Generally All-Around

  Christmas trees are a long-time symbol of the Christmas season, but improperly cared-for Christmas trees are unlikely to make it through the entire holiday season. First and foremost, the key to long-lasting Christmas trees is to give them plenty of water. While many people have developed outlandish concoctions for Christmas trees, research has shown that plain water is the best bet. Furthermore, the water doesn't have to be distilled, bottled, or fancy in any way. Tap water is just fine. To ensure the longevity of your Christmas tree, it is helpful to make a fresh cut at the base of the trunk. This cut should be straight and made about an inch from the end of the trunk, and the tree should be placed in water quickly. This cut helps Christmas trees better absorb water from within the tree stand. If the tree is not to be put up right away, it is still a good idea to cut the trunk of the tree and place it in a bucket of water. The tree should then be stored in a shady, protected ar...

Homemade Christmas decorations are unique. They are also a lot of fun because you can enjoy them with your family. Below are four fun and easy-to-make homemade Christmas decorations: Popcorn String Strung popcorn is really simple to make. Start with a big bowl of popcorn (unbuttered, of course) and string it piece by piece using a standard sewing needle and thread. Make sure there's plenty of popcorn because, if you're stringing it for garland, you're going to need a lot. Cranberry Stringing Much like the popcorn stringing method, many people used to string cranberries using a standard needle and thread. Again, make sure there's plenty to go around if you're going to use it as garland. Most importantly, and I know it's tempting, don't eat all the decorations. Save some for the Christmas tree. Paper Chains One of the greatest memories of decorating for Christmas has to be the traditional paper chains. Using green and red construction paper, cut horizontal str...

  Christmas is one of the most cherished and celebrated times of the year. One of the best ways to make the most of the holidays is to use Christmas decorations. There is nothing more special than entering a house filled with beautiful Christmas decorations or seeing a family Christmas tree filled with homemade ornaments reflecting the love of the family and the values of the season. Christmas decorations can transform even the most bland house into a warm and life-filled house. Spending a Saturday putting up Christmas decorations can be a great way for a family to spend time together and build lasting family traditions at the same time. Children will learn to enjoy the work that goes into making their home beautiful during the holidays while learning the importance of Christmas, the different things that your Christmas decorations symbolize for your family, and important faith and life lessons. Consider ways that you and your family can celebrate by making new traditions or revivi...

  Choosing appropriate Christmas gifts can either be a joyful exercise or an avoid-it-until-the-last-possible-minute disaster. If you handle buying Christmas gifts with ease, kudos to you. However, if you can use a bit of help, here are some tips to make finding great Christmas gifts a bit easier. 1        Create A Budget In order for a budget to be useful, you have to stick to it. Know how much you want to spend on Christmas gifts before you shop, and don't despair if you can't afford a lot. Christmas gifts don't have to be expensive to be appreciated. In fact, inexpensive handmade Christmas gifts are often the most cherished items under the tree. Crafting your own Christmas gifts only requires a little money and a bit of effort to create. 2        Create A List There's no shame in writing down names and ideas before you hit the stores. Even Santa needs a list to keep track of Christmas gifts! It's a good idea to shop for immediate family an...

  There is much excitement and warmth in the air as the season of sharing and gift-giving draws nearer. During the Christmas season, the world is adorned with many Christmas images. But what adds to the festivities and joy of Christmas is the act of selfless giving and sharing that brings out the more compassionate and loving side of each and every person. It is this tradition of giving Christmas gifts that embodies the spirit of universal love and compassion for all. But what exactly is the magic factor that makes a Christmas present so meaningful and precious? Is it the gift or the monetary value of the gift? No! Christmas gifts are special because they are an expression of your love and appreciation. Do you want your Christmas present to stand out from the rest? Follow these simple rules: * Use your imagination and creativity to create a unique gift for someone you love dearly. * The gift should reflect how much thought and care you have devoted to selecting it. * Keep the perso...

  If you are planning a Christmas party, it is best to not leave it until the last minute. You will need to plan a few weeks prior to the big day since any successful party needs quite a bit of effort and organization. Here are a few tips to make your Christmas party successful: 1. Make a decision on the type and venue of the party. If there is a particular place where you wish to throw the party, you have to book the place in advance. 2. In case you decide to have the party at home, do up your house in a festive mood. Start with the Christmas tree. It is suitable for the occasion and will truly set the holiday mood. 3. Decide who you wish to call. Make a guest list, as this will help you call people in advance. Also, knowing the number of guests will enable you to decide how much food and drink you need, especially if the party is to be catered. 4. Once you have finalized the guest list, send the invitations immediately. You want your guests to have enough time to plan their sched...