This Holidays

Writen by Hege Crowton

Halloween is just around the corner and preparations are in full swing all over the country.

Yards are being decorated with all the colors of fall, the scarecrows are coming out of the sheds and here and there we might already see huge spiders hanging. Resting in their cob webs hanging from trees in peoples front yards.

We all know what this mean. The scariest night of the year is almost here. The kids already know what they want. Pumpkins scarier than the neighbors Lanterns and costumes you would not even begin to dream of.

Wait a minute, isn't that what Halloween night is all about? Candy, kids and costumes. It sure is, and guess what? A cool costume is a must, your kids will agree with that.

The question then is how you get away with getting them a cool costume for a reasonable price? Have you ever considered making them yourself? With some help and guidance it is not as hard as you think it is.

For kids, Halloween is all about costumes and pumpkins, even all the candy has to come second to this. Why not get a book with Halloween ideas and have your kids go thru it with you, that way they become a part of it all from the very beginning.

In other words, they will have a say in how their costumes, pumpkins and your Halloween decorations should be. Doing it yourself gives such a satisfaction.

Tell you what, you are running out of time. All you have is less than a month to get ready. Each day is a day lost if you are not prepared, so get some great ideas together and get started.

Along with costumes, there are also a lot of ideas out there when it comes to anything that has to do with Halloween. Such as: pumpkin carving, pumpkin recipes, Halloween decorations, treats and even cool ideas for trick and treaters.

Trick or Treat?

Happy Halloween.

Halloween ideas for both adults and children can be found at: www.costumecrow.com

About The Author
Hege Crowton is establishing her self as an expert copywriter. She is known for doing in-depth research before writing her articles. Many of her articles are posted on www.EzineCrow.com and she also does a lot of writing for www.Crowsites.com

Copyright 2005 www.CostumeCrow.com

Writen by DeAnna Spencer

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 themselves alone this year.

1. Take yourself out.

Who says you have to have a member of the opposite sex take you out? I do not see anything wrong with getting all dressed up to go out with the person you should have the most fun with, you. So go put on your best dress or suit and have a night on the town by yourself. At least you won't spend the whole night worrying about whether or not you have salad in your teeth.

2. Go out with your other single friends.

I'm sure that you have some other friends that are in the same predicament you are in. Why not call up one of your friends that you haven't seen in a while and go out with him or her. I am sure that your friend will appreciate you thinking about him or her.

3. Volunteer at a non-profit.

Sometimes the best way to stop feeling sorry for yourself is to help someone less fortunate. I am sure that there are plenty of nonprofits in your area that would LOVE to have you volunteer for the day. Just type in non-profit organization or volunteer opportunity in your search engine to find an opportunity near you.

4. Offer to baby-sit.

I can't think of a better way to help out a young family with kids than to offer to baby-sit for them so they can enjoy their night out. I mean you weren't going to do anything else besides sit at home and wallow in your self-pity, anyway. This way they can owe you one.

5. Send yourself flowers and candy.

Just go to one of the online florists and order a bouquet of flowers and candy sent to yourself. If you could have them sent to your office at work that would be even better. You could even have the card addressed, "From Your Secret Admirer." You could act all surprised and wonder who in the world could have done such a nice thing.

6. Adopt a soldier and send him/her a Valentine's Day card.

There are several sites online that have resources for you to help American soldiers. http://www.noanie.com is an example of one of these types of sites. I am not affiliated with this website at all, I just wanted to list it here so you could find an address to send your valentine's day cards to.

Being alone at Valentine's Day doesn't have to be the end of the world. If you're creative, you can find ways to make this day a bearable, maybe even a memorable experience.

DeAnna Spencer is a virtual assistant that helps entrepreneurs run a successful business by providing affordable administrative help. She also publishes a blog for small business owners. Visit this small business resource today.

Writen by Roy Thomsitt

Valentine's Day comes hot on the heels of Christmas, New Year and the Chinese New Year, occasions when decorations, plus special home and garden décor, are at their most abundant. While people do not generally decorate their homes extensively for Valentine's Day, now you have got in the decoration mood, why not have a few special Valentine ornaments about the home to signify the day.

If your Valentine's ornaments are well chosen, they may even fit into your home decor at other times too. Special Valentine ornaments can also make unusual Valentine gifts, for supplementing the roses and chocolates, or even as gifts for Mum and Dad.

There is, of course, nothing like the vast choice of Valentine ornaments as there is for Christmas. But that does not mean there are none in the stores or online; and you can always make your own. If you have children, you may even find the younger ones make you something at school.

However, assuming you want to buy special Valentine's ornaments and décor, then here are just a few ideas of the type of things to look out for.

Ideas For Valentine Décor

Vases

If you are buying, or expecting, roses on Valentine's Day, then an appropriately designed and tastefully decorated vase may be a choice accompaniment. A red vase in an attractive design may prove opportune for Valentine's Day, but can also play a part for your summer cut flowers when your garden is in full bloom; that is, if it is not over adorned with Valentine Day graffiti.

Welcome Signs

As with Christmas, a cheerful welcome sign to hang on or by the front door is great way to greet people who arrive at your home on and around Valentine's Day. By signifying your home is a place of love and romance, visitors should be immediately warmed by the greeting. Some of the best examples are also very attractive.

Sun Catchers

By their very nature, sun catchers are very cheerful and optimistic, so are ideal for a heart warming Valentine's Day, reflecting not just the sunlight but the light coming from your heart too. Coloured in reds and pinks, and with heart shaped decorations, if you are lucky enough to find a good Valentine sun catcher, it will be an attractive feature for some time to come.

Wind Chimes

Easier to find than sun catchers, Valentine wind chimes are a good choice for those who appreciate the gentle chime of these popular indoor and outside ornaments. Again you will find heart shaped decorations are common, but you may find the occasional fairy and other decorous feature added to make the wind chime even more attractive.

Candle Holders

One of the easier types of Valentine décor to find is Valentine candle holders. Jar, tea light or pillar candle holders can all come with a Valentine theme, or you can simply choose a romantic red and buy some richly scented candles to go with them.

I am sure with a bit of thought and searching you can come up with many more ideas for Valentine Day decorations, whether to buy or to use your craft skills to make your own.

This Valentine Day article was written by Roy Thomsitt, owner author of the Romeo and Juliet Valentines web site. He is also responsible for the Gardens and Decor web site.

Writen by Ruth Houston

Office parties can be breeding grounds for workplace affairs. That's one reason why you should attend the company Christmas party at your husband's or boyfriend's job. Being there can act as a deterrent to office affairs.

Short-Circuit an Office Affair

Several studies show that the workplace is the #1 place for cheating husbands to find someone with whom to have an affair. A recent survey by a private investigation firm revealed that of all of the times for a wayward husband to begin a workplace affair, the annual office holiday party is when it's most likely to occur. This is prime time for an emotional affair with a co-worker to turn into a sexual affair. If he's had his eye on a someone, or has been secretly admiring her all year, the office party is when he's most likely to make his move. Fortified by a few drinks, he may feel bold enough to make his approach -- especially if you're not there. Attend the party with him and put a damper on his plans.

Keep Predatory Females at Bay

Another reason you should attend the holiday party with him is to make your presence known. Any co-worker who has designs on him, is unlikely to make a play for him with you there. And other female employees are more likely to ignore or rebuff his advances, once they see that he's already attached. Your presence may stop a budding office romance from becoming a full blown affair.

Stamp Out Sex at the Office Party

It's fairly common for employees to sneak away from the office party to have sex. In a recent survey conducted by Men's Health magazine, 44 percent of the men said they'd had an affair with a co-worker at a holiday office party at some point in their life. Alcohol is a major contributing factor. With alcohol flowing freely, one drink too many can lower inhibitions to the danger zone. Infidelity could only be a couple of cocktails away. Your being at the party with him will encourage him to keep his libido in check, and prevent him from doing something he'll later regret.

If you Suspect a Workplace Affair

What if you have a nagging suspicion that he's already having an affair with someone one at work? The office party is one of the best chances you'll have to find out if what you suspect is true. By watching him interact with female co-workers, you'll be able to tell if he's carrying on a workplace affair. You should even be able to pick out who he's involved with by the way he behaves in her presence and by how she acts around him. If you know what to look for, their body language and behavior toward each other will easily give them away. If you're not sure what to look for, send for the FREE tip sheet entitled "What to Look for at the Office Party if You Suspect a Workplace Affair." Send an e-mail to InfidelityInfo@gmail.com with "what to look for" in the subject line.

If You Can't Attend His Office Party

What if spouses and significant others aren't allowed to attend? First be sure that's really the case. Sometimes men tell their wives or girlfriends it's an "employees only" party just to make sure they don't attend. If the holiday party is held during business hours, suggest that the two of you meet afterward for dinner or drinks. Knowing you're waiting in the lobby, should discourage him from making out in the parking lot, or sneaking off to a nearby hotel for sex. If he nixes this idea, show up anyway to see who he leaves the party with. If the party takes place after work at another location, and you aren't allowed to attend, offer to meet him beforehand for drinks. Then go with him to the location, and kiss him goodbye at the door. Hopefully that'll be enough to keep him in check.

About Ruth Houston:

Infidelity expert Ruth Houston is the author of "Is He Cheating on You?– 829 Telltale Signs" which covers practically every known sign of infidelity, including the signs most women overlook. For more information about the book, cheating men or signs of infidelity, visit http://www.InfidelityAdvice.com To receive a FREE tip sheet entitled "What to Look for at the Office Party if You Suspect a Workplace Affair," send an e-mail to InfidelityInfo@gmail.com with "what to look for" in the subject line.

Writen by Marcia Breitenbach

Marianne sat on the edge of her seat, leaning towards me and, through her sobs and hiccoughs, stated very clearly, "I don't want to do Christmas!" "I can't, I just can't."

Marianne was one of my clients, a middle-aged woman whose husband had died the previous year. She had gone through the first holiday season, one year ago, in a state of numbness after the unexpected death of her husband in November.

As she looks back at that time, she realizes she had a kind of protective cushion around her, with all the paperwork taking up much of her time, as well as having a lot of family and friends around to distract her from the silence and stillness.

Now, one year later, there are no more protective buffers keeping her at bay from the intense feelings of grief, and the loneliness. She, like many others, approaches the holidays with anxiety and dread.

What You Can Do

First of all, you have more than two choices here. If you are having a hard time facing the upcoming holidays, whichever ones you celebrate, there are some guidelines to lessen your anxiety and to make things easier on yourself.

You can choose to avoid the holidays altogether. This is difficult, as there may be family and friends who become burdensome with their need for more and more explanations regarding your decision. However, if you decide you are going to choose this route, plan something for yourself that will at least have the potential for enjoyment. This could be holing up in your house for a week, with your favorite foods, some rented movies, and walks in the woods; it could be a trip to an exotic land where you will have the distractions of foreign language, foods and locale.

Be sure to alert your family and friends to your decision, requesting that they give you the space to be alone and do what you need to do. If, however, you are clinically depressed, and/or suicidal, this option is a bad idea. Seek professional help immediately. You deserve to feel better.

Option two is to do the holidays, but to do them differently. Facing the approaching holidays when you are grieving brings on a feeling of heaviness, and to some, even suffocation. Partly, this is due to our expectations about what the holiday should look like, based on past events. We remember all the things we usually do, the preparations that take lots of enthusiasm, thought, and energy, things you may feel short of at the moment.

What has worked for many people over the years is changing the holiday expectations by changing the rituals involved. Instead of getting a tree and trimming it in the usual way, someone may choose instead to buy a small table tree, and just do minimal decorations. This requires much less energy and still can bring the beauty of the holiday into the house.

Others decide to do away with trees and decorations altogether. They may decide to have a family dinner and go out to a movie instead. Another person may decide to ask family or friends to bring a tree and decorate it for them.

One of the most difficult things for many women is thinking about planning and preparing big traditional meals. No problem, don't do it. Ask someone else to be in charge of this and your job is just to show up, that is, if you decide you want to. You can prepare a side dish if you really feel like you want to contribute.

If you decide to choose option two, you will need to consult with others in your household. If you have children, give them an opportunity to offer suggestions. They may have some better ideas than you!

Option three is to keep things the same, and to prepare the way you normally would. Many people who choose this option find that they wear themselves out and end up disappointed with the results. If you choose this option, be flexible, as you may find that you have less energy than you thought you did. Be prepared to accept alterations, when necessary.

What Did Marianne Do?

Marianne listened as I told her about others who changed their holidays to suit their inner needs. She realized that because she was changing inside with the grief, that it was appropriate to have a different holiday as well.

l) First of all, she decided to "play it by ear." She realized that she didn't have to stick to her plan, but could make last minute changes if needed.

2) She gave herself permission to simplify. Even if you're not grieving, this is a good idea. In her case, she decided not to send out holiday cards, to ask her friends to cook the holiday meal, and she ordered just a few gifts online, thus avoiding the holiday shopping frenzy altogether.

3) She gave herself permission to say "no." This was not easy for her, but she did it anyway, and avoided going to some holiday functions that she really didn't want to attend.

4) She created a new holiday ritual to honor the memory of her husband. She asked her family to donate money to her favorite charities instead of giving her gifts. She also asked for friends and family to take time to create a 'memory card' that she then hung on her tree. The memory card was simply a handmade card that held a handwritten memory about her husband.

5) She decided to create some special times for herself during the holidays to commune with God. In her case, this was by setting up a few hikes with a friend, in the desert near her home. She knew that Nature was healing and felt that it was important to give herself some special healing time.

6) Marianne knew that the holidays would go better if she stayed in touch with herself and her feelings. She was wise enough to know that if she tried to push away the grief, it would only grow and push out in another direction. So, she decided that when sadness came up, she'd take a breath, acknowledge the feeling and allow it to sweep through her. She realized the tears could come at any time, and she was willing to let them flow. She'd had enough experience to know that when she did this, she felt better quicker than when she tried to control the flow.

7) She also knew that helping someone else would help her with her grief. She chose to donate some time at a women's shelter and found that this not only took her outside of her own situation, but it also did someone else some real good. She knew this was another way to honor her husband's memory, by giving to someone else in need.

Remember, grief is a normal response to loss and change. It is a natural healing process that takes time. We are forever changed by the losses, especially deaths, in our lives. Our goal should not be to "get over grief," but rather to allow ourselves to be moved and changed by the grief, learning how to incorporate the loss in our hearts and lives as we re-define our lives.

It's ok to grieve during the holidays because it is an acknowledgement of the change in your life and it will aid you in your healing journey. Be gentle with yourself, surrounding yourself with people who love you and who will allow you to be just where you are in each moment. Find the courage to move forward, one step at a time, and to choose to be grateful for the good things in your life.

Marcia Breitenbach is the author of The Winds of Change: A Guided Journey with Healing Music Through Grief, Loss & Transformation. She is a mother, author, musician and licensed professional counselor living in Arizona. Visit her at: http://www.griefandlosshelpsongletter.com and receive her free inspiring songletter.

Writen by Emily McDonald

When I was growing up in Northern Ireland, we always had a bonfire and fireworks at Hallowe'en, as well as the traditional glowing lanterns and dressing-up costumes of witches and goulies. I guess, as part of the United Kingdom, we were celebrating Bonfire Night, the 5th November, at the same time, as the dates are so close to each other.

In those days pumpkins were not to be found in N.I. so if we wanted lanterns, we had to use turnips, which are much more difficult to hollow out and carve. Nowadays pumpkins and squash of varying vivid hues are readily available and you can easily create fantastic glowing displays for your Hallowe'en party.

Hallowe'en has become more of a bright and colourful celebration for today's children in other ways as well. In my youth we made witches, wizards and ghost costumes from the dressing-up box and whatever else was to hand. Now, in a more commercial world, all kinds of masks, novelties and fancy Hallowe'en items are for sale wherever you look.

With all this paraphernalia available, it's easy to create a Hallowe'en theme for your party and, with a few additions to the traditional fare, you can also provide an interesting and tasty menu to be enjoyed around the bonfire.

Whether or not you wish to have fireworks and/or a bonfire, that's for you to decide. However, games are an added excitement for children during any outdoor social event and should therefore be part of a Hallowe'en party too.

Bobbing for apples is the traditional Hallowe'en game I always enjoyed - or sometimes not, if I got soaked in my quest for the apple! This is still a popular game and as we know apples are good for us, we should do anything we can to encourage our children to eat more of them! However, if you have lots of pumpkins and squashes at your disposal, why not try some pumpkin games too?

Pumpkin games are not quite the same in that you do not end up eating the raw pumpkin! They are still healthy though - a healthy form of exercise! You should play these games early on, before darkness falls completely and then everyone will work up a good appetite for the food to be enjoyed around the bonfire later.

So what are pumpkin games? Quite simply traditional games but using various sizes of pumpkins instead of balls! I understand that the idea for this was first thought up by Karren Price of Ansty Farm in Wiltshire, U.K. She now holds sporting events using pumpkins every Hallowe'en, or what she calls the "Pumpkin Olympics".

For example, a pumpkin and shovel/spade race is similar to an egg and spoon race. You can vary this flat race by having posts to weave in and out of or by making contestants hop in and out of hoops or old car tyres, placed flat on the ground. Of course all the time they have to carry a shovel with a small pumpkin or squash balanced on it and if this drops off, then it's back to the beginning they go!

Let the men and boys battle it out in pumpkin football by trying to score goals with pumpkins. Or perhaps your guests would rather play pumpkin basketball, croquet or skittles? The games you choose will depend on the size and weight of the pumpkins or squash you have available. For example gemstone squash are a good variety to throw at skittles.

Playing with vegetables will change the game considerably and provide lots of fun and laughter!

For less strenuous pumpkin entertainment at your Hallowe'en party, you could offer a quiz, such as "guess how many seeds in the pumpkin". Perhaps you could set up a pumpkin shy and throw small varieties like Gems or Patty Pans at towers of tins or even more pumpkins!

Then, once the games are over, it's time for hot pumpkin soup, pumpkin pie and other delicious outdoor food and picnic recipes.

Writen by Christian N

Christmas party games and Christmas party ideas are key to every grand Christmas celebration. Christmas party games provide fun activities for young and old alike to enjoy the holidays and the special time with family. Original Christmas party ideas guarantee lasting impressions on family and guests. But, this year, as Christmas party ideas are considered and Christmas party games are constructed, Christians might want to keep in mind who we celebrate and the reality of many of our Christmas traditions. Too often we accept tradition as truth and we find ourselves caught up in activities that have more to do with frantic goals and less to do with a Holy God. Click the link below to take a Christmas Quiz.

When putting Christmas party ideas into action and pulling together the Christmas party games, families could use the opportunity to teach of Christ, his birth, life and death on the cross. Planning a celebration with Christmas party ideas while working with children and other family members might be an opportune time to visit the truth about why we celebrate. There can be activities and Christmas party ideas that will bring glory to Christ, and there are creative ideas listed throughout the Internet and through church resources. But, a simple investigation of where many of the current Christmas traditions come from will reveal that many of the Christmas party games we play and Christmas party ideas we use have their origins in ancient pagan practices.

An eye-opening example is the tradition of decorating a tree. The Christmas tree, the very center of many Christmas party ideas, was actually a symbol of the resurrection of a pagan god. The Pagan sun worshippers would place a Yule log on their home fire to symbolize that their pagan god, Nimrod had died. This event took place when the days were shorter due to the winter sunlight. But, the very next day, the pagans would cut down an evergreen tree and erect it in their homes to symbolize the resurrection of Nimrod through his son, Tammuz. The green tree was a sign of life and it was decorated in red berries with small balls that represented the sun, all as a worshipful ceremony to a god that does not exist. "For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers that it move not." (Jeremiah 10:3-4) To explore more about the Lord's desire for your life, please take the Christmas Quiz.

There are many other Christmas traditions and Christmas party games and activities that come from origins that are older than Christ. If Christmas party ideas and Christmas party games are to be the center of celebrating Christ, then we must evaluate what we can do to keep Christ as the center of celebration. Understanding where the symbolism for much of our Christmas party ideas comes from will help us maintain the uniqueness of our Savior reigning King, Christ. To discover more about the truth behind the story of Christ and our Christmas celebrations, visit the links below. "For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men..." (Mark 7:8)

For more information about Christmas party ideas and our Christmas Quiz, visit:
http://www.christianet.com/bible/
http://www.christianet.com/

Writen by Priscilla Pennington

Need a gift for the "foodie" in your life? A food gift basket is the answer for all those friends and relatives who enjoy trying new foods. A food gift basket makes a wonderful gift for the "gourmet" and is also nice for those friends who do not have a lot of time to cook.

If you have friends or family members who love to entertain, the food gift basket will be a welcome treat. You will be able to delight so many people with the gift of a food basket. There are food baskets for almost everyone's tastes. When you order a food basket you will be able to choose from many prepackaged baskets or you can design your own.

There are food baskets with different food themes. Choose from a Mexican or Italian food gift basket. A Mexican food gift basket may contain tortilla chips, salsa, and seasoning mixes. In an Italian food gift basket you may find biscotti, pasta, sauces and wine.

You can order food gift baskets that feature snack items like popcorn, candy and peanuts. For the gourmet you may want a food basket that has olives, interesting spreads or dips and imported meats. For the cheese lover you will be able to order a food basket with cheeses from around the world and a variety of crackers.

Gift baskets are just the thing for those recovering from an illness. Gift baskets come packaged with soup, fruit and teas. You can find a dessert food basket that has tantalizing cheesecakes, pies, cookies, truffles or fudge.

Food gift baskets can be found online and make super gifts for anyone who loves food. Send a food gift basket as a thank-you or congratulations gift. Birthdays and holidays are also the perfect times to send a gourmet food gift basket.

Anyone who receives a food gift basket will feel especially loved and much appreciated. Think about a food gift basket the next time you need a really special gift.

Priscilla Pennington writes for http://www.SimplyPerfecGiftBaskets.com, a source of food gift baskets for the connoisseur in your life. Chocolate, wines, smoked Alaskan salmon, cheesecakes. Find it all at http://www.simplyperfectgiftbaskets.com!

Writen by Terri Oh

Pumpkin Displays

Some fresh ideas on displaying pumpkins may be as easy as looking in your back yard. Not exactly keen on getting rid of that bale of hay after the fall season? Try using your birdbath as a perch. Using a bed of dried limbs and leaves can make a colorful base for your pumpkin sculpture. Corn stalks cut to size can be tied around the base for an even a more festive look.Changing out the pumpkin with a wooden bucket of gourds can take you into the Thanksgiving season. Spotlights aren't just for Christmas anymore. A small sized spotlight with an amber bulb can add a warm and inviting effect to your home. Spotlighting your door with a beautiful fall wreath will surely get noticed.

Pumpkin Carvings

Instead of carving your pumpkin on the front, try cutting the eyes and mouth around the stem. Your pumpkin will appear to have a goulish nose and the ribs of the pumpkin make for great fasial contortions. Cut a hole in the BOTTOM of the pumpkin for your light and lay the pumpkin on it's side for display. Using those greenish-black pumpkins to carve witches and crows can make for a chilling display. A grouping of pumpkins in black give make a chilling effect.

Writen by Dave Poon

Christmas Lights are very popular during the holiday season because it gives life to our Christmas decorations. They come in different styles and prices. So here are some tips in buying the right Christmas lights for your home at a reasonable price.

Compute the area where the Christmas lights will be used.

You have to measure the exact length of the area where you will place the lights then add a few inches depending on where your power outlet is located. So if you are planning to hang them outside your home, determine the length of your home as well as the distance to the power outlet.

However, if you plan to place the Christmas lights on your Christmas tree, you can use a tape measure to determine the exact length of the Christmas lights that you will need to buy.

Find out how many strands of Christmas lights you need.

This will depend on your measurements of the area needed to be covered with Christmas lights and length of strands of Christmas lights you will purchase. For example, your measurement is 50 feet and each strand of Christmas lights measures 10 feet, then you will need 5 strands of Christmas lights.

It is also advisable to use shorter strands of Christmas lights so that you can easily replace them if one strand gets damaged.

Determine the type of Christmas Lights you need.

To easily determine the type of Christmas lights, you need to know your purpose of your Christmas light. Will you be hanging them outside your home? Are you planning to have indoor Christmas lights together with your Christmas tree?

Once you know your purpose then check out the features of Christmas lights which include bulbs, strand type and plug style.

• Bulbs: The bulbs can be in different sizes, shapes and color. You need to determine your Christmas holiday motif so that you can select Christmas lights that match your other decorations. Then, decide on the number of bulbs you prefer because Christmas lights vary in the number of bulbs per strand. Look in the package and you will see the number of bulbs included in the Christmas lights.

You also have to check the wattage of each bulb because the illumination of your decoration will depend on the wattage and number of bulbs you will use. Moreover, bulbs have different lightning effect. Some bulbs can have a steady glow while others blink in different ways. So choose the Christmas lights with the bulb that you will love.

• Strand type: The strand of Christmas lights can either have serial or parallel wiring. In a serial wiring, all bulb will not light up if one of them is broken. Thus, it is best to have a Christmas lights that has parallel wiring so that even if one of the bulb is damaged, all other bulbs will still illuminate.

• Plug style: Select an end to end style of plug if you are planning to use several strands of Christmas lights. This will allow you to easily connect all strands of lights together. But if your decorations will only require one strand of Christmas lights, then the plug style may not be that important.

Do a comparison shopping

It is always advisable to do comparison shopping to get the best deal for your favorite Christmas lights. Visit the shopping stores that sell Christmas lights in your area. You can also watch out for sales on these stores. Another way is doing an online shopping.

This would be convenient for you if you do not have enough time to visit the stores in your area. Remember to jot down the prices of each preferred Christmas lights so you can compare them once you have visited all the stores.

You can be a smart buyer for Christmas lights by simply following these tips. Thus, you can start lighting up your home using your favorite Christmas lights during holiday season.

Writen by Gail Leino

Whether you are planning a Mardi Gras party for some friends or a celebration for your town, you'll need Mardi Gras costumes. No celebration is complete without the costumes in the traditional purple, green, and gold that symbolize Mardi Gras. If you're doing a big celebration, the costumes are part of the parade, but if you're having a celebration, you can have your guests dress in traditional costumes for the season.

Mardi Gras is celebrated forty-seven days before Easter or the Tuesday preceding Ash Wednesday. Because of that, the date can vary from early February to March, but the season itself begins on January 6th and doesn't end until Fat Tuesday. Because of the size of the holiday in terms of people, you want to make sure you plan your party and find the guests know to purchase or rent their costumes early enough for them to be available. You do not, have to buy the costume, of course; any store that rents Halloween and other costumes will have Mardi Gras costumes or be able to order one for you.

Even if you are planning a small celebration at your home, if you have enough guests you can still have a small parade in your neighborhood. You can also make a small float and just have your guests walk through your neighborhood. This will also allow you to encourage your spectators (neighbors) to shout the "throw me something, mister" traditional so that he or she can go home with beads or another trinket that is symbolic off Mardi Gras and its centuries old tradition. If you are unable to find the supplies you need locally, do not hesitate to search online because there are many sites listed that advertise the sale of Mardi Gras costumes and other items related to the holiday.

Writen by Low Jeremy

It is not enough that you buy a really great gift. Oftentimes, it is also necessary to wrap it up in the nicest possible way to make it more presentable. No matter how expensive a gift is, if it is shabbily presented, it will not create a great first impression.

Many actually spend dollars in having their gifts gift-wrapped. In fact, there are even cases when the gift wrap is even more expensive than the gift itself! That is how crucial gift wrapping is.

Wrapping a gift does not need to be complicated and the materials need not be too expensive. You just have to do it cleanly and with a professional or personal flair. Professional gift wrappers, in fact, use whatever items are within their reach and still manage to create great pieces of artwork.

Below are some ideas that can help you do the wrapping yourself.

1. Use Newspapers

You don't have to use fancy gift wrappers to be able to create a great first impression. Newspapers for instance make really great gift wrappers. You can either use the paper as it is and just add some fancy and glittery ribbons or dye the paper to a color that you like.

Because of the simplicity of the newspaper, you can use really fancy ribbons even those with Holiday patterns. Another idea in the use of newspapers as gift wrap is the fact that it can be dyed to resemble an old rotting newspaper by using coffee. Through this, you can achieve an antique look.

2. Use household items that you do not use

Scour your house for items that you no longer use. For instance, do you have a table cloth or runner that you are not using. It is already tattered around the edges, cut them and use the cloth as a gift wrap. How about tassels from your window dressing?

You can use that in place of a ribbon in gifts. Plastics and paper napkins that have a festive and Holiday feel can also be used for gifts. The same goes with ribbons that you have collected from grocery items or tags from clothes and products that you have made. The possibilities are endless.

3. Old costume jewelry and other items

There are actually a lot of things that you can use to embellish a wrapped gift. Old costume jewelries that have been broken, can still be used for decorations. Beads may also be used as well as old buttons that are just sitting idle in the sewing box.

Writen by Danielle Hollister

1. "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 ..."
   -- Samuel Adams, father of the American Revolution on November 1, 1777 (adopted by the 13 states as the first official Thanksgiving Proclamation)

2. "Gratitude is the sign of noble souls."
   -- Aesop's Fables

3. "Thanksgiving is possible only for those who take time to remember; no one can give thanks who has a short memory."
   -- Anonymous

4. "One act of thanksgiving made when things go wrong is worth a thousand when things go well."
   -- Anonymous

5. "Thanksgiving is a circle of memories."
   -- Anonymous

6. "Thanksgiving is a time for remembering and appreciating the special people in our lives. Our home is warmed by the love of family and friends."
   -- Anonymous

7. "What we're really talking about is a wonderful day set aside on the fourth Thursday of November when no one diets. I mean, why else would they call it Thanksgiving?"
   -- Erma Bombeck

8. "My cooking is so bad my kids thought Thanksgiving was to commemorate Pearl Harbor."
   -- Phyllis Diller

9. "I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and new."
   -- Ralph Waldo Emerson

10. "Who does not thank for little will not thank for much."
    -- Estonian proverb

11. "Your friend is your field which you sow with love and reap with thanksgiving."
    -- Kahlil Gibran

12. "There is one day that is ours. Thanksgiving Day . . . is the one day that is purely American."
    -- O. Henry

13. "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."
    -- John Fitzgerald Kennedy

14. "An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day."
    -- Irv Kupcinet

15. "Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow."
    -- Edward Sandford Martin

16. "Thanksgiving comes to us out of the prehistoric dimness, universal to all ages and all faiths. At whatever straws we must grasp, there is always a time for gratitude and new beginnings."
    -- J. Robert Moskin

17. "Thanksgiving Day is a jewel, to set in the hearts of honest men; but be careful that you do not take the day, and leave out the gratitude."
    -- E.P. Powell

18. " Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving."
    -- WT Purkiser

19. "Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds."
    -- Theodore Roosevelt

20. "Great as the preparations were for the dinner, everything was so contrived that not a soul in the house should be kept from the morning service of Thanksgiving in the church."
    -- Harriet Elizabeth Beecher Stowe

21. "How wonderful it would be if we could help our children and grandchildren to learn thanksgiving at an early age. Thanksgiving opens the doors. It changes a child's personality. A child is resentful, negative—or thankful. Thankful children want to give, they radiate happiness, they draw people."
    -- Sir John Templeton

22. "Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse."
    -- Henry Van Dyke

23. "It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor."
    -- George Washington in his first Presidential Proclamation

24. "The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving."
    -- H. U. Westermayer

25. "And let these altars, wreathed with flowers And piled with fruits, awake again Thanksgivings for the golden hours, The early and the latter rain!"
    -- John Greenleaf Whittier

Resource Box - © Danielle Hollister (2004) is the Publisher of BellaOnline Quotations Zine - A free newsletter for quote lovers featuring more than 10,000 quotations in dozens of categories like - love, friendship, children, inspiration, success, wisdom, family, life, and many more. Read it online at - http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art8364.asp

Writen by Mary Gardner

If you've been to any store lately you've seen that the holiday decorations have hit the stores. It's the time of year that puts everyone in a good mood until the time that the family arrives on your doorstep. Then of course, the rush is on to get it all done in time. If you're anything like me and my family, there are always last minute trips to the store to get everything that is needed for the dinner and the delivery of presents.

Now is the time to plan out your whole event. You should know now whether you are traveling to a relatives' for the holiday or even just for dinner. It's a good time to start planning your menu's and your presents for the people on your list.

Here are a few things to make your holidays run a bit smoother:

1. Write a list of each person who is to receive a present. If you need to draw names, make it happen via email this week. Then select a budget for each person and draw the cash out and put it in envelopes. Make a vow to stay within the budget you've set.

2. Start by perusing the catalogs. It's an easier way to shop. There are so many catalogs on line now so shopping on line will help you stay away from that crazy holiday rush.

3. Shopping in one place certainly saves time, and places like TJ MAX and Marshalls are old favorites and do carry affordable items for the whole family.

4. Once you've gotten the shopping done, it's time to start the decorating. I usually purchase a few magazines specifically for the holidays and do one art project that will last. It's been fun to see my projects through the years that took a day to make, but have been in our family for years. If you're "crafty" enough, then these items make excellent gifts for your friends and neighbors. Presents like pinecone wreaths or candle covers are easy, fun to make and last for years.

5. Next, comes the cooking! This is the one that seems like it should wait, but in realty it's a great time to start right now! We still have a few weekends before Thanksgiving and those early Saturday mornings are a great time to bake up and decorate holiday cookies and bars. In addition, homemade jellies and jams make excellent holiday gifts to share. My personal favorite is Hot Jezabel. I make it with pineapple and apricot jelly, horseradish, dry mustard and black pepper. It is delicious on top of cream cheese with crackers. Put in a cute jar, with a box of crackers, the recipe in a basket makes an affordable and delicious gift.

6. Get your kids dressed and head to the nearest hotel lobby for a beautiful holiday picture! Sure, you can go to a studio and spend upwards of $100, or you can get dressed and go to a nice hotel where you can take a picture that is classy and will impress your friends! Get them printed at Walmart and you're good to go for your holiday newsletter and card!

7. Last but not least, understand that the holidays are some of the most stressful times of the year. If you have a family and are traveling or entertaining, you need to schedule some time for relaxing without doing anything. Book your manicure ahead of time or a fun cookie exchange evening out with the gals in advance.

Then kick back and enjoy the time this year. If you plan ahead this year, like you SAID you would last year, you'll be able to relax and enjoy the holidays creating memories, instead of stress!

Mary Gardner is a Lifestyles Consultant and communications coach and can be reached at http://www.marygardner.com

Writen by Wendy Wood

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 guy with a mouth-watering cake decorated with sugar-laden frosting sculptures and a candle representing every year of their life on earth! We bestow on them gifts and cards filled with birthday verses and best wishes for many more birthdays to come. Birthdays are just plain fun!

Typically, the most difficult part of the birthday celebration is deciding what to buy the recipient. After all, what do you buy for someone who has it all? Admit it – every year it becomes more difficult to find the "perfect" gift for your mom, dad, sibling, husband, and even the kids in your family. How much time do you spend thinking about it and ultimately browsing through department stores without a clue?

Birthday gift baskets are an excellent choice for the birthday gal or guy at any age – they are virtually fail-proof and always a big hit with the recipient. The question may come to mind, "What are the perfect ingredients for a gift basket?" That will vary from one individual to the next. The great thing about birthday gift baskets is that they can be built for children and adults of any age – and based on their unique interests and likes. The following ideas may help you in selecting a birthday gift basket for everyone on your list:

Women

You can't ever go wrong with a birthday basket designed for every special woman in your life, whether it is your mom, grandmom, wife, sister, or daughter. Women love to be pampered. A pampering basket may include bath and body products, a loofah, a fragrant candle, an inspirational book, and a CD of soothing sounds of nature. The woman who enjoys gardening would welcome a basket containing a garden trowel, gloves, decorative garden picks, seeds, and hand lotion packed in a decorative flower pot. For the tea lover, a perfect basket would consist of flavored teas, biscotti, a tea infuser, and a china tea pot.

Men

Men are not as hard to please as you think – and a birthday gift basket is a perfect solution for that hard-to-buy for dad, husband, brother, grandfather, son, or boss! If he is your handyman, fill the basket with small tools and gadgets he is always mentioning he needs but never buys. Don't forget to add some treats to round out the basket – after all, you will want to satisfy that sweet tooth. Consider a sports-oriented theme for this birthday gift basket. There are great options out there for sports enthusiasts in every category. If you are thinking about something with a little more style, a bottle of cognac, his favorite cigars, and gourmet treats may appeal to him – packaged in a brown derby!

Kids

The sky is the limit when selecting a birthday gift basket for a kid of any age. Stick to items that are age-specific from babies through teens. Consider items that you know the child likes. You can stick with a specific theme or create a hodge-podge of items that you know will bring hours of enjoyment to a child. Ideas for an assortment of items are a small stuffed animal, books based on age and interest, healthy snacks, travel-size games, small puzzles, and flavored beverages for kids. Consider containers they can reuse.

If you just do not know what items to select, consider a gourmet food basket that usually satisfies everyone's pallet – even the most hard to please! There is no limit on what you can include in a birthday gift basket, but always consider the recipient when making a gift basket purchase and ask yourself whether or not he or she will like the birthday gift basket you select!

About The Author

Wendy Wood is the owner of Seek Gift Baskets, an online gift basket directory listing professional gift basket designers from around the world. http://www.seekgiftbaskets.com

Writen by C.C. Gable

We all remember how much fun Halloween used to be when we were all little kids. Staying up late, the endless candy and the awesome costumes. But recently I've discovered that Halloween is just as much fun for us adults when we get our friends together and throw a killer party. Here are some tips on how to make your next party horrifically memorable:

One- Costumes for all guests.

Make sure all your guests where a costume. When sending out invitations make sure you let them know that this is a costume party and costumes are required to enter. You might want to call some of your more conservative friends and personally persuade them to wear a cool costume. Despite your preemptive strike sometimes people have forgotten how to have fun. So make sure you have a couple extra Halloween props around so that you can lend them to your unimaginative friends. Once they see everybody else in costume they will not want to stick out. Some crazy hats, wigs and/or masks will ensure that everyone is playing their role.

Two- Be the host with the most.

As the host you want to set an example and have people talking about your outrageous costume. But this is important, make sure your outfit does not cover up your face (so no masks) since playing host means interacting with all your guests. Be creative, flamboyant and remember its much more fun when you are a bit risque. For killer costume ideas visit my blog.

Three- Fright house.

Setting the ambience is very important. Mood lighting is key. You want to have many small colored lamps. Try to create dim shadows all over when possible. Some good old Jack-O-Lanterns could make for great ambience. Just be careful how you illuminate them. A good fog machine can create an amazing effect for any room. And you can even rent these just for your party.

Have some creative cocktails to go along with your Halloween theme. And of course decorate your house accordingly. Spider webs and skeletons can go a long way. You can find some Halloween cocktail recipes at my blog. But most importantly remember to have fun. Halloween gives us adults a chance to role-play and lose ourselves in another character just like when we were kids.

Writen by William Lezubski

Medieval costumes are a popular choice for many of the renaissance lovers out there that enjoy the mystery, sorcery, and glamour of that unique era!

Becoming your favorite fantasy character is exciting when wearing a medieval costume, and when you slip one on, you will take yourself back in time when the infamous Black Knight battled gothic pirates to protect their King and Queens throne, and experience all the medieval renaissance festivities on Halloween night.

Medieval clothing took on a unique fashion of it's own, and now with a variety of great costumes available with quality authentic styles, you can easily become the Wizard that casts many spells, or Maid Marian that wins the hearts of the Renaissance Noble Men!

If being a Princess is not your castle in the sky, and you rather take the wild and crazy dungeon route, then there are many costume variations of the historical Wench. The choices are endless, and you can become a beautiful Tavern Wench with a long flowing velvet dress with lace-up corset and mop hat, or the exotic Gothic Slayer with a luxurious long flowing robe that expresses the mystery and beauty in you.

No matter which medieval fashion dress you choose, Prince Charming, Regal King, and the Royal Knight will definitely be closely following your trail. For the bad boy, the Medieval times have created the elite and also the nasty, and if you're one to sway more to the dark side, then select the well known character costume the Executioner! It comes with a strap trimmed tunic, hood with cowl, fingerless gloves, and boot tops all trimmed with studs, plus a belt and battle axe, or you can easily become the swashbuckling renaissance pirate with the frill white shirt, pants and waist sash. Add an eye patch, and sword, and you will be enjoying Halloween night chasing the beautiful Wench's to walk your plank.

For all the men and women that love to express themselves in medieval century clothing, this Halloween you will be pleased to know that many medieval items are still available, with great costume accessories to go with your choice of outfit. However, like we speak of the medieval days that have come and gone, if you wait too long to buy your favorite Halloween Renaissance costume, they soon will also be history!

About the author: William is the owner and the author of "1st In Halloween Costumes" available at http://www.1st-in-halloween-costumes.com A great source for Halloween Costumes online! You can easily find and compare halloween sites offering quality adult halloween costumes, sexy halloween costumes, kids costumes, pet costumes, and halloween masks.

Writen by Kathy Hornbach

The Holidays are once again apon us, which mean fun, family, festivity, and most of all feasting. It seems that once Halloween is here, there is a little green light that goes off, signaling the beginning of the Holiday buffets. Our times are filled with family, friends, and celebration. Just the mention of the word Holiday can bring visions of cookies, pastries, chocolate, and any other delectable foods to mind that I have tried so hard to stay away from. It seems that once the Holiday parties begin, it is just a given that the Holiday cravings should go right along with it. The good news is, there is a way you can beat those Holiday cravings and still have a fun and happy Holiday. It's called EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques).

The great thing about EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) is that it is a fabulous tool you can take with you to every party, family gathering, social event, restaurant, and any other Holiday affair you may have to attend. The best thing about EFT is that know one need to know but you, it's your little secret. EFT can help you stop a craving dead in its tracks. Keep in mind, you will want to use EFT to deal with the underlying reason as to why you have food cravings, in doing this, you can create a permanent change in your eating habits, which will give you a greater peace of mind. But at the moment, the main issue is what to do about the overloaded table of goodies, calling your name, just ready to jump on your plate. You need Help, now!

What Do I Do?

Start with your affirmation. Take a deep breath and begin to TAP. You can tap right there at the table, confronting the culprit, the table of delicious goodies. Don't let them ruin your evening. State an affirmation and start tapping.

"Even though I really want to eat this________, I love myself completely."

"Even though I am craving this________, I love myself completely."

"Even though the short-term pleasure of eating this________ is call to me, I choose to honor my long-term needs and eat only food that truly nourishes my body."

"Even though I want to ignore the guilt that I'm already feeling, I love myself completely."

Feel free to say whatever you're feeling, it's your affirmation. Be sure to end your affirmation with a positive statement about yourself or how you choose to act or fell, even if you don't fully believe it yet. Don't be afraid to do several rounds of tapping if that's what it takes. After your done, take a deep breath, and see how you feel. If you still are having those cravings, tap again. Be sure to pay attention to what you're thinking in addition to how you're feeling. If you happen to have new thoughts come up, tap on those thoughts and the feelings that go with them. Tap until you feel completely calm and can walk away from the table.

Reward Yourself!

You've WON, now take the time to congratulate yourself. Do a few rounds of tapping with an affirmation that applauds you for your success. Whether you do it now or when you get home, be sure to do it. Resisting a craving is not always an easy thing to do. I know, I still battle temptation at times. It happens to all of us. If you don't know what to say, imagine what your best friend of husband would say to you.

"Good job! I'm so pleased with myself."

"I honor my strength and courage."

"I am so grateful to myself for eating well and caring for my body."

"My body feels so good as a result of my healthy food choices."

Any of these affirmations are great to use in congratulating yourself.

Remember that many of your food cravings have nothing to do with physical cravings and are emotionally based. While many of us will be tempted, try focusing on the real meaning of the holdiays and you'll quickly see that family and friends are at the center. Take advantage of this time with your loved ones, and to talking and being with those who you care about. You too can be Winning At Weight Loss!

Kathy is a certified weight loss coach who has lost 250 pounds and kept it off for good! Support your weight loss program with her unique system that helps you get to the root of your eating problems! Lose weight safely and keep it off!  Visit Kathy at WinningAtWeightLoss.com

Writen by L. John Mason

The Holidays are more stressful and overwhelming, now.

Do you want to be happier and healthier this holiday season? Would you like to enjoy the holidays more?

This article is devoted to Holiday Stress Survival Tips to improve quality of life through the holidays.

This holiday season will be stressfilled. World economic swings and terrorism have created conditions that have changed our holiday celebrations. Attitudes towards travel, being with family, celebration in the face of fear and sadness, will make this year's holiday season different than in years past. Adjustments will help to create new ways of participating in the holiday events. These can be both positive and negative. Consider new traditions in self-care. Search for community support that will open your heart to the joys that are possible in this season.

Remember the things that are the most stressful are the things that you care the most about, but have the least control over. World events, the economy, the way people respond, and our families (and children) are major stressors that we wish we could control, but often can not.

1. Schedule Time for Self-Care!

Regular exercise and time for stress management are a must. Find what techniques work best for you, and use these tools. This is non-negotiable time devoted for your health and well being.

2. Eat Well

Moderation is the key. Do not use alcohol or drugs for stress management. Do not "over" celebrate. Avoid fast foods.

3. Avoid Caffeine

Minimize the impact of caffeine on your life.

4. Plan the Holiday... Set some limits

Do not over spend your financial and emotional resources.

5. Control Your Expectations of:

Happiness, Joy, Sadness, and Loneliness

6. Be Nice to Others

Give compliments and smile. Around negative, anxious, or rude people, take a breath and remember that you do not need to get pulled into other people's holiday misery or their craziness.

7. Reach Out for Support

Talk with "stable" friends or family, or clergy, or mental health counselors.

8. Humor Helps... Have Fun

Laugh daily, if possible.

9. Stay in the Present!

Mentally and emotionally, do not be consumed by things that happened in the past or fear events in the future. Enjoy the people you are with and make the very best of the situation that you are in.

10. Find the True Spirit of the Holidays

Share this those people who you love or care about.

Please take good care of yourself.

L. John Mason, Ph.D. is the author of the best selling "Guide to Stress Reduction." Since 1977, he has offered Executive Coaching and Training.

Please visit the Stress Education Center's website at http://www.dstress.com for articles, free ezine signup, and learn about the new telecourses that are available.

If you are looking to promote your training or coaching career, please investigate the Professional Stress Management Training and Certification Program for a secondary source of income or as career path.

Writen by Elizabeth Smith

Valentine's Day outcomes generally fall into three basic categories: success, failure, or simply unremarkable. A successful Valentine's Day is by far the preferred choice for most men and women, but also the most difficult to achieve. The reasons for this may vary, but my thoughts are that men just don't really understand what women want. After having written an article entitled "What Women Really Want – A Guide for Valentine's Day Gift Giving", I've decided to tackle the polar opposite by sharing my thoughts and perceptions on what not to give to your sweetheart this Valentine's Day.

The very first notion that overwhelmed my heart is most offensive gift of nothing. I've seen this all too often with married couples that don't have a lot of money to spend on each other. But honestly, how much does it really cost to make a card, make a special dinner, or even draw the bath for your loved one. In my romantic mind, there is absolutely no excuse for the gift of nothing.

With that out of the way, I will continue on with the next worst gift of Valentine's Day: a dieting book. You may be tempted because she's been talking about how she wants to get into shape and she really wants to try this latest fad diet, but don't do it. Because even if she really wanted it and acts like she's happy you got it for her, deep down she's thinking that you really feel she needs to lose a few pounds. I know it sounds totally silly, but face it, women are totally silly. Don't buy her a fad diet book. Don't even buy her a low-fat cook book. Which leads me to gift number three.

Don't buy her a cookbook. She really probably doesn't need another cookbook. And again, deep down she's going to think that you perceive her as a bad cook that needs a little help in the kitchen. Women give off mixed signals at times, but don't fall for it. It's very similar to when she asks if an outfit makes her look fat. She says she wants the truth, but really she wants to hear that she looks great. If she asks for a cookbook, ask her why she needs a cookbook when she cooks so great without one.

Another suggestion, don't fall prey to buying her a new vacuum. Even if she really needs one, get it another time. Don't give it to her for Valentine's Day, even if it's wrapped with a pretty red bow. What woman wants to clean the house on Valentine's Day? And giving her a vacuum is a hint that the job's not getting done. In fact, steer clear of buying her anything cleaning-related. She doesn't need to be reminded of her housekeeping duties on what is supposed to be the most romantic day of the year.

Furthermore, a thought that just occurred to me: don't buy her something that is really for you. Like a flat screen TV or a Play Station 2. If she doesn't really watch TV and doesn't play video games, don't act dumb and buy her something that she knows is something you really wanted.

And finally, although this is my personal opinion, avoid buying a ton of chocolates and candies. Most women don't really want to eat all that junk anyway. I know, it sounds contradicting to worst gift numbers two and three. But in all honesty, we really don't need all that sweet stuff. It's really bad for our teeth.

In conclusion, I wish you the best in your endeavors and I hope you found this article of some assistance in your quest for the perfect gift. If you still need some support, please read my article about What Women Really Want. Trust me…I am a woman. And I will be leaving a copy of both articles in my husbands' truck tomorrow.

Elizabeth Smith is the owner of a gift business, Crafty Gift Creations. If you need gift ideas, visit her site to see over 150 gourmet gift baskets, quality picnic baskets, unique crafted gifts and more.

Writen by Peta D'Silva

Most mothers wont admit to this, but they are often quite a bit disappointed with the mothers day gifts they receive. Don't get me wrong, all mothers will be very happy to receive their gifts, and they will be very grateful for them, but they can see how little thought goes into them.

Most mothers receive gifts like chocolates, candies, or flowers. If they are lucky they may receive a card, a basket, or some jewelry. I have this theory that the older we get, the more we spend on our mothers day gifts, but the less time and effort goes into the present!

But your mother doesn't want you to spend money on her gift! Sure, she'll be much happier receiving a gift, than receiving nothing at all, but your mum will be much more excited by a gift that takes some of your time, rather than your money.

Try asking your mother what the favourite mothers day gift she has ever received was. I'll bet it's something you made when you were a child. It could be a ridiculous looking card, or a painting, but it will be some type of craft that you made. Don't be surprised if she cherished it, and still has it in her wardrobe somewhere!

Well, why not make something for a mothers day present this year? You don't have to be a child to make mothers day crafts- and you don't really need to be that creative or crafty either. There are many things you can make that will look great, but won't be hard to make.

There are lots of different mothers day crafts, but perhaps one of the easiest things to make would be your own mothers day card. If you're good at drawing, or handy with graphical software on the computer, why not make your own card? Your mother will love you for it!

Are you good at scrapbooking? If so, then how about doing some scrapbooking, and making your mother her own personalised scrap book for this mothers day? There are lots of things you could scrapbook on, from events in the previous year, a summary of your mothers life up to this point, or a scrapbook of the entire family. I guarantee this will go down a treat!

Another thing you could do is make bouquets. For this mothers day, I am making some really cute looking candy bouquets. They cost almost nothing to make, look fantastic, and didn't really take that long either. And I know what candies my mother likes, so I know she'll enjoy pulling off bits to eat!

The important thing is to just think of some craft that you're handy at and give it a go. Trust me when I say that your mother will appreciate mothers day crafts you have made, MUCH more than another insipid mothers day gift!

So this mothers day, please don't buy another boring present. Why not try your hand at some mothers day crafts instead?

Peta D'Silva has been making bouquets for over 14 years. Her website http://www.visionsofsilk.com, has lots of free information on different bouquets you could use as a mother day gift, including more details (and pictures) on How to make a candy bouquet.

Writen by Andrew Regan

I began my love affair with New York one afternoon a few years ago. The fantastic music of George Gerswhin was playing in the background as fireworks exploded above my head as if trying to emphasize the already striking skyline of Manhattan …and then the movie finished I knew I'd have to go. Yes, up until recently Woody Allen movies and episodes of Sex and the City had brought me as close as I'd come to the city that I love.

But it all changed a few weeks ago: I finally achieved my ambition and it did not disappoint. I had the time of my life as I celebrated the 4th of July in central park, New York. I booked my flight to New York with British Airways. While no-one I spoke to could ensure that I'd be seated next to someone fabulously good looking or devastatingly famous – I had been hoping for perhaps David Beckham or Scarlett Johanson, but thanks to the kind women at the enquiries desk, who made sure I had the window seat, what I actually got was far more beautiful and even more prominent, my first real glimpse of New York as we came in for touch down.

Everything about New York appeals to me: Cream cheese bagels, smoke rising up from drains in the sidewalk, central park, pretzels, yellow cabs, one dollar bills…. I couldn't hold myself back. I had such a strong image of what everything is going to be like. I arrived at JFK in the early morning and got a cab downtown. The grey London summer was a distant memory as I sat in a cute café dunking a donut in my coffee and looking out at the clear blue skies. Louis Armstrong was playing on the radio and I was dressed like Carrie Bradshaw. How perfect life can sometimes be. I bought myself some lovely little designer shoes and indulgent chocolates and then climbed the empire state building.

I specifically arranged my flight to New York so that I could be there for the world renowned 4th of July celebrations. On the night of the fourth there was a mass of red, white and blue across central park - exactly as I had it etched in my mind from the countless movie scenes and TV series' for which it has provided the backdrop. I did the obligatory feeding of the pigeons, made a wish at one of the many fountains and took hundreds of photos of trees and legendary New York buildings. I sat outside and picnicked with the thousands of New Yorkers who were outside enjoying the sun and celebrations and in the evening we had the 'oh' and 'ah' as fireworks lit up the night sky. I was smitten.

I felt just that little bit hollow as I flew back home to London the next day. Then again, there's nothing to stop me from heading back for the second time, third, fourth…

It's an experience I fully recommend.

Writen by Jim Rohn

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 and excitement they at other times have had. The pace of life has grown so fast - much faster than those first holidays I remember in my life - that some people don't enjoy the times they get to spend with their family and friends during what is supposed to be days filled with joy and peace.

Why is that? Probably a lot can be laid at the feet of how fast paced our times are, but that isn't all.

I believe our holiday times should be wonderful and filled with lasting and enjoyable moments and memories. So how can we ensure that we come out of the holidays in January with great memories of the past month? Here are six thoughts that will help you experience the holidays the way they were intended to be experienced:

1. Be Temperate.
Holidays can be days of excess for many -- too much food, too many cookies and treats. Too much chocolate, schedules that are too busy. One thing that will help you enjoy the holidays is to be temperate. Enjoy the food. Enjoy the treats. Enjoy the busy schedule of activities and parties. But also be disciplined enough to know when to hold back, when to say, "no". When we go overboard we regret it and loose the opportunity to fully experience that moment. But when we enjoy a little and refrain from going too far, then we can enjoy all that little piece of time has to offer.

2. Lower Your Expectations.
Much of the frustration people experience from the holidays is from setting their expectations too high. They expect too much from friends or family, and when they don't get what they want, they get frustrated. They expect presents to be perfect and when they aren't, they get frustrated or disappointed. Instead of having huge expectations this holiday season, just take it as it comes and enjoy what you can. And this brings me to my next point.

3. Enjoy What You Can and Ignore the Rest.
This holiday season, go with an attitude of knowing that things will be what they will be. You can't control other people or their actions. If a family member pushes the limits of your patience, ignore that and instead focus on how much you can enjoy the time you have with other family members. If things don't go perfectly - which they won't - then enjoy what you can and let the rest slide. You will feel a lot better about life if you can take all things a little easier.

4. Stay Out of Debt.
Debt is a killer. It will steal your enjoyment of life. Be sure to stay within your financial boundaries this holiday season. The last thing you want is to start the New Year with a deeper burden financially. Know where you are financially and stay within those limits. You don't have to impress anyone, just buy gifts that you can afford and express your heartfelt feeling in the giving of the gift.

5. Take Time for Yourself.
Be sure that no matter how busy you get, that you take time for yourself. Take time to read. Take a long bath if that relaxes you. Take a walk. Spend some time of quiet in front of a fire. Don't rush through the holidays and sap all of your energy. Your mind and body need to be reenergized, so be sure to take time to do so.

6. Focus on Your Spiritual Life.
Ultimately, no matter what tradition you come from, the holidays are historically days in which we focus on the spiritual. Men and women are created with a natural draw toward spiritual life. However, our culture today tends to stay away from a focus on the spiritual, and that has even crept into our holidays. Be sure to place an emphasis on building your spiritual life and growing in that area. This will help keep you grounded and able to deal with anything that may come your way.

Friends, we are coming to the end of another year. I have enjoyed this year immensely! This time of year is another chance to remember the important truths of life and to enjoy time with dear friends and family.

May you experience the very best this holiday season and move into January better than ever!

To your success, joy, and peace,
Jim Rohn

Reproduced with permission from Jim Rohn's Weekly E-zine. Copyright 2005 Jim Rohn International. All rights reserved worldwide. To subscribe to Jim Rohn's Weekly E-zine, go to http://Jim-Rohn.InspiresYOU.com

Writen by S. Roberts

There's something very heart warming and festive about seeing a pile of beautifully wrapped Christmas presents beneath a Christmas tree. It makes each present look as special and expensive as the next because someone has obviously taken the time and care to make it look stunning. Wonderful if it's underneath your Christmas tree, if it's under someone else's it really makes you feel secretly envious. And do you find that beautifully wrapped Christmas presents tend to be the gifts you want to open first on Christmas morning? The enchantment and excite from the first moment you receive the gift because beautifully wrapped Christmas presents make people feel special.

All well and good but you have so many Christmas presents to wrap and in the beginning you enjoy Christmas wrapping but before long you hate every aspect of it. It bores you to tears and you try to get it over and done with as soon as possible, cutting corners if need be, and wrapping up items together in one untidy mess, sticking a bow on the top to try to improve it's appearance. We've all been there and we have all had to try to look grateful and excited when presented with such an eyesore gift.

Remember, it's the thought that counts- so try to put some thought into it! We have 10 Christmas gift-wrapping tips to help you to produce stunningly wrapped Christmas presents we ease and give you relatively no stress.

1) Get a box to keep all your Christmas present wrapping gear in. Scissors, labels, selotape, pens, ribbons and all your other bits and bobs need to be kept all together. This saves time and energy, as you won't have to go looking for all the tools that you need for the job.

2) Always use a selotape dispenser that can be used with just one hand. Wrapping Christmas presents can be fiddly and a selotape dispenser males Life easier. Also selotape loses it's stickiness when it has been previously been stuck on the back of your hand, and the table or on your arm.

3) Prepare your labels well in advance. Making labels from last years old Christmas cards is environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Cut the card into any shape or size. Use a hole-punch to create a neat hole to thread ribbon on to attach to your gift.

4) Whenever possible, use boxes. Uniform box shapes are easier to wrap than unusual shapes. Traditional box shape presents are also more pleasing to the eye.

5) If you are wrapping an unusual shaped present, don't try to wrap it with paper because it will be frustrating and will end up looking like one of those ill wrapped disasters that we mentioned earlier. Either buy one of those beautiful metallic gift boxes as they come in assorted shapes and sizes and can be as much appreciated as the gift inside. Alternatively, you can use a gift bag. This is especially great for bottled gifts. Place your gift into the gift bag but before taping the bag closed, cover the top of the gift in streamers. Streamers make your gift fun.

6) Only use enough paper to wrap your Christmas gift. This sounds obvious, however when you get to the end of the roll and the paper is 2 inches too long and too wide don't cut corners by not trimming off the surplus paper. When you come to folding the ends, if your triangle flaps are so long that they cover the sides and fold onto the base of the present they will give an unloved finish to your present. It's crisp edges and flat sides will be lost and rounded under a wad of paper, and you will have created an eyesore.

7) Using ribbons can really trim up presents to make them look special. Ribbons come in selections of colours and widths. When wrapping ribbon around the present use a colour that contrasts and compliments the paper colour and design. Don't use up leftovers for the sake of it if it doesn't compliment the package.

The general rule when wrapping the ribbon around the gift is - narrow ribbon can be tied into a knot on the underside of a present, before returning the ribbon round to come back to the top. Wider ribbon on the other hand needs to have a neat 45-degree fold put into it to turn the direction of the ribbon that can be held in place with a small piece of selotape. The fold to turn the ribbon reduces the bulk of a knot would make and it enables you to maintain the top side of ribbon showing, which is especially useful when using metallic ribbon.

8) Ribbon bows, cheaply obtainable form any shop, and as I'm sure you will agree, not very impressive or stylish. Less out dated bows are now available and of course you can curl the ends of the ribbon you wrapped across the blade of a pair of scissors. However, for a more designer look, using twisted stick cut to length from the dried flowers section or sprigs of golly or pieces of ivy. Slip them under the ribbon in the top of the present.

For extra glamour, why not try spray painting with festive metallic paint a couple of days before you need to use them. Copper paint looks particularly festive. You could also sprinkle on a little glitter whilst the paint is still wet to give it a frosty look.

Another alternative to bows is to use pinecones, which again can be painted. Either keep the cones attached to a piece of branch and slip it under the ribbon as before, or else tie a bit of thread around the cone and selotape it to your gift.

If you must use bows, use bows intended for Christmas trees. They have more style than the old tired retro gift bow.

9) Don't buy cheap poor quality paper. It's false economy because you have to use more of it. It is so thin you can see the gifts through it, or it rips, not to mention the poor quality designs. It's much better to buy good quality gift-wrap with a stylish print. You may think that it doesn't matter because it only ends up in the bin, but remember it sits under someone's Christmas tree for two weeks first. You don't want the embarrassment of blighting someone's Christmas tree with your eyesore!

10) The most important tip of all, Don't leave the Christmas wrapping until the last minute and don't try to do it all on the same day. Falling into these traps will be stressful and will leave you with the Christmas wrapping blues. Pace yourself. If you wrap three gifts each day starting on the 1st December, by the 20th of December you will have wrapped 60 Christmas presents, and you will have only taken 45 minutes or so a day. You could even fit it in whilst doing other jobs – running a bath or cooking a meal.

I hope these ten Christmas wrapping tips help you to achieve beautifully wrapped Christmas presents for your friends and family whilst keeping your stress levels low.

Happy Wrapping!

Writen by L. John Mason

With the Holidays upon us, make time to connect or re-connect with your friends and family. We require special support from caring, friendly people and we have to make time for these activities. Companies, organizations, places of worship, social groups, schools, and governmental should consider offering additional opportunities for people to connect and to offer care and support to all participants. This is not the time to emotionally "circle the wagons" and the deal with our grief, fear, sadness, and anger, alone!

Go out of your way to reach out to others. Offer personal and sincere compliments and offers of support. You will feel better, because you are doing something positive. You may also be saving a life. This may be the true meaning of the mid-Winter holidays. By shining as a beacon of good cheer, you can enlighten the dark times for you and the people around you.

Do not forget your own self-care. Reduce your personal expectations regarding your performance for the sake of your emotional and spiritual well-being. But do not withdraw from your life and your friends.

Remember to breathe! Distractions will surface, but gently return your mind's focus to the process of slowly breathing.... inhale then exhale. By focusing your attention on your breath, you will become more fully engaged in the present. This can remove you from your fears regarding the future and dis-engage you from painful memories from the past. It does require practice and some discipline, but this will work for you.

Try this. It can really work well for you.

L. John Mason, Ph.D. is the author of the best selling "Guide to Stress Reduction." Since 1977, he has offered Executive Coaching and Training.

Please visit the Stress Education Center's website at http://www.dstress.com for articles, free ezine signup, and learn about the new telecourses that are available. If you would like information or a targeted proposal for training or coaching, please contact us at (707) 795-2228.

If you are looking to promote your training or coaching career, please investigate the Professional Stress Management Training and Certification Program for a secondary source of income or as career path.

Writen by Rondi Davis

What Every Parent Needs to Know Before They Start Their Holiday Shopping

At a class I was teaching last week, I asked a group of kids, "What would you want for Christmas, if your parents could give you anything in the world that doesn't cost money?" Their requests were simple: a friend, world peace, a cure for my mom's cancer.

What do kids really want for Christmas? They want you. Kids today are feeling overwhelmed by the world around them. They are bombarded with media messages 24 hours a day. During the course of a year, a child watches more than 30,000 TV commercials. One quarter of the children under the age of two has a TV in their bedroom (according to the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.) We are living in a consumption based society. We buy things to make us feel good.

Remember for a moment what was important from your own childhood. Was it baking cookies with your grandmother or building a snowman with your dad? This holiday season, we need to stop, slow down, and see the world through a child's eyes.

Fulfillment is in the journey, more so than the destination. We've forgotten how simple things can affect us. Family traditions should be familiar, not monumental. Grab a few minutes of time whenever you can. Reconnect with your children. This doesn't require more time, just shifting the focus of the time we already have. Taking a walk with your kids or baking a batch of cookies together is much more rewarding and less time consuming than running your children from one activity to another and grabbing a fast food dinner on the way home.

This holiday season, share the gift of time spent together. It's not about spending money. It's not about the latest gadget or video game. It's about creating celebrations and lasting traditions that come from simple gestures of the heart.

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About the Author: Rondi Hillstrom Davis is the co-author of the award-winning book Together: Creating Family Traditions. To check out her website that's jam packed with family ideas, visit http://www.togetherparenting.com

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