Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - How to Tap in to the Holiday Publicity Bonanza

If your product or service can be given as a gift, a publicitywindfall awaits at the end of the year - but you need to startworking in June. Each December, media outlets cover the newest,the hottest and the most unusual Holiday gifts. The reportersassigned to develop these pieces typically depend... Read More

50 Ways to Acknowledge Your Employees Before and After Labor Day

For most people, Labor Day symbolizes the end of summer, back to school, and another long weekend. Deep down however, when we stop for a moment and reflect as we often do on bank holidays, we all know that Labor Day is, in reality, meant to signify a time to... Read More

Quick and Easy Holiday Decorating

You're tired. You've worked hard all week. Suddenly, the kids shout gleefully... "let's decorate!" ... in anticipation of the coming holiday. The "let's not" is miraculously not permitted to escape your lips. Instead you take a deep breath while you wonder about how this decorating could become an easier and... Read More

Ten Tips for a Real Holiday Season

Holidays and the start of a new year inevitably make us think about how we can improve ourselves, and have the life we want in the future. We make resolutions - I must lose weight, I will save more money - and then lose our way. That's because we aren't... Read More

The Holiday Shopping Experience - Rewarding or Traumatic?

Picture this scenario! It's December 24th, the day of Christmas Eve. On this day you should be relaxing, enjoying time with family and thinking of all the precious memories you have created throughout the year.No, wait! It's the last day of shopping before Christmas and you haven't even started to... Read More

Making Time to Write this Holiday Season

As the countdown to Christmas day continues, most everyone is naturally all wrapped up in preparing for the big day (and the eve of the big day and the day after the big day?).Whether it's shopping, baking, or hosting holiday gatherings, you are probably engaged in time-consuming activities related to... Read More

10 Tips for More Meaningful Holidays

No matter how many lists you make, cards you send, gifts you buy, or packages you wrap, there will be things you intended to do this holiday season that won't get done. If you do manage to get everything done, but you're too tired to enjoy the season, everyone suffers.Consider... Read More

10 Steps to a Relaxing Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday! Family, friends, good food ? and no presents to buy. To make it your best holiday ever, consider these organizing tips:? Choose your preferred style: formal with everyone dressed up and using their best manners ? or a more informal relaxed style. If you've invited... Read More

Going Solo on Valentines Day: Advice For Singles

The stores are decorated in candy hearts, flowers and bears. Every TV or radio commercial reminds you that it's time to remember your sweetheart on this special day for lovers. Your feelings range from sadness, to revulsion to anger. What's a single person to do? The following suggestions are designed... Read More

Tips For Singles on Surviving (And Enjoying) The Holidays

Here you are, facing the holiday season alone. Have you been thinking about?*how alone and lonely you feel*excuses you can give family members as to why you can't come this year*what friends may be available to spend those long days with*how another year has passed and you are (still) single*how... Read More

Hassle-Free Holiday Baking: 6 Easy Days to Perfect Christmas Cookies

Like many people, I love the idea of making a large assortment of Christmas cookies during the holidays, but I find it difficult to find the time to get it done. As a working mother, cookbook author and webmaster of Christmas-Cookies.com ( http://www.christmas-cookies.com ), I am a very busy woman,... Read More

Taking Back Christmas

John Grisham wrote a book called SKIPPING CHRISTMAS. Amazon.com reports: "John Grisham turns a satirical eye on the overblown ritual of the festive holiday season, and the result is Skipping Christmas, a modest but funny novel about the tyranny of December 25...."My friend Dessa Byrd Reed, author of the poetry... Read More

Top 25 Thanksgiving Quotations

"It is therefore recommended ... to set apart Thursday the eighteenth day of December next, for solemn thanksgiving and praise, that with one heart and one voice the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts and consecrate themselves to the service of their divine benefactor ..." --... Read More

Decorate for Thanksgiving

Years of having to make do have turned me into a?"There must be someway I can do this cheaper type person."My old new house needs total make over. We are thinking about moving into my MIL's house. So I am walking around looking and thinking, my goodness, this will be... Read More

Strategies for Surviving Holiday Dinners, Family Events and Other War Zones

No matter how well we may have weathered our basic training, nothing can fully prepare us for the front lines of family gatherings. We're in the thick of it, dodging live ammunition, and fighting the urge to return to our old, reliable patterns that helped us to survive while we... Read More

Glorious Holiday Decorating (Without Breaking the Bank or Losing Your Sanity)

Decorating for the holidays can be both expensive and emotionally draining. But you can decorate your home beautifully--on a budget--by following just a few simple suggestions.First, you can create a happy holiday impression on your guests by simply concentrating your decorating efforts on your front door. Surrounding the entrance to... Read More

Giving Thanks

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away? What does Thanksgiving mean to you? For many of us it means turkey, dressing, pies and all the other goodies that go along with it. It also means family. But what else does it mean?There is a child's prayer... Read More

How to Host Thankgiving Dinner and Enjoy it Anyway

You've been nominated; or perhaps your family has issued a decree; or perhaps it's simply your turn. No matter what the reason, you're hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year. This need not be a burden. In fact is can be a pleasure, given the right planning and organization.I've found that the... Read More

Creative Christmas Gifts

Christmas is always the time of year we consider to be the best opportunity to give something special to someone and show how much we appreciate him or her. The mall is full of wonderful, shiny and delicious gifts and the Internet offers countless items that we can send to... Read More

Ready to Skip This Holiday? Why No Just Make It Your Own?

Do you feel panicked, or exicted? Are you experiencing joy or depression? Do you have childlike visions of toys and celebration with the people you love? Or pressure, loneliness, alienation and annoying relatives?Sometimes we really can't help but ask "What is celebration? Do we really need it?"I can tell you... Read More

Christmas Gifts to Last a Lifetime

Do you know what you are giving to the children on you Christmas list? Will it be Harry Potter books, the latest computer games, or some new clothes?Over the summer, I spent some time thinking about the Christmas days from my childhood. What made them special, and what did I... Read More

Losing Weight During The Holiday Season--Can It Be Done?

Thirteen years ago I became quite intrigued with the idea of LOSING WEIGHT DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON. Even knowing the chances of finding success with this idea was highly slim I was nevertheless still intrigued.Please note, When I refer to, "LOSING WEIGHT DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON" I am NOT referring... Read More

Aran... Where the Sweaters Come From

Aran Sweaters. The Aran sweater takes its name from the islands from where it originated, untold generations ago. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and nothing is more of a necessity than a nice warm Aran sweater in a place like the Aran Islands. Located at the... Read More

Inexpensive Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas For Kids

After all the gifts have been purchased and placed under the tree, that is the time that many remember in a panic that the stockings over the fireplace still need to be stuffed. Holiday budgets have most likely been spent and there isn't a whole lot of extra money available.... Read More

Top 50 Christmas Quotations

"Let us remember that the Christmas heart is a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first. The birth of the baby Jesus stands as the most significant event in all history, because it has meant the pouring into a sick world of the healing medicine of... Read More

10 Holiday Sober Savers 2004

1.) BEGIN NOW !!!Don't save your shopping, decorating, cooking, wrapping, and cleaning for the last minute. That is too much pressure for anyone. This is the year to be organized, so you'll have time to enjoy the season in sobriety. If you can't get something done, just let it go... Read More

Reduce Waste This Christmas

- Christmas is responsible for more waste and consumption than any other holiday. North American's trash increases by 25% over Christmas - which equates to 25 million extra tons of garbage going to the landfill. By recognizing the incredible waste that is generated the urgency to do something becomes apparent.... Read More

The Truth about Mistletoe

You can call it the emasculator of the old king, a sexual symbol, latent with fertility or a good luck charm for a dairy herd. It's been used as an antidote for poison, a fire suppressant, a protection against evil spirits, a pain reliever for rheumatoid arthritis and as a... Read More

Magical Plants of Christmas

Most of the plants we associate with the holiday season are from Europe or the Mediterranean. We know the holly, ivy, mistletoe, christmas rose, rosemary, hawthorn, bay and of course, evergreens while the New World is represented in Christmas legend by the poinsettia. What are the legends and lore surrounding... Read More

Legends of the Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree is a much loved symbol iinstantly calling up images of gifts and family jollity. There are many beautiful connections to ancient traditions. Egyptian and Roman customs, early Christian practices and Victorian nostalgia are all combined in our modern Christmas tree.The Greek Fir is commonly used as a... Read More

Christmas Mourning

Deecember is a cruel month. Christmas sales, decorations, advertisements -everyone seems so happy and cheerful - it's easy to feel alone.It's precisely at these happy times that the loss of our loved one can be felt the strongest. We remember only too well who is missing.Whether our loss was recent... Read More

A Simple Little Holiday Plan

The Thanksgiving leftovers have all been eaten and the gift-buying season has shifted into high gear. Remain calm and prepare yourself for the most jam-packed month in the calendar year. There are a small percentage of you who may actually have completed your to-do list long before everyone else. (If... Read More

Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining

The holiday season is upon us! It is a time when family and friends gather together. Some people love to entertain and enjoy bringing people together. Others feel stressed with these obligations. Whether it is a large gala for everyone you know, hosting the family holiday dinner or just having... Read More

Glorious Holiday Decorating: Ten Tips

If you're looking for ways to decorate your home in a glorious holiday fashion this season--without breaking the bank and losing your sanity in the process--here are ten terrific ideas to get you started.1. You don't need to climb ladders and hang millions of lights all over your house to... Read More

Seven Great Holiday Decorating Tips--Without Breaking the Bank

If you're looking for great ways to decorate your home this glorious holiday season--without breaking the bank and losing your sanity in the process--here are seven terrific ideas to get you started.1. You don't have to concentrate on one sense or the other at holiday time. You've got five senses--so... Read More

Ready for Christmas? Enjoy an Organized Holiday This Year

1. Keep a stack of directions TO your place for people who need to know how to get to your home or office. This prevents you from having to write them out every time you are asked. Type the directions and save them on your computer. This way you can... Read More

Holiday Survival Guide

The Holiday season has officially begun and Christmas is almost here. This is the time of year when most Americans are NOT beginning a new diet, rather ending their old one. The Holidays bring family, friends, and ? food. Lots of food. SO, PLEASE?Don't fight it. Don't be a "food... Read More

Make a Golden Christmas Tree

Several Years ago while I was shopping for Christmas I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw the holiday arrangements at the department store I was in.I was dazzled by the sight, golden branches wrapped in twinkling white lights. The idea was so simple but yet absolutely beautiful.Within a... Read More

Rubber Stamping and Scrapbooking will Bring the Family Together During The Holidays

No matter what celebration you and your family will rejoice in this holiday season, the common thread is family unity and the joy of sharing in the relationships with others.Remembering the past is always an important part when bringing the family together. It is important to reflect on the fun... Read More

I Just Love It!

"I Just Love It!"You know the scenario. You're sitting at the family Christmas gathering and your ten-year-old opens one of Aunt Martha's itchy homemade sweaters. Or Uncle Bobby, who's been swearing to lose twenty pounds for years, opens an exercise cycle. Of course, if Uncle Bobby follows the politeness rule,... Read More

Low On Cash For Christmas? Try Gifts in a Jar

Time is money, and right now you don't have either the time or the money to answer the call of the shopping mall at Christmas. The only way you can show your friends love, peace on earth, goodwill towards men is by shopping at Macy's, so you think.It's a safe... Read More

Use H-O-L-L-Y to Beat Christmas Cooking Stress

What does holly, that untidy traditional greenery you just have to festoon your house with every year, have to do with not tearing your hair out before it's even Thanksgiving? Plenty. You can use H-O-L-L-Y to help you get organized.1. H: HelpHow many times have you tried to do the... Read More

Maybe This Christmas Will Be Different....

Have you always dreamed of a Norman Rockwell Christmas - where everyone is singing Christmas carols and there is joy in the house? Alas, your Christmas memories are often filled with Uncle Joe getting drunk and your parents ending up in a fight. By the end of Christmas day family... Read More

How to Have the ?Perfect? Christmas

"This year will be different. I vow I won't get stressed out over presents, parties, cards, Christmas plays, putting up the tree and decorating, and all the many other tasks of the season. I will remember the true meaning of Christmas."Do you find that all the Christmas chores steal your... Read More

Are You Truly Thankful For Everything?

Thanksgiving is the time of year when we stop and are thankful for all our blessings. Of course, we should be thankful every day of the year. I want you to take a different look at Thanksgiving this year. You certainly can list all of your many blessings and be... Read More

The Only New Year?s Resolution You Need

I am going to make a bold statement. I think I have the only New Year's Resolution you need. You have got to be kidding, right??!!! You don't know me, Kimberly. You don't know that I need to lose 20lbs., exercise, be a better mother, be a better worker, a... Read More

Happy Holidays? It?s Up To You

The Holiday Season. Does time seem to compress, or is it just me? There's so much going on -- the end of autumn, the beginning of winter, and all the holidays that follow. As a child it was an exciting time of year. As an adult, it seems filled with... Read More

Tis The Season For Love ? and Stress!

The holidays are upon us and for many people this is the most stressful time of year. There is so much to do and not enough time to do it in, places to go, people to see, gifts to buy, food to prepare, and on and on and on. We... Read More

9 Fantastic Formulas for a Stress Free Holiday!

The holidays are officially here. And so the season for giving begins. Warm loving intentions, thoughtful giving and stocking stuffing take over.It's a wonderful time of year, but with all the activities, excitement and family obligations taking place at the same time, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed and even... Read More

For Thanksgiving ? Be Thankful He?s Not the Cheating Kind

Infidelity is at an all time high. According to the latest statistics, 3 out of 4 husbands cheat on their wives. So if you have a faithful husband, you have much to be thankful for. Faithful husbands are in short supply. While most wives assume their husbands are faithful, only... Read More

Are You Going To Survive The Holidays?

Admit it! You promised this year was not going to be like the last few...and here you are, it is December and guess what? You did it again! The TO DO list is growing by the day right along side the gift list. If the holidays are stressful and you... Read More

Christmas Holidays: 5 Ways To Make This Holiday Your Best Ever

For many people the end of a year is a time of increased stress.Instead of relaxing and unwinding from a busy year, the pressures of buying gifts, travelling or spending time with long lost relatives makes it a difficult time.In our household for example, my 4 year-old daughter's excitement levels... Read More

Visions of Sugar Plums and Holiday Safety!

Ho, Ho, Ho, Holiday greetings to you!Every year at this time I can't help but notice the beautiful holiday lighting and adornment. It's great to see that even homes with a "For Sale" sign on the front lawn have been bedazzled with lights! But this good deed seldom goes without... Read More

Create a Holiday Feast For The Senses

This is my daughter's first Christmas. Naomi will be nearly nine months old and eager to explore all that the holidays have to offer. Within a few weeks after conception, babies develop the sense of touch, with taste, smell, hearing and sight following in that order. At birth, babies possess... Read More

Decorate for Christmas

It's your home/your apartment and you want to make it a special sanctuary this Christmas. How can you create a special place for your family and you? Well, we already have our centerpiece?see November's issue Decorate for Thanksgiving.) Just replace candles and flowers. But how can you make... Read More

Holiday Tips For Stepfamilies

Holiday Tips For Stepfamilies: Let Go Of The "Brady Bunch" Fantasy!When my co-author--Bill Merkel Ph.D.--and I first formed our stepfamily, I had many fantasies about how our family would behave like the "Brady Bunch" over the holidays-- a happy, harmonious, singing-and-dancing unit. Then reality struck, and we couldn't even agree... Read More

Nicely Designed Pillows As Gifts

Many of us are probably squeezing out our brains to the limit just for a single purpose, to think of what to give especially when it's Christmas or just a simple birthday present. It's always nice to give the jewelries, toys, clothes and shoes as we all had been used... Read More

Online Shopping: Tips For Holidays Gift Shopping

It is holidays time, and you've the money and you want to go out and begin online shopping.But before you do, here are some tips to manage your online shopping and expenses.(1) Before going out get organized.Make a list of all the people that you plan to buy a gift... Read More

Top 20 New Years Quotations

"Here's to the bright New Year, and a fond farewell to the old; here's to the things that are yet to come, and to the memories that we hold."-- Anonymous"People are so worried about what they eat between Christmas and the New Year, but they really should be worried about... Read More

A Resolution Worth Keeping

New Years Resolutions: Making them is a tradition -keeping of them is usually optional. That's unfortunate, because some of the pledges we make in those moments before the calendar changes are wonderful things to aspire to - spending more time with our children, exercising regularly, stopping a bad habit like... Read More

Traditional VS. Modern Anniversary Gifts

Most people are familiar with the traditional materials list that good etiquette requires us use as a guide when selecting a gift to commemorate a wedding anniversary. If you are like most people, you might find it a bit challenging to convert the materials on the list into an acceptable... Read More

Surviving Those Holiday Blues

Not everyone shares in the celebration and joy associated with the holidays. Many people feel stressed and unhappy in response to the demands of shopping for gifts, spending large amounts of money, attending parties and family gatherings, and entertaining houseguests. It is not uncommon to react to these stresses with... Read More

A Thankful Thanksgiving

You may be wondering why I would call this article a Thankful Thanksgiving. Aren't all Thanksgivings Thankful? Unfortunately, no. As a person who has experienced over 70 Thanksgivings, I recognize that being thankful is something that we have to work at, even on Thanksgiving.If your home is like most, your... Read More

Thriving Through the Holidays

The holidays are upon us; a time of celebration and joy. I love the last days of November through the beginning of the New Year. The pure magic of the holidays is something that I anticipate and enjoy each and every year.For some though, the holidays have lost the joy... Read More

Ten Ways To Make The Holidays Easier Next Year

What does your holiday season usually look like -- a lot of rushing around at the last minute? The holidays really don't have to require so much effort -- if you plan ahead and spread the work out throughout the year. Here are ten tips for making your next holiday... Read More

The Rose

Lifestyle is style over amount. And style is an art - the art of living. You can't buy style with money. You can't buy good taste with money. You can only buy more with money. Lifestyle is culture - the appreciation of good music, dance, art, sculpture, literature, plays and... Read More

Seven Valentine?s Day Tips for Spouses in ?Less-Than-Perfect? Marriages

Valentine's Day can be a depressing day when you're in an unhappy or shaky marriage. In every store or advertisement you see romantic cards, heart-shaped boxes of candy, or select jewelry for the special lover's day.Restaurants publish their special menus in advance and give food items names such as "lover's... Read More

Get Organised for Christmas... NOW!

Hasn't time flown? Only six weeks to Christmas!Now you may think that you're too busy to even contemplate that far ahead, however if you don't get your act together and prepare well in advance, instead of enjoying that time you could end up being totally stressed and miss valuable opportunities.Your... Read More

Greeting Card Tango: How To Impress, Not Stress, During The Holidays

When it comes to holiday greeting cards, to send or not to send is often the question. Once you have decided in the affirmative, you then have to determine who to include on your list, what kind of card to choose and how to address the envelope.There are lots of... Read More

Romance on a Budget

Valentine's Day is often synonymous with lush velvety looking red roses and spending big bucks on your sweetie. You're blinded by advertisements touting the latest luxury jewelry, over-priced flowers, and exquisite five star dining. You can sometimes feel pressure from this single day that is supposed to symbolize and convey... Read More

Nine Questions To Ask Yourself Before You Head To The Office Party

One thing you can count on during the holiday season is the obligatory office party. No matter what the size of the organization, there is always an effort to bring coworkers together for one more moment of merriment. Some people look forward to the chance to mix and mingle outside... Read More

The History And Origin Of Valentines Day

The oldest Valentine card still in existence was sent in 1415 by Charles Duke of Orleans, at the time a prisoner in the Tower of London, to his wife. The Duke's Valentine's card is now preserved and displayed in the British Museum. However, the origins of Valentine's Day lie in... Read More

A Valentines Day Story

Valentine's Day...the day of love right? Many years ago, 22 to be exact, I was a senior in high school. Just prior to Valentine's Day our student council representative got on the intercom during morning announcements and told us about an upcoming fundraiser. Student council was going to sell carnations... Read More

The Origins Of Mothers Day

Today Mother's Day or Mothering Sunday is celebrated all over the world. For florists and card shops the event is one of the highlights of the year, but the roots of Mother's Day are not commercial. Motherhood has been celebrated since ancient times. The ancient Greeks paid homage to Rhea,... Read More

12 Things That Make Life Worthwhile!

Happy New Year! Around the world, this is a time of renewal, celebration of new opportunities, and great optimism. Please accept our best wishes for a year of peace, joy, and success.And, note that any time of year is a great time to re-commit to the things that are most... Read More

How to Create an Irresistible Valentine?s Day Centerpiece

Valentine's Day is just around the corner which of course makes us think of love, romance and of course flowers! It seems this special day wouldn't be complete without them. Flowers touch our souls and brighten our spirits which is why they have remained a popular choice for "lovebirds" all... Read More

St Valentines Day, Festival of the Matchmakers

There are as many as eight possible Valentines Day origins and the three most likely contenders were all early church martyrs.However, before the Christian Saints, the day started as a festival to honour Juno, Queen of the Roman deities. Juno was sister and consort of Jupiter, mother of Mars, and... Read More

Happy New Year for 2005

It is 7:45 a.m. in Port Moody, British Columbia Canada, and the first day of a new year. I have just started up my computer and I am waiting for the kettle to boil for my morning tea. I look past my window to a scene that is painted on... Read More

Saint Nick to Santa, the MOST extreme makeover?

It's the holiday season, and the first thing that comes to so many minds is presents, and who better to deliver these presents than Jolly Saint Nick himself. Chris Cringle, Saint Nicholas, Santa Claus, etc. etc. But who is this roly poly elf that sneaks around the living room each... Read More

Create Warm Memories with Holiday Traditions

I remember just a handful of the Christmas presents I received as a child: My first Barbie doll with her skinny black sequined gown. My soft, pink Pat-a-Burp doll. The microscope I got in second grade.But I have many, many memories of our holiday traditions. The lovely aromas of holiday... Read More

Bust Holiday Stress!

The holidays will be here before you know it. Clear the way for greater joy, love and meaning this year by "busting" these sources of holiday stress:1. TOO MUCH TO DO IN TOO LITTLE TIMEThis week, set holiday priorities with your family. Discuss what traditions to keep, which to discard,... Read More

Event Planning 101

One of the tools I use as a professional organizer are countdowns.What exactly is a countdown? To put it simply, anytime a special event, party, or holiday is anticipated (okay maybe dreaded :), create a MASTER list of EVERYTHING you need to do.For example, during the winter holidays, tasks such... Read More

5 Ways to Having the Happiest Valentines Day Ever (even if youre alone)

The thought of Valentine's Day conjures up romantic evenings, a candlelight dinner, and long walks with your loved one. It is, without a doubt the most romantic day of the year. So how could you possibly be expected to enjoy Valentine's Day when you're alone? Well, while it might not... Read More

Valentines Day - A Guide for Men

Did you know that after Christmas, Valentine's Day is the biggest retail holiday? That means a variety of things for you the consumer, but mostly it means the market is saturated with a plethora of heart-shaped, cutesy, not so worth it products. I have a philosophy?one that is not always... Read More

Valentines Day Flowers

Flowers & Valentine's Day go hand in hand. Your Valentine will be so thrilled to receive a beautiful flower arrangement! Of course, Roses are known for their association with love. They are available in many colors and can create quite an impressive presentation. For a really impressive gift, send a... Read More

Say I Love You For Valentines Day

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about the perfect gift for the one you love. Whether you are looking for something special on a tight budget or would simply like to add something special to another gift, there's no better way to express your... Read More

7 Tips on Giving Chocolates to Your Valentine

Every year millions of people exchange chocolates on February 14th for Valentine's Day. This trend has grown very popular in recent times, especially with the rise of quality chocolates (...and the number of chocoholics). Still, even in these modern times there are a few things you need to consider before... Read More

A Medieval Story for Valentines Day, Bonne & Charles

The general word on the Internet is the first Valentine card was sent in 1415. It's not accurate and it's not true. The particular Valentine was written in mid-February of 1416; it was on vellum, not card stock; it's not the first Valentine card; and no one knows if it... Read More

Valentines Day Love Letter - The Best And Most Romantic Gift Is Also The Least Expensive!

You don't have to spend a fortune this Valentine's Day to show your partner that you love them!One of the most romantic, creative and inexpensive gifts you can give your partner this Valentine's Day is a heartfelt love letter, written from the bottom of your heart!A heartfelt letter from a... Read More

Valentines Day is NOT only for Lovers

Some people hate to see Valentines Day come around. Some have ended relationships and feel lonely while others have not yet met that someone special. Valentines Day should be a day to share love with those around you.Below are 10 thoughts you can do on Valentines Day to make the... Read More

7 Tips For Defusing Holiday Stress

KNOW THYSELFThe first key to creating a peaceful holiday season is identifying those holiday traditions that you ENJOY and those that you don't. When you spend your precious time and energy on activities that you don't find rewarding, you are destined to become FRUSTRATED and cranky. So go ahead and... Read More

Top 15 Valentines Day Quotations

"If you love somebody, let them go. If they return, they were always yours. If they don't, they never were."-- Anonymous"Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get, it's what you are expected to give -- which is everything."-- Anonymous"The best proof of love is trust."--... Read More

Creating Your Own Holiday Traditions

I love this time of year -- decorations on the houses, a cold nip in the air, beautiful music everywhere you go. I often have a hard time understanding why so many people get so FRUSTRATED during the holidays -- until I go out in public and partake of the... Read More

Creative And Inexpensive Gift Ideas

I have a friend who works at a loan company. She starts getting busy around August -- because her offices are flooded with people taking out loans for their holiday shopping. And she stays busy well into the new year -- because a huge percentage of those people default on... Read More

Top Ten Tips To A Terrific Valentine?s Day - For Men in Relationships

Okay guys, so this is a great opportunity to get back in the good books, or if you are already there, to get some extra points. Women love to be courted, wooed, treated like princesses. And most of them like this to occur on Valentine's Day (as well as other... Read More

Top Ten Tips To A Terrific Valentine?s Day - For Women in Relationships

So Valentine's Day is upon us yet again, and most of us want to be wooed and romanced by the one that we love. Hopefully that will be the case, but either way, here are some suggestions for how you can do your part to make this day a special... Read More

Valentine?s Day Ideas for Singles

Maybe your significant other is overseas in the military. Maybe you have suffered a recent divorce. Whatever the reason, you may find yourself alone this Valentine's Day. Does this mean you should sit at home feeling sorry for yourself? I think not. Here are some ideas for people who find... Read More

Bathed in Blue - Love Can Happen for You

Whether you know him by Eros or Cupid, this son of the Goddess Venus aka Aphrodite, has long been associated with Valentines Day. Cupid the cheeky cherub loves to play and delights in aiming his pointed arrows at unsuspecting victims. When his arrow pierces your heart- you will fall madly... Read More

Top Ten Things To Do The Day After Valentines Day

Why should February 14th get all of the attention?1. Water the flowers you receieved. You know that they will probabbly be deadtomorrow, but you just have to take care of them.2. Find somewhere in your room for the bear he bought you even though you already have ninety nine bears... Read More

A New Look at Labor Day

A day to reflect on the accomplishments of working people: That's been the proud tradition since the first, unofficial, Labor Day back in 1882.But, one of labor's greatest accomplishments has gone largely unrecognized. Since the end of World War II, working people have bought up a huge chunk of big... Read More

Jeweled Shamrock Pendant

March 17th is St. Patrick's Day and according to tradition if you are not wearing at least a little something green you just might get pinched and why put yourself through that? Let's face it most of us do not look very good in green attire but, there are ways... Read More

Easter Flowers

Easter is Sunday, March 27th! Don't forget the flowers! Your spring celebration is the perfect setting for beautiful flowers! You can also have a lovely floral gift delivered to your loved ones for Easter!A popular choice for Easter is the Easter lily. The Easter lily's true name is Bermuda lily.... Read More

A Harvest Halloween

To take advantage of the last days of autumn, we planned an outdoor Halloween party at our family farm. This gave us an opportunity to bring our friends together in an informal setting before the hectic holiday season.The kids grew excited as we drove past the harvested fields of rural... Read More

The Gift My Brother Couldnt Give

From the book A Heartland Christmas CollectionIn the first years after my brothers, sister, and I left home, there were several Christmases in which our ability to give fell far short of our desire. In fact, we often found ourselves getting very creative if we were going to give any... Read More

A Diamond Christmas 2004!

When Archduke Maximillian of Austria bestowed a diamond ring on Mary of Burgundy in 1477, giving a diamond as a symbol of love and commitment was birthed. Prior to this only royalty wore diamonds, believing they symbolized strength and courage. The root of the word diamond comes from the Greek... Read More

Thanksgiving Memories

Turkey ... Stuffing ... Cranberry Sauce ... Pumpkin PieThis is usually what comes to mind when we think of Thanksgiving. Granted the food is yummy and worth waiting for however, let's not forget another import aspect of this holiday "Being With Family & Friends".Family & Friends, they are what make... Read More

30th Birthday Gift Ideas

Choosing a birthday gift for a friend about to turn thirty years old can be a challenging task. You want to honor the special day with a unique gift, but not necessarily draw attention to their age. After all, thirty is the pivotal year of life when we transition from... Read More

15 Ways to Create Some Extra Holiday Money

Originally this was going to be a list for my two teenagers but some of these ideas are better suited to adults with a valid driver's license and a bit of know-how. Some of these take a bit of planning and organizing, but most of them could be done on... Read More

Tips For Less Holiday Stress

Holiday Stress? Some Tips For Having LessWe all dream of having wonderful holidays. We start each day full of the spirit of the season. We look at the lovely fresh fallen snow, and marvel at the beauty of the world. But lets face it - life can be stressful. By... Read More

Christmas Shopping Online Might Or Might Not Be For Everyone: This Article Shows How Doing It Onlin

Christmas shopping online is not for you? If you are one of those that share this thought, you probably like to enjoy the atmosphere of physical shopping. Doing your Christmas shopping online despite all its convenience, lack the festive mood. The convenience of online shopping has reduced the shopping experience... Read More

A Dash of Cinnamon, A Pinch of the Past, A Smidgen of the Future

Close your eyes and remember December, the smell of cinnamon in your mother's or grandmother's kitchen and the warm scent of dough baking in the oven. Imagine opening the oven door and, with assistance, taking out the heated cookie sheet. Devour the cookies, small works of art, with your eyes:... Read More

You Better Not Lie, I?m Telling You Why

Santa Claus Is ComingHoliday season brings the perennial return of Santa Claus. According to traditional lore, St. Nick flies around the world on his reindeer-powered sleigh. He lavishes gifts upon the good children of the world, and as for the naughty youngsters?well, they can expect lumps of fossil fuel in... Read More

No Paws from Santa Claus

The Holidays are coming and children have thought long and hard about the gifts they would most want to receive this year. Trucks, trains, Groovey girls and scooters are popular gifts this year. Each year lists are filled with the "most popular" toys of that year. There is one thing... Read More

Halloween & Hounds

Halloween is "fright night" for humans not dogs. Screaming, running, spooky children in masks make many dogs uncomfortable, nervous and frightened.Halloween costumes are fun and are meant to disguise our normal appearance. Dogs do not understand this change in appearance and may become frightened. Costumes that change the way a... Read More

Getting Great Pictures of the Kids this Halloween

There she was in all her glory. Long white lab coat, frizzy hair, safety goggles -- and a face smeared with the black ash of an experiment gone terrifically wrong. She was, at least on this Halloween night, Dr. Abby Normal. But for most of her life I had known... Read More

Tools and Tips for Keeping the Holidays Organized

It's November 1st. You've walked into your favorite store to buy half-priced Halloween candy and what do you see? Christmas decorations! "Oh, no!" you think to yourself. "That can only mean one thing..."The HOLIDAYS are coming!Don't stress-you're going to start early and be more organized this year...Here are some tools... Read More

The Magic Of Gift Giving At Christmas

Regardless of age, almost everyone can remember at least a few magic moments of their past at Christmas time. Even in our fifties and sixties, we can still very precisely recall how our parents celebrated Christmas. Those moments will never be forgotten because to all of us, Christmas is a... Read More

Successful Holiday Gift Giving Starts with a Plan

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and the clock is ticking down as we grow closer to the holiday festivities. By now, many have either started thinking about what they are going to purchase for those on their gift list ? others are in full holiday shopping mode.... Read More

Birthday Gift Baskets ? The Ideal Gift For Everyone!

No matter how old we are, we enjoy being remembered on that special day of the year that celebrates the day we were born! Birthdays are a time to recognize special people in our lives with joyous celebration. It is a time-honored tradition to pay tribute the birthday gal or... Read More

Gift Giving During Thanksgiving Adds That Special Touch

Many of us believe Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays, right? Actually, one of the most notable occasions is Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is surprisingly a widely celebrated holiday that crosses over many nationalities and religions.Actually, harvest festivals were celebrated by ancient Greeks, Romans, Hebrews, Chinese and the Egyptians. In... Read More

Secrets to a Stress Free Holiday

December and all the excitement that comes with it can either be one of the most pleasant times of year or one of the most stressful. Even though the holidays are a couple of months away, there are things you can do to make it an extremely pleasant season.For the... Read More

Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is an exciting night for children and a busy time for their parents. With such excitement, it's easy for children to forget basic safety rules.When emotions are running high, it's a good time to remember to "use your head." Plan ahead and plan to have a safe Halloween. Raise... Read More

Eggs-travagant Eggs

Wonderfully simple to do and oh so impressive!You don't need a $40 Easter egg decorating kit with pages of instructions to impress your family and guests this Easter ? achieve sophisticated elegance with colors taken directly from nature. Simply decorated from a myriad of plants and flowers, you can create... Read More

Fourth of July Quotes

MADRID ? For millions of Americans, this Fourth of July will be a time of celebration and remembrance of those passed or distanced by war. The annual commemoration of Independence Day has always been a bittersweet time for Americans who evoke the thoughts of Cordell Hull, "I am certain that,... Read More

Lets NOT Talk Turkey

The carving. The leftovers. The endless stuffing. Actually, you love the stuffing, cranberries and turkey trimmings. However, it's been seven years and you know your family will throw the turkey out the window if they have to eat the bird one more Christmas (and never mind the lectures about starving... Read More

Holiday Health: Give Get-Fit Gifts

'Tis the season to celebrate -- and a time to eat! Most of us gain a few pounds during the holiday season. With family dinners, holiday parties and gift baskets loaded with goodies, who thinks of staying fit?Instead of giving a pyramid of chocolate, a basket of tempting treats or... Read More

A Mothers Keepsake

A mother's bracelet is a personalized bracelet that celebrates the most important woman in your life, mom. It makes for the perfect gift for many gift occasions from birthdays and anniversaries to mother's day and gifts to the new mom.A Mother's bracelet is a top gift idea for any mom.... Read More

Valentines Day! The Sweet and Romantic Holiday

When I think of Valentines Day I think of Chocolates and Flowers. Others might think of a more romantic subject too. What ever it means to you it should be made fun and can offer another reason to think of giving someone special a gift during this holiday.There are many... Read More

Valentines Day ? Where Did THAT Come From?

Just as soon as the stores put away their Christmas merchandise, out comes the Valentine's Day items - even though Valentine's is still more than six weeks away.I don't know why, but it always takes me by surprise to see Valentine's Day merchandise so soon after Christmas.I've always wondered where... Read More

Lost and Found (A Valentines Day Story)

I casually glanced down at my hand, but instead of a wedding ring and an engagement ring, there was only the narrow gold band."Randy!" I yelped. "My engagement ring is gone."It was Valentine's Day, and my husband, Randy, and I were on our way from my niece's wedding, which had... Read More

Wolves, Goats, Martyrs and War: a History of Valentines Day

Valentines Day is one of the most enigmatic of holidays, having appeared in many forms. But all "Valentine's Days" have drawn suspicion. In fact, after hundreds of years of attempted reform, Christian observance came to an end when the Catholic Church purged St. Valentine's Day from its calendar in 1969.Still,... Read More

Thats the Christmas Spirit

Last Christmas, Uncle Albert promised his neighbor, Wilson, to find a way to keep the Christmas spirit alive all year. You know, just like Wilson and everybody else wishes people each year.Yesterday I was checking my calendar. "Holy smokes! It's almost Christmas. I better check to see if Uncle Albert... Read More

New Year?s Resolution ? Why Not Resolve To Take Back Your Life?

It's time once again for the dreaded New Year's Resolutions. Most of us make them; few of us keep them for more than a few months. New Year's resolutions range anywhere from loosing weight to being more organized to finishing your education and the list goes on. But, have you... Read More

Spend More Time With Your Family This Holiday Season: Host A Caroling Party

Too often we forgo entertaining because of the mere thought of all of the preparation that is involved. And more is not better. Often we try to out do each other with lavish parties and expensive gifts. Stop and remember for a second what was important from your own childhood.... Read More

Dear Santa: Christmas Sucks!

Christmas time is finally here, and most people during this holiday are happier than a fat kid eating a Krispy Kreme donut. Christmas brings so many great things to the table; the caroling, the NO SCHOOL, the snowmen and hour long snowball fights that ends with bloody noses, the eggnog... Read More

The Christmas Dress

From the time I was a very little girl, I had always loved to watch my big sister, Loretta, when she was sewing. So, one Sunday afternoon while she worked on the red velveteen jumper that was going to be my Christmas outfit, I didn't want to miss a single... Read More

Where Have All The Wise Men Gone? Jesus Is Not Acceptable For Christmas!

It's CHRISTmas!Where are the wise men?WOW - The wise men are MISSING! What kind of Christmas is this anyway?Are you caught up in the "season" with this Christmas thing? Do YOU know where the wise men are?For over 200 years we have celebrated Christmas and all of the joys and... Read More

Simplify the Season

Let's take a look at a typical Christmas To-Do list: bake cookies, buy and make gifts, attend office party, church commitments, address and mail cards, clean the house for guests, decorate...it goes on and on....The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and family celebration. But all the... Read More

Home For The Holidays: Happy Times, Right

This time of the year is supposed to be happy. A time when family is warm and welcoming. A time for loving and feeling loved.We watch the annual TV specials which emotionally choke us up. We watch those traditional, mushy movies like Miracle on 34th Street and It's a Wonderful... Read More

Home For The Holidays: Heirloom Stories Are A Perfect Gift

Selecting the right gift for a special someone is sometimes joyous, sometimes a chore. Give a gift that's free. A gift that no one else could give. A gift of your legacy!Consider giving to or requesting a very personal, one-of-a-kind gift this year: heirloom stories. A perfect gift for an... Read More

New Ways to Use Old Christmas Cards

Forty years ago when I was growing up on our dairy farm in Wisconsin, my mother always saved the Christmas cards she had received in the mail. In those days, people sent many more Christmas cards than they do now.Today, I still find myself saving the cards that I get... Read More

The Thanksgiving Blessing

"Wouldn't you just know it," muttered my husband, Randy.We had already been driving for a couple of hours in a pickup truck that we had borrowed from a friend, and now it was completely dark."What's wrong?" I asked sleepily. I had dozed off only a few minutes ago."It's starting to... Read More

Country Christmas Idea: Milkweek Pod Poinsettia Ornaments

Country Christmas Idea: Milkweed Pod Poinsettia OrnamentsAt first glance, milkweed plants and poinsettias don't seem to have much in common. If you live in an area where milkweed grows wild, however, you can use the dried milkweed pods to make poinsettia ornaments for your Christmas tree. Here's how:1. Collect some... Read More

Whatever Happened to Christmas?

Remember when no one started Christmas shopping until after Thanksgiving?Wisconsin author LeAnn R. Ralph remembers it very well."When I was growing up on our dairy farm forty years ago, the stores didn't put up Christmas displays until the day after Thanksgiving. No one was really thinking about Christmas shopping before... Read More

The Spirit of Fathers Day

Some time ago I received a gift from both of my children. It was spontaneous and had nothing to do with Father's day. Yet, at the same time it had everything to do with Father's day.My son, Kai, - he was 17 at the time - was attending a private... Read More

Holiday Candy Canes Are Festive and Fun

Candy canes are everyone's favorite holiday treat. Just think about how versatile they are. Not only do candy canes look great hanging from Christmas trees, but their versatility makes them perfect for all kinds of decorative uses.Candy canes can be crushed or used whole in holiday arts and crafts projects.... Read More

Valentine Gifts From The Heart

One of my fondest childhood memories is of my mother helping me make a Valentine's box to take to school. We pulled out white paste, an old shoebox, scraps of doilies, and construction paper. There was a flurry of activity as I cut and pasted, and imagined my box filled... Read More

New Years Resolutions

Ah, the start of another year! In a groggy haze on New Years Eve, I promised someone (or was it myself?) that I would be good this year. I said I would draw up my New Year's Resolutions ? particularly after the roller-coaster year I had last year. Well, a... Read More

Holiday Dieting: A Sweet Way To Cheat!

If your diet is making you a humbug this season, there's some good news. Turns out dark chocolate, that decadent confection, may actually be good for you!Yes, recently conducted studies published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition have shown that a dose of dark chocolate will heed all sorts... Read More

5 Tips to Reduce Holiday Depression

While war and poor economic conditions begin to affect people all over the world, more and more people suffer with depression. The more we focus on news events and the business climate, the more we are depressed. Whatever the reason you feel is the cause of your depression, the following... Read More

How to Overcome the Overwhelm of the Holiday Season (And Reduce Holiday Stress)

The Holiday Season can be a wonderful time of year, filled with lovely decorations, gift exchanges, visits with friends and family and delicious meals. But for many of us, the Holiday Season can also be quite overwhelming with all the added activities such as decorating our homes, selecting, buying, wrapping... Read More

Holiday Expectations

As the holidays approach, I find myself wondering how I'm going to accomplish all I expect of myself. I expect to have perfect presents under the tree for an astounding number of people who will be visiting from out of town, besides the usual round of gifts for my children,... Read More

Valentines Day Rapport

How to develop and heighten rapport on Valentines Day beyond your wildest dreams!With Valentines day on the doorstep for another year here is way of enhancing those romantic occasions. In thinking about something pertinent to Valentines, I thought I would write about a topic that fascinates me; developing rapport.Fundamental techniques... Read More

Fireplace Decorating Tips for Easter: Give Your Rooms Natural Focal Point an Easter Look

Sure you decorate your fireplace and mantel for the winter holidays, but don't forget this important focal point in your room as Spring approaches. Here are some nearly-instant ideas for springtime and Easter fireplace decorating:Daffodils in crystal or glass vases on each end of your mantel bespeak the coming of... Read More

The Last Laugh: Parental Pranks for April 1

The exact origin of April Fool's Day is uncertain, but popular belief is that it began in France with the adoption of a new calendar. In 1582, the Gregorian calendar (still in use today) replaced the long-standing Julian calendar and New Year's celebrations were moved from April 1 to January... Read More

Tips for Planning an Egg-stra Special Easter Party

Bunnies & chicks, colourful eggs, and the hunt for hidden chocolate. It's no wonder kids await the arrival of Easter with such eager anticipation. While many families have their own private rituals to celebrate this springtime holiday, this year consider throwing an Easter party for friends and family. Wondering how?... Read More

Holiday Tips & Treats That Wont Play Tricks On Your Waistline

Halloween ? so starts the Holiday Season. The average American gains 7-12 pounds between Halloween and New Year's . The next series of articles will help you ensure that you won't be among them. First, Halloween. As Halloween rears it's head, so does the plethora of wonderful smelling chocolates and... Read More

Cashless Gifts

Sometimes gifts that are truly from your heart have no cash value. But the value to the recipient can be more than any amount of money could provide. These gifts are truly from your heart to theirs.Look at the person's life and what they need. Maybe grandpa can't climb the... Read More

Do It Yourself Gifts

Sometimes gifts that you purchase are not as personalized as you would like. They do not quite seem to fit the idea you had in mind. For these times, the only thing to do is "do it yourself". You will have the gift exactly fitting the theme and the person... Read More

The Bloated Bar Mitzvah Celebration: 6 Ways to Take It Back

Bar Mitzvah celebrations have grown exponentially in size and scope in the past twenty years.That's great news for me; I derive much of the income I earn as a party entertainer from working at these events. Nonetheless, I offer this advice to those planning Bar Mitzvah celebrations:Less is more.Becoming a... Read More

Unique Gift Ideas for the 21st Century

As a personal growth specialist, I like to think I'm hip. I like to think I am avant garde. I like to think I am on the cutting edge ? despite what everyone else around thinks about me.I read last year that the growth sector of the future is in... Read More

New Year?s Resolution: Love Your Body!

Ah, the beginning of a New Year. A time to reflect and start anew: new hopes, dreams, goals for yourself. Speaking of which, have you taken that all important inventory of your body, yet? Is this the year you're going to make the change?Wondering how to begin? Read on?Most people... Read More

Santa Goes Low Carb!

North Pole- The word is out! Due to an "unpublished dilemma" last Christmas Eve Santa has gone Low Carb!Sources reveal that Santa was stuck in a chimney somewhere in California for over an hour last Christmas Eve - how embarrassing! The incident certainly wreaked havoc with his jolly schedule for... Read More

How To Stay Slim During The Holiday Season

The majority of people find themselves carrying additional fat once the holidays are over. Worst of all, most of them never lose this extra weight. Over the years, few pounds gained over the holidays here and there add up to 10, 20, 30 pounds of excess fat!To avoid falling into... Read More

Cornucopia Centerpiece for Thanksgiving Day

As we enter into the month of November my thoughts turn towards Thanksgiving and everything that this wonderful holiday has to offer.It is a time for spending time with family and friends and for counting the many blessings the past year has brought to us. Like most people I like... Read More

Its Party Time - Lets Decorate!

Holidays are here and so is the spirit of partying. Here are some wonderful ideas for transforming your home into an innovative party scenario and giving your guests an occasion that will forever remain etched in their memories.1. Entrance: Do up your entrance. The entrance to your home should be... Read More

Trick or Treating Safety

Halloween is such a fun time of year for kids and adults alike, so its important that we take some precautions to keep it that way! Here's my list of trick or treating tips for your family.Wear comfortable shoes!!Carry a flashlightWear something with a reflector on it (you can even... Read More

Easter Traditions: Seven Ways To Add Meaning To Your Family Celebration

Family traditions connect us to past and future generations. They provide meaning and connection, as well as a sense of ritual and comfort. And they can create - and help to preserve - some of life's most moving moments.Easter traditions can help to usher in a season of love, rejuvenation,... Read More

Children?s Birthday Party Locations and Ideas

While most children's birthday parties are held at home, you may want to consider an offsite location.For starters, you won't have to be concerned about the current state of order and tidiness of your house. Plus using the cultural and recreational resources of the community will broaden your child's horizons... Read More

10 Reasons Santas Broke This Year

1. Santa Spends More Than He MakesSanta's paychecks are nothing to sneeze at, but he stays focused on his next raise. (Yes, of course Santa gets a raise each year!) He has no idea what it costs him to live the Santa life. He doesn't track his earnings nor his... Read More

Making the Holidays More Meaningful

Have the holidays become too commercial for you? Are you feeling empty and unfulfilled during this time of the year? This year by making some simple changes you and your children can truly make the holidays more meaningful.Teach gratitude during the holidays:Gratitude should not only be for the material presents... Read More

How Parents Can Win the Battle To Keep Your Child Safe From Strangers This Holiday Season

When we think of Holiday shopping, we think of all the glowing lights at our area malls and the various eye-catching decorations in shopping centers. Along with distractions with our 'to do' list in our heads, we get preoccupied with carrying bags and scoping out gifts. But with all the... Read More

Color Easter Eggs Naturally With Dyes From Your Kitchen

The most beautiful dyes for Easter eggs come from foodstuff you probably already have in your kitchen.I have been delighted with the results of the colors I have tried and my friends have been thrilled to receive them as springtime gifts. The colors are very unusual -- gentle, earthy, soft,... Read More

Samanthas Bay Leaf Ritual for the New Year

HI would like to share with you a ritual I do every New Year's that is quite involved and requires a lot of thought and meditation time. It is derived from an ancient Greek ritual for prosperity and fertility. As you may recall, ancient Mediterranean Kings and Queens used to... Read More

St. Patricks Day Quotations

"It's not that the Irish are cynical. It's rather that they have a wonderful lack of respect for everything and everybody."-- Brendan Behan(1923-1964) - Irish dramatist, author"In order to find his equal, an Irishman is forced to talk to God." -- Stephen Braveheart"St. Patrick's Day is an enchanted time --... Read More

EASTER: The Bunny and The Egg

Ever wonder why there's an "Easter Bunny"? Ever wonder why he brings eggs? And dyed ones at that!The Rabbit and the Hare, because of their frequent multiple births, are long time symbols of fertility. According to pre-Christian fertility lore, long before Jesus Christ was born, the Easter Bunny, aka the... Read More

Unique Mothers Day Gift - No More Flowers and Chocolate

With Mother's Day approaching fast, it's time to begin thinking about how best to express how much Mommy Dearest means to us. If you're like most, Mother's Day has become a routine that consists of a greeting card, a bouquet of flowers, and a phone call to say "I love... Read More

What Causes Holiday Stress?

The holidays are supposed to be a time of celebration when friends and families get together to share food, fun, gifts, and love. They are supposed to be a time of giving, caring and connection when we celebrate important and meaningful events.Why, then, are they often so stressful and what... Read More

The Gift of Failure

During this Thanksgiving holiday, we are reminded to reflect on the bounty in our lives. Most of us have jobs, family, a place we call home and food on the table, and for these things and our ability to obtain them we should be grateful.But what about those who are... Read More

10 Tips to a Stress Free Holiday

"The stress-free way to enjoy the holidays is to plan, take one step at a time, and have a sense of humor." Beth TabakCan you feel the holiday jitters beginning? Suddenly there it is right around the corner. Relax! Take time to plan well now and ease into the holidays... Read More

What to Do When You Are Alone for the Holidays

Being alone for the holidays is a major challenge for many people. Holidays often conjure images of family, of warmth and the sharing of special time. Loneliness can be overwhelming when you have no one with whom to share holiday time.Many people, however, miss the point of what holidays are... Read More

Vastu Tips to Reduce Holiday Stress

Fun, though they are intended to be, The Holidays can be a time of stress for many. Vastu can help you experience a peaceful, prosperous, and harmonious holiday season.How the science of Vastu affects the quality of your life can be compared to how an antenna affects the quality of... Read More

Consider the Egg

The glorious egg, with its deep links to Creation mythology, is one of the oldest symbols of life and rebirth known to us. Many gods, demons and heroes have sprung from eggs. It's a symbol of new life in cultures as far apart as Polynesian, Chinese, Phoenician, Egyptian and Greek... Read More

5 Ways to Lose Those Holiday Blues

What a great time of year! It's a time to be thankful for what we have and enjoy all the festivities that mark a renewal of our hope and faith in the "system" that will carry us toward a bright new year.Right? So if this is such a wonderful season,... Read More

Magical Holiday Emergency Kit

With all the travel, gift buying, last minute cramming at work, and family issues, is it any wonder that some of us find the holidays more stressful than fun? If you get a little crazy during the holidays, take heart. Here's a quick little magical emergency kit that you can... Read More

Mothers Day Shopping Ideas

Do you know a Mom who needs to be thanked for the tireless effort she makes every day to her family? Does your Mom get the appreciation she deserves? While we all know we should tell our mothers how much we love her every week, sometimes our day to day... Read More

What Is The Easter In Your Business?

Easter 2005 is coming, Sunday March 27, and Christians worldwide are warming up to celebrate the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, a great sacrifice for humanity.What about you and your business? Is there anything the market can celebrate about any great sacrifice you have made for your... Read More

Alone for the Holidays?

Being alone is a challenge for many people. This challenge may loom especially large during the holidays if you are single or newly divorced and without family around you. Holidays are a time to share love, and many people end up feeling depressed when they do not have people around... Read More

Terrible at choosing gifts?

Need help with gifts? Not everyone is good at choosing them. But there's more to gift giving than getting gift ideas from someone else.This is why we'd like to share our gift giving philosophy: Focus on "The Who". No, no, no... not the band. Don't go giving someone a "the... Read More

Traditional and Modern Anniversary Gifts

Most people know that the 50th wedding anniversary is the "golden" anniversary, and that the 25th is silver. But beyond that? Here are some traditional and modern conventions to follow when selecting anniversary gifts.But don't limit your gift giving to the gifts listed below for each anniversary year. Chances are... Read More

Planning a Gift Closet

Creating a gift closet is a wonderful way to plan ahead for gift giving occasions. It's also handy for those last-minute emergency events that spring up throughout the year, may otherwise catch you by surprise, and send you on a mad dash to the store. Developing a system that will... Read More

Mothers Day Flowers & Gifts!

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 8th! Whether she lives next door or across the country, Send Mom a beautiful Fresh Flower Arrangement to celebrate her "Special Day!" Your local florist can design and deliver the perfect gift to Mom this year.~A Vase or Basket of Mom's Favorite flowers will be... Read More

Orlando, The Vacation Station

If you were asked to name 10 reasons why you vacationed in a certain place, you would probably start slowing down as you reach 5 or 6. But with Florida the list goes on and on. Theme parks are the obvious choice and could fill more than 10 places without... Read More

The Perfect Birthday Present for that Little Girl (No Batteries Required)

The DilemmaAs a mom of a five-year-old girl, I have attended countless birthday parties in the past few years. With each event, comes the inevitable trip to the toy store to find an appropriate gift for the child of honor. I began to dread the gift-buying process. Toys had either... Read More

Give Presence Not Presents

Throughout the year we have many gift-giving opportunities to show love to those around us. From Christmas to Birthdays, Valentines Day and more, our thoughts turn to finding the perfect gift. Before you shop and wrap remember that our loved ones need more of our presence than our presents! This... Read More

SALOME and HERODIAS, A Curious Mothers Day Story, Part 1 of 2 Parts

First, a disclaimer:This article requires information about John the Baptist, whose life and works and words are holy, divinely inspired, to Christians. The sources I've accessed are religious, historical, literary, exegetic, and anecdotal. In order to avoid disrespect for the sacredness of the words and concepts with which Christians hold... Read More

SALOME and HERODIAS, A Curious Mothers Day Story, Part 2 of 2 Parts

First, a disclaimer:This article requires information about John the Baptist, whose life and works and words are holy, divinely inspired, to Christians. The sources I've accessed are religious, historical, literary, exegetic, and anecdotal. In order to avoid disrespect for the sacredness of the words and concepts with which Christians hold... Read More

Celebrating Fathers

On Father's Day, we celebrate the guys in our lives. Not just our dads and the fathers to our children, but all the men who have made a positive impact on a child's life.A number of recently published studies call attention to the effects of good fathering. Men who play... Read More

A Priceless Birthday Gift

Kelly was a very wealthy Hollywood actress, who was used to a posh lifestyle. She lived in a multimillion dollar home in Beverly Hills. She had all sorts of people she paid to do things for her, such as her personal chef, her aerobics trainer, her gardener, her maid and... Read More

10 Stress Free Tips to Pamper Mom This Mothers Day

Mothers Day is the day we set aside each year to show appreciation to our own mother and to the mothers in our lives that we love. Traditionally Mothers Day is the big "Flowers and Chocolate" day. While most moms do enjoy lovely flowers and chocolate, below are some ways... Read More

Keeping it Simple this Season

It's back. The holiday season and all the challenges that come with it! This is the time when we are most tempted to overdo things - shopping, partying, spending.This year?why not practice the art of simplicity and serenity? Begin a new tradition or fine tune an old one. Think 'less... Read More

Christmas Matters

Every year I vow to make Christmas easier, simpler - less stressful.Have I ever? One year I tried forgetting Christmas here in the UK and spent it in the Canary Islands. It was quite extraordinary really. Christmas day was spent around the pool. The staff brought round 'Christmas' cake at... Read More

Why July 4th ?

On July 4th 1776 the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. On this day they formally declared that these colonies were free and independent states, not subject to the government of Great Britain.The Declaration of Independence was signed by leaders from the colonies, and for the first time in... Read More

It?s Time to Start Thinking about Mothers Day

Mother's Day is approaching fast. This year it falls on Sunday, May 8th, so you still have time left to come up with the ideal gift for your Mom. And don't forget that Mother's Day is an ideal day to honor any woman in your life, not just your Mom.... Read More

The Origins of Mothers Day

Most people mistakenly believe that Mother's Day is an invention of the greeting card manufacturers and flower shops - a cynical ploy to make the nation spend millions of dollars each year on greetings cards and flowers. However, the roots of the holiday are more elevated than this and go... Read More

Saving Money on a Holiday

Going on a family vacation can be considerably more expensive than going with your partner only. Instead of buying two airline tickets and renting a double room in a hotel, you need maybe four or five tickets and at least two hotel rooms.Fortunately, there are a lot of family-friendly offers... Read More

The Origins of Mothers Day

Mother's Day is, in many countries, a day for celebrating motherhood and thanking mothers. Mothers often receive gifts on this day, and it is a huge time of year for mail. In 1973, the U.S. Postal Service was held up for 8 days because of the constant flow of letters... Read More

Perfect Presents for Mom

Every year we search our brains for a unique, exciting gift for Mom. We have bought flowers, candy, jewelry, pictures of our kids and us. But this year, we want something really different, something really special. We have prepared a list of suggestions that might just fit the bill.1. Create... Read More

Mothers Day: 5 Gift Ideas Guaranteed To Make Any New Mom Happy

Sure, you can call it a Hallmark holiday. But don't be fooled: Mother's Day is serious business. A big deal. Especially for new moms.How do I know? Because I make my living surveying moms for my books. I ask them everything from which diaper bag they like best to how... Read More

How to Make Your Own Printable Invitations for Any Occasion

Even with modern technology like email and cell phones, printed invitations have remained the most common way to let people know about your upcoming party and will continue to remain popular due to the timeless rules of party etiquette. Invitations can be a major cost, especially for large parties, like... Read More

Thanksgiving

I was not planning to write this article. Instead, I was going to publish an article about integrity. It has been on my mind this last week and I was planning to share some thoughts about it. Then, I received an email from Jim Donovan, one of the regular contributors... Read More

Experience Mothers Day In A Whole New Way

Mother's Day is the day when sons, daughters and husbands buy gifts and flowers to recognize the incredible work mom has done raising the children. But some moms are unknowingly cheating themselves out of the full experience of Mother's Day. Many moms treat Mother's Day as a completely external experience... Read More

Gods Gift to You... Mom

Have you ever thought what you would have done without your Mother? Then why is it Mom's are usually the low woman on the totem pole? God thought enough of us to give us an earthly Guardian Angel and so many times, more than we could truthfully count this is... Read More

Mothers Day is coming-Dont Blow It!

Mother's Day is May 8th. And, you do realize all of the things that the Mom in your life has done for you and your family, right? Then you must know that a bouquet of flowers and card, though very sweet, are not all it takes to make Mother's Day... Read More

Gift Wrapping Ideas

If you're tired of your gifts looking like everyone else's, put some creative thought to it. Gifts don't have to just be paper and ribbon that you bought at the store. Let some of these ideas inspire you.1. Name Tags - Instead of using name tags, use the front cover... Read More

Holiday Promotion Tips

Are you ready for Mother's Day? Yes I realize it's still a week or two away, but if you haven't started your Mother's Day promotions yet it might already be too late. I know of one company that has completely sold out of their big Easter product 3 weeks prior... Read More

Buying Jewelry for Mother?s Day or How To Buy The Perfect Gift for Mom Without Getting Ripped Off

Jewelry can be the perfect gift for mom on Mother's Day, but there are pitfalls, especially if you rush at the last minute. Procrastination and a lack of knowledge can be rewarded with overpaying for a piece of jewelry or even worse, being ripped-off.A gift of jewelry can be expensive.... Read More

Gifts: What Do You Give A Couch Potato?

So you know someone who likes to "veg out" in front of the TV and you're looking for a gift for him or her. There are three ways you could go with your gift idea.Option 1: Get them something that fits right in with their couch potato persona.You're not trying... Read More

Is Buying a Gift for Mom as Difficult for You as it is for Me?

I have walked through a countless number of stores searching for a Mother's Day gift and I always see the same things. A nice blouse, a trinket for the kitchen, or perhaps a bottle of perfume (do they all smell the same to you too, or is it just me?).... Read More

Preparing For the Holidays: Ho Ho Ho... or Bah Humbug!

Some of my clients dread the holiday season because it often represents stress, pressure, expectations, guilt, disappointment, pain, loneliness, exhaustion... and the list goes on.This is a choice. We choose who we spend time with. We choose what activities we say yes and no to. We choose where we go.... Read More

Tis The Season

I was listening to one of my favorite radio talk programs today. The topic of the hour was "do you feel burdened by Christmas?" Much to my amazement the host, and the majority of his guests, spent the better part of an hour whining and moaning about the burdensome nature... Read More

Single During the Holidays

Mistletoe. Holiday parties. New Years kiss at midnight. This time of year can be challenging for singles. With such an emphasis on family togetherness and couples exchanging heart-felt gifts, it's hard not to hear the message ? the holidays are not for me.At family get-togethers you get grilled about what's... Read More

Importance of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is the most important holiday of the year.Oh, sure, Christmas is grand, and I know it has many, many fans. I'm not knocking Christmas, but Thanksgiving is more important. And Easter has its fans, too. Rebirth is a wonderful thing, but I still say Thanksgiving is more important. Yes,... Read More

Youre How Old?!?

"Well, Happy Birthday! How old are you anyway?""Oh, I'm just 29 ? again."It's a harmless game, denying our age, right? We play sensitive about our age as we get older, as we get further away from birth and closer to death. It's just a way to share our unease of... Read More

Mothers Day, Do You Know What Youre Giving The Woman Who Gave You Life?

Mother's Day, Do you know what you're giving the woman who gave you life? by DeAnna SpencerI decided to deviate from my normal discussion of marketing and advertising to discuss a major gift giving holiday.Mother's day is coming soon. May 8th to be exact. That is right around the corner.... Read More

Valentines Day

Ever wondered how February 14 became, the day on which we celebrate and explore love in all its many ideals, Valentines Day.There are many differing opinions on how Valentines Day started.One story say that when the Roman Empire reigned, a festival every February was held in honour of the God... Read More

Contact Lenses for Halloween

It is never too soon to begin planning the perfect Halloween costume, and frequently the best ones require a lot of planning and special effects items. Luckily for all the Halloween fans out there, there is now a huge line of contact lenses for Halloween. The different styles of lenses... Read More

Make Every Day a Mothers Day!

The word mother and mothers day are simple, yet powerful little words that you hear all the time especially so around the time of mothers day when everyone seem to be scrambling for ideas to say thank you, you are surely loved and you are appreciated all over again.But if... Read More

How Santa Makes Out His Christmas List

How Does Santa Make Out His List?I'll let you in on a secret: I know Santa Claus. And I received a letter from him with his Christmas list."Dear Kristin,"Thank you for the homemade cookies last year. For some reason, people seem to forget that I'm not planning to lose weight,... Read More

The Only Way to Turn New Year Resolutions Into Reality!

So you ate, drank and spent too much over the Holidays. Now you are overweight, bloated, tired and broke, and you are promising yourself that you are going to change all that this year!There are two reasons why New Year Resolutions don't work;1st we try and take on too much,2nd... Read More

Holiday Beauty Dos and Donts

Why is it that whenever you go to a holiday party, you can always find someone who doesn't look how you would expect? Is it because you think they overdid their fashion or make-up, or is it a touch of envy?Beauty queen or fashion disaster, it's up to you. If... Read More

This Mothers Day -- Give The Gift Of Fitness

Do you know a Mom that deserves a special gift this year for Mother's Day? I'm sure you know at least one, if not more. Sure, flowers can always brighten a Mom's day and a dinner out is always appreciated. But, doesn't she deserve something more personal, something that won't... Read More

Honor Mothers: Song Remembers Mom Forever

In the spirit of Mother's Day, two songwriters are sharing with the world their lyrics to a song that commemorates and celebrates a mother's love.Lyricists Neal R. Voron and Joseph F.M. Pokorny, of Philadelphia, PA, hope that children, both young and old, who read the words to "We Thought She'd... Read More

Marching Towards Mothers Day

"Mother: the most beautiful word on the lips of mankind." -Kahil GibranThis coming Sunday is our "big day," moms. It's the one day a year when we get officially honored for what it is that we do. I don't know about you, but I usually find myself reflecting on exactly... Read More

Survival Kit for the Holidays: Grace, Gratitude and Random Acts Of Kindness

If you*re like me, the holidays always have a way of sneaking in. And - like an unexpected visitor who shows up the week I haven't cleaned my home - I'm caught in a frenzy, desperate to scrape up the tumbleweeds of cat fur and make the place look presentable.... Read More

Practical Ways to Keep Your ADD Under Control During the Holiday Season

Do November's Thanksgiving experiences have you dreading the December holidays? The idea of gifts, family, and days off sounds great?but we all know that holidays are some of the most stressful times of the year. When an ADDer starts to become immersed in the shopping, cooking, traveling, and family interactions,... Read More

Mommy...Daddy...Is There Really A Santa Claus?

Is there really a Santa Claus? Any parent who hasn't been faced with this question most likely will at some point. But how do you answer this? No one wants to crush a child's dreams of Santa and holiday magic.Some kids, like me, are crushed at school when they hear... Read More

10 Ways to Keep Your Expectations From Making You Crazy This Christmas

Christmas is a wonderful time! Everyone is full of good cheer, the milk of human kindness and 20 pounds of candy. All gifts are given with love, are exactly the right size, are exactly the right color, or exactly the right thing for exactly the price you could afford. Right?Well,... Read More

Ill Be Home For Christmas

Direct Answers - Column for the week of November 29, 2004I have been married 25 years. We come from completely different backgrounds. I grew up in a large family in a small town, and we were poor. My husband is an only child, privileged, and he was given everything by... Read More

Important Chinese Festivals

Chinese New Year/Lunar New Year (January/February)It is usually in the winter of a year. The exact date would follow the one in Lunar Calendar. Entering the New Year month, every family would clean and tidy both the inside and the outside of their houses. New Year food would also be... Read More

Three Steps to Reduce Holiday Stress for Your Kitty

The annual holidays can be a very stressful time for your cat. This is the time of the year when that strange tree goes up, bright trinkets are hung (but all your cat hears is "No, no, bad kitty!" when she tries to explore them), delicious food is prepared (cats... Read More

Cheap Christmas Gift Ideas

Now that the biggest shopping season of the year is in full swing it might be a good time to create a holiday budget. I'm sure there are lots of names on your list, but hopefully you can find gifts that won't put a big dent in your pocketbook. I've... Read More

Virtual Assistants... Even Santa Needs One!

Trying to fit all the planning and preparing and celebrating of the holiday season into an already busy schedule can bring a lot of stress to a time of year that's supposed to be full of peace. These days, even Santa needs help making his list and checking it twice!Fortunately,... Read More

Corporate Holiday Gift Ideas Start With a Possibilities List

Plan ahead this year for your corporate clients and associates holiday gifts.Now is the time to prepare for this year's corporate holiday gift ideas. The holiday season is fast approaching and you need to get your plan in order now. A possibilities list is your rough draft of gift ideas... Read More

Home Made Gifts, The Best Way To Teach Your Kids The Value Of The Holiday

To a large extent the holidays have come to be more about materialism than the original values of peace, harmony, and faith. Advertisers hit us from all sides with messages of greed and pettiness. Every media outlet is rife with the idea, "buy this, or they wont love you."In such... Read More

Five Inexpensive Ways to Help Your Children Invest in Holiday Memories

Christmas memories are never dependent on the amount of money spent or the popularity of the toy. Memories are made up of amount of heart invested and given. This year, let your children invest their time and hearts in making Christmas memories for your family.1. Buy white or red place... Read More

Great Gifts Under $5

Gift giving is at its absolute finest during the Christmas season. Putting smiles on children's faces, making an elderly person feel appreciated, rewarding a hardworking employee - the reasons for gift giving at Christmas are endless. Christmas is the most popular time for gift giving, and it is no secret... Read More

Top 5 Ways for an ADD Adult to Have a Happy Holiday

Holidays have the potential to send an adult with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) into overload. Too many details to plan, kids to manage, and family to cope with can turn a good day into a stressful one. The following suggestion can help adults manage ADD during the holidays.1. Know Your... Read More

Easter Party Ideas

Easter marks the start of spring and is a sacred holiday for Christians throughout the world as it signifies when Jesus Christ was resurrected from the grave to live again. But where did the Easter bunny and eggs fit into the Easter tradition?The rabbit and eggs were actually symbols of... Read More

5 Tips to Reduce Holiday Depression

As the holidays approach each year, more and more people suffer from Holiday Depression.Some experts blame it on factors relating to nutrition. Nutritional experts believe that depression is caused by the excessive sugar and fatty foods coursing through our bodies.Other experts believe that depression is caused by the lack of... Read More

Fitness Tips On How To Avoid Gaining Weight During The Holiday Season

This holiday season don't be trendy ? avoid the Seasonal Seven (the average weight most Americans gain between Thanksgiving and New Year's). That's one trend you don't want to participate in!I know what you are thinking ? the holidays are a time for fun and indulgence. You don't want to... Read More

Unique Gift Ideas -- The Gift Of Fitness

Well, it's almost that time of year again ? the holiday shopping season is just around the corner. Have you thought about what you are going to give those people on your "hard to shop for" list? Instead of another tie for your dad or music CD for your sister,... Read More

Mothers Day Love Letter ? The Best Way to Express Your Gratitude and Appreciation for Mom!

Abraham Lincoln said ? "All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother"Wow! That is a worthy compliment to give mom this Mother's Day!Mothers are the source of our beginning and are always there for us, whether we realize it or not. Could that be... Read More

Dont Forget Grandmom - Shes an Earth Angel Too!

Have you ever thought what you would do without your Grandmom ? She's the one that always stands beside us and gives us the cookies on the side? She fills in when Mom can't. She's the one that will spoil us rotten given half a chance. God thought enough of... Read More

How to Reduce Your Stress this Christmas

In theory Christmas is a time that is filled with joy and celebration. A joyous holiday when you get together with loved ones and catch up, exchange gifts and generally have a good time.Unfortunately in practice it can be a time of great stress and unhappiness. There is so much... Read More

Overcoming Loneliness this Christmas

Christmas is one of those times when the social norm is to get together with our families even if you never see them during the year. For those people who are isolated from their families, or do not have a family, it can be a time of great loneliness and... Read More

Ultimate Army Themed Games & Activities for Your Childs Birthday Party

Are you looking for the Ultimate Army Themed Party Games and Activities? Well stop looking because they are right here...Good Luck and happy reading..."Water Brigade" For their first high priority assignment, your unit must put out a fire that is destroying civilian crops! Divide the soldiers into two teams; line... Read More

The Gingerbread Nightmare

Do you ever see those beautiful gingerbread houses during the holiday seasons that are so beautiful? They look so simple, and look like such a fun project to do with the kids making gifts for grandma and grandpa. I could just feel it... soft Christmas music in the background, the... Read More

Making Mother?s Day Special

How many times have you heard a friend say about someone who's no longer here, "I never got to tell her (or him) how much I really cared."We've all felt this way at some stage about someone in our lives. Yet it's hard to sit down and tell a person... Read More

10 Great Gift Ideas for Fathers Day

What do you get for the man who has always been there for you? You want it to be something special, something he hasn't gotten before, something that he will cherish. It cannot be the tired old gift of after shave lotion or soap on a rope. Not this year!To... Read More

Making Mom Happy on Mothers Day

Mothers day is May 8th this year, are you ready? Are you in need of an idea for how to treat mom on Mothers Day that will not break your budget? How about indulging mom with a delightful home cooked brunch and a special tea pot for her to take... Read More

Valentine?s Day - Online Worship

Gazing the wide stretched blue carpet, with blows of zephyrs whispering and blowing leaves away, is the best way to rest your mind from the day-to-day hassle. It's the time when every living thing seems to grow and is nourished by the augmentation of spring. The basic demand of existence... Read More

Spooky Halloween Party Ideas

Are you looking for special Halloween party ideas that will give your guests a very memorable night? The easiest way to design and plan a Halloween party is to come up with a party theme. This makes it easier to chose decorations, and supplies for the party.Start by making a... Read More

Halloween Costumes...for Pets!

One of the best things about Halloween, is wearing a costume. If you have animals at home, why not consider a Halloween costume for pets? A Halloween costume for pets is usually made for an animal of the canine kind.Cat owners know that the majority of felines wouldn't wear a... Read More

2 Inexpensive Halloween Costume Ideas

Did you know that you can make your own Halloween costumes without spending lots of money? You many already have many of the supplies needed to put these together. Here are 2 neat Halloween costumes that you can make yourself:SkeletonAll you need to make a skeleton costume is a black... Read More

2 Quick and Easy Halloween Crafts

Making Halloween crafts can really get you into a festive mood for this spooky holiday. Here are 2 fun and easy craft ideas:Tin Can LanternsDid you know that you can easily create Halloween lanterns out of those old tin cans? Use cans that have a smooth surface to accurately display... Read More

Outdoor Halloween Decorations

Few things are more thrilling for a trick-or-treater than walking up to a house detailed with ghastly Halloween decorations. Whether you use complicated props like swooping ghosts, or simple, classic decorations, like glowing jack-o-lanterns, scarecrows, and indian corn, your house will delight visitors. A haunted yard, complete with fun Halloween... Read More

Fun Halloween Ideas

Looking for interesting Halloween ideas? Perhaps you are looking for something new to do this year? Here are several Halloween ideas to get you started:Here's a neat tip to make your Halloween punch creepy while keeping it cold: Fill a rubber food service glove with water, and freeze it. Remove... Read More

Scary halloween Masks

There are countless Halloween masks available today. At Halloween specialty stores and online shops, you will find a mask in the likeness of every ghoul, alien, and creepy character of any and every variety. Everyone, from heroes like Spiderman and Superman, to movie bad guys, like Freddy Kruger, The Alien,... Read More

Set the Mood- Halloween Decoration Ideas

When Halloween comes around and you want to throw a party or you are a room mother for your son's class at school, how should you decorate? Here are some Halloween decoration ideas to get you started.Halloween decoration ideas do not have to be complicated or time-consuming. They can also... Read More

Anniversary Gift Ideas Year by Year, the First Nineteen Years

It's impossible to remember what gift is traditional for each anniversary. This article is perfect to print out or post on your website for easy reference. Plus gift ideas for each anniversary makes it easy, you'll never miss getting the perfect anniversary gift again.The traditional gift for the first anniversary... Read More

Traditional Anniversary Gifts Year by Year, the Twentieth - One Hundred Years

Twentieth through the twenty-fourth anniversaries traditional gift is china. Vintage china tea cups, bone china ornaments or a replacement piece for your own china are presents to consider along with a table for two at a Chinese restaurant or a trip to China.Traditionally speaking, silver is the gift for the... Read More

Celebrating the ME in MumME

Another Mother's Day is upon us. A day in which our loved ones bestow us with handmade gifts, breakfast in bed, supper out and sometimes even jewelry!!! It is a day for our family to show how much they appreciate the job we do.I remember after my first child was... Read More

Memorial Day Flowers

Monday, May 30th is Memorial Day. Your local florist can provide fresh or silk flowers for honoring the memory of your loved ones. There are many options available when taking flowers to a gravesite. Many people choose a cone arrangement, which can be placed into the ground.Here are some things... Read More

Patience

Ever since my girls were little, I've tried to teach them patience. I well remember getting them to count to ten when we had to wait for something. I would tell them, "Count real slow." If they counted "too fast" because I knew they would be finished before whatever we... Read More

Colored Contacts For Halloween - Make Sure YOU Dont Go Bump In The Night!

Ok, the end of October is approaching, and you desperately want some colored contacts for Halloween. Why? Well, possibly because no one else will have any, maybe because you like to go that extra yard when you dress up, or maybe you want to get your own back on one... Read More

Mother?s Day Crafts

Make these quick and easy crafts with your children for Mother's day. These can be handmade for Mom or Grandma!Flower Pens for MomIs your mom always looking for a pen around the house, and can't find one? Well make this pen and she'll spot it right away!What You'll Need? Bic... Read More

Fathers Day Origins and Inspiration

While mothers have had their special day since 1914, fathers have only recently officially received the recognition they so richly deserve. After all, dad is the pillar of the family unit, the one who made us feel safe, loved to tickle and tease, and above all gave us a sense... Read More

Gift Shopping Tips for Tight Budgets

Have you seen the prices of greeting cards lately? It is hideous! Once you purchase the card and gift-wrap, your overall cost can easily increase by $10 to$15. If you are on a tight budget, this can be difficult as you spend more on the fluff and less on the... Read More

Memorial Day: 3 Ways To Honor American Soldiers

The last Monday of May since 1868, has been designated as Memorial Day. Now, during that weekend, beer and picnic supply sales skyrocket. Travelers drive our nation's highways en masse. And don't forget the Indy 500.And while it's important to have fun and celebrate Memorial Day weekend in your own... Read More

Easy Gift Ideas For Dad On Fathers Day

Father's Day is just around the corner. If you're looking for a gift a little more exciting than the traditional tie, consider making up a men's pamper gift set. Personal care products, whether you purchase them or make them yourself, make wonderful pampering treats. Here are some ideas for men's... Read More

Keeping Christmas Spirit Alive: Christmas Just Isn?t The Same Without Santa Claus!

Holidays may come and go but some holidays, like Christmas, should never change. Most folks have a favorite holiday and for many it is Christmas. The festivities, shopping, and decorating get the best of all of us but Christmas just wouldn't be the same without Santa Claus stopping by for... Read More

10 Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day for remembering those who have laid their lives in the nation's service. Memorial Day has also become a popular time for Family Reunions and Get Togethers as it is preceded by a weekend. Here are some ways to celebrate the patriotic spirit of this day:1.... Read More

Memorial Day a way to Celebrate

Memorial Day is May 30th this year, are you ready? Are you in need of an idea for how to celebrate this time honored holiday with your family and friends? How about reading an expert from Abraham Lincoln's "Gettysburg Address". Sharing with those young hearts in your life the meaning... Read More

Wake Up ? Its Almost Fathers Day

Father's Day is approaching fast. In the USA it falls on the third Sunday of June which this year is June 19th 2005. So if you start planning now, you still have time left to come up with the ideal gift for your Dad. And don't forget that Father's Day... Read More

No More Ties! Homemade Fathers Day Gift Ideas

If you are like me, you never know what to get dad for Father's Day. Well, today, you'll get a few ideas that will get you out of a bind any time.Wallet Memories - Cut a business card size rectangle out of poster board. Decorate both sides with stickers, photographs,... Read More

Fourth of July Safety

Of all the holidays throughout the year, the Fourth of July typically presents the greatest risk of fire danger and injuries for adults and children. Unsafe use of fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks are a serious concern. These products can be potentially harmful to individuals of all ages. So, before... Read More

Fathers Day Gift Ideas for Dad!

Father's Day...Father's Day only one month away! Father's Day is Sunday, June 19th! Remember Dad this year with a "special delivery" from a local florist. Father's Day is your opportunity to show Dad your love and appreciation! Your local florist has many great Gift ideas for Father's Day. Just ask!Send... Read More

Fun, Fireworks, & Flowers!

The 4th of July is a time for celebrating Freedom! Your local florist can create the perfect floral arrangement to celebrate this Independence Day! Flowers in Patriotic colors are plentiful during this special summer holiday. Think of the many ways you can incorporate the beauty of flowers into your 4th... Read More

How to Save Money at Christmas

Do you know how to save money at Christmas and still have fun? Sounds impossible but it can be done.Everyone assumes that in order to enjoy the festive season one has to throw money at it when in fact the opposite can be true.Research has shown that most people's fondest... Read More

Tribute to Dad

Father's Day should not be the only day that we celebrate Dads. I think we should make Fathers feel special all year long!As a wife and mother I would like to celebrate husbands with children. They are an awesome breed. I am personally thankful for a husband who works hard... Read More

The Fathers Day Celebration

Fathers Day is another reason to celebrate another responsible adult in the family. If some of our media sources would have it though, you would think that there are no real fathers around to celebrate on Fathers Day.Sure there may be many deadbeats who not only have never given a... Read More

Father?s Day Gift Idea: Do-It-Yourself Backyard Pond Kit

This Father's Day, sit back and enjoy a nice cold drink with your father, while he's beaming with pride from ear to ear. You are both relaxing next to the sounds of trickling water emanating from the new water feature that he just installed himself. For the father who enjoys... Read More

Jewelry As A Father?s Day Gift

It is widely known that many men enjoy fine jewelry. So, why not present Dad with a gift of jewelry this Father's Day.Jewelry gifts that you might consider for that special Father in your life could include a gold or silver watch, a handsome sterling silver or 14kt gold chain... Read More

The Five Best Cigar-Related Fathers Day Gifts

According to a recent study by the internet cigar retailer WhatsKnotToLove.com, Father's Day -- that shameless day of the year when wives, daughters and sons have to publicly humiliate themselves in a quest for a gift they know will go unappreciated -- has become a national epidemic. More than sixty... Read More

Honoring our Fathers

This weekend as we celebrate Father's Day, take an opportunity to express gratitude for the many wonderful fathers we see giving their love, support and guidance to our children on a daily basis.Personally, in my own life, I am surrounded by them. From my own father, to my father-in-law, my... Read More

Celebrate the 4th and Help a Soldier

My good friend, Rae, just called and suggested having a Fourth of July cookout that supports our troops in Iraq. "How?" I asked, feeling somewhat guilty that we can drink margaritas and play lawn games with our families on Independence Day, while our troops in Iraq are risking life and... Read More

Kids Birthdays - How to Throw an Unforgettable Kids Birthday Party

Kids take their birthdays very seriously, and are extremely disappointed if their birthday parties are anything short of spectacular. Throwing an unforgettable kids birthday party can sometimes seem like a task better suited for a professional event planner. But with the proper party supplies, a little know how and a... Read More

Fun Halloween Party Themes and Ideas

Halloween is the day of the year that has the most parties thrown in its honor. Everyone loves to dress up and attend Halloween parties with their friends. Most people end up getting several invitations to different Halloween parties that are often on the same night. If you are planning... Read More

Planning a Spectacular Christmas Party

The holiday season is typically filled with large fancy parties, small intimate gatherings, and extravagant dinner parties. Planning your own Christmas party can seem like you're competing with hundreds of other festive events during this time, but by adding special touches to every aspect of your party, its sure to... Read More

Throwing an Anniversary Party to be Remembered

Anniversary parties are a wonderful way to celebrate two people who have been together for a number of years. The most common anniversary parties are for 25 years and 50 years. There are many things you can do to make this day special for not only the couple, but all... Read More

Incredibles Kid Birthday Party Idea

Mr. Incredible and Elastiwoman to the Rescue. The Incredibles based on the hit Disney movie has become a favorite fun kid birthday party theme. The Incredibles Invitations Have fun creating a "top secret" message as your Incredibles child birthday party theme invitation. You might say something like this. "Calling all... Read More

How To Choose The Hotel Thats Right For You

Getting the right hotel to spend one~s vacation at is one of the most difficult and costly parts of planning the vacation. It is really difficult if you have never visited the city before and do not know it, or if you are going on vacation during the major tourist... Read More

Make it an Unforgettable Birthday!

The first known birthday celebrations began among the Egyptians with parades, circuses, and gladiatorial events ? all complete with feasts that sometimes lasted for days. Romans celebrated the birthdays of their gods with parades and chariot races. Mortals were not encouraged to celebrate their birthdays in Rome. Germany introduced the... Read More

Birthday Gift Ideas

Birthday celebrations date back as far as biblical times, when celebrations among Pharaohs and other significant individuals have been mentioned. There is even some evidence to suggest that in pagan cultures people feared that evil spirits lurked about an individual on their birthday because they tended to become more malicious... Read More

Find Your Favorite Swashbuckling Pirate Costume!

"Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me!" If you have seen the movie Pirates of the Caribbean, you'll remember this song! Now you're looking for a great pirate costume?well, you've come to the right place! Transform yourself into a famous swashbuckling pirate on Halloween night, and become the... Read More

Find Easy Halloween Costumes Online! Great Ideas Are Only One Click Away

We all wish there was more time in a day. So when you start thinking of what to wear for your upcoming Halloween party, have no fear: you won't need lots of time to get your costume ready.Here, you can quickly and easily find Halloween costumes online so you won't... Read More

Dress To Impress! Find Your Sexy Halloween Costume And Shake What Your Mamma Gave You

Everyone loves to look and feel good, right? Well, why don't you shake what your mamma gave you, and find a sexy Halloween costume that will knock the socks off of everybody!Halloween is all about letting loose and having fun, so let your wild side show this year! Go ahead... Read More

Creative Kid Birthday Cake Ideas

A Creative Dream Come TrueA hush falls over the room as you bring out your child's birthday cake.With its candles glowing, your cake masterpiece sits at its place of honor for all to admire as the room fills with the oohs and aahs of your envious party guests. Your creative... Read More

Sweet 16th Birthday Party Ideas

Is there any party more delightful than sweet 16? If you're stuck for 16th birthday party ideas, then you need to sit back and start counting! It's easy enough if you remember that a sweet 16 party is all about that magic number. How many sweet sixteen balloons do you... Read More

Celebrate Your Freedom: 6 Important Freedoms to Celebrate Everyday

At the end of the movie "Braveheart," William Wallace is tortured but refuses to cry out. Just as he is about to die, he belts out one word-"Freedom!"Freedom is a word and a privilege that has been easy to take for granted in America. Since Sept. 11 our sense of... Read More

Decorating for a Victorian Christmas

Berry Manor Inn owner, Cheryl Michaelsen wouldn't admit it, but with all the research she's done on Victorian tradition for the inn many consider her an expert, especially when it comes to celebrating a Victorian Christmas. Her Victorian-style inn offers the ideal backdrop to showcase venerated Victorian traditions throughout the... Read More

Beyond All Tied Up With A Bow - Great Tips for Creating Beautifully Wrapped Holiday Gifts

No matter what the season, packages make a statement even before they're opened. Whether it's a hostess gift for that perfect holiday party, the perfect something for your loved one, or Secret Santa at the office, you want your packages to reflect the thought put into the purchase. Visit Historic... Read More

Outside the Box Gingerbread Houses

Beyond trees and wreaths, there are few symbols of the holidays so well venerated as the gingerbread house. Throughout the country, gingerbread house displays and contests attract everyone from culinary architects to kids who love to savor the decorations. Visit Historic Inns of Rockland, Maine's Holiday House Tour held every... Read More

Birthday Journals

Last year, as I turned 50, (FIVE-OOOH!!!), I decided to give myself a birthday party. Part of the party was to have a birthday journal, or diary. (I used my book The 5 Year Journal for two reasons -- #1. I had a lot of copies, and #2. The 5... Read More

How to Put Some Sizzle in Your Summer Parties: 5 Ways to be a Gracious Host and a Great Guest

Now that the hot weather is finally here, we are looking forward to long, lazy days on the beach and hot summer nights that heat up after dark. Here are a few tips from lifestyle guru Kim Kristofferson-Magnusson on maximizing your fun in the sun!1) For family celebrations?KEEP IT SIMPLE!!Whether... Read More

Birthday Flowers

Birthdays are one thing you can count on. We all have them and I'm willing to bet, all of your family members and friends have them too. Sometimes birthdays seem to roll around quickly. You can't believe it's been a whole year since you found the perfect gift for your... Read More

Kid Birthday Party Game Ideas - 7 Proven Winners

Here are 7 classic kid birthday party game ideas that are always successful. And you can easily make all of them fit your party theme.Incredible Musical StatuesThey'll have lots of fun with this one and they'll even be still for a short time.Have all your party guests move to the... Read More

Some Valuable Steps On Applying Clown Makeup! Seriously, Were Not Clowning Around Here

Who doesn't love being a clown? It's a great costume idea for both adults and children. It looks like a lot of work to do clown makeup, but it's actually quite easy. Here are the steps to create that classic whiteface clown:First of all, get an idea of what clown... Read More

Kids Halloween Costumes! Your Pint-sized Witches And Goblins Can Look Their Spookiest & Cutest Ever

It's not only the candy that puts smiles on kids' faces on October 31st! It's the fact that they love getting dressed up and scaring everyone along the way! Kids look cute in any sort of costume, but now that you can purchase their costume online, you'll be able to... Read More

Find Great Halloween Costume Ideas! Have The Most Creative Costumes This Year

Usually, the hardest part about Halloween is finding the perfect costume and top accessories for your ghoulish creation. Well, now it doesn't have to be! With the countless, great resources available on the web, finding Halloween costume ideas for the adults, kids and the rest of the family will be... Read More

What Are And How To Use Free Ecard and Free Ecards

You can consider free ecards as being the same thing as normally greetings cards. The difference is that an ecard is an electronic card. The advantage of this ecrads is that you can send them very fast and easy to anyone who has a computer connected to the Internet. So... Read More

FIREWORKS--OR, OOH, AAH, How Do They Do That?

One of my earliest memories involves a Fourth of July spent at Annandale, Minnesota, sitting on a hill and watching fireworks. Our family had a cabin on Cedar Lake, a mile and a half away, and we had come to the display with a recently emptied ice cream tub filled... Read More

The History of Christmas Ornaments

History of OrnamentsIn A.D. 336, an early Roman calendar first mentions December 25 as the date of Jesus' birth. This date was likely influenced by the year-end pagan festivals to celebrate the harvest. Celebrations included specially prepared meals, decorating of homes, gift-giving and singing. Gradually, pagan traditions became a part... Read More

A Christmas Tradition - Vintage Ornaments

Traditional hand-blown glass Christmas ornaments never seem to go out of style. There is something special about them: pulling them out year after year and smiling at the memories they bring back. Putting up familiar Christmas ornaments is one of the rituals that make the holidays special. This month we'll... Read More

Celebrate Parks Day, Everyday this Summer!

Canada's Parks Day falls on July 16'th this year. First celebrated in 1990, Parks Day is an opportunity for individuals to participate in hundreds of unique and fun events taking place in sites from coast to coast. Events are organized in national parks, national historic sites, provincial parks, and territorial... Read More

A Mothers Day Prayer! Mamma Whispered Softly!

Patty Lovelace Country MusicVerse #1 Through the back window of a 59 wagon I watched my best friend Jannie slippin away I kept on waving, til I couldn't see her And through my tears I asked again Why we couldn't stayChorus Mamma whispered softly, time will ease your pain... Read More

Spice Up Your Life with an Adventure Holiday!

Are you bored with the routine of city life? Do you yearn for a getaway from the hustle and bustle and put some excitement into your life? Do you hope to visit the places that have been aired over National Geographic Explorer and experience it for yourself? If your answer... Read More

The Cheapest Christmas Ever!

Have you ever said "I wish we didn't have to spend so much money on Christmas?" or "I wish we could have Christmas without going into debt!" Well here is your answer - tell your family that next Christmas no one is allowed to buy a new, expensive gift for... Read More

Advantages of Online Greeting Cards Over Paper Cards - Part I

After some recent reports it seems that 90% of all people buy many greeting cards. Only the American people buy 7 billion greeting cards every year. in the UK the rate is about 2 billions in one year. So, if the cards purchased only by this two count ryes were... Read More

Advantages of Online Greeting Cards Over Paper Cards - Part II

So, let's review a little what we said in the first part of this. Greeting cards are a very popular item which people buy in high numbers. But the problem is that the making process of them is using a lot of energy and it's polluting the nature.I will try... Read More

Costumes! Do They Reflect On Your True Personality?

Costumes are a great way to escape reality, and wearing your favorite costume (especially on Halloween night) lets you transform your personality into your desired character of choice, and allows you to become someone else for a day!Now do you wear the same Halloween outfit every year, or do you... Read More

An Easy Gift For Many Occasions

It can be very hard to find that one perfect gift for someone. How many times have you pondered over what to buy for a 36th birthday or an 18th anniversary?Chances are, that you've been thinking way too hard!Go to any local retail store and start browsing. What you're looking... Read More

Choosing Childrens Birthday Party Supplies and Decorations

Birthday party supplies and decorations can bring that necessary magic to make your child's party special. Your child and their friends will more closely recall the event when it is accompanied by strong visual cues. A theme package is the perfect way to achieve this. These packages come with everything... Read More

Funny Couples Costume Ideas For Halloween

Tired of the same old typical Halloween costumes. You know the ones?.vampire, witch, or mummy. It also seems that everyone just "has" to wear the latest movie craze costume as well, like a Batman Begins costume. Maybe it's time to come up with a more unique and funny Halloween costume?just... Read More

Holiday Gift Ideas For Antique Lovers

1. Knowledge is Power. Whatever the area of collecting ? depression glass, blue and white pottery, silver, paperweights, toys or furniture of any period ? there is a book to arm any collector for his or her next antiquing adventure. Look for pocket guides to slip in handbags during shopping... Read More

Holiday Spending: How to Keep Your Personal Information Safe

Holiday spending can be a wonderful time. We shop for our loved ones, friends, co-workers, and associates. Finding just the right gift and paying by credit card. Then, Ouch! Your credit card is declined. You know you haven't exceeded your credit limit, and the clerk can't tell you anything. How... Read More

Jewelry Christmas Gifts That Sparkle and Shine

The joyous season of Christmas is steeped in tradition, and gift giving is one ritual that is inseparable from this holiday. Who hasn't had difficulty at one time or another in choosing a suitable present for a beloved family member or a dear friend? Fortunately, jewelry Christmas gifts are widely... Read More

Choosing A Great Gift For A Polar Bear Lover

Do you know someone who is absolutely crazy about polar bears? Choosing a polar bear gift for a friend or loved one can be a lot of fun because there are so many choices out there, and luckily the price range is wide enough so that anyone can choose a... Read More

Camping And The Right Kind Of Tent

Campers all over the globe prefer to use tents in their camping trips. With so many different kinds of tents available in the market, it becomes very difficult to choose the type of tent which is suitable for your needs. This article describes the essential criteria that you should look... Read More

Gift of the Month Clubs: The Lazy Mans Guide to Gift Giving

If you are like me and are a very lousy shopper and always end up getting everyone the wrong gift at Christmas time, think about a Gift-of-the-Month Club. G.O.M Clubs have all the things the lazy gift giver requires: Ease of purchase, no shopping at the dreaded mall and an... Read More

Gypsy Fortune Teller Halloween Costumes ? Easy to Make

As a little girl I often loved to dress up as a gypsy, whether it was for Halloween or just for play. Maybe it's because I long to be free to do as I want and go where I wish, without the societal constraints we have to live by (that's... Read More

Hoo Hoo ? Owls and Superstitions, Thats Who

Superstitions surrounding owls have a long and ancient history. These nocturnal creatures often appear in horror mystery films, have been associated with dark, haunting night themes, and grace our Halloween décor each fall. Their wide staring eyes give them a wise appearance, while the ability to turn their head around... Read More

Unique Gift Ideas for the Holiday Season! Go Digital!

Instead of scouring the mall for gifts this holiday season why not consider using your cherished photos to create a unique personalized gift for family and friends?There are so many ways now, made easy with online sites and programs, to create unique personal gifts using your digital photos. Photo Books... Read More

The Holiday Army

Here it comes again - the Holiday Army - in its annual march against us. Some of its generals are called "Thanksgiving," "Christmas," "Hanukah," "New Year's Eve" and "New Year's Day." They are no respecters of the heartbroken and emotionally wounded, and their troops are merciless. They take no prisoners!... Read More

Christmas Lights Add Sparkle To The Holidays

Electric Christmas lights have been around since the 1880's. It is no wonder they are still around and being enjoyed by so many. Using lights at Christmastime is not only a tradition; it is truly what turns boring streets into winter wonderlands and plain houses into gifts for everyone who... Read More

Making Gifts A Pleasure

As we reach the time of year when Christmas items start to appear in the stores, and thoughts of vacations start to wind down with the shortening daylight, it is a good time to think about gifts. Not only the gifts, though, but also the practise of giving.Offering a gift... Read More

Keepsake Christmas Album

Do you hate throwing your Christmas cards away every year as much as I do? This year I decided to try to come up with some way to preserve our Christmas cards, as well as find a way to organize all the Christmas letters I've been faithfully filing away for... Read More

Little Helpers in the Holiday Kitchen

The holiday season is a wonderful opportunity to allow your children to help with the meal preparation and offers quality time together as a family. This is a way to keep your children occupied, but is also a fun, educational activity that incorporates a range of skills and senses, such... Read More

The Evolution of Christmas Ornaments

Things have come a long way since a Christmas ornament was likely to be just a ball hung by the window, or later on a Christmas tree.Historians believe that this original Christmas decoration descended from a witch ball. The original purpose of a witch ball was to fend off evil... Read More

Tips to Save Time & Money; Christmas Shopping Online

So Christmas is a few months away. Seems like a lot of time but we all know how quickly time passes to the holidays. It feels like you have plenty of time to get all the shopping, cleaning and organizing done before the holidays hit. But do you ever get... Read More

5 Things Your Christmas Table Should Not Be Without

Christmas dinner probably the most elaborate and complex dinners you will have to prepare all year. Chances are there will be many friends and family members attending so you will want to make sure everything is just right. In order to help you do this, I have compiled a list... Read More

5 Most Popular Styles of Christmas Ornaments

Traditionally Christmas ornaments were bulbs of all the same color which were placed randomly throughout your Christmas tree. Over the past few decades, Christmas ornaments have developed into elaborate pieces of art which are delicately planned out and placed throughout the Christmas tree. Currently there are many types of Christmas... Read More

Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees

Putting up and decorating your Christmas tree is a holiday tradition which has been in effect for hundreds of years and will probably be in effect until the end of time. Choosing whether you want a real Christmas tree or an artificial Christmas tree is a dilemma which many of... Read More

What Are You Doing This Halloween?

When it comes to Halloween there's no lack of variety in the things that you could do. From trick or treating (with the kids) to touring Haunted House attractions, finding something NOT to do would be more of a challenge.So, where could you go and what could you do on... Read More

How to Make a Gift Basket

Gift Baskets are an ideal gift for nearly any occasion. Gift baskets provide a convenient way to find a gift for practically any occasion, but they also provide an avenue for creative and personalized gift giving. Making gift baskets is fun and easy, and homemade gift baskets generally prove to... Read More

Online UK Florist Saves the Day

Here it is Thursday afternoon, and Evelyn sees no break in her hectic schedule for the weekend. She has a presentation due on Monday morning and a meeting on Saturday most of the day with her team. The bad part is, her favorite aunt's birthday is on Saturday and she... Read More

Tropical Christmas

I can recall from my days in England, watching television at Christmas and seeing how others celebrated across the world. At one time I used to think about people in Australia, who seemed to be featured on the news every Christmas Day: "it's not like Christmas, hot weather and going... Read More

Christmas Decorating Ideas - Edible Ornaments

Although it is now more decades away than I care to admit too often, there were four things I loved most about my childhood Christmases in England:1. the excitement of the Christmas gifts being put under the Christmas tree, and then the family opening of the gifts on Christmas morning;2.... Read More

Dont Want Another Carpet Sweeper This Year For Christmas?

Unique "Drop-A-Hint" Plan Sends Your Gift Wishes Via E-mailSure, they love you and each year they try their best to find you the perfect gift. But let's be honest, sometimes they need a little help. Here's your chance to let your husband, parent, or special someone know exactly what you... Read More

Dont Want Another Carpet Sweeper This Year For Christmas?

Unique "Drop-A-Hint" Plan Sends Your Gift Wishes Via E-mailSure, they love you and each year they try their best to find you the perfect gift. But let's be honest, sometimes they need a little help. Here's your chance to let your husband, parent, or special someone know exactly what you... Read More

Christmas Tree Topper Ornaments

From my childhood memories, pride of place on the top of Christmas tree always went to a fairy dressed in white. Or was it an angel? No, I'm sure it was the Christmas fairy; and she was usually last to go on the tree apart from the tinsel. One thing... Read More

Texas Exotic Hunting

Texas Exotic Hunting is a popular sport in this state. Hog hunting in Texas and dove hunting in Texas are both considered exotic.Have you ever tried to hunt a hog? These wild pigs can be fierce and furious. Can you imagine a wild hog charging you with thunderous speed, hooves... Read More

Christmas Gift Ideas

Christmas is such a special day. It is a day of giving and receiving love, joy and happiness. The Christmas spirit is very pure; just like the immaculate conception of Mother Mary and the birth of Jesus Christ. By giving away Christmas gifts, an individual experiences the joys of giving.... Read More

Mothers Day Gift Ideas

Do you remember the days when your mother used to bring those surprise gifts for you? You just loved the sight of those big packages wrapped in beautiful gift papers, didn't you? What did you find when you opened those packets? Wasn't it always just what you wanted? The pretty... Read More

Animatronic Halloween Props - Cardboard Carpentry

One of the most inexpensive ways to create stonewalls in your home/haunt is by using good-'ol cardboard boxes. Boxes laid flat and painted to the desired effect are relatively easy and cheap methods of creating stonewall effects.The availability of the material is stunning. In fact, most people and businesses are... Read More

Fathers Day and Flowers

Father's Day is about to be celebrated in Australia. The first Sunday in September.Now traditionally Father's Day is not associated with flowers. Why?Mainly because fathers grow flowers and so most consider Dad wouldn't like to get flowers as a gift.This is in many cases not true. Dads are male and... Read More

Relaxing Holidays - Five Ways To Make Your Next Holiday Stress Free

For many people the end of a year is a time of increased stress. Instead of relaxing and unwinding from a busy year, the pressures of buying gifts, travelling or spending time with long lost relatives makes it a difficult time.In our household for example, my 4 year-old daughter's excitement... Read More

Christmas Gifts For Bird Lovers

Choosing gifts for any animal lovers can be quite a pleasure, as it is often a gift that is shared by the recipient with her animal friends or pets. This is especially so with bird lover gifts. People who really love birds tend to want them to enhance their gardens,... Read More

The Art of Giving a Toast

Today one of my clients is throwing one of her good friends a 40th birthday party. She actually used to date him and now they're good friends. She has the perfect dress, has supplied the beautiful country club for the party and now she was considering whether or not she... Read More

Find New And Exciting Halloween Masks For Your Next Costume Party!

For most people that don't enjoy wearing messy makeup, Halloween masks are the next best option to complement your Halloween costumes this Halloween season.There is a Halloween mask existing in all-imaginable characters, and this year some brand new products are available online. If you're searching for something new and unique... Read More

Free Christian Ecard and Christian Ecards

A free Christian ecard is comprised of inspirational quotes, musical greetings, messages of love, get well soon, and a plethora of other familiar greeting card options free of charge. Family and holiday Christian ecards are also available. Individualized free Christian ecards are offered by a multitude of websites on the... Read More

Is Labor Day Passe

In a word, yes !Labor Day, which started in 1882 to honor "the working man" or "little guy," has dengenerated into one of many meaningless paid employee holidays, and it is celebrated now by sailboat races, family picnics, and shopping sprees.Labor Day is a marker, signifying that summer is supposedly... Read More

The Origin of the Christmas Tree

Have you ever wondered why we decorate a tree for Christmas? What sense does it make? We cut down a perfectly good tree, bring it in the house, decorate it with glass balls, twinkle lights, embarrassing arts and crafts from our youth and put a big star on top -... Read More

Stress-Free Party Planning

It's a fact; most of us feel immediately stressed and harassed at the thought of having to organize a party or special dinner.We spend hours trying to make everything perfect, preparing the most elaborate dishes, struggling over fiddly, expensive decorations, spending more money than we can afford to impress our... Read More

Christmas and New Year Celebrations: How Significant?

I remember vividly as if it were yesterday when I was only a little boy; I looked forward to Christmas and New Year holidays with an air of relief, satisfaction and relaxation. Relief, because I had the rare chance of putting a pause to the hectic and daily school schedule;... Read More

Ideas For Toddler Halloween Costumes

Depending on the age of your little ones, you may want to keep ideas for toddler Halloween costumes on the simple side. Since most of the very youngest trick or treaters are only going out to amuse the grandparents and immediate neighbors, it needn't be terribly complicated to still bring... Read More

Christmas Gifts For Dog Lovers

Let's admit it, the US and UK are both countries of dog lovers, and dog owners love to indulge their dogs like children. You only have to listen to a dog owner call out to their dog, playing in the park or field, to realise how devoted they can be.... Read More

Angel Costumes! Theres An Angel Inside Us All, But Are You Naughty Or Nice?

When searching for Angel Costumes, there are so many choices online, so the heavenly question is, "how good, or how bad of an angel would you like to be?"Whatever suites your character best, when Halloween rolls around, you can choose which side you want to be-the good, or the bad... Read More

Birthday Gift Guide

A birthday gift is the opportunity to show your loved one precisely how much they mean to you and how special you think they are.A little thought into your friend or loved one's personality will help you to understand what kind of gift they would really love for their birthday.What... Read More

Christmas Gift Guide

Christmas is a magical time of year, both for kids and adults. They say that the joy of Christmas is the giving, not the receiving of gifts and the look of happiness on someones face once they've opened their perfect Christmas gift is indeed a wonderful sight.Give the Christmas gift... Read More

Fathers Day Gift Guide

Fathers Day is the one day of the year when you can really show your dad how much he means to you.Dads spend 364 days of the year looking after you so its only right that you spoil them rotten one day of the yearFathers and GiftsWhilst most fathers are... Read More

Christmas Gifts For Dolphin Lovers

Choosing a dolphin lover gift may not be as easy as it is for a pet lover, but that is not to say it is not possible. In fact, you will find quite a range of dolphin related gifts around the internet, although in your local store it may be... Read More

Great Games for Your Halloween Party

If you're having a Halloween party you need to play some games! Whether it's to fill the time before the food is ready or to keep the kids occupied before their parents collect them, here are some ghoulish games to play.1) Pin the Wart on the Witch's Nose: Draw or... Read More

Holiday Times Are For Helping Those Less Fortunate, Think Holiday Cards

Every year I watch as advertisers begin to promote their products for the Holiday Period. For retail this is their busiest time and sales usually make or break a company's year. I'm not here to play scrooge, I would however like people to think a little about what the holidays... Read More

The History of Teddy Bears

Teddy bears have been around since 1902. The teddy bear came to being when President Theodore Roosevelt refused to shot a black bear held captive by his hunting party. Also worth noting is that President Roosevelt's refusal to shoot this captive bear became a very popular political cartoon by Cliff... Read More

Christmas Shopping for a New Love

Christmas is a magical time of year, especially for those of us paired off and in love. If you are in a new relationship, however, Christmas can be a bit unnerving. What do you get for your new love? How much should you spend? How personal should your gift be?... Read More

Easy Costumes Kids Can Make

The kindergarten class I was teaching was scheduled to perform a dramatic recitation. We needed several flower and bumblebee costumes. Since I have found that kids love making their own costumes, I wanted the class to be able to participate as much as possible in the process. Therefore, I came... Read More

Its Never Too Early To Shop For Christmas

Every year we go through the same process of making our list of people we need to buy for and agonize over those one or two people that are almost impossible to buy for. You spend all that time at the mall or online trying to find an appropriate gift... Read More

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Traditional and Modern Anniversary Gifts

Most people know that the 50th wedding anniversary is the "golden" anniversary, and that the 25th is silver. But beyond that? Here are some traditional and modern conventions to follow... Read More

The Cheapest Christmas Ever!

Have you ever said "I wish we didn't have to spend so much money on Christmas?" or "I wish we could have Christmas without going into debt!" Well here is... Read More

Making Mom Happy on Mothers Day

Mothers day is May 8th this year, are you ready? Are you in need of an idea for how to treat mom on Mothers Day that will not break your... Read More

Online Shopping: Tips For Holidays Gift Shopping

It is holidays time, and you've the money and you want to go out and begin online shopping.But before you do, here are some tips to manage your online shopping... Read More

SALOME and HERODIAS, A Curious Mothers Day Story, Part 1 of 2 Parts

First, a disclaimer:This article requires information about John the Baptist, whose life and works and words are holy, divinely inspired, to Christians. The sources I've accessed are religious, historical, literary,... Read More

What to Do When You Are Alone for the Holidays

Being alone for the holidays is a major challenge for many people. Holidays often conjure images of family, of warmth and the sharing of special time. Loneliness can be overwhelming... Read More

What Are And How To Use Free Ecard and Free Ecards

You can consider free ecards as being the same thing as normally greetings cards. The difference is that an ecard is an electronic card. The advantage of this ecrads is... Read More

Buying Jewelry for Mother?s Day or How To Buy The Perfect Gift for Mom Without Getting Ripped Off

Jewelry can be the perfect gift for mom on Mother's Day, but there are pitfalls, especially if you rush at the last minute. Procrastination and a lack of knowledge can... Read More

Find New And Exciting Halloween Masks For Your Next Costume Party!

For most people that don't enjoy wearing messy makeup, Halloween masks are the next best option to complement your Halloween costumes this Halloween season.There is a Halloween mask existing in... Read More

How to Host Thankgiving Dinner and Enjoy it Anyway

You've been nominated; or perhaps your family has issued a decree; or perhaps it's simply your turn. No matter what the reason, you're hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year. This need... Read More

Kid Birthday Party Game Ideas - 7 Proven Winners

Here are 7 classic kid birthday party game ideas that are always successful. And you can easily make all of them fit your party theme.Incredible Musical StatuesThey'll have lots of... Read More

Sweet 16th Birthday Party Ideas

Is there any party more delightful than sweet 16? If you're stuck for 16th birthday party ideas, then you need to sit back and start counting! It's easy enough if... Read More

10 Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day for remembering those who have laid their lives in the nation's service. Memorial Day has also become a popular time for Family Reunions and Get... Read More

Alone for the Holidays?

Being alone is a challenge for many people. This challenge may loom especially large during the holidays if you are single or newly divorced and without family around you. Holidays... Read More

Fathers Day Origins and Inspiration

While mothers have had their special day since 1914, fathers have only recently officially received the recognition they so richly deserve. After all, dad is the pillar of the family... Read More

Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees

Putting up and decorating your Christmas tree is a holiday tradition which has been in effect for hundreds of years and will probably be in effect until the end of... Read More

How To Stay Slim During The Holiday Season

The majority of people find themselves carrying additional fat once the holidays are over. Worst of all, most of them never lose this extra weight. Over the years, few pounds... Read More

Gods Gift to You... Mom

Have you ever thought what you would have done without your Mother? Then why is it Mom's are usually the low woman on the totem pole? God thought enough of... Read More

Make Every Day a Mothers Day!

The word mother and mothers day are simple, yet powerful little words that you hear all the time especially so around the time of mothers day when everyone seem to... Read More

Dont Forget Grandmom - Shes an Earth Angel Too!

Have you ever thought what you would do without your Grandmom ? She's the one that always stands beside us and gives us the cookies on the side? She fills... Read More