Christmas Storage Ornament Tips

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas


Storing your Christmas ornaments can be difficult, because it can often be hard to figure out what types of containers will be best for which ornaments. This can lead to a lot of confusion as to where specific items are stored, as well as broken ornaments, so proper storage is important. If you can avoid breaking things, and keep your ornaments stored safely, you will be able to use them again year after year.

<b><i>Container Size</i></b>

Be sure that you are storing your ornaments and breakables in the correct sizes of containers. You will want to use containers that are suitable for what you are storing. For instance, some things can be put into larger storage containers, such as big garlands, stockings, or Christmas lights. Items that do not have breakable pieces, and that are larger, can easily be put into bigger storage containers, and this will allow for these items to be stored much more securely. However, if you have smaller items, you are going to need to store these in smaller containers, so that they are stored securely. Try not to just throw all of your tree ornaments in the same big tub. First, put each ornament or set of ornaments into smaller boxes that will hold them securely in a way that prevents breakage. Then, you can put all of the smaller boxes into the same bigger tub.

To find the right sizes of containers, you will also need to separate your items correctly. Another useful tip to follow when it comes to storing your Christmas ornaments is to make sure you store them in containers with like items. For instance, all of your lights should be in one large tub, while all of your nativity scene figures should be in a small box. Put all the tinsel in one place, all the balls in another, and so on. You will want to keep things separated and in their own sized containers for the best chance at safe and easy storage. It also means that next Christmas, it is much easier to find the specific items you need, when you need them.

Remember that for Christmas balls and other decorations, storage containers with built in compartment to separate them and keep them from knocking together are very useful tools for you. They might cost a bit more, but they will save you a lot in the long run by keeping your items safe for you for seasons to come. You can also get irregular sized containers for big items, like wreaths or trees.

<b><i>Storage Materials</i></b>

There are two parts to using appropriate materials when storing Christmas ornaments. First of all, use good materials when wrapping ornaments and storing them in their individual boxes. Paper or other packing materials should be used on fragile items even if they are stored separately in a box without anything else near them. You will still want to wrap them securely so that you can be sure they will store safely and keep all year.

Secondly, you need to double check which types of materials you are using to store your Christmas and holiday items in. Cardboard or other types of boxes can be used, but only if they are used for smaller items and then the boxes are put into something more secure. To store the sets of cardboard boxes, and to store larger things, you want to use secure plastic tubs or containers with lids that are air-tight.

There are several reasons to use these things when you are storing your ornaments. First of all, you will probably be keeping them in the basement or attic, and you want to keep them safe and free of pests and dust. Also, you want to keep them water-tight as well. If moisture gets into your storage containers, you will find that things break and are ruined much more quickly, even if they do not become water-logged.

<b><i>Where to Store?</i></b>

Another aspect to storing your Christmas ornaments is to store them all in appropriate places. Although the attic might have much more room than the basement, you have to think about what you are storing and how it will all be affected by changing temperatures. If you have glass ornaments, or even plastic ones, they might be damaged by extremely hot temperatures or extremely cold temperatures. Therefore, you do want to think carefully about your items and make sure that they are being stored in a controlled environment.

<b><i>Labeling</i></b>

Nothing ruins a Christmas more than your favorite box of ornaments being accidently donated to charity, or set out with the trash. Always be sure that when you are storing your ornaments, you label them correctly and keep the boxes together. This will keep your ornaments safe for you for years to come.

Jeremy Foster is a freelance writer. Mr. Foster writes about home maintenance and personal organization, often discussing specific topics such asChristmas ornament storage.

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Tips On Becoming A Good Christmas Stocking Stuffer

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

Way back in 1967, I was officially appointed as the family’s Christmas Stocking Stuffer. Since my dad died, I’ m concerned that Santa would stop visiting my two little brothers.

When my dad passed away, I learned that sorrow can be overcome by doing something secret and exciting for someone else. Whenever, I see the stunned looks on my brothers’ faces, I then concluded that the best job there is, is becoming a Christmas Stocking Stuffer.

Over the years, I have gained a few insights about it and so I am offering little tips and ideas you could use for the job.

1) Finding the Right Stocking: Most families by now have their stockings and you’ll just have to do something with what you got. On the other hand, if you’re just starting out or have the chance to set up a new custom, here are a small number of things remember when you select a stocking for stuffing:

• The Right Size: I have noticed that a medium size stocking that’s 20-24 inches from cuff to toe, is the right size. Bear in mind- you have to fill a stocking and a large one could spoil your Christmas budget.

• The Right Material: It is important to make sure that the stocking is made from the right material and durable. Knit stockings stretch out in both directions. Once again, consider your finances.

• If your family hangs their stockings, make sure the loop is durable enough to hold a large amount of pounds without breaking.

2) Places to shop for items to be stuffed inside the Christmas stocking. Your ultimate goal when shopping for items to be used for the Christmas stocking is to save money, to shop for items on sale, to use store coupons, and to go to thrift stores. Here are a few ideas proven to bring out smiles on a Christmas morning:

• Office Supplies Store: memo pads, pen markers, pencil or ballpen erasers, pencils and ballpens, index cards, paper and binder clips, colored pens, plastic rulers, scrap booking items, crayolas, post-it notes, staplers, pencil sharpeners.

• Drug Store: candies, nuts of all kinds, photo film, disposable camera, inexpensive but nice toys, activity books, a nice scented cologne, a non-greasy lotion, manicure set, liquid bath soap, batteries, costume jewelry, a hypoallergenic cosmetic, hairpins, hair clips, shaving cream, hair brush

• Book Store: inexpensive books, wholesome magazines, bookmarks, book lamps, diaries, coffee mugs, cd case, dvds, small stuffed animals, jigsaw puzzles

• Hardware Store: hammers, a variety of screw drivers, various pliers, spray paint, working gloves, padlocks, key labels, flashlight, construction gadgets, paint brushes, vegetable and flower seeds

• Craft Store: beads of several colors and designs, dental floss, sewing kit, scissors with shapes, watercolor, art papers, ink stamps with nice designs, paper stickers, buttons, decors, charcoal pencils, glitter dusts, how-to kits, golden cross stitch thread, linen cloth.

• Grocery Store: chocolates, fruits of any kind, cooking tools, cookies in boxes or in foil packs, small boxes of cereal, bags of snacks, beer in cans, small bottle of olive oil, vinegars in small bottles, snack cakes in foil packs

• Baking and Cooking Supplies Store: wooden spoons used for baking, oven thermometer, baster, kitchen tongs, strainer, cork openers, spatulas, garlic crusher, vegetable peeler.

• Sporting Goods Store: tennis balls set, golf balls set, wrist bands, baseball caps, baseball bats, jump ropes, sport socks.

3) The Choice whether to Wrap the Gift Items or Not: This is an individual choice. Since I love to wrap up gift items as much as I love being a Christmas stocking stuffer, it’s not a difficult option. Every item becomes a little gift – even if it’s a single piece of candy. Furthermore, unwrapping gifts will slow a child down making the magic of Christmas morning last a bit longer.

6) Qualifications of a Christmas Stocking Stuffer: The traits that Christmas Stocking Stuffer should possess, is someone who is: a fine listener, watchful and considers love is in the details. He or she is well-prepared and creative.

Get more of Christmas stocking ideas at merrychristmas24.com. Learn how to become an ultimate Christmas stocking stuffer by visiting Christmas Decorations section.

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Christmas Self Esteem ? Giving the Gift of Self Worth, Self Confidence and Self Respect!

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

Give a gift that keeps on giving – self-esteem which is the collection of feelings or beliefs that we have about ourselves. How we define ourselves influences our motivations, attitudes, and behaviors and affects our emotional well being. Self-confidence, great relationships, and a good shot at success in whatever you attempt is the prize for self esteem. Now is the time to think about your overall self appraisal of your own self worth, self-confidence and self respect and how this influences your children and others around you and what you can do about it this Christmas season.

Having healthy self esteem will produce:

- Armor against life’s challenges

- Feeling good about yourself

- Find it easier to handle conflicts and negative pressures

- More realistic approach to life – will look for solutions and have the ability to move forward rather than get stuck

- Generally optimistic and will enjoy life more

Low self esteem produces:

- Challenges becoming sources of major anxiety and frustration

- Harder to find solutions to problems

- Produce critical thoughts such as ‘I’m not good enough’, ‘I’m not loveable’, ‘I always do things wrong’, ‘nobody cares about me’

- Will belittle oneself for weaknesses rather than accept them eg. will say ‘I’m an idiot’ rather than say ‘I don’t understand’

- produce a passive, withdrawn or depressed state

- distorted perceptions of life – can see temporary setbacks as intolerable and permanent

- a sense of pessimism predominates

Give the gift of fostering healthy self esteem in your child!

Know that low self-esteem begins in childhood and is the result of the actions and attitudes of significant older people around us. Don’t program your children to feel less than wonderful about themselves. Here are a few great tips of how you can give and make a big difference:

• Praise your child: especially for jobs well done and for their effort put in. Be mindful of your words, what you say and be truthful. Reward effort and completion rather than outcome. For example your child lost at basketball and didn’t make the finals, say ‘you didn’t make the finals but I’m proud of the effort you put in’ rather than ‘next time you’ll work harder and make it’.

• Be a positive role model & do not criticize even in jest. Ensure you develop and display healthy self esteem with your role modeling. You don’t want your child to grow up mirroring adults with pessimistic or unrealistic expressions about abilities and limitations. For example, don’t criticize find positive ways to address an issue. If you criticize chances are your child will grow up with a mate or boss who is constantly telling them what they do wrong because they have grown up believing it is ok for people to treat them that way and thus they allow it and attract it. Do not use demeaning nicknames in jest they are criticism and they damage self esteem.

• Address irrational beliefs. It’s important to not only identify unhealthy or inaccurate irrational beliefs but to redirect them. These beliefs may include issues around attractiveness, perfection and abilities. An example might be that your child is doing well at school generally yet is struggling with English. Your child might say things like ‘I’m not a good student’ or ‘I can’t do English’. This is a generalization that is setting up the outcome for failure. You would redirect the child with something like ‘You are doing well at school and you are a good student you just need to spend more time on the English subject and we can work on developing that’.

• Give spontaneous affection. Tell your child you are proud of him or her. Hug your child. Leave a note on their pillow ‘I think you’re terrific’ or ‘you make a difference’. A parent’s love can support and boost a child’s self esteem. Be mindful not to overdo it – kids are good knowing when it’s not honest.

• Don’t argue in front of your children. Exposing your child to repeated arguing and fighting may cause withdrawal and depression. Low self esteem will result from a child feeling unsafe or being abused at home. Respect your child by creating a safe, nurturing home environment.

Self esteem is not about bragging that you are the greatest or that you are perfect. Nobody is perfect but having healthy self esteem will result in you or your child knowing that you or he or she is worthy of being loved and accepted. Self esteem creates a belief in one’s self and courage to try new things and the ability to make better choices about your mind and body rather than go along with crowd doing dumb or dangerous activities. You’ll respect yourself even when you make mistakes because you will have a healthy and realistic view of your abilities and a situation. Because you respect yourself, others usually will too.

Tips for gifting yourself self esteem!

You can help develop your self esteem, love and acceptance of yourself by focusing on the good things you do and all your great qualities. Here are a few suggestions that you can try to increase your self-esteem:

• Choose your friends well. Choose to spend more time with people who help you feel good about yourself. Be in relationships that bring you up not drag you down.

• Make a list of things you’re good at. It can be anything from cooking, sports, drawing, writing, singing or telling a good joke. Now add a few things to your list that you would like to be good at. Now make a plan as to how you could work on developing skills you will need to be good at what’s on your list.

• Give yourself a compliment a day. Find something you did during the day that was good. For example ‘I was a good listener today’ or ‘I was a good friend to Johnny today’ or ‘I made a good effort to complete my work today’

• Keep a journal of good things said about you. Studies have shown that people with low self esteem tend to forget or filter out information that counters ingrained negative beliefs. Having a journal your write down praise given to you will enable you to remember and acknowledge your real value.

• Express gratitude daily. Before you go to bed every night think of at least one thing in your day that you are grateful for. It could simply your toothbrush because it gives you clean teeth and fresh breath! Start with small things and build on it each day.

• Accept your body. Remind yourself that there are some things that are uniquely yours – embrace them such as shoe size, skin color and height. Don’t compare yourself with others just learn from them. If you are wanting a healthier body learn skills to improve your health and take up a physical activity. Acknowledge your body’s strengths eg. I have strong legs, I can ride a bike really well.

• Next negative thoughts and self critical remarks. Make a conscious effort to be aware of when a negative thought enters your mind. Stop it immediately and redirect yourself to healthier thoughts. Negative thoughts discourage and drag your self esteem down as does every time you make a self critical negative remark such as ‘I’m an idiot’ you are reinforcing negative patterns in your brain that do not serve you.

Have a Self Esteem Christmas!

Giving and Christmas always go hand in hand. So how about this Christmas you give self esteem as your gift this season! Here are a few suggestions:

- Send a self esteem Christmas card. Show your appreciation and thoughts by sending words of thanks, gratitude and acknowledgement of the person you are sending a Christmas card to in your greetings message. For example, thank friends for their friendship and smiling time spent together or if an employee, for their efforts and loyalty. The extra effort to acknowledge something personal and good about another goes a long way towards boosting anothers self esteem.

- Purchase self esteem presents. Think about your message and what kind of gift would go with it that would convey your words. Here are some examples – motivational books (to uplift and encourage) or a board games (great for sharing fun, smiles and memorable quality time together).

So now you know why you want to foster healthy self esteem in yourself and in your children and some tips to get you started. There is no better time to start than at Christmas, the time for giving and the time to give the life enhancing gift of self esteem!

Visit Visit http://www.TheFamilyYak.com to listen to ‘Conversations with Mrs Claus’ podcast show with Mrs Claus (aka Christmas author Bernadette Dimitrov) – a family show that provides a weekly stream of inspiration, insight and connection to fascinating guests world-wide. Also come visit http://www.HoHoHoChristmas.com and join their free Christmas newsletter & receive free gifts!

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Why Real Christmas Wreaths are Better for the Environment

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

Conscientious consumers today concerned about the environment are taking the time to consider the consequences of their purchases. More and more people are making an effort to purchase products that use renewable resources. When it comes to buying a real, live Christmas wreath or an artificial wreath many people are choosing real.

Artificial wreaths are made from plastics and other petroleum based products. You’d have to be living on the moon to not know that petroleum is not a renewable resource. This alone should motivate people to not purchase artificial wreaths. Most artificial wreaths are made in China whose demand for petroleum is increasing by 25% a year as more Chinese can afford to have cars. Petroleum is used to make the plastic for artificial wreaths and more petroleum is used to transport them to the United States.

The biggest reason people buy artificial wreaths is because they last for many years. They have an expected life of nine or ten years. Most people don’t keep them that long and of course they end up at the landfill where they will stay for 5000 years or more.

Live Christmas wreaths have many environmental benefits. They’re recyclable if you take the wires and rings off. Many communities have recycling programs in place during the holiday season to pick up your Christmas trees and wreaths. They are chipped and made into mulch. However, Christmas wreaths are usually kept on doors far past the holiday season.

Real Christmas wreaths are a renewable resource. The trees are not cut down to harvest the branches used for Christmas wreaths. Around 12 to 18 inches of the branches are cut off or tipped as we say in Maine. These branches continue to grow year after year. Real Christmas wreaths are more of a renewable resource than even real Christmas trees. Even though Christmas tree farms typically plant up to three more trees for every one they cut down they are still cutting one down. Tipping trees is kind of like pruning your shrubbery. The branches grow back.

Live balsam fir trees used for Maine Christmas wreaths are the most fragrant of all the fir varieties. Approximately 85% of Maine is forests. Forests are very important in the fight against global warming. Trees take carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and release oxygen. Burning fossil fuels to produce plastics adds carbon dioxide to the atmosphere contributing to global warming.

Consumers concerned about the environment should choose a live Christmas wreath over an artificial wreath as it is recyclable, renewable and less of a contributor to global warming.

Lynn Jebbia is the owner of Acadia Wreath Company. Acadia Wreath Company, based in Bar Harbor, Maine, handcrafts fresh Maine balsam fir Christmas wreaths, Christmas Centerpieces and Kissing Balls which are shipped directly to customers and corporate clients throughout the United States.

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Stocking Fillers ? Fill Your Boots With Perfect Christmas Gifts

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

Even the most ardent believers that Christmas is a time for giving and not receiving will readily admit that the anticipation of finding a stocking full of goodies – whether they be of any practical use or not and no matter how old you are – quite enchanting. Stocking Fillers can be the perfect opportunity to surprise and amuse, to be as personal and indulgent as you like. But for anyone who can still remember a time when they had to be grateful for a sock full of fruit on Christmas morning; times have changed. The list of treats and trinkets intended especially for the stocking is literally endless, so here are just a few tips on how to select the perfect Christmas gifts.

Who Cares About The Calories?

Including someone’s favourite chocolates in their Christmas stocking might be common practise, but what about something a little more unique? You could invest in some personalised sweets for that ultimate declaration of affection, or make someone smile with just a little bit of thought and what better way than a ‘Silver Love Heart Sweet’, or give your last ‘Rolo’ to the one you really love? Complete with a presentation box, those familiar with these famous sweets can purchase a solid silver or gold version with their own personalised message…a beautiful gift, but not to be eaten.

Growing Your Own

Horticultural gifts can be a great way to get everyone interested in all things natural, and with little effort required, the house could soon be filled with an array of magical plants. A ‘Grow It…Chilli Plants Gift Box’ provides everything you need to grow five of the world’s spiciest varieties of chilli plants, including the growing pots, compost discs and plant markers. There’s also a Chilli Pocket Garden for those who like the taste but prefer minimal effort; simply add the seeds to the cleverly designed foil packet and wait for the chilli to grow. But for those who prefer the more gentle approach and have a little bit more patience, then a Bonsai Tree Gift Box might make a more ideal and personal gift. Perfectly sized for a window sill or desk, the bonsai tree has a calming quality and by its own nature would suit someone who has the fortitude to let it gradually bloom. For any member of the family who isn’t quite awake of a morning until they’ve had their intake of tea or coffee, then a ‘Grow It – Tea and Coffee Gift Box’ combines the unique with the personal. Very few people can probably boast that they grow their own tea leaves or coffee beans in their home, and with all the equipment and tips needed to help the plants flourish, it really couldn’t get much easier. For the younger botanists in the family, then the ‘Grow your Own Mr Grasshead’ is a fun way of getting children interested in nurturing plants. By simply adding water, they will soon get to see him sprouting his own green hair which can be styled and trimmed in any way.

Getting Creative

For those budding Blue-Peter presenters in the family, then why not help them to embrace their creative flair by including a choice of card-making kits for a much more personal Christmas message, or encourage a heart-felt thank you note for those who have given generously. The ‘Cheeky Monkey’ card making kit is ideal for all seasons and offers hours of creative fun for those…well…cheeky monkeys in the family. For those who like to give Delia a run for her money, or even for those who need a kick start when it comes to creating something in the kitchen, then why not send them a little encouragement with a traditional recipe book? ‘Mrs Manley’s Christmas Treats’ is a stocking sized satin embroidered book with a host of recipes for those traditional festive delights.

Gadgets and Gizmos

T’is the season to be jolly and the Christmas stocking is a great excuse to introduce those curious and Fun Christmas gifts that we soon come to wonder how we ever managed without. As Christmas can prove a costly time of year for many, what better opportunity to encourage money-saving than a money bank? The ‘Money Maze Bank’ offers a unique twist on the traditional piggy bank in that a puzzle must be completed before money can be taken out. A humorous gift for those more spend-thrifty members of the family perhaps, or a simple way of reminding children than money needs to be earned. For the latest in Japanese mobile phone accessories, a ‘MoPod’ might make an ideal stocking filler. The pod interacts with mobile phones, with a range of characters that light up and dance when the phone rings or a text message arrives. These great little gadgets can be attached to any phone or even a jacket or bag – making them particularly handy for those who tend to lose their mobile phones at the bottom of their handbags!

Written by John Smith co-founder of GettingPersonal.co.uk

GettingPersonal.co.uk are one of the UK’s leading on-line retailers of Gifts, personalised gifts and Christmas Gifts. Their website is packed with over 1,500 gifts for any special occasion.


For more go to www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

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Christmas Gift Baskets: Tips in Buying These Gift Baskets

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

When you surf the Internet, you will be amazed of the numerous websites that gives you ideas on what the best Christmas gifts to get. Gift ideas can range from the most expensive artworks to the cheapest toys. It is just a matter of choosing the right gift.

Christmas season is the season for gift buying and giving. For centuries, when Christmas is approaching, more and more gift items and ideas becomes available. Gift giving has become a traditional way of celebrating the holiday season. Even if Christmas is identified as a Christian holiday, now, even non-Christian countries are also into the celebration. It is a worldwide festivity, with so many activities to make, which included gift giving of the most popular Christmas gift baskets.

Some Gift Basket Ideas

&#61558;Fruit Gift Baskets. Gather an assortment of fruits suitable for your Christmas gift baskets. Look for fruits that are in season so that you will have a guaranteed fresh produce. It will be a good gift especially if the receiver is health conscious.

&#61558; Gourmet Gift Baskets. This is an excellent package. Choose the most delicious yet healthy food you can grab.

&#61558; Goodies Gift Baskets. There are so many items that you can include here. Chocolates, cookies, candies, and other pastries. Forget about the diet. Whoever receives this Christmas gift baskets will appreciate the giver.

&#61558; Wine Gift Baskets. It may be a single bottle, with some nuts, or you may give more than one. It’s Christmas and it’s the season for drinking, isn’t it?

&#61558; Specialty Gift Baskets. A very practical Christmas gift baskets would contain items truly depicting the Christmas Season.

Important Tips in Buying Christmas Gift Baskets

1.Never be afraid to request for customization. You may not believe this, but most of the companies specializing in Christmas gift baskets are very much willing to get a few items replaced or add other items in them. Just make sure you give your request ahead of time and that you are willing to pay the extra fee for items added.

2.Be practical. When you choose gift baskets, make sure that the basket itself can be useful even if after the items have been consumed. The container you may use can be a decorative wooden box, a tin can or wicker baskets. Gift baskets made of wicker is guaranteed to last long since they are made from rattan, the material used in some furniture.

3.If it is possible, try to look for Christmas gift baskets that are put together only when you do the purchasing. This is better than those ready to go gift baskets. In this way, you will be guaranteed with new and fresh items and also, you are assured that every item is worth the cost.

Don’t forget to check on Tanner’s Pecans & Candies for the holiday goodies you wish your loved one could have for the Christmas holidays. We have all the best Christmas gift baskets in town, containing all the favorite treats you always dream of.

Buying Christmas Gift Baskets isn’t always easy, so we at Tanners Pecan (http://www.tannerspecan.com) have sponsored this periodical about Gift Baskets for Christmas.

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Tips for a Perfect Christmas Party

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

Every year Christmas is the same: set up the Christmas tree, eat a very big meal with the family, season shows and movies on TV and, maybe, a visit to your parents or friends.

Aren’t you tired of the same old Christmas? What if this year you would spend it differently, throwing a party for a few good friends? Now don’t get a headache thinking of all the work you have to do, following the tips I’ll give you you’ll only get in the Christmas spirit even more organizing this party.

Assuming you already know who you want to invite, make sure that all your friends don’t have alternate plans. It would be a shame to find yourself alone on Christmas Day. Then you need to make a menu and buy ahead of time drinks and all the necesary items and food. Don’t leave it all at the last moment or you’ll find yourself waiting in shopping lines forever.

Also find out if the guests will be bringing their kids to the party. In this case you don’t want them to get bored or get in the adults’ way. You can organize some activities, for example decorating the Christmas tree, making decorations, or if you have a backyard, a snowman contest. You can even ask one of your guests to dress up as Santa Claus. This will make for a much better Christmas than just watching the TV.

What must the menu include to impress the audience? Take into account their preferences but make your own choices – it’s your party after all, isn’t it? Here are some ideeas:

1. Hot cider – a fresh drink that will fill your house with it’s aroma. You can make it yourself. All you need is pimento, oranges, lemons, apple juice, sugar and cinnamon. Cut the oranges and lemons into slices, put pimento in some of them, add the sugar and cinnamon and let them boil. After that reduce the heat but keep the temperature constant for another 30 minutes. At the end you can take out the cinnamon sticks and fruit slices. For an even better drink put some brown sugar on the glasses.

2. Hot chocolate – but not any kind of hot chocolate. Use liquid cream instead of milk, ditch the instant cocoa and put in natural cocoa and bittersweet chocolate; then put it all in bain-marie and stir well. When you serve it pour it in cups and ornate it with whipped cream and shaved chocolate.

3. Negus – choose a red wine, not too sweet, with a potent grape aroma. The good thing is that you can use almost any type of wine because boiling brings them to almost the same taste.

4. Cinnamon buns and chocolate truffles – you can find these at the supermarket or in specialized shops. You can get them with different aromas: coniac, almonds, white chocolate, coffee and many others. Truffles can be kept in the fridge for a week or in the freezer for no more than a month.

Now that we have laid out a menu, don’t concentrate your attention only on it thinking it’s all that will get everybody to your house. Christmas parties have failed many times just because they were predictable. Don’t organize a sitting dinner; it’s a good ideea to make a swedish buffet and let the guests mingle and socialize.

Don’t forget the music and decorations. Put some carols in the background but prepare some other kinds of music. Maybe the party will get going and some people will want to dance. Hang some Christmas tree branches on your door to be sure that your guests find you easily.

AA Travel is a leading Romanian Travel Agency with special offers for Christmas (Craciun 2008) and New Year’s (Revelion 2009).

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Safety Instructions For Christmas Lights

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

Christmas Light Safety Instructions:

When using Christmas lights, basic precautions should always be observed including the following holiday light safety tips;

Your holiday lights are not toys! To avoid risk of fire, burns, personal injury and electric shock, the holiday lights should not be played with or placed where small children can reach them.

Do not use Christmas lights outdoors unless the lights are marked suitable for outdoor use. When outdoor Christmas lights are used in outdoor applications, connect the outdoor Christmas lights to a ground fault circuit interrupting [GFCI] electrical three pronged outlet.

Seasonal holiday lights are not intended for permanent installation or use. Store all holiday lights in a dry cool storage area.

Do not mount or place Christmas lights near gas or electric heaters, fireplaces, candles or other similar sources of heat.

Do not secure the holiday light sets with staples or nails since they could damage the protective wire coating.

Do not place the wire on sharp objects.

Do not let the holiday light bulbs rest on the lights supply cord or on any other electrical wire.

Unplug the Christmas light bulbs when retiring for the night or if the lights are left unattended. You can use an approved three pronged plug timer to turn your lights On and Off so you do not have to unplug your lights.

To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not mount or support the Christmas lights in a manner that can cut or damage the light sets.

Do not close your doors or windows on the Christmas lights or extension cords as this may damage the protective wire insulation.

When the lights are in use do not cover the Christmas holiday light bulbs with cloth, paper or any material not part of the light set.

Only use United States UL approved 110 / 120 volt Christmas lights.

If your Christmas lights are equipped with push-in type light bulbs, do not twist the holiday light bulbs. Pull the bulbs straight out of the light bulb socket.

To reduce the risk of overheating, replace any burned out light bulbs promptly. Make sure you use the same volt and wattage replacement light bulbs.

Always unplug your Christmas lights before installing or replacing the light bulbs.

Do not overload the electrical wiring of the holiday lights. Only connect the recommended amount of party light sets [usually three sets if not stated in instructions] on one continuous light string.

To avoid the risk of fire, do not replace the factory light plug. The factory plug contains a safety device (fuse) that should not be removed. Discard the holiday light set if the plug is damaged.

Always read the manufacture’s complete use and care instructions for the holiday light bulbs.

Safety Tips For Lights With Overload Fuses:

A blown fuse indicates an overloaded circuit and you need to reduce the amount of lights connected to the circuit. A blown fuse may also be caused by a short-circuit. The Christmas light set with a short-circuit should be discarded. Always unplug your lights before installing or replacing the light fuses. To avoid the risk of a fire, replace the blown fuses with like amp and volt fuses.

Joe has specialized in Christmas Decorations for over 25 years. Select to view his Christmas Decorations Ideas. Joe also has a great selection of Indoor Christmas Lights for you to select from.

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Tips On Hanging Christmas Lights Outdoors

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

How to hang up Christmas lights outdoor is a big test for a large number of people. Christmas is thought to be a time of enjoyment and laughter, but the whole course of putting up Christmas lights outdoors destroys a lot of the fun stuff. You should have some fundamental ideas about how to put up outdoor Christmas lights, so you can take pleasure in this as much as other yuletide activities.

Hanging up outdoor Christmas lights is not essentially a complicated task. Take a look at our tips to make things easier, making it a fun filled activity.

1. Plan ahead. Prior to Christmas knocking on the door, you should be familiar with what exactly you want to do with your outdoor Christmas lights. If it snows and gets really cold where you reside, start planning about it as early as the end of August, while the weather is still warm and comfortable. A fine idea is to suspend icicle lights around the top part of your house. For this, you may have to screw in some hooks under the roof. If you do that, you can hang up the lights in a couple of minutes and there’s no way you can make a chaos of things. This is also appropriate if you want lights around your front porch or deck.

2. You would do well if you put up the lights as early as October or November when the weather is not that cold yet. When the Christmas season is just around the corner, you can fix in a timer and turn them on.

3. You can instruct your kids how to hang up outdoor Christmas lights. They can do all the straightening out while you do the real job of putting the lights up. If the hooks are already in place, hanging up the outdoor Christmas lights is a piece of cake. Place the wires over the hook so that they will stay in place; this will also prevent some risk of damaging the lights.

4. Change the hooks from time to time, as they are prone to rusting. But you don’t necessarily have to do that every year. Let the hooks stay where it is after the holiday season too. You can use them again the following year.

5. Dimensions are important. You need to have at least an idea about the size of your home so you have sufficient lights to adorn the space.

6. Make sure to check your lights before hanging them. Change the bulbs which are no longer functioning. Also, check any exposed wires.

7. Get all the apparatus you need. These may include a tape measure, a pair of pliers, a hammer and a sturdy ladder to complete the job.

8. Your ladder has to be planted firmly on a flat ground. It is always better and safer to have someone hold it when you are up on hanging the lights.

9. Hang the lights along eaves of the roof. Take your time and be cautious not to damage your home walls. If you want lights connected to your gutter, make sure to use plastic clips. These will stick with the gutter and secure the lights and the extension cord.

Need more ideas for Christmas decorations, visit our website at merrychristmas24.com. Don’t go anywhere, come see our nice selection of articles and learn tips of the many uses of Christmas lights by clicking on this link merrychristmas24.com – Christmas-Lights.

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Surviving Office Christmas Parties

Posted on August 19, 2010 by xmas

Hands up who likes office Christmas parties? The one time of the year when ideally everyone gets to relax, celebrate the year and get to know people a bit better beyond their normal work roles.


That is the ideal … what generally happens is a committee is formed or the office admin is drafted into the role of event organiser. They then run the gauntlet of:


First – the fight about the venue ” I don’t want to go there”, “They don’t have what I can eat”, “Can’t we go bowling/sky diving/ deep sea fishing instead”, “That’s too far to drive to”, “We went there 4 years ago – can’t we go somewhere different”.


Next – setting the date. You are more likely to win Division 1 in Lotto than be able to pick a date that everyone can attend and even if you pick a date that starts out where everyone is free, at least 2 key people will pull out at the last minute.


Next – the outfits. Guaranteed someone will suggest fancy dress (or at least funny ties and Christmas hats).


Next – the entertainment. Karaoke, versus lawn bowls, versus just sitting and chatting.


Next – paid or unpaid. There are always “discussions” about whether attendance should be classed as work time or in their own time.


Next – the menu and alcohol. Set menu or self choice. To serve alcohol or no alcohol.


Finally – Secret Santa. Will you run one, how much will be spent and on what.


The big day finally arrives, the time to start arrives and people are still milling around the office fixing last minute emails and phone calls. One or two very lonely people wait at the venue by themselves until about half an hour late the rest of the crew arrive.


No Christmas function can happen without at least


* one inappropriate comment to the boss,

* two drunken office juniors create office gossip for the next six months by their antics,

* three people hate their secret Santa present,

* four people spend the whole time running down the company and

* five employees leave early.


For years I was the HR Manager at many Christmas functions and I can tell you – I hated Christmas parties!


I counted a party a success if there were no sexual harassment allegations popping up over the next week, if no junior embarrassed herself (it was always a girl) by doing a Brittany Spears and her many wardrobe malfunctions, if no girlfriend or boyfriend of an employee threw up or hit another staff member, if no one uploaded a video taken on their phone of the drunken antics and uploaded it to You Tube and if everyone got home safely without any car accidents or brawls on the way home.


Here are my top 10 “in the trenches” tips to hosting a Christmas party at your work.


1. Intent – be clear on why you are having a party. Is it to have staff relax and get to know each other better, to celebrate a great year, to commiserate a bad year, to get families involved in work? Whatever your intent – be clear and tell people what you are doing.


2. Parties are not a motivational tool – a Christmas party (no matter how expensive) generally is not a motivational tool for staff. They will not work hard all year for no praise and average wages on the hope you throw a great party once a year!


3. Parties are work functions – there is a lot of case law about this. If someone attends a work Christmas party they are generally considered to be “at work”. That means managers are liable both directly and vicariously for accidents, injuries, harassment, vilification and all of the other nasties when people are at your party. Put in risk mitigation measures from the beginning.


4. Alcohol – in one word NO!!!!! If you really must supply alcohol you must also supply taxi vouchers to get people home from the party safely. You also need to ensure you have at least 2 managerial level staff (one male and one female) to be the “fun police” and keep an eye on people drinking and not drink themselves.


Most complaints and problems arise when people overindulge in alcohol or illicit drugs. The fun police’s role is to keep an eye on drinking, protect people from themselves, go into the toilets and help people who are ill to get themselves safely sorted out and then go home. They also need to keep an eye out for videos and video phones recording inappropriate behaviour.


5. Have someone sober monitor the bar tab. Unless you have very deep pockets, if you are running a bar tab keep an eye on the spend during the night. I know some functions that started by costing $3000 and when the bar tab was added it ended up costing over $20,000.


6. Wages – if the party is during regular work hours then I would suggest attendance is paid (unless they are under absolutely no obligation or even subtle pressure to attend and they can remain at their desks if they choose instead of attending). If the party is out of hours then the party is unpaid.


7. Mandatory attendance. Don’t do it! All attendance should be totally optional.


8. Secret Santa presents – they are fine to do but set limits on both money and the sort of gifts bought. A $10 limit is fine – make sure the limits include that there are no pornographic, R rated, insulting or abusive gifts bought (remember your vicarious liability ….).


9. Venues – do consider if the venue is appropriate for all members of your staff. This not only includes people with disabilities but also people of different religions and ages. Make sure the menu caters for Vegans as well as kosher if needed.


10. Codes of Conduct – remind all staff about your Codes of Conduct both on the lead up to the party as well as at the beginning of the function. Yes it puts the damper on things, but it will save you a lot if you do get taken to court (you can show all reasonable steps were taken to prevent a problem).


If you follow these tips your after party hangover should only be related to too much red wine and not in cases before various courts and jurisdictions.

Ingrid Cliff is a Freelance Copywriter, Business Development and Human Resources Consultant to Small and Medium Businesses with her business Heart Harmony. Ingrid writes a free weekly business development newsletter and daily blog for small to medium sized businesses.www.heartharmony.com.au

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