script. Max 10 characters for personalization. NO EXPRESS/AIR SHIPPING. Allow 2-3 weeks for delivery of this item. SHIPS TO THE CONTINENTAL US ONLY. Order by Dec 2 for Christmas delivery.

Stock Up For Christmas

Did you run out of money for wine last year? Did you end up buying cheap supermarket plonk for Christmas dinner? Well this year, make your Christmas wine plans in advance, and then your wonderful Christmas dinner, which has to be the height of all festivities will be complemented some really delightful wines.

Now is a great time to stock up on your Christmas wine. There are lots of end of bin sales as new wines come in from the vineyards. These end of bin sales allow you to buy classic wines, often at a fraction of their selling price. So even if you are feeling the pinch of the credit crunch, investing in a couple of fantastic bottles of wine will ensure that your Christmas celebration is the best ever.

But Christmas is not just about the right wine to drink with your dinner. It is also a celebration, and so needs some wine for that purpose too. Buying sparkling wine or even Champagne now will save you money. Just before Christmas prices will be higher because of the demand, yes there are always some special offers, but if you look at wine prices now, you will notice that they are at the best level they have been for the last few months. The credit crunch and people not buying wine has bought prices down, making now a great time to invest.

So what are the tips for Christmas? A Champagne to start the day off is always a good idea, but for the big dinner you will need a wine to complement what you will be serving. White wines are usually the ones to go for with white meat, so if you are having turkey, they might be a good choice. However, Christmas dinner is always a very rich meal, where the cacophony of flavours delight your palate.
Therefore a white wine may be overawed. So a red wine is probably the best bet.

A Shiraz would be a good choice. It is usually smooth in taste with a fruity flavour, which will complement the Christmas turkey or whatever other meat you serve.

But when thinking of wine to have with your Christmas dinner, don’t forget an aperitif and after-dinner drinks. A sherry makes a great start to the meal and if you are having cheese and biscuits later on in the day, why not invest in a bottle of port wine. But there is no need to stop there. There are excellent Madeira wines or other fortified wines that will make your meal complete.

Author:
Fiona Muller is a qualified journalist and has worked in food and drink writing for the last few years. For a great selection of wines, including information on fine wines and tips for tastings, go to http://www.laithwaites.co.uk/browsearticles~Filter~FoodMatchGeneral:foodgroup,13~results_per_page~.aspx

Terms: Articles may be reprinted provided content is not edited and links are kept live

Source: www.articledepot.co.uk

Christmas Activities For Children

By: Jayne Waldorf

While adults indulge in the festivities and revel in enjoying the spirit of Christmas, undoubtedly it is more fun for children because they are able to lose themselves in the wide eyed wonders and glorious splendor of the season. Activities at Christmas that children can enjoy include all of the sights, sounds and scents that put the magic and a festive spirit into Christmas.

At major shopping centers like malls, children can enjoy various window displays and arrangements inside stores that show Christmas sceneries. The displays, which can be moving, stationary or interactive, can be so numerous and mesmerizing that parents often arrange a trip to such malls just for children to view the many displays.

Shopping malls are also a popular place where Santa Claus is sure to be found. For a small fee, children can get to sit or stand with Santa Claus, talk with him and most importantly, get a picture taken with Santa. Those children, like pre teens and teenagers, who may be too old for Santa Claus can also be entertained by the various grand Christmas displays as well as one of their favorite activities shopping.

Various colorful and twinkling lights are certain to be a part of the displays at malls and shopping centers, but other arrangements of Christmas lighting can also be a delightful activity for children to enjoy. Because Christmas displays have become so common, everyone has some form of lighting arrangement at their houses. This has led to neighborhoods where it is common to see an increase in traffic during the Christmas season because of the fanciful, landscaped displays of outdoor Christmas light decorations. These usually include figures of reindeers, Santa, sleighs, angels, shepherds and animals that are a part of the story of Jesus birth.

It can therefore become an activity to take a tour of these neighborhoods with children for them to feast their eyes.In a similar manner to the grand Christmas lighting that can be found in some neighborhoods and the occasional home, there are also themed lighting at quaint villages and special large, Christmas light displays at venues like some public parks. The displays can be similar to those seen in neighborhoods except that they are usually on a larger and grander scale. As an example, a typical home lawn display will have a Christmas display that includes Santa, a sleigh and a reindeer or two all as separate pieces. A Christmas display at a themed village or park would have a large and possibly moving display of Santa Claus with elf like figures in a sleigh that is being pulled by reindeers as one big structure. These Christmas sights are what often bring out the wide eyed wonder in children as their faces express awe and amazement.

While children will have a beautifully decorated Christmas tree at home to enjoy, it will also be fun for them to go to other lightings of Christmas trees because again, those trees are usually bigger and decorated on a grander scale than the ones in their living rooms at home. Just about every town, city or municipality will have Christmas tree lighting in a central location. Sometimes local firehouses will also have a special Christmas tree lighting. At these events, children can see a local official or personality flip a switch to symbolically turn on the Christmas tree, in a similar like they would have seen the President do on television.

Those local events are likely to include Christmas treats and goodies, a Santa Claus to present Christmas gifts to children and the singing of Christmas carols. Taking time out to engage in activities just for the enjoyment of children will make them feel special, experience the magic of Christmas and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Author Resource:-> Jayne Waldorf has been an internet marketer for over 12 months.Her new website http://www.waldorfchristmas.com/ combines two of her greatest passions - the internet and Christmas.She lives in England with her husband and has two grown up sons.If you would like some great Christmas gift ideas or to learn more about Christmas please visit Waldorf Christmas today.

Article From Freebie Articles

The Children''s Book of Christmas Stories The Children''s Book of Christmas Stories

Christmas in African Nations

By: Jayne Waldorf

Christmas celebrations in African nations are characterized by much outdoor activity because the season often occurs during a time when the weather is pleasant. Using palm trees and participating in processions are also characteristic features of activities related to Christmas in many parts of Africa.

In South Africa, activities that occur outside during Christmas include the usual caroling, but also the unusual ones of swimming and camping. The beach and mountains play an important role during Christmas in South Africa because the season occurs during the hottest time of the year summer.

Given the pleasant nature of the weather during Christmas, families also take advantage of it by often going sightseeing in the countryside on a relaxing drive in the late evening of Christmas Day. A rich and sumptuous menu that includes a suckling pig or roast beef, turkey, mince pies, yellow rice, vegetables and puddings usually makes up the traditional South African Christmas dinner.

To create a festive environment, decorated pine branches and fir, sparkling cotton wool and tinsel are used in homes and businesses as decorations.A similar decorative pattern of using evergreen, palm trees and lighted candles are also seen in countries such as Ghana and Liberia.

While South Africans gather at the beach during Christmas time to enjoy the warm summer waters, people in other African nations often gather outside at in town squares and in the streets to march, sing and enjoy an overall feeling of merriment.Despite the seemingly general similarity in activities, however, countries have their own individual style that makes Christmas celebrations unique.

Of all the celebrations in African nations, Christmas activities in Ethiopia stand out for their difference in when they are celebrated and how it is done. One of the features that make Ethiopian Christmas different is that the main celebratory event occurs on Jan. 7, around the time known as the Epiphany or Three Kings Day in North and South America.Given the general modest economic financial situations of a significant number of the population in many African countries, Christmas celebrations also tend to occur over a shorter period of time, compared to activities in wealthier countries.Another difference in celebrations of Christmas in Ethiopia is the participation of various people who take part in a pilgrimage and converge on the capital city during Christmas Eve. These wanderers fill the night air with a din of praying and chanting and create a multicolor spectacle when they gather on Christmas morning to have a religious service. But retaining a similarity with other African nations, Ethiopians enjoy a Christmas dinner that includes a meat stew. Stews, rice, root vegetables such as yams, breads and soups often are part of the menu of traditional Christmas day dinners in African nations.

Christmas dinners are likely enjoyed by families outside, where everyone shares the meal while sitting in a circular pattern outside under the shade of a sprawling tree, instead of sitting in a formal setting at a table. Africans also enjoy exchanging gifts. Popular items that are exchanged as Christmas gifts include cotton cloth, soaps, sweets, pencils and books, all very practical items that can be readily used. Again, this may be related to the modest financial resources of up to half the population in many African countries, as well as to cultural norms. Individuals aren t able to afford extravagant gifts but they still want to surprise children, family and friends at Christmas with an unexpected gift.

The generally pervasive cultural norm of humility and modesty that exists among traditional African peoples also plays an important role in not having overreaching extravagance at Christmas.

Author Resource:-> Jayne Waldorf has been an internet marketer for over 12 months.Her new website http://www.waldorfchristmas.com combines two of her greatest passions - the internet and Christmas.She lives in England with her husband and has two grown up sons.If you would like some great Christmas gift ideas or to learn more about Christmas please visit Waldorf Christmas today.

Article From Freebie Articles

An African Christmas Multiple award-winning author Ifeoma Onyefulu maintains her strong track record with her latest title, An African Christmas...

Business Gifts Ideas for Christmas

Business Gifts Ideas For Christmas

By: Janet R.

Christmas is nearly approaching, carols and bright lights are everywhere. Christmas is the time where the change of atmosphere, the thick chilling air and festive ambiance are being awaited. This celebration is one of the grandest and biggest parties all over the world, where bountiful food, drinks and merry making are enjoyed by everyone. It is the season of love to spend with family and friends, and of course the eminent season of gift giving.

Receiving gifts during Christmas is one of our yearly traditional experiences. Whether you have acknowledged that your old enough to unwrap gift boxes, you ll still find yourself flashing back to times when you were a little kid, very excited to tear off the wrapped present from Santa. Giving gifts, on the other hand, is another scenario. You may find it easy when buying Christmas presents for your mom, dad, sister, brother and even your closest friends because you obviously know their preferences. But what if your colleagues and bosses at work are included in your who to buy gift list? Surprisingly, it is quite daunting and challenging to think of great gifts to give for career oriented people.

Because giving something wrapped for business people is quite a hard task not only for you but for many gift givers, you might tend to disregard this idea altogether. But then, that would be so pro grinch of you. After all, your colleagues and bosses are those people who have helped you ease your daily tasks. Your presents for them are a definite means to show concern for your workplace camaraderie and very basic human decency.

When shopping for business items, where the real challenge takes place, you should consider a few factors to lead you to the appropriate gift for them. First, gifts for business people must signify professionalism. Pick items that can function and be used at work. You can think of unique items rather than usual collections of office supplies. Consider personalized office accessories like personalized desk sets, pen holders, business card holders, desk clocks or other decorative business items. Think outside the box, ordinary accessories may also be turned into elegant looking memorabilia to accentuate his/her office appeal.

Also, your gifts are measurable by the degree of your relationship towards your receiver. Personalized gifts are enough to make a perfect Holiday gift for the most closest colleagues of yours, but not too perfect to cross boundaries for your not so close officemates. You don t want to seem like trying to be the center of everyone s attention or the bosses favorite. A personalized mug, pens and business card case are appropriate and can make very simple business gifts.

And for the final touch, be creative, look for business gifts that have charisma. Don t go with tasteless, dazzling and florid designs, but rather choose something that are simple and elegant to be recognized without seemingly looking too formal as well as inappropriate. Think of items that will ideally suit any business person s taste like metals, wood and leather. You may consider a leather business card holder or perhaps a silver money clip.

Author Resource:-> Jnet is an author for a variety of lifestyle issues and topics. For more information on christmas gifts, visit the website http://mybusinessgifts.com/ and browse their extensive collection.

Article From Freebie Articles

10 Tips to Help Ease Holiday Stress

Don’t let another holiday season wear you down and frazzle your nerves. Following are some ideas that can help make Christmas, Thanksgiving and other holidays more enjoyable and less stressful.

1. Make a list and check it twice. Whether you are planning the feast, looking for gifts or just in charge of arrangements, making a list of things that need to be done or items that need to be purchased, helps to take the guesswork out of what needs to be done next. Plus if you stick to the list you can save money by not impulse buying and by taking advantage of any sales that come along. This way you know ahead of time what needs to be taken care of and it should eliminate some of the last minute stress worrying about what might have been forgotten.

2. Take a time out. Make it a routine to take time out for you. Spend 10-15 minutes, a couple of times a day, relaxing, exercising, listening to music, doing yoga, reading a book or taking a walk. The point is to spend some time recharging your battery. Whatever you enjoy doing, give yourself permission to decompress a couple of times a day and you’ll be amazed at how much more energy you have. Plus this helps to keep you focused on the task at hand while helping to eliminate stress throughout your day.

3. Start shopping in advance. Make you list early and start keeping an eye out for deals. Start keeping your eyes open for gifts throughout the year and by the time Christmas rolls around, or any other holiday for that matter, you will already be prepared. Plus this helps you to save quite a bit of green in the long run if you only buy items when they go on sale. Best of all you eliminate all those last minute hassles when looking for gifts which can save you time and a whole lot of stress.

4. Don’t forget to take care of you too. Things like sleep, diet and exercise have a profound effect on how much energy we have and how well we handle stress when it comes up. Help yourself to stay on top of your game by making sure your body gets enough sleep, the right foods and moderate exercise. By taking care of yourself you will find you have more energy and things don’t stress you out as much as they used to.

5. You don’t have to be everywhere at once. Married couples especially are subjected to this very common holiday stressor. They feel they have to attend all the family functions, no matter how hectic it may be for them. Decide before the holiday season where you will be going this year and then next year you can attend the other side. Or you can attend one family gathering one day and the next day attend the other, provided they are within a reasonable driving distance. The point is to take charge of your holiday obligations and decide in advance what you will and won’t be doing, thus eliminating stress and allowing you to have a more enjoyable holiday season.

6. Create a budget and stick to it. We all want to give the best gift we can possibly afford. Sometimes however we get a little carried away. Take heart however, great gifts can be found that won’t break the bank or your budget. By knowing in advance what you want to get, you can take advantage of any sales that come along. Each item you purchase has already been budgeted for, so when you only purchase it at the sale price you are saving yourself money. And saving yourself money is a great way to reduce stress, besides it’s not necessarily the cost of the gift but instead the thought that counts anyways.

7. Buy Green. Recycled items not only help the environment, items that are made of recycled products tend to cost less too. For a list of recycled gift ideas, looking online is a great place to start. Remember to create your list and stick to your budget. A smart shopper is a happy shopper and the more time and money you save, the less stressful those holidays will seem.

8. Stay at home this year. The holidays don’t always have to be filled with constant running, various responsibilities and countless obligations. Have the family stay home this year. Spend time baking cookies, playing in the snow, making decorations, playing games, finding and decorating the tree and whatever else you can think of doing. You’ll be spending quality time together as a family, while creating new holiday traditions and precious memories for years to come. Plus by eliminating all the running around you’ll find the holidays much more enjoyable and less stressful.

9. Give yourself a holiday. Before or even after the holidays, take a day or two to do something that you want to do. Whether it’s a small getaway or just a day at the spa, doing fun and relaxing activities will help you to unwind and recharge. Go golfing, get a massage, try yoga, go to a movie, go for a walk, whatever you choose to do, you’ll find the holiday season more enjoyable and less chaotic.

10. Share the holiday responsibilities. You don’t have to try to be superman or superwomen during the holiday season. Ask other family members to help with some of the planning and preparations. Sharing the responsibilities helps to take stress off of you while allowing others to have a chance at helping plus giving them a sense of accomplishment. Everyone will feel a sense of camaraderie, plus this is a great way to reconnect with various family members. After all the holidays are all about family, so the family gathering should also be about giving and receiving help during the festivities. Holidays are stressful enough as it is. With everything we do, plus our various responsibilities, it’s a wonder we survive intact. Don’t let another holiday season make you want to head for the hills. By taking time for you and eliminating holiday stressors, you enable yourself to give more to your loved ones, without wearing yourself so ragged. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed by all, so try to remember this year to give to yourself as well as everybody else. After all, the holiday season really is all about giving. Take care and Happy Holidays :-)

About the author:

Angelique writes articles for helping shoppers find gifts, providing shopping tips and how to benefit from personalized gifts, promotional products, and awards. She also writes articles about self improvement and helping others. Her work is sponsored by Wealthwood Gifts and Blog Wealthwood. Article Source: http://www.free-articles-zone.com/author/21167

The Beach Christmas versus the White Christmas

Christmas is the time of year for cold weather, snow, mistletoe and beautiful Christmas Gifts exchanged around a roaring log fire. Where a traditional dinner is served, and you get to tuck into family favourites such as roast turkey, Christmas pudding and a rich cake encased in deliciously sweet marzipan and icing. Or is it? Christmas could equally be about spending time in the sun, where a traditional dinner consists of food suitable for a barbeque and fit for a king; maybe some fish, or some steaks all sizzling away alongside some freshly caught tuna. Perhaps this barbeque takes place on a beach, so while your food is cooking, you can spend a little time swimming in the sea, or relaxing in the sun and working on your tan. It certainly sounds a lot more attractive to a rainy day somewhere, where your time working on Christmas dinner is spent watching some of television's 'golden moments'.

Either way, however you decide to spend this coming Christmas - and both scenarios are equally appealing in their own unique way - it is important to make sure that the Gifts match the occasion. Essentially, if you're spending Christmas in the sun, friends and family members are not really going to maintain excitement levels at their peak as they unwrap a woollen jumper and a cosy scarf - although they might prove useful when returning to the UK, along with a self-help book on beating the post-holiday blues.So what would be suitable? Well, Christmas Gifts for sun seekers could revolve around a favourite sport or hobby? If the recipient likes swimming, then ideal Christmas Gifts could be either a White Water Rafting Experience Day, or even some time spent surfing with a Surfing Experience gift Pack.

If the white water rafting sounds like a swimmingly good idea, it is worth bearing in mind that all rafting trips are dependent upon sufficient water levels and that all events come with both tuition and talks on safety. All this aside, white water rafting is a thrilling adventure that will give the recipient of your gift the unforgettable thrill of travelling along either natural or man-made rapids; it really is the gift of a lifetime.

Surfing is another pastime that make an ideal Christmas Gift for someone with an inclination towards more sporty pursuits. Even for a complete beginner, with a little bit of balance and determination, surfing is an exciting way to spend a day - or even a few hours - and it's pretty safe to say that the first-ever surfed wave is definitely the most memorable.But what about Christmas in not so sunny locations?

Well, it doesn't mean that the Gifts have to be any less appropriate and there really is no need to fall back on the more obvious choices, just because the sun is taking a nap. Paintball, ice climbing and even microlighting are all fun experience day gifts that can be enjoyed however inclement the weather.

Paintball is amazing fun and gives the person you're thinking about - and a co-participant of their choice - the opportunity to act out any action hero fantasies they might have; quite literally, it's almost like schoolyard cops and robbers, but for adults. The Paintballing for Two Experience Day event is perfectly safe and it's a great way to run around a muddy and woody area using non-lethal force - after all, it's only paint - to overcome your enemy. Naturally, all participants will be given full training and guidance before the fun begins.

For winter sport fans, Ice-climbing for Two events offer the thrill of mountaineering, but none of the dangers. This Christmas Gifts idea comes with plenty of one-on-one tuition and the lucky participant gets a whole 40 minutes to pit their wits against the wall.

A Microlighting Flight Experience Day Gift Pack is a perfect christmas gifts option for the more adventurous, and while it's ideally suited to Britain's spring and summer months, so long as the weather is stable enough, it doesn't really matter when you fly. All participants will be given all the help and training they need, and the actual flight will take place with the help of an instructor. And because the planes come with dual-controls, it's even possible to have a go yourself; just make sure you dress up warmly as, no matter how good the weather on the ground, up there it's going to be a little bit nippy.
Not only does the craft fly up to a total of 1,500 feet, but the cockpit is also entirely open.
Exciting stuff!

About the author:
Getting Personal offer unique high quality gifts & personalised gifts at affordable prices, delivered quickly and guaranteed with a smile.To explore our range of christmas"> http://www.gettingpersonal.co.uk/christmas-presents/christmas-gifts.htm">christmas gifts further, please visit our website at http://www.gettingpersonal.co.uk. Article Source: http://www.free-articles-zone.com/author/20780

5 Of the Best Remote Control Toys for Kids for Christmas

1. Bratz Tokyo A Go - Remote controlled Car 27MHzThis car is a wonderful little r/c from Bratz that is a huge hit with the girls. They love having their own remote controlled car to play with! You can use the remote to move the car forward and back and spin it around race with the other girls and more! The car will fit two Bratz Dolls, so the fun goes with you! This Tokyo A Go car is a great accessory for the series of Other Bratz Dolls etc. That is designed to play with it. Girls will be grooving! Also available in 49 MHz.

2.Tyco Radio Controlled Terrain TwisterYoung and old are raving about this fantastic radio controlled vehicle made by Tyco. It takes on all types of terrain even mud, water, grass and twigs! It is a tough and easy to maintain vehicle and can stand up to rough play.

3. Cadillac Escalade R/C 1:6 scale -27 MHzNew Bright industries has developed this 1:6 scalegreat looking Cadillac Escalade. It is a great car for its value and comes complete with spinning rims and an Awesome Exterior. This car can operate up to 100 feet and has 3 speed controls. Also available in 49 MHz.

4. Hover Copter Wireless Flying Saucerthe kids will love this incredible Hover Copter. It is able to both Hover and Fly while being controlled by its remote. Loads of fun from ground to sky!

5. Nikko 1:10 Ferrai F1 R/C kit.This R/C vehicle New from Nikko requires some assembly, as it comes partially assembled. It allows the feeling of accomplishment in the process of finishing the project then the Joy of driving at top speed. With its smooth turning and anti skid features it is sure to behttp://www.coachingonnet.com/

Remote Control Speedboat by Simba Their excitement will take off with the Off Shore Remote Control Speed Boat by Simba/Ravensburger! And because it comes with batteries already included, imagination is the only power it needs to get going right out of the box.This authentic looking speed boat measures 12 1/2” long, has a range of 50 feet, and has two channels of radio remote radio control that no wave crasher would do without. Bring home the Off Shore Remote Control Speed Boat by Simba/Ravensburger today and bring home the fun for ages! From Kazoo Toys for girls and boys.Ages 6 and up.By Simba/Ravensburger