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Commercial activities during Christmas today are often decried as making
the season too materialistic. This has caused comments that the religious aspect
of Christmas is so overlooked and overshadowed that its celebration seems to be
purely pagan. But today's comparisons aren't the first there has been some link
between Christmas and pagan celebrations. As a religious, church leaders
instituted Christmas during winter because that time of year was a popular for
the celebrations of many pagan festivals. The hope was that Christmas would also
become a holiday that would gain much popularity.
Long before the birth of Jesus Christ, people in various parts of Europe would
celebrate light and birth in the darkest days of winter. The winter solstice,
when the harshest part of winter was over, was a time of celebration for many
peoples because they would look forward to more hours of sunlight during the
longer days ahead.
The Norse in Scandinavia celebrated Yule from the winter solstice on
December 21 through to January. Men brought home logs that were lighted and a
feast would take place until the log was completely burned. Each spark from the
fire was believed to represent a new pig or calf to be born in the coming new
year.
The pagan god Oden was honored by Germans during the mid-winter holiday. Oden
inspired great fear in the Germans who believed that Oden traveled at nights
through the sky to observe people and make a decision about who would perish or
prosper in life. This belief caused most people to stay inside during the
period.
In Rome it was the god of agriculture, Saturn, who was honored in a
holiday called Saturnalia. It was a holiday that started during the week that
led up to the winter solstice and continued for a month with hedonistic
celebrations. There was plenty of food and drink and the normal social class
rules of who had privilege and power in Roman society were totally disregarded
as everyone participated in the festivities. Some Romans also had a feast called
Juvenalia to honor children and the birthday of the sun god Mithra was sometimes
celebrated by the upper classes.
In the early years of the start of Christianity the main holiday was
Easter. It was in the 4th Century that church officials made a decision to have
the birth of Jesus celebrated as a holiday and Pope Julius I chose December 25
as the day of Jesus' birth. The holiday, which was first called the Feast of the
Nativity, spread to England by the end of the 6th Century and to Scandinavia by
the end of the 8th Century.
Church leaders achieved the goal of having Christmas celebrations, including
attendance at church, become popular during the winter solstice, but they were
unable to control other pagan-like celebrations during Christmas. Believers
would attend church on Christmas and then participate later in raucous and
drunken celebrations. But by the Middle Ages, from around the 5th to the 16th
Century, Christianity had outgrown paganism as a religion.
The celebration of Christmas in Europe changed in the early 17th Century
when Oliver Cromwell and the Puritans gained power in England in 1645. To remove
decadent behavior from the society, Cromwell cancelled Christmas as the Puritans
noted that the Bible doesn't mention any date for Jesus' birth. The lack of this
information and specific Biblical references to Christmas is also cited by
religious groups like Jehovah Witnesses as the reason they don't observe or
participate in Christmas. Christmas celebrations returned in England around 1649
when Charles II was restored to the throne.
Christmas wasn't a holiday in early America because the Pilgrims who came
to America had even stricter beliefs than Cromwell and the Puritans. Christmas
celebrations were even forbidden in Boston from 1659 to 1681. During the same
time however, settlers in Jamestown in Virginia were reported to have enjoyed
Christmas.
After the American Revolution Christmas again lost popularity and it wasn't
until June 26, 1870 that Christmas was declared a federal holiday. Christmas in
the United States gained popularity as a holiday period during the 19th Century.
Christmas celebrations also changed at that time to be more family-centered
rather than being carnival-like.
It's only fitting, perhaps, that along with the magic of Santa Claus at
Christmas, holiday and Christmas lights also came about through the work of a
wizard - the Wizard of Menlo Park in New Jersey - as Thomas Edison was called.
It was Edison who first developed and demonstrated an incandescent electric
light bulb in 1879 that had commercial potential, an event that led the way for
the mass use of electricity and lights on Christmas tree as used today.
Before the discovery and use of electricity, candles were used to light
Christmas trees. That practice evolved into having glass covers with candles
inside them or metal lanterns that had small wicks. These were hung like
ornaments on Christmas trees. But even after Edison invented the incandescent
electric light bulb, it took many years before the large-scale manufacture of
Christmas tree lights were available commercially.
It is said that the idea of Christmas lights came from one of Edison's
assistants, Edward Johnson. In 1882, Johnson had Christmas tree bulbs made
specially for him. He displayed these electric bulbs on his Christmas tree at
his home on Fifth Avenue in New York City and it drew widespread attention. But
Christmas tree lights underwent many changes and improvement before General
Electric Co. introduced Christmas lights on a commercial scale. As an example,
among the earlier lights used on Christmas trees were night-lights that were
strung together to make light strings. After the commercial introduction of
Christmas lights, sales and wide-scale use of them soared.
Decorative mini-lights to be used for Christmas tree lighting were introduced in
the 1970s. Since then, they have continued to be popular and are the dominant
types of Christmas tree lights in the marketplace. Before that, icicle lights
were introduced as decoration for rooflines. Those decorative lights are the
most popular ones used for outdoor landscape lighting during the holidays.
Outdoor decorative lighting has evolved from Christmas tree lighting to also
become a popular way to use colorful lighting during the holidays to create
spectacular scenes.
Another development in decorative lighting at Christmas time is the use of
candles. Real candles can be used, but electric candles became more popular and
safer because they present less threat of a fire hazard. Today that threat has
also decreased with the development of flameless battery candles. The battery
operation also makes their use more flexible because they can be placed in areas
where there aren't electrical outlets. Candles are usually displayed at several
windows of a house during the holidays. They produce an appealing look
especially if there are at least two sets of three windows each other where they
can be placed.
Battery-operated candles can also be used during Christmas and the holidays for
other activities such as caroling, church services, school activities and for
other holiday arrangements around the home.
As Christmas lights have become a mandatory feature of the holidays, they are
continually being used in new ways that differ considerably from their early
beginnings. Outdoor lighting is now just as common as indoor lighting and that
is an area in which a change in the use of holiday lighting can be seen. Along
with icicle lights that illuminate rooflines and frames of houses, there are
also lights that are placed in shrubs. Holiday lighting also comes in the shape
of trees and other ornaments that can be placed on lawn to enhance the visual
appeal during the holidays.
Many lawns are landscaped by lighting during Christmas and the holiday season
with lighted figurines and various other items associated with the season. In
some communities, entire blocks of streets will have such elaborate holiday lawn
lighting that they attract passersby and even tourists - residents from
elsewhere - who are captivated by the spectacular visual displays of the
landscaped holiday lighting.
Christmas is described as a festive season therefore we should all engage
in activities during the season that provide entertainment, merriment and which
give pleasure. Because Christmas is about celebration, many types of festivities
can be found to suit all preferences to make the season a joyful one.
A readily available option is watching Christmas movies. This can be done
from the comfort of home or by spending a few hours out at the theater. A
wonderful option now available for obtaining movies is to rent them via the
Internet. It's an option that allows you to get any movie you want to see -
whether traditional, popular or a remake of an original title. There's also
fairly easy access to obscure movie titles, as well as movies with holiday or
Christmas themes.
Although Christmas movies embody the spirit of the season, you can also
take time out during Christmas to enjoy new releases that may or may not have a
holiday theme. Christmas is a good time to catch notable new releases because
they are timed to be shown in theaters before the end of the year to be
considered for prestigious Oscar nominations.
Performances of Christmas plays that depict the Nativity scene are also
another popular entertainment during Christmas. Although these performances are
done year after year, they never grow old because of creative difference in
interpreting the story, and also in how each role is acted by different actors
every year.
The dramatization of the Nativity demonstrates the meaning of Christmas and can
also simplify the meaning of Christmas for children. Participation in the
Nativity is also an important activity for children in drama groups at schools
and church groups.
Along with depicting the meaning of Christmas, the Nativity play also portrays
moral lessons that can serve as an inspiration for the way to become a more
spiritual person and to live a better life. Watching or taking part in the
Nativity play at Christmas time can therefore affect your attitude and outlook
on life.
Musical entertainment at Christmas can come from pausing during shopping to
listen to a choral group at the mall or downtown. It can also be entertaining to
simply hum along to a Christmas carol or song being played on the radio. Carols
as a tradition at Christmas is said to originate in England and France in the
Middle Ages. At the time, carols were dances accompanied by singing. The
tradition that Anglo-Saxons preferred was to have small choirs gather on the
village green and sing carols and Christmas songs to passersby. Over time, the
meaning of the word changed to refer to only certain types of songs.
The tradition of carols is also believed to evolve from the angels, shepherds
and Wise Men who bowed down to sing praises and to worship Baby Jesus.
For those who are really lovers of the arts, professional groups like
Orchestras, Symphonies, Conservatories and Choirs also offer splendid concerts
during Christmas. They will also sing Christmas carols and songs. But the
harmony of their voices accompanied by a full compliment of instruments provides
a richer and more melodious rendition of the carols that is unlikely to be heard
anywhere else.
Probably the most popular festivities at Christmas are parties, which seem to
happen everywhere all the time at Christmas. There are parties at work, home,
with friends and class parties at school. Even social hubs such as bars may have
special nights with different food and lower-priced drinks during Christmas.
It seems there is no end to the festivities during Christmas. It's always
important however to have a good time, to remember the unfortunate and to reach
out to them and to have fun but in a responsible manner.
With so much decorative choice at Christmas, a strategy is needed to
ensure that whatever is done looks organized, well arranged and beautiful, and
not haphazard and disorganized. By doing some basic or traditional decoration,
along with trying creative and different ideas, a beautiful and pleasing
decorative environment can be created in all homes.
Traditional decorating ideas include using wreaths for doors or
entranceways and on a wall with unobstructed view. Garlands can be placed along
surface where they can be hung vertically or horizontally. And Christmas lights
can be used by itself or with garlands, in shrubs and of course on Christmas
trees.
Using Christmas lights outdoors along the frame of houses and icicle
shaped ones to decorate the roof lines of homes have become very popular. Icicle
lights are just as easy as regular lights to put in place and they create a very
pleasing display for the holiday season. Adding color to these outdoor light
displays can also make houses and the lighting display look more spectacular.
For indoor lighting, candles have become an attractive Christmas
decorative item as they can light up the night in a subdued but beautiful
manner. Candles create a pleasing look when displayed at windows if there are at
least two sets of two or three windows directly above each other, which is in a
vertical pattern. New technologies with candles have also made them safer to
use. There are electrical candles but also battery-operated ones that can be
used safely instead of electrical ones or in places where there aren't any
electrical outlets.
There are also creative ways to use and incorporate various items around
the home to make Christmas decorations. Christmas or holiday ribbons can be used
to make bows that are pinned onto curtains to provide a festive look and a
creative Christmas decoration. Like curtains, houseplants can also be dressed up
for the holidays. Small Christmas ornaments can be gently placed on houseplants
to give porches, patios and front lawns a surprising Christmas decorative look.
Although many people don't use Christmas stockings anymore to stuff
Christmas gifts, they can still be used to create perfect Christmas decorations.
A collection of Christmas stockings can be hung on the mantle, shelf or a wall
with or without anything inside them. They will look just as beautiful as those
that are often seen in stores.
Christmas lights can also be wrapped along with garlands on a banister or
stair railing to add a twinkling Christmas look. Mistletoe can also be hung just
about anywhere with or without Christmas lights. If the tale about mistletoe is
believed however, then it should be hung somewhere with room underneath where
two people can have a friendly holiday kiss or even a hug. Fake snow can also be
sprinkled on garlands, mistletoes and wreaths to further enhance their
appearance with something from the Christmas season.
And to borrow a decorative feature from department stores, several differently
sized boxes can be wrapped, piled in a haphazard manner and placed in a corner
from floor to ceiling to make a gift pillar decoration.
Old Christmas cards can also be used for decoration by cutting pictures from
them to make a collage. The pictures are then glued onto a poster board that can
be framed or hung as is on a wall as Christmas decoration. Even Christmas cookie
cutters can be put to an easy, simple and creative use as a decorative item at
Christmas time. A ribbon can be used to string two or three or even single
cookie cutters that can be placed on the Christmas tree or at a window as
decorative ornaments.
Any home can therefore be decorated to be appealing for Christmas and the
holidays, given the many ideas and ways that Christmas decoration can be done.
Don't get frustrated! Reclaim the Magic of the Christmas Holidays and bring your family closer.
Christmas is a special time of the year for the joy and intangible magic
that fills the season. It comes through in the delightful decorations, glorious
get-togethers with family and friends and the sheer feeling of joy one gets from
giving and receiving gifts.
Although the commercialization of Christmas is often decried, shopping is
an important and central activity to some of the intangible magic of Christmas.
It is at the malls or downtown stores that some of the favorite sights, sounds
and scents of Christmas can be experienced.
The decorations at Malls and retail establishments are usually very
fanciful and eye-catching, especially to children, with the many colorful and
twinkling lights. It's also a wonder for both adults and children alike to look
at the numerous tinsels, baubles and figurines such as fairies, angels and
little babies that adorn the main Christmas tree in the center of shopping malls
and others in department stores. These trees are usually extremely well
embellished with decorations that are arranged in a very professional way that
most shoppers can't replicate in their own homes. It's therefore a delight for
them to stare at such trees in wonder and amazement.
Along with the wide variety of decorations in retail establishments, there
also is the sound of music playing, bells ringing, the laughter and wishes of
Merry Christmas from shoppers that also create a special atmosphere and add to
the magic of Christmas. Even the sound of cash registers in the background adds
something to the special feeling shoppers have at Christmas time.
And of course there's always a Santa Claus that children can meet and tell
what they want for Christmas, and also have their picture taken. Sometimes Santa
Claus may distribute Christmas gifts to children, telling them that because they
have been very, very good they are getting an extra special early Christmas
present.
The ability to delight children by telling them stories about Santa Claus,
as well as making them see and talk to the jolly old fellow, puts a lot of magic
and excitement into Christmas. Once the tradition is started, or from the first
time that children have been told the story, it becomes something that they look
forward to every year during the Christmas season.
There's also the sound of music from choirs or school groups who often
give open performances singing Christmas carols and songs in malls and downtown
areas of towns. Families and others who are out and about will pause to listen
or to sing along with these groups.
Shopping is undoubtedly an enjoyable activity for most people during Christmas,
but merrier and more memorable times are enjoyed when time is spent with family,
friends and colleagues during the season. Before Christmas Day arrives, there
usually are parties at home and at work, an evening out with friends and other
occasions to get together and share the spirit of Christmas. The presence of
special Christmas music and people dressed in holiday attire provide a different
atmosphere and contribute to the magical feeling of the season.
Another thing that is different at Christmas is the scent from a fresh
Christmas tree, of gingerbread and other cookies baking and other food
preparations that are specially done at Christmas time. Most people who select a
real Christmas tree instead of an artificial one for their homes do so because
of the wonderful scent it provides. For many people, that scent from a Christmas
tree is what puts Christmas into everything else.
Another popular scent at Christmas comes from the popular Christmas song
'Chestnuts Roasting Over an Open Fire.' The actual roasting of chestnuts by
families during the Christmas season may be a rare occurrence these days but it
is occasionally done in some downtown areas and in bakeries and confectioneries
that make fresh products everyday.
All these events, activities, happenings, sights, sounds and scents of Christmas
and the holidays create special and unforgettable memories. And who can deny
that a pleasant memory is always something that is truly magical.
It's always a good thing when families can enjoy outings together.
Attending Christmas plays, performances and concerts offer wonderful holiday
entertainment for all members of the family. Attending Christmas performances
and concerts offers wonderful entertainment for the entire family and provides
another way to enjoy the festivities of the Christmas season.
Families usually don't have to venture too far from their home to enjoy a
Christmas play or concert. That's because amateur actors, singers and budding
musicians in their neighborhood will usually take part in several Christmas
performances for local residents. These amateur but entertaining events can be
found at local schools, churches or at a community theater or performance
center.
It's very popular for those groups to stage performances of the Nativity
story, or other Christmas related works such as 'A Christmas Carol.' churches
and school groups may even have a complete concert series that includes a full-
length production of a play along with choirs, soloists and the band singing
Christmas carols and other Christmas songs.
What makes local Christmas performances special is that members of the
community and maybe even of your own household can be among the entertainers.
It is therefore special to see familiar faces doing something interesting and
different. For those who are budget-conscious, the performances are usually
priced to be very affordable, therefore offering an economic incentive to go out
and have an enjoyable afternoon or evening.
Those people who are lovers of the arts and who are more interested in
seeing a professional performance will likely also have a professional
theatrical company within reasonable proximity of their residence. Professional
groups may also perform Christmas classics such as 'A Christmas Carol' or they
may do another dramatic production from the works of other playwrights.
Music lovers also have a variety of performances to enjoy at Christmas
time. While one can always catch various groups singing carols in downtown areas
or at malls, there are other places to hear rich, melodious performances of
Christmas music. These include concerts by acclaimed or recognized
conservatories, orchestras, symphonies and renowned choir groups.
The beauty of hearing Christmas music by these groups is in the accompaniment of
instruments and the harmonious blending of voices, which all happens in a venue
that has acoustic features to optimize the auditory pleasure of the
performances. The different components that together make the whole performance
offers a richer quality to Christmas songs and carols that may be described as
'sounding heavenly.'
Another popular artistic performance that is popular during the Christmas season
is classical dance in the form of ballet, and particularly the performance of
the 'Nutcracker' ballet. With music written by Tchaikovsky, the story is about
a young girl who has a dream on Christmas Eve of a Nutcracker Prince and a
fierce battle with a Mouse King that has seven heads. After a fierce battle
between the Nutcracker, who leads an army of toy soldiers, and the Mouse King
who leads an army of mice, the Nutcracker is captured. But the little girl
throws her slipper at the Mouse King, hits him in the head and kills him. In the
end, the Nutcracker turns into a Prince and takes the little girl to the magical
and enchanting Land of Snow with dancing snowflakes and the Land of Sweets with
the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Attending Christmas plays, concerts or musical performances serves the basic
purpose of providing enjoyment, but it can also help young people, and even
adults, to develop an appreciation for the arts. Seeing different variations and
the creativity in performances of Christmas plays, as well as hearing different
renditions of Christmas songs, can be the first exposure that leads to a
lifelong love of the arts and maybe a dream to pursue a career in the arts.
Kwanzaa and Hanukkah, celebrated by African-Americans and Jewish
people respectively, are observed during the Christmas season. The
celebrations are separate from activities related to Christmas however.
The observances of Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are also one reason that people
also give wishes of Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas during
the season.
Although both activities are very different and were originated
for different reasons, some similarities can be found between the two
practices. Both celebrations have commitment as a central and important
theme. They also both include symbolic forms of light and are both
commemorated over almost the same number of days – seven (7) days from
Dec. 26 to Jan. 1 for Kwanzaa, and eight (8) days and night for
Hanukkah – usually starting about one week before Christmas Day.
Starting with its origination, Hanukkah celebrations dates to an
event in 165 B.C. when the Jews were victorious over the Syrians.
Hanukkah started as a way to restore and rededicate the Temple in
Jerusalem that had been desecrated, including its golden menorah, by
the Syrians. The festival also served the purpose of once more
observing and re-instituting rituals that the Syrians had forbidden
during their rule.
Kwanzaa was started 40 years ago by a university professor as a
way for African-Americans and others in the African diaspora to engage
in celebrations that included elements of African culture.
While Kwanzaa is not as popular as Christmas, it keeps
growing and its goal has been achieved to some extent as it is now
practiced in many nations such as those in the Caribbean, which have a
large population of people of African ancestry. The wide availability
of Kwanzaa greeting cards and even postage stamps at Christmas time,
also attests to the extent to which the celebration has entered the
mainstream.
The primary symbol of Hanukkah, the menorah, which consists of
eight (8) individual lights, is very much a part of the mainstream.
Menorahs are available today in various shapes and sizes. A single
standard requirement that must be observed in making a menorah is that
there should be enough separation between the flame of each of the
eight (8) lights so that they don't give the total effect of a single
large flame when all are lit.
A flame is lit each night over the days in remembrance of how a
small quantity of oil from the desecrated Temple kept a menorah burning
for eight (8) days, when the amount should have only lasted for a
single day. It was that miraculous occurrence that gave rise to the
Hanukkah celebration to light a menorah over eight (8) days.
Kwanzaa symbols include a candleholder and seven (7) candles that
represent the roots of African ancestors and seven (7) core principles
of Kwanzaa respectively. Other symbols are, The Crops for African
harvest, Mat for African tradition, Corn for the future represented by
children, the Unity Cup and the Gifts. The Flag and Poster of Seven (7)
Principles are two (2) supplemental symbols.
These items can be found at specialty African and African-
American shops in some malls and in town with a heavy concentration of
African and African-American population.
Among the most important features of Kwanzaa are the seven (7)
core principles and values they embody: self-determination, unity,
collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose,
creativity and faith. These seven (7) principles are meant to be a
foundation and guide upon which the African diaspora can build a
strong, successful and fulfilling life while maintaining a connection
to their roots.
While not religious, the principles of Kwanzaa are meant to
instill a strong sense of spirituality in individuals. Kwanzaa seeks to
instill spirituality upon which individuals can build self-confidence
and secure self-identity through a link to their roots.
This sense of spirituality and connection to one's history, roots
or ancestry is also an element of similarity between Kwanzaa and
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Maybe no other single activity really embraces camaraderie, playfulness
and fierce but friendly competition as heartily participating in playing indoor
games with friends and family. Christmas games does all those things but also
serves the purpose of bringing friends and family together to interact directly
with each other in a competitive and happy way.
Participating in Christmas games is another way of sharing, but it is also doing
something tangible to get into the festive, jolly and relaxed mode for the
holidays. Otherwise, its easy to get caught up in all the preparation and
shopping and become ridden with anxiety. Here are some holiday and Christmas
games that will cause fierce but friendly competition and leave everyone in a
jolly mood.
For the 'Gift Wrap' game, items needed will be small gifts, wrapping paper,
scotch tape and music that can be turned on and off at will. Each gift item is
wrapped in several layers of paper. The number of layers used will depend on the
duration you want the game to last. A gift is given to the group which should
start passing around the gift when the music starts. Whenever the music stops,
whoever has the gift should remove one layer of gift wrap. This continues until
the last layer of paper is removed. Whoever has the gift unwrapped gets to keep
it.
The items needed for the 'Sock Guessing' Christmas game are two or three thick
new thermal socks, items used or seen during Christmas, pens, pencils and paper.
Each sock is stuffed with 20-25 items that are used or seen during the
Christmas season. These can be useful items such as scotch tape, ornaments,
decorations etc. Each sock should have the same items and the opening should be
tied with a ribbon so the contents inside aren't visible. The socks are then
passed around for each person to try to feel and guess the items then write down
what they think is in the sock. The person with the most correct guesses of
objects is the winner and can be awarded a separate special gift or token.
The 'Gift Grab Card Game' needs two deck of cards and a few small Christmas
gifts that are wrapped to look very interesting and enticing. One deck of cards
is passed out one at a time to guests. Each should have an equal number of cards
from the deck. The gifts are then placed in the center of the group. Someone
then calls out cards from the second deck. Whoever has an identical card gets to
choose a gift. When all the gifts are taken, everyone can steal gifts from each
other until the deck is finished and those with gifts get to open and keep them
as prizes. The fun increases when the stealing begins because everyone will have
different ideas about which gift looks interesting and try to hang onto it by
stealing it over and over if it is stolen. Some people will also try to disguise
the fact they have a gift, although they should be kept in sight.
A children's Christmas game is 'Pin the Nose on the Reindeer,' which is the
Christmas game version of 'Pin the tail on the Donkey.' The items needed are a
drawing of a reindeer's head with an incomplete drawing of the nose and several
noses with the names on one side and tape on the other. The picture should be
placed against a wall so that children can reach the nose. Each child then gets
a nose. They take turns being blindfolded spun around a couple times to
disorient them a little then told to walk to the reindeer and place the nose on
the picture. The child who places the nose closes to the reindeer's nose wins.
A delightful Christmas game for work is the 'Match the Desk to the Item' game. A
day or so before the Christmas party at work, someone needs to secretly take one
item from each person's desk and assign a number to each item. At the party, all
the items are displayed for everyone to guess whose desk the item belongs to.
The day before Christmas is one that is filled with a mixture of anxiety
and anticipation. There's anxiety at putting all the final plans and finishing
decoration touches in place and getting all the necessary shopping done. There's
also much anticipation about all the merriment and excitement of Christmas day.
Children are usually hardly able to control themselves as they think about the
Christmas gifts they hope to get the next day. They may try to stay up through
the night to catch Santa Claus, or they may just be too excited to sleep.
Christmas Eve is also important for the simple reason that in ancient
custom, and among some cultures today, a holiday or other celebrated day really
starts from sundown of the day before the actual day that is celebrated.
Therefore, festivities and observances for Christmas Day would really begin on
Christmas Eve.
One of the most significant aspects of Christmas Eve however, is related
to religion. Attending Midnight Mass or earlier church services is mandatory for
many people whose religion is Christianity. This is so even for people who
aren't regular churchgoers during the year. Evidence of the importance of these
church services can be seen in the overflow of congregations at the churches.
Many churches will also have an added service earlier in the evening to
accommodate the above normal attendance, and also for individuals like the
elderly who would prefer a service that is earlier than Midnight Mass.
Another important aspect of Christmas Eve celebrations is related to
retail operations. On the day before Christmas, stores make a last ditch effort
to push sales of Christmas and other merchandise. There often are special
promotions last-minute advertised to capitalize on late, desperate Christmas
shoppers and other impulse buyers. This last effort is also aimed at increasing
sales for the Christmas period.
Some stores will remain open late, even up to midnight or just before
midnight. Macy's department store in New York City, which bills that particular
store branch as the world's largest, stayed open until midnight on Christmas Eve
of 1867 for the first time. Christmas Eve culminates the single biggest shopping
season, which started the day after Thanksgiving, for retailers.
Christmas Eve is also important for the traditions associated with it. It
is the night when parents have to play the role of Santa Claus and sneak toys
and other Christmas gifts under the Christmas tree to the absolute delight and
surprise of children who awake on Christmas morning to find the presents.
The idea of Santa Claus coming descending chimneys on Christmas Eve to leave
gifts for good boys and girls was made popular by a poem, attributed to Clement
Clarke Moore. In that poem titled 'An Account of a Visit from St. Nicholas, '
which Moore wrote in 1822 and which is now popularly known as 'Twas the Night
Before Christmas,' Moore described Santa Claus as 'a right jolly old elf' who
went from house to house with his sleigh pulled by reindeers flying through the
air to deliver Christmas presents to all the girls and boys who had been well
behaved.
Food plays a big role in making Christmas Day special and much of its
preparation often begins on Christmas Eve. Poultry and other meats are often
prepared by letting them stand in a mixture of various herbs and spices,
puddings and pies are baked on Christmas Eve, as well as a fresh batch of
gingerbread and other cookies and treats.
The scents and flurry of activity related to all these preparations also help to
make Christmas Eve a memorable day on its own.
It can be very satisfying to cater to friends, families and loved ones
during the Christmas holidays. Taking the time to share food, fun and laughter
in a happy, jovial manner truly embraces the spirit of Christmas.
In deciding to have a party at home, one of the first things to consider
is whether it will be formal or informal. Among the key things that need to be
considered are the number of people to attend, the menu, the preparation of food
and arrangement of decoration that is attractive and has themes for the
holidays. It's also important to make a note of how much, if any, help will be
available from friends or family members.
A formal Christmas party likely would include a small number of people -
not more than 12 and likely fewer - who would be seated at a table for the
duration of the meal. It means that place settings and seating have to be done
and a decision made on whether the meal will be a three- or four-course dinner.
The advantage of a formal dinner is that it is very organized, it has a
known content and everyone around the table usually engages in pleasant
conversation. It also usually provides a good opportunity to get to know and
hear from everyone present without having to initiate any small talk, which some
people are not comfortable doing.
As the host of a formal dinner, you will also have the responsibility of
keeping the meal flowing smoothly by having each course brought out at the
perfect timing and to also be aware of any special needs that a guest may have.
In contrast, an informal Christmas party at home is organized in a
different manner and does not have the predictability of a formal one. The fun
and festive spirit of an informal holiday party comes from groups of people who
mill around, move about freely to have conversations, laugh and enjoy munching
on Christmas treats, goodies and other foods.
Despite the easy, fun-filled atmosphere, it is necessary to plan the use of
space and to think about the area that people will use or wander around. Making
such a plan will facilitate contact between partygoers so that the party spirit
will pervade everywhere and put participants in a livelier mood.
Another consideration to make for an informal Christmas party among friends and
family is if children will be present and about their ages, if they are allowed
to attend. Children, even older ones, always need careful supervision. If
children are going to attend a holiday party at home, arrangements should be
made for adequate supervision of them and special activities should also be
provided that can occupy their attention.
An important feature that must be a part of a festive Christmas party at home is
the right mix of music. In selecting Christmas music, consideration should be
given to what will be played at the start of the party as guests are welcomed
and introduced to each other, the songs that can be played later to inject or
enhance liveliness and later to create the right mood as the partygoers bid
farewell with 'Merry Christmas' or 'Happy Holidays.'
Along with the music, Christmas decorations and even the food can also help to
enliven a Christmas party at home. Food that is interesting because it looks
'pretty' due to the color palette of items, infuses a mellow feeling among
guests and adds an intangible element to the level of enjoyment and excitement
of the partygoers.
Christmas parties at home can also be personalized with special cookies, treats
and dishes that are ethnic. The presence of some ethnic food, but not an
overwhelming quantity, which isn't frequently enjoyed by guests will be
different and will add something that is unique to the host. And that is a part
of what a Christmas or holiday party at home is about. It's to entertain family,
friends and acquaintances with a personal style while all enjoy some merriment
in the season of goodwill and good cheer.
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The tradition of Christmas trees in America came from German
immigrants who had settled in Pennsylvania. It is believed that the
tradition of Christmas trees started in Germany from as early as 700
A.D and was practiced by many Germans in the 1800s. It's also since
that period that Christmas trees have also been available for sale in
the United States. While artificial Christmas trees are popular, many
people like to have a fresh Christmas tree in their homes, or outside
on their lawns. And similar to all other trees, Christmas trees also
have different shapes and qualities that make some types more popular
than others.
Along with other decorative Christmas items such as wreaths and
garlands, having a Christmas tree in your home is very essential in
creating a special atmosphere for the season. It is believed that
Christmas trees have been available for sale in America since the
1800s, which is about the same time that the former Woolworth's
department store started selling ready-made ornaments for Christmas
trees.
Choosing the right type of Christmas tree is important because
Christmas trees are often a focal point for many family activities and
traditions. Given the many types of Christmas trees that are available,
it is important to think about how the tree will be used. While a tall
tree may look very elegant, it may not be suitable if there aren't many
adults around who can reach the tree's heights. And a very short tree
may be dwarfed by other furniture in the room. It's therefore very
important to carefully consider and get a tree that has a suitable
height and also one that has sturdy branches to hold heavy ornaments.
Artificial and real Christmas trees can often be bought from the
same retail stores these days as local businesses and retail chain
stores often sell both types of trees. The best place to get a real and
fresh Christmas tree, and also to see a wide variety, is likely a
Christmas tree farm however. Using modern technology, both types of
trees can also be obtained through online transactions, via telephone
as well as by mail-order through catalogs.
Among Christmas trees there are certain types that are
always favorites and which are bestsellers. These include: Douglas,
Fraser, Noble and Balsam firs, and Scotch, Virginia and white pine
trees.
These evergreen trees all have all have one or more excellent
features related to shape, color or sheen and fragrance, which makes
them favorites for Christmas trees.
The most favorite Christmas trees basically have a pyramid or
cone shape. A pyramid-shaped tree is likely taller and has somewhat of
an elegant look. Douglas Fir, which ranks first among Christmas tree
favorites, is an example of a pyramid-shaped tree. Other examples are
Fraser, Balsam and Noble firs.
A cone shape tree tends to be short with dense branches, which makes
them excellent for holding many ornaments and other decorations.
Families that have a strong tradition of making their own ornaments, or
putting mememtos on Christmas trees may consider a cone-shaped tree.
Virginia and Scotch Pines, Norway Spruce and the Eastern White Pine all
have cone shapes.
Another feature that makes Christmas trees appealing is their
color. While all trees have a green appearance, a closer look at their
needles will reveal differences such as a bright or dark-green, blue-
green or yellowish-green hue. The needles may also emit a silvery sheen
with the right lighting. Fraser and Noble firs both have needles with a
silvery sheen, and the branches of both trees are also used for
garlands and wreaths.
Most people choose a fresh Christmas tree for its fragrance,
which can be fairly strong or just subtle, giving off just enough of a
whiff of scent. Douglas Fir, which is the most popular Christmas tree
in homes and public places, is a very fragrant tree. The Balsam fir is
also fairly fragrant. The Eastern White Pine is however, a tree that
doesn't have much fragrance.
Whether you have a favorite type of Christmas tree or will choose
one from its appearance, there are many choices to satisfy the desire
to have a fragrant and well-decorated tree for Christmas.
Maybe it's the undeniable alliterative appeal of Rudolph the Red-Nosed reindeer
that makes him the most known or popular of all Santa's nine flying reindeers.
It certainly doesn't seem as easy to come up with a similar catchy description
for the others - Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and
Blitzen - as named in the song.
The story of Rudolph whose glowing red nose made him a standout, first appeared
in 1939 when Montgomery Ward department stores distributed about 2.4 million
booklets with the poem in the form of a story about "Rudolph the Red-Nosed
Reindeer." It was written by Robert L. May, who worked in the store's
advertisement or marketing department, to be used to attract more people into
the store. When the booklet was reissued in 1939, sales soared to more than 3.5
million copies. But it wasn't until a decade later, in 1949, that the story
really gained immense popularity when Gene Autry sang a musical version of the
fable. As a Christmas song, it is second only in popularity to 'White
Christmas.'
Rudolph, the ninth reindeer whose lighted nose guides Santa's sleigh through the
night, is now known worldwide as the song has been translated into more than 20
different languages and an animated television movie has also been based on the
story. Rudolph and his noticeable nose have also become the subject of jokes and
sparked more interest in reindeers which has led to much research into Santa and
the flying reindeers who pull his sleigh through the sky.
Along with the catchy rhythm of the lyrics, Rudolph's story is also appealing
because of the moral lessons it contains. As the story goes, Rudolph was
ostracized by the other reindeers, which laughed and teased him about his shiny
red nose. But on a foggy night, when Santa must have been concerned that he may
not be able to deliver his Christmas gifts around the world, Santa spotted him
and kindly asked if he would step to the front as the leader to 'guide my sleigh
tonight.' His shiny red nose would after all be very useful in lighting the way,
Santa thought. From then on 'all of the other reindeers loved him," and rightly
predicted that he 'would go down in history.'
Among the moral lessons the story can impart is that an attribute that is
perceived as negative or as a liability can be used for a positive purpose, or,
become an asset. It also makes the point that an individual should not let the
negative behavior of others define him or her and limit expectations of what can
be achieved. And it also illustrates how quickly opinions and attitudes about a
person can change.
The question still lingers however of where Rudolph came from. He is commonly
regarded as the son of Donner (or Donder), one of the original eight reindeers.
But the Snopes.com site rejects this however, saying that he dwelled in a
reindeer village elsewhere and it was there that he was seen by Santa who had
already started on his Christmas Eve journey to deliver gifts. And in a more
modern evolution of the story according to Wikipedia.com, an animation by the
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) introduced a son, named Robbie, of
Rudolph. That son has now become the tenth reindeer.
It's also interesting to note that the idea of Santa's sleigh being pulled by
reindeers was originated in the poem, 'Twas The Night Before Christmas.' That
poem tells the story of St. Nicholas, who is Santa, calling his eight tiny
reindeers by their names, as previously mentioned, just before he came down the
chimney of a house to start filling the stockings from a sack full of toys he
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Since so much time and effort is put into selecting the perfect Christmas
tree, it follows that similar consideration should also be given to giving the
tree the best possible care. Otherwise, there will be disappointment if needles
start to brown or turn yellow, or branches begin to break with days or weeks to
go before the season is over. Safety is also an important reason to take proper
care of your Christmas tree because a drying Christmas tree also presents a
grave danger as a fire hazard. The average Christmas tree should last for about
five to six weeks if the proper care is given to it.
After selecting a Christmas tree and getting it home, the first thing that
should be done is to make a fresh cut and place it into a stand with water. A
Christmas tree shouldn't be mounted dry and the water in its stand should be
replenished regularly. A fresh cut is made by cutting about an inch off the
bottom in a slight diagonal shape to help the absorption of water. If a fresh
cut isn't going to be made immediately after getting the tree home, it should be
placed in a container with water and left to stand in a shaded area that is away
from the wind.
If a fresh cut isn't made and the Christmas tree is left exposed to air, the
vessels for transporting water can become blocked. If this happens, another
fresh cut can correct the problem and the tree would need to be immediately put
in a container with water.
Your Christmas tree should be secure in its stand and it should be placed
away from open flames or sources of heat such as furnaces, fireplaces and air
vents, all of which may dry it out. Decoration of the tree should also begin
after it has been mounted in its stand. Several decoration precautions should be
taken to lessen or avoid the Christmas tree being a fire hazard.
Ornaments that have an open flame or candles should never be used for
decoration. Christmas tree lights should be checked to make sure the bulbs are
working properly, the connections are intact and that no part of the cord is
damaged. If there appears to be any exposed wiring or bulbs that are not working
or which are working intermittently, that string of Christmas tree lights
shouldn't be used.
A good Christmas tree stand should be selected since water is the most
important item to getting the longest life out of your Christmas tree. In
selecting a stand, find out the amount of water it can hold when a tree is
placed in it. Some water will be displaced from the space taken up by the base
of the tree so it is important that a selection is not made based on the total
volume of water the stand can hold.
According to the National Christmas Tree Association, the average Christmas tree
may absorb up to one gallon of water each day. It is therefore important to
check the water everyday and replenish it accordingly. To make sure your
Christmas tree gets enough water, the Association recommends that one quart of
water is required for each inch of the diameter of the tree's trunk.
After Christmas is over and your wonderfully decorated Christmas tree has
provided much joy, it is important to remove it before it dries out. Options to
discard your Christmas will likely depend on the services offered by your
municipality. Some municipalities will pick up Christmas trees on particular
days, with a cut-off date. Some towns may require that residents take their
trees to specific locations, while in others Christmas trees will be picked up
with the garbage, again up to a certain date. But Christmas trees should never
be burned in the fireplace as it can cause the build up of creosote, a
colorless, oily substance.
There's also the choice that you can continue to get a different use from your
Christmas tree by cutting it to pieces yourself and be environmentally sensitive
by using it for mulch.
The tradition of caroling and Christmas carols is believed to have
originated in England when wandering musicians would go from town to town and
visit castles and other homes of the rich to give impromptu performances. But
there also is the belief that singing carols at Christmas likely came from the
group of angels, shepherds and Wise Men who visited Jesus at his birth, because
they worshiped the holy child, sang and proclaim praises unto Him. And after
their visit, they continued their proclamations in the street.
The origin of the word carol however, is thought to come from the word
'caroller,' which is a French word that describes a circle dance with singers.
And from the twelfth through the fourteenth centuries, the carol was highly
popular as a dance song. The use of carols then evolved to festivals where they
were sung as processional songs and others were used as part of religious
mystery plays in Europe. Some traditional qualities of a carol was that the
words expressed should celebrate a topic that was seasonal, have verses and a
chorus arranged alternately and have music that was suitable for dancing.
Although many of the carols that are now popular at Christmas time are very old,
there are others from earlier times that didn't survive. During the 17th century
when the Protestants, led by Oliver Cromwell were in power in England, many
Christmas caros were banned and consequently some were never heard again. The
Christmas carols that survived the Protestant Reformation period didn't become
very popular again until the mid-19th century to the start of the 20th century.
Many of the Christmas carols that were banned, and early Christmas carols in
general, had lyrics that expressed joyous and merry themes instead of the
serious somber words found in church hymns. During the time when carols were
banned, some composers and musicians wrote non-religious songs that had highly
varied choral music, which they called carols, for Christmas. After Christmas
carols again became popular, many of those songs were re-arranged with new
Christian lyrics and used by the church.
Making changes to Christmas carols continues in a different way today with pop
artistes singing the carols to different tunes and melodies to give them a style
that characterizes the particular artiste. Having Christmas carols with tunes of
contemporary or popular music of today means that they are also more likely to
survive because younger listeners will be interested in hearing any music that
is done by their favorite or other popular singers.
The popularity of Christmas carols in the United States increased in the 19th
century, as it did in England, because many of the traditions related to
Christmas came to the United States from England. The United States and England
also have closely linked religious observances, which also accounts for the
popularity and similarity of Christmas carols that are enjoyed in both
countries.
Today, radio stations are the first to play Christmas carols, usually starting
toward mid-November, to signal the coming season. At the start of December when
the Christmas season official begins, mall stores and other retail
establishments will begin to pipe Christmas carols and songs through their
places of business.
The singing of carols at churches, schools, and by groups performing at malls
usually will be a common sight starting in early to mid-December. Carol singing
as a part of Nativity plays and concerts at churches and schools is usually in
full swing by mid-December as the Christmas season gets into high gear and the
countdown to Christmas Day begins.
Whether it's the traditional tune or popular makeovers of Christmas carols that
you enjoy, listening to them is part of an old Christmas tradition. And any
version of a Christmas carol that is played will serve the purpose of putting
you in a festive mood for Christmas that you may even want to dance, just like
the music of original carols was meant to do.
Christmas shopping can be seen as an absolute thrill and to some extent,
as a necessary evil. It's a thrill to be out and about amid the sights and
sounds of the season and the jovial crowds. But for the same reasons, others
dread shopping at Christmas time. These days, you don't have to leave your home
much or at all to get your Christmas and holiday shopping done. That's because
the Internet puts shopping at your fingertips. And rather than competing with
traditional retail stores, the Internet has actually expanded the ability of
traditional stores to sell more merchandise to a larger number of people in
various locations.
Both large and small retailers can be found at their specialized Web sites
on the Internet. Most will also offer selections that can be found in the store.
Many times online retail sites will have additional items available, or access
to additional items, that aren't found in the store.
Another advantage of shopping by the Internet is that it offers access to
stores that are located anywhere. It's therefore becomes easier to order a
unique gift from niche or specialty boutique stores in locations that you
otherwise wouldn't be able to reach. It is also easy to do comparison shopping
using 'shop bots' or simply comparing prices yourself.
If Christmas shopping is done through the Internet, you have to pay
careful attention to the order times and any cutoff dates to get an item
delivered in time for Christmas. Based on anticipated volume, most sites will
give a date or the number of hours within which orders have to be confirmed for
guaranteed delivery of the items before Christmas.
The mall is a popular place for traditional Christmas and holiday shopping
to be done. Malls offer one-stop shopping and have a large variety and wide
selection of merchandise, which can minimize endless searching of several stores
for some items. They will also be beautifully decorated for Christmas, have
splendid displays and a Santa Claus to interact with children. These and other
activities that are usually at the mall during Christmas and the holidays also
make them an interesting place to take children to enjoy some of the season's
delights.
To maximize shopping at the mall, you'll need to know the differences
between the mall department stores. You'll need to find out which stores have
certain exclusive brands, which stores are moderately priced and which are more
upscale.
There are also the specialty standalone stores and spinoff store branches
for children and teenagers that seek to fill a particular niche. As an example,
stores have emerged that carry only styles related to hip-hop culture or styles
that have an 'urban' look. So it may be worth consideration to start your
shopping at a specialty store, because they are more focused, and then continue
at a department store that has a wider selection.
Another interesting place to shop at malls are the standalone kiosks that are
usually located at intervals in the open areas of a mall where there is a lot of
foot traffic. These kiosks are more likely to carry one-of-a kind and unique
items, which can even provide or inspire ideas for Christmas presents.
Also at malls will be specialized that offer home/household items, books,
music and movies, electronics, sports gear and shoes.
All of the types of mall stores previously mentioned can also be found at
Outlet or Factory Malls or Warehouses, which offer lower prices. These stores
often carry clearance items from their related mall store, merchandise with
minor flaws and merchandise that is made for the outlet. Those merchandise
usually have slight style variations from what is found in mall stores and may
also be made from different materials.
A final place to consider for Christmas shopping is downtown businesses.
They are usually small and intimate, have unique offerings and offer more
personalized assistance. Although downtown businesses are also likely to be
crowded at Christmas time, there likely will be less of a crush of people like
The real meaning of Christmas, the season of good cheer, is about giving
especially to provide some assistance to those who need help for their daily
survival and who therefore don't have the material resources to enjoy the
Christmas season. The importance of giving to those in need during Christmas is
embodied in the story of Jesus' birth, which is the reason Christmas is
celebrated.
For Christians, Jesus was born to save mankind from sin by giving
everlasting Salvation to all who believe in the Word of God and chose to follow
the principles for living in the Bible. Jesus therefore gave in the ultimate way
- he offered himself as a sacrifice for every living person. Christians
therefore believe that Christmas should be about following the example of Jesus
by giving of oneself to others, especially to those who are in need.
The Christmas season should therefore be about spreading goodwill and good
cheer. This purpose of Christmas is very significant because research by social
service organizations has shown that Christmas happens to be a high time for
depression among the have-nots, among people with problems and others who just
don't have the means and resources to enjoy the merriment of the holidays.
The hundreds of Santa letters written by children are often a sad
testament to the many unmet needs of families and individuals during the festive
Christmas and holiday times. Just about every child is told the story of Santa
Claus, or hears about him because his presence is everywhere at Christmas. And
up to the age of 7 to 8 years, most children believe the story about Santa Claus
bringing toys and other gifts. That's the reason why so many young children
often write letters to Santa at Christmas time in which the innocently plead for
toys and other gifts because they their parents or other relatives will not be
able to give them those Christmas toys or Christmas gifts that they want.
Thankfully there are many volunteer and charitable efforts carried out by
groups and corporations that seek to fulfill the needs of children and also of
adults during the Christmas season. One of the most notable organizations that
do such charitable work is the Salvation Army, which has a history of giving
service to those in need.
According to The Salvation Army's website, the organization as known today was
started in 1865 by a Methodist minister, William Booth and his wife Catherine.
They formed a group that preached, provided food and shelter to the homeless,
the hungry and to alcoholics in need of recovery services. The services were
provided in London's East End. Booth and his followers, first known as 'The
Christian Mission,' started to use The Salvation Army name in 1878.
The Salvation Army is now uniquely associated with the Christmas season through
its many representatives who dress up as Santa Claus and stand outside retail
establishments ringing their bells while they kindly seek donations from
shoppers to help the poor at Christmas.
Individuals also play Santa Claus at Christmas time and help out those in need
by donating toys and gifts through their companies, other business enterprises
such as banks or through their local municipality. These groups usually all have
a box or an area where new toys or clothing can be dropped off and the items are
then donated to families in need or to social service providers for distribution
to the needy during the Christmas season.
Along with much charitable giving at Christmas time, other public interest
groups also work hard to inform and educate consumers about avoiding the after
Christmas blues. This is often experienced in January when the bills and debts
are due as a result of all the spending, much of it on credit, that is done for
the holidays.
These groups try to spread goodwill and cheer in a different way. They try to
provide educational information on spending responsibly during the Christmas
season with the hope that the happiness and good feeling enjoyed during the
season can also carry over after Christmas and not be spoiled by the burden of
having huge bills to pay.
Many radio stations have started playing Christmas songs so early in
November in the past few years that one wonders if we may soon start hearing
Christmas songs around Halloween time. That would be a bit weird, even creepy
perhaps. But some early Christmas shoppers likely will have Christmas Carols
silently playing in their heads even before then.
That's because shopping, much like Santa Claus, is a staple of Christmas.
Santa never gives away any secrets to shopping for all those gifts, but he must
certainly have a strategy to be so successful every Yuletide season. The early
Christmas shopper is someone who is very organized and has a strategy to fulfill
Christmas shopping before the season kicks into high gear.
The day after Thanksgiving, known as Black Friday, is the official retail
start to a shopping season that is always hoped to be a robust one. The strategy
of retailers is to advertise Christmas sales, specials, pre-Christmas markdowns,
giveaways, special-hour sales and other promotions. The reason for the frenzy of
retail advertising during Christmas season is because it is the single biggest
shopping time of the year. Christmas shopping that begins the day after
Thanksgiving accounts for well over half - with some estimates of up to 70% --
of annual revenue for stores.
Since retailers clearly have a strategy for Christmas shoppers seeking the
perfect gift, then shoppers also need to implement their own strategy.
The savvy and early Christmas shopper is the one who may start silently
singing Christmas Carols and songs very early to get in gear for shopping.
Starting from as early as the beginning of October, the early Christmas shopper
can begin to make lists of gifts and begin browsing to check the availability,
variety, and most important, the price of items.
By browsing before the Christmas shopping season officially kicks off, the
early Christmas shopper is more likely to get more bargains, better prices, and
is also better able to do comparison shopping when the season officially kicks
off.
It's important to know that retailers won't offer true 'rock bottom' or
'close-out' sales, or the very lowest prices during Christmas sales. It's also
important to remember that retailers are likely to offer earlier sales starting
in early October to near mid-November.
Two significant pre-Christmas sales are for Columbus Day, which falls on
Monday, Oct. 9, and Veterans Day, which will be on Saturday Nov. 11. The early
Christmas shopper who already has gifts in mind can benefit from price markdowns
during both sales periods. And of course the early Christmas shopper will also
have the benefit of shopping during the season, therefore extending the thrill
and joy of shopping.
If there is any disadvantage to being an early Christmas shopper and doing
Christmas shopping very early, it is that some retailers, particularly makers
and sellers of toys, wait until the official start of the season to introduce
some new items into stores. The strategy in doing this is to build anticipation
for a new toy that they hope will be very popular and to also target and capture
a larger majority of shoppers.
During every Christmas season there always is one, or maybe two toys, that
are regarded as the 'must-have' toys for Christmas. And it has become a present-
day phenomenon for shoppers to arrive from the wee hours in the morning to get a
prime spot near the doors of some stores so that they can be among the first in
those stores to make a mad dash for the 'hot' toy of the season.
But being doing or starting Christmas shopping early does not mean that it
has to be over before the Christmas shopping season starts. What it means is
that most or a significant part of your shopping will be done by the time Black
Friday rolls around.
What is most important to making an early start to your Christmas shopping
is to get the best deal and to do so with as little hassle as possible, by
avoiding a crowded store for example. Both of those will be accomplished for
those who are organized and motivated to get into the spirit of Christmas before
the season really begins.
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During the Christmas season, summer and its body-conscious state of mind
are distant memories. Hearty indulgence in the many foods shared at Christmas
therefore doesn't produce the same feelings of guilt. Nevertheless, its not a
pleasant thought to start the New Year carrying any extra pounds. So why then
eat yourself into a resolution to 'take off a few extra pounds' if you can
smartly avoid it?
Whether it's sharing cookies and candies at work, or having an evening out
at a party or dinner, you can have Christmas food and enjoy it. While you seem
to be eating heartily with a smile, the key is to have a secret strategy of
moderation. It involves sticking to a plan that can be called 'Eating on a
Budget.'
'Eating on a Budget' is not about the cost of what is eaten, but about the
quantity of what is eaten. It is important that a 'budget' or eating in
moderation plan is developed because it is almost impossible to avoid exposure
to a lot of cookies, candies and other sweets at Christmas. At work, you may
risk appearing like the Grinch who stole Christmas if your response will always
be something like, 'Uh..no..bah humbug' all the time that some Christmas goodies
are offered. It will seem as if you aren't in the spirit of the holidays
especially since at that time of year everyone is usually in a festive and more
relaxed mood, and the pace at work is usually slower.
A practical way to partake in Christmas goodies, for example, is to
substitute some holiday cookies for say the bagel that you usually have with
breakfast or for a mid-morning snack. And instead of just taking one cookie,
from the platter, which is noticeable and likely will encourage a colleague to
tell you to have more, take three instead. That's where the plan can come into
play. You can then enjoy the cookies over two or more hours, because nobody will
be watching how you really eat. You can always have a few candies, one cookie or
a cookie and a half by your desk and that way it will seem as if you are
heartily enjoying the holiday treats.
Another strategy is to bring - bake or buy - low calorie Christmas cookies
and candies to work to counteract others that are being offered. Since eating
healthy is highly encouraged, health-conscious cookies will not be looked down
upon so long as they taste great. A box of sugar-free Christmas chocolate
candies for example will look just as delightful as regular chocolate candies.
It's interesting to note that in a poll sponsored by the National Confectioners
Association in 2004, chocolate was the favorite food gift that Americans said
they preferred to receive for the holidays. The lowly and much maligned fruit
cake was last on the list. The second favorite holiday food gift was a fruit
basket and a plate of cookies was third on the list, according to the
Association.
For an occasion such as a Christmas party or a dinner, including Christmas
Dinner, where larger quantities and selection of food is available, the 'Eating
on a Budget' plan means that serving portions and the choice of food selected
should be carefully watched.
At a party where more desserts and sweets are likely to be available, a few of
the selections can be sampled. If the urge to try everything can't be resisted,
then do so, but then second helpings have to be severely limited. The same is
somewhat true for Christmas Dinners. One big difference is that the food served
during Christmas Dinner will be heavier, so by selecting portions wisely, one
can always say truthfully that the stomach is full.
And indeed, after a sumptuous Holiday Dinner, your body is likely to be full
from food and your soul full of joy from sharing another memorable holiday
tradition with family, friends and loved ones.
A favorite Christmas song has a line that describes Christmas as 'the most
wonderful time of the year.' While giving and receiving gifts is something that
is highly anticipated and remembered at Christmas time, there are also many more
activities that make Christmas memorable and wonderful.
One of these activities is decorating the Christmas tree. The Christmas
tree occupies a central spot and is the most visible display of Christmas in
most homes. Unlike in other countries, most American homes do not have a
representation of the Nativity scene, which is more likely to be located at
churches.
As soon as the Christmas season begins on the day after Thanksgiving,
families will begin their search for the perfect Christmas tree. This in itself
can become a memorable activity as children may accompany family members to
places like a Christmas tree farm to select a tree.
Once a real or artificial tree is selected, then it's an exciting activity
for the entire family to play a part in decorating the tree. Manufactured
decorations come in many shapes and forms. But a special memory is created when
family members make a special ornament for the Christmas tree, or contribute one
or more keepsake items to decorate the Christmas tree. It then becomes a ritual
each year for those particular items to be placed on the Christmas tree although
other decorations may change in coming years.
Another activity that can help to create special memories at Christmas is
baking cookies. Along with popular gingerbread cookies, using cookie cutters to
make special holiday-shaped cookies is also practiced a lot in households. Based
on the ages of children, they can help in the actual baking activity by
measuring and mixing some ingredients, or, younger children can sprinkle sugar
on the cookies or decorate them with icing when they are finished. Helping in
this activity can also be educational as parents can use the activity of
measuring and figuring out equivalent measures to teach fractions and other
mathematical elements.
An activity that is related to food which also helps to create memories
during the Christmas season is making fruit and goody baskets, which are filled
with candies, baked items and other treats for loved ones, their special
friends, neighbors, teachers or for charity. Items such as goody baskets make
especially wonderful Christmas gifts because they are home-made. That quality
often makes them more treasured than a Christmas present that is bought at the
store.
Because Christmas is the season of goodwill and good cheer, it is very
important to reach out to family, loved ones and friends during the season. The
busy lives that many people lead today often leaves them little or no time
during the year to be in frequent contact with family and friends who are
located far away, or even others who live within a reasonable distance in the
same or a neighboring state, for example.
It is therefore very common during Christmas to send a Christmas or holiday
greeting card to those individuals. Along with the pleasant memory of receiving
the card, there may be a short letter included that gives a brief account of any
significant event in the individual's life or with members of the family. That
makes sending and receiving Christmas greeting cards more memorable.
Then there's probably the most anticipated activity of Christmas - finding
out what Christmas gift Santa brought on Christmas Eve. While adults also look
forward with much anticipation to see what Christmas gifts they will get, it's
really the children who get the most delight from receiving presents at
Christmas. The carefully planned actions to hide Christmas presents from
children and then to magically place them under the Christmas tree to be found
on Christmas morning is one of the most wonderful ways to create unforgettable
memories for children at Christmas.
Given the many types of Christmas trees available and the various ways in
which they can be bought, it's important to know certain qualities that a
Christmas tree should have so that it will be suitable for decorating and will
also last through the season.
One of the most important qualities a Christmas tree should have is
freshness. This makes buying a tree from a Christmas Tree Farm the best option
because you will observe the tree being cut at the time it is purchased. If a
tree is bought elsewhere, such as from a retail lot, it is important to find out
where the tree came from and when it was cut.
To determine the freshness of a tree, observe whether it looks green and
healthy, has a fragrant scent and has needles that are moist and flexible. If
the needles appear dry or show browning, then that is a sign the tree isn't very
fresh. If a large amount of green needles fall when a few branches of the tree
are shaken, that's also a sign that the tree isn't the best one to buy to last
for the entire season. The needles of fir trees should break crisply when they
are bent. If a fir tree needle is bent and doesn't break readily with pressure,
it might mean that the tree isn't absorbing water and that will affect its
longevity.
Another reason a Christmas tree farm can be a better option for purchasing a
Christmas tree is that it will be more likely to offer more species of trees and
therefore a wider variety of shapes and sizes.
For those Christmas trees that are located on retail or other commercial lots,
freshness can be determined by looking at the conditions in which the trees are
kept. Observe whether the trees are kept in stands that hold water, if baled
trees are protected from the wind and sun, if a fresh cut is put on trees and if
the trees are tied down correctly.
Another quality to consider in selecting the right Christmas tree is its size.
Before buying a tree, its important to decide where it will be placed so that
the space can be measured. You will need to do a floor to ceiling measurement
and then subtract at least 10-12 inches to get the maximum height for the
Christmas tree. It is recommended that at least 10-12 inches of space should be
between the top of the Christmas tree and the ceiling.
The bottom of the Christmas tree also needs to be checked to make sure there is
adequate space between the end of it and the lowest branches. A small diagonal
fresh cut, such as an inch, is made in that area to enhance absorption of water,
which will make the tree last longer. This cut should be made just before the
tree is placed in water. If a fresh cut is done and the tree is exposed to the
air too long, the vessels can become blocked.
Along with freshness and size, a tree should be selected based on the shape that
you like, the smell of the needles and bark and on how dense and sturdy the
branches are. For the density and sturdiness of the tree, you need to have an
idea how the tree will be decorated - how many heavy ornaments, Christmas lights
or bows will be used. As an example, a fir tree that has sturdy branches will be
better for holding heavy ornaments and a pine tree is good for Christmas trees
that have light decorations such as bows and a string of Christmas lights.
The texture of the branches and how durable or long-lasting the tree will
be are also worth considering in choosing a perfect Christmas tree.
