The holidays conjure up all sorts of feelings in people. For families that have experienced happy harmonious celebrations the holidays are something to look forward to. For families that have a history of being dysfunctional the holidays my mean sad memories and dread at getting together again. For families that do not celebrate the holidays due to their belief’s it may be a time of feeling excluded and even alienated. No matter where you fall in this continuum the holidays are quickly approaching and gift lists and shopping needs to begin.

 I have been fortunate to have wonderful memories of Christmas’ past. My family had many wonderful traditions involving gift giving, baking, visiting relatives and friends and of course attending religious services. Now that I am an adult I continue to see Christmas as a magical time. I rarely stress about what I am going to give people on my gift list because I make the majority of my gifts. Through the year I make several different craft items which I include in Christmas gift baskets along with goodies that I make in my kitchen. I originally started giving the Christmas gift baskets when I was a college student and could not afford a great deal for gifts. Now I continue to give them because the recipients look forward to the homemade goodies they contain. Because not having funds is not longer a factor for me I use the best ingredients in my food items and high quality materials in the craft items.

Through the year I look for different containers to use for the Christmas gift baskets. Most times I do use baskets however depending upon the likes and personality of the recipient I may use another type of container. One year my nephew was just getting into fishing so I used a tackle box for his container. There are also times when I come across beautiful hat boxes that make a great alternative to a basket. Although each of the gifts I give is unique the standard fair for the Christmas gift baskets include something knitted or crocheted, either socks, slippers mittens, scarf or hat, a piece of beaded jewellery for the women, a loaf of bread, homemade jam, caramels, fudge and a specially made candied apple. It really makes me feel good when I hear people cheer when I show up with the Christmas gift baskets. I feel like I am giving part of myself in each gift that I give. Also I do not have to fight crowds and full parking lots. The making of the gifts are my year long past time.

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Gift-giving At Christmas

The real meaning of Christmas is often expressed as being about giving to others during the season. Giving can take many forms, but during the Christmas season the most obvious way in which giving is done is by preparing beautifully wrapped Christmas presents for family, friends, acquaintances, work colleagues, teachers and others such as business clients.

The tradition of giving gifts at Christmas is believed to have started with the Three Wise Men who brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. But the practice of giving gifts as is common today, evolved from a retail strategy that involved Santa Claus and attracting children into stores. For that reason, giving gifts at Christmas and during the holidays has been centered on children.  Giving gifts during Christmas started in the early 19^th century when the celebration of Christmas was restored after a period when the Protestants in England banned Christmas celebrations. In 1820 to 1840 when Christmas celebrations regained popularity, stores started to advertise special Christmas shopping promotions. At the same time, newspapers also created advertising sections solely for holiday shopping advertisements. These special advertising sections had prominent displays of Santa Claus.  In 1841 when a store in Philadelphia had a life-size model of Santa Claus, hundreds of children turned up to get a look at Santa Claus, which had become a new and popular element of revitalized Christmas celebrations. The interest in seeing Santa Claus provided a marketing idea to retailers that they could attract children and parents to stores through offers to have a look at a ‘real’ or ‘live’ Santa Claus. Because of that marketing strategy to attract children during Christmas, the focus was therefore to give Christmas presents to children.

Today, gift-giving is still focused on children, but adults are as much popular recipients as children. Within families, the focus on children is evident in the fact that an individual child will get more gifts than any other individual adult member of the family.  For young children, who are particularly delighted and enchanted by the holidays and Christmas festivities, toys are usually the gift given. Among older children, clothes and electronic gadgets are popular items to give as Christmas gifts.

Adults are the ones however, for whom there is the widest range of items that can be given as Christmas presents. An item that will make a good Christmas or holiday present to just about any adult is a decadent box of chocolate or holiday cookies. This is enjoyed even by those who are diet-conscious because, they can be sugar- and, or, fat-free or also low in carbohydrates. At Christmas time also, many people tend to temporarily disregard any strict diet rules that they are following and so they welcome and enjoy any type of Christmas treats heartily.

According to a survey done in 2004 by the National Confectioners Association, 90 percent of 1,000 adults who were surveyed responded that giving or receiving a box of chocolates and creating or receiving a stocking filled with goodies were among the top three ways they enjoyed candy during the winter holidays. A third way was having candy that was placed in a dish, which indicates that having sweet treats at Christmas time is generally enjoyed by a broad cross-section of people.

Aside from family members and friends, it may also be a nice gesture to give a holiday or Christmas present to colleagues at work, teachers of your children and based on your profession, to business clients. The primary reason to give any of those categories of people holiday or Christmas gifts is likely to express appreciation. For that reason, a holiday present of goodies or treats would indeed be a sweet gift to give.

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        Christians celebrate Christmas to observe the birth of Jesus Christ, which is an event and not a tradition. But many other
activities related to celebrating the Christmas season evolved from certain traditions, many of which are from other countries,
particularly from peoples in Europe.

    Among common items used in Christmas decorations are the holly and the mistletoe. Both are used primarily in wreaths and garlands. The Druids started the tradition of using the mistletoe as decorative items up to two hundred years before Christ. To celebrate the winter season, the Druids would gather the plants and use them to decorate their homes. The Druids believed the mistletoe would bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. They also believed that the mistletoe had a healing quality and could be
used for everything from healing wounds to increase fertility. 
    In Scandinavia, the mistletoe was seen as a plant of peace and harmony and was associated with Frigga, the goddess of love. This association is probably what led to the custom of kissing under the mistletoe. In the Victorian period, the English also would hang mistletoe from ceilings and in doorways during holidays. The habit developed that if someone was standing under the mistletoe, someone else in the room would kiss that person. Such outright behavior was not generally seen in Victorian society.
    The use of the mistletoe in Christmas celebrations was once banned by the church however because of its associations with pagan traditions, and the use of holly was suggested as a substitute.
    Poinsettias are another traditional decorative flower used at Christmas. It is native to Mexico and is named after Joel Poinsett, who was the first U.S ambassador to Mexico and who brought the plants to America in 1828. Mexicans believe the plants were a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem and that’s one reason they are associated with Christmas. There’s also the story that a young
boy was going to see the Nativity Play at a church but realized he didn’t have a gift for Baby Jesus. The boy gathered some green branches, which others scoffed at. But as he placed them near the manger, a bright red poinsettia flower started to bloom on each branch, which gave rise to their traditional use at Christmas.
    Candy canes became a Christmas tradition not because their red and white stripes matched the colors of the season, but for the most unusual reason of discipline. that’s because they were first used as treats that were give to German children to keep them

well-behaved for the duration of church sermons. Over time, the legend of candy canes at Christmas came to be associated with some of the strongest symbols and beliefs of Christianity: the Father, Son and Holy Ghost known as the Trinity, the Blood of the Son of God, Jesus as the embodiment of holiness, purity and without sin and the Son of God as the shepherd of man. The candy cane represents these symbols respectively with its three stripes, its red and white color and its shape.
    Sending greeting cards during Christmas and the holidays is as prevalent today as the custom of giving gifts. The tradition of sending Christmas cards started in 1840 in Britain with the start of public postal delivery service of the ‘Penny Post.’ Then from about 1860, large numbers of Christmas greeting cards started to be produced. The popularity of the cards increased in Britain when
they could be sent by the postal service for one half-penny, which was half the price to post a standard letter at the time, if they were in an unsealed envelope. Religious pictures of Mary, Joseph , Baby Jesus, the angels, shepherds and Wise Men were traditionally placed on Christmas cards. Some cards today include scenes from the Nativity, but pictures of Santa Claus, winter scenery, Christmas
trees, gift packages and others are also depicted on contemporary Christmas greeting cards.

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Christmas Traditions -  All About Santa Claus

One of the most popular Christmas traditions is that of Santa Claus .It’s only fitting that since Santa Claus has the magnificent capability to visit homes around the world in a single night that more than one place would claim to be his home. It’s common belief that Santa hails from the wintry North Pole, but folks in Finland will also tell you that Santa calls that country his home. To prove it, the Finns will even invite you to visit Santa in his workshop before Christmas or during the year and talk with Santa Claus as he and his elves busy themselves for their end-of-year Christmas expedition around the globe.

It is interesting to trace the origin of the Santa Claus Christmas tradition. The popularity in America today of the images and legend of Santa Claus can be traced to the poem, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,’ that was written by Clement Clarke Moore in 1822. In that poem, Moore described St. Nicholas as a jolly fellow who flew from house to house in a sleigh pulled by reindeers and waited for children to go to bed on Christmas Eve before he came down the chimney to deliver Christmas presents for them.

Following the distribution of that poem, the popular magazine Harper’s Weekly published cartoons by Thomas Nast between 1863 and 1886 that depicted Santa as a cheerful fellow with a large round belly and long white beard who wore a bright red suit that was trimmed with white fur. In those cartoons, Santa also held a sack, which was filled with toys for boys and girls, over his shoulder. The cartoons also showed Santa reading letters from good boys and girls, working in his workshop with his elves, checking his list to make sure he had all the required toys and even showed his wife, Mrs. Claus.

The tradition of Santa Claus was brought to America however by Dutch colonists who settled in New York City, which was called New Amsterdam at the time. The real St. Nicholas is said to be a minor saint from the 4th Century with a reputation for generosity and kindness that gave rise to legends of many miracles that he performed for the poor and unhappy. One of the stories about the legend of St. Nicholas is that he saved three poor girls who were sisters from being sold into a life of slavery or prostitution by their father.

According to the legend, Santa Claus provided the girls with a dowry so that they could get married. The legend of St. Nicholas led to hundreds of people being devoted to him and consequently thousands of European churches became dedicated to him.

After the Reformation period however, widespread practice and worship of St. Nicholas disappeared in European countries that were Protestant, except in Holland where the legend of St. Nicholas continued. St. Nicholas was known as Sint Nikolaas but that was later corrupted to Sinter Klaas. Dutch colonists took this tradition of Sinter Klaas to New York City where it was adopted using the English name of Santa Claus.

Over time, the Dutch legend of the kindly saint was combined with old Nordic folktales about a magician who punished naughty children and rewarded good ones with presents to give rise to the stories that now exist about Santa Claus. The red and white-trimmed suit of Santa Claus is believed to be the colours that the original St. Nicholas wore because red and white were the colours of the robes worn by traditional bishops.

It is also believed that the Coca Cola Co. played a role in what is regarded as the popular look of Santa Claus today through paintings by artist Haddon Sundblom that were placed in some of the company’s advertisement between 1931 and 1964.

We shall be looking at more Christmas traditions in suibsequent blogs so bookmark this page and keep in touch.

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3 Ideas For Christmas Decorating

 Quality ideas for Christmas decorating can be hard to come by. Not only that, but year to year, Christmas decorating trends and fashions change. How can you keep up with the changes? What ideas for Christmas decorating are popular this season? Can you afford them? Thankfully, this seasons ideas for Christmas decorating are simple and can be cheap. However, planning is necessary when considering ideas for Christmas decorating, and using these 3 ideas you should have the basic covered for your house.

 The first and most important ideas for Christmas decorating revolve around the tree. A Christmas tree has become the main decoration in almost every home. This seasons ideas for Christmas decorating your tree have to do with warm colors. Traditional red and green, as well as warm autumnal colors are in fashion. Choose ornaments and garlands that are warm in hue and perhaps flourished with a little gold or silver for some spice. Remember, warm and inviting with a little spark, rather than bright and tacky. Use ribbon, lace, and other scraps you can gather to use as ideas for Christmas decorating.

 Wreaths are another idea for Christmas decorating this season. Wreaths are simple to make, or cheap to buy. They can easily be customized, and can be hung almost anywhere. Again, keep in mind the warm colors that are in fashion this year. Purchase wreaths of pine bows, or make them yourself. Use warm colored ribbons, pinecones, and paints to accessorize your wreath. If you have the budget, dropping some cinnamon or pine scented essential oils in your wreath will leave a pleasant holiday smell. A wreath is a sure fire idea for Christmas decorating.

 Yet, the most frequent idea for Christmas decorating most experts recommend is making your own decorations. Use nice pieces of fabric to sew a runner for your table. Use scraps of ribbon and lace as ornaments for your tree or flourishes to a wreath. Use craft sticks, paint, glue, pinecones, and pine bows. Don’t be afraid to get creative, there is no right or wrong when trying ideas for Christmas decorating.

 These three ideas for Christmas decorating will give your house the basic touches. Remember to come up with a plan that fits your realistic budget. Use warm colors this season. And use scrap materials to make your own Christmas decorations or add flourishes to store bought ones. Ideas for Christmas decorating are easy to come by when you get creative.

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Decorating Ideas For Your Christmas Table.

Your Christmas table is the center of your party. It is the pallet for your food, and the setting for the discussions that will surround it. A well-decorated Christmas table will lend itself to the Christmas spirit. It is a subtle background to the food you fill it with. Creating a Christmas table like this is simple when you organize and streamline your plans.

When planning your Christmas table you’ll need to set up a budget. A budget will help you to define planning and focus in on what is possible for you. There are many holiday ornaments and table themes available on the market today. It might be wise to think about trying to make your own centerpieces or decorations. Also, consider recycling old ornaments or holiday decorations. Have a good overview of the supplies you have and the supplies you’ll need for your Christmas table, and use that information to plan your budget.

It will also be helpful to establish a theme for your Christmas table. I like to start by choosing my colors. Of course, there is the traditional red and green, but think about spicing up your holiday with a gold or silver. Remember, Christmas is about warmth, so most experts advise avoiding too much white or blue in your theme that will leave you feeling cold. Next, think about your main table theme. Should you go with Santa? Maybe a wreath or bells. Keep your budget in mind when deciding on your main Christmas table theme.

If you find yourself with a small Christmas table budget, try to recycle your old Christmas ornaments or make new ones. A wreath with candles, ribbons, and pinecones can make a lovely centerpiece. A nice piece of fabric with simple stitching can make a nice Christmas table runner. Some experts recommend filling stemware or other nice glass pieces with nuts, berries, or beads, to add that extra touch to your table. Don’t be afraid to get creative. Use old ribbons, and Christmas cards. Fill your Christmas table with meaningful pieces.

Decorating your Christmas table is as important as it is easy. Nothing will round up your friends and family like a well-decorated Christmas table. Remember to set a budget for yourself. Do your research and find a theme. Try to recycle old ornaments and make new ones. Get creative and use all the resources available to you to decorate your Christmas table this year.

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Tracing the root of Christmas carols is complicated as there are several accounts of ancient carols. Depending on your source they might have begun in the church, or in the community. They might have been hymns, or sung to bring together the working class. They may have originally been in Latin, and only translated to English in the 19^th century. It seems the history of Christmas carols depends mainly on your religious beliefs.

 Most historians agree that Christmas carols were originally hymns sung during Christmas time and Easter. However, these hymns lost popularity under the Protestant reformation. Though Luther wrote several hymns himself, and encourage singing them in church, it was not until later they became popular again. It is common belief that hymns or Christmas carols did not regain popularity until the first appearance of carols in print in Christmas Carols Ancient And Modern by William B. Sandys in 1833. These carols included, God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman, The First Noel, and Hark The Herald Angels Sing. This is one view on the origins of Christmas Carols.

Others believe that Christmas carols developed as wassails. These wassails were originally drinking songs, or were sung when requesting ale, as a kind of payment. Could you imagine a system where a little karaoke could get you a shot? It appears that over time these wassails were transformed into more upbeat Christmas Carols sung while “wassailing” or caroling, as we know it today. Often carolers were rewarded with mince pies, puddings, fruits, breads, or monies, which were donated to charities. These Christmas carol traditions seem to stem from Britain.

Almost every modern country today has a set of Christmas carols of their own. Most of these carols stem from religions, whether Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, or Pagan. These carols come in various languages, though surprisingly most of the carols have the same, or a similar tune. Christmas carols have become popular over the world, and today are mainly used as a community or family activity.

Your belief of the origin of Christmas carols depends mainly on your religious beliefs. Though today there are many secular Christmas carols, it is clear that at one time they were mostly religious in nature. Today the world over has their own versions of Christmas carols, some religious some secular. Whatever your religious beliefs, Christmas carols have become an undeniable part of modern Christmas traditions.

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