Holiday Memories

Christmas 2009...

2009-12-26T09:21:00.007-05:00

My boys and I decorating Christmas Cookies!

Tristan and I taking a break from preparing our families Christmas Eve Buffet!

Our Christmas Eve Buffet with the family!

My mom...getting into the Christmas spirit!

Kids playing!

More family...

Our tree on Christmas Eve!

Christmas morning...after Santa came!

Drinking hot cocoa and checking out their stockings!

Tristan was excited about his Mario Brothers Wii Game!

Brayden was excited about his Choo Choo Express Toy!

Here is a video of there excitement!

Opening gifts!

Jayden checking out some of the toys!

Tristan was excited about his iCarly remote!

Brayden was excited because he got more Mr. Potato Head pieces!

Near the end...Jayden was getting tired and had to rest on Mommy!

There Is A Santa!

2009-12-20T11:04:00.003-05:00

My kids are still very young, so I still have a long time before they start asking questions about Santa. Though, I know once they enter school, there's going to be a child who's going to tell them the "truth" about Santa. Now whether they believe the child or not is a different story.

When I was 7 years old, my best friend was a Jehovah's Witness and I knew she didn't celebrate the same holidays as me, or even her Birthday. No big deal, I knew everyone had their own beliefs. But in 1983, after Christmas I was so excited about what I got and told her everything Santa got me. Well, she then told me that there was no Santa, and that my parents actually bought the toys for me and put Santa's name on the tag.

Well I had to argue with that statement. I told her, there is a Santa. You see, my family was very poor. My brother and I didn't have a lot, but what we did have, we appreciated and loved! For Christmas that year, we got an Atari. Well, maybe for some people Atari's were not that expensive, but to our family, it WAS very expensive. Nothing, we would ever get, no matter how good we were. We knew that Santa got us stuff that he knew we would appreciate. So, when I told her that there is a Santa, because there is no way my parents could afford an Atari, No Way! Because I knew my parents were poor, that's how I just kept believing. I think after that, my best friend just dropped it. We continued to stay best friends, and never talked about Santa much after. My parents made all of our Christmas' special and memorable and I thank them for it all the time!

Children - 2009 Holiday Gift Guide

2009-12-10T05:52:00.005-05:00

Are you still not sure what to get that one child on your Christmas list (or maybe a few children). Here are some ideas that you may want to check out...there still some time!!!

For Either Boy or Girl

SpongeBob SquarePants: The First 100 Episodes

EZ-Fort by Toobeez

PLAYSKOOL MR POTATO HEAD Over 40 Pieces!

Product Features

* WOW Over 40 Parts! Includes a mesh bag to tote all your wacky parts!
* Create funny faces! Mix 'n Match fun!
* Create Princess Spud, King Pud, Mr. Potato Head, Mrs. Potato Head & Chef Spud!
* Ages 2+

This is a great Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head set!! This set comes with 2 Potato Heads and over 40 parts!!

Iplay Lobster Tub Caddy

Product Features

* Make bathtime, funtime
* Lobster acts as drainable scoop for collecting and rinsing toys
* Claws are strainers
* Suction cup wall mount
* Ages 18 months and up

Fisher-Price Kid-Tough Digital Camera

* Award Winning Kid Tough Camera
* Easy-to-use format and simple buttons
* Children can see pictures they just took on the 1.5" color LCD preview screen
* Features image resolution of 1.3 or .3 Megapixels which is selected by the user to create great 4x5 prints
* 128MB of Flash memory for storing up to 500 pictures

Doing Your Own Christmas Pictures

2009-12-08T06:36:00.007-05:00

This is my second year doing my own Christmas photos for our Christmas Cards. Last year, using my green screen I sat the boys down and snap a few pictures. It was a little hard, not as hard as going to the photo studio, but still hard to get the kids smiling, looking at the camera, holding still and not crying...I took snap shot after snap shot and this is what I got.

So this year I took a picture of each kid separately...

Tristan

Brayden

Jayden

Then using the green screen wizard software I bought last year and
using the right image I found using Google Images, I
did each child separately.

and, here is this years final photo...

I ordered and 8x10 for us and wallets to put inside the cards.

Westcott Photo Basics 9' x 10' Green Screen Cotton Muslin Background

Westcott Green Screen Digital Photography Kit

More Advent Calendar Ideas!

2009-11-24T05:37:00.002-05:00

Story Time Advent Calendar

Advent Calendar List Ideas

Photo Advent Calendar

Fabric Cones Advent Calendar

Recycled Advent Calendar

Felt Advent Calendar

Paper Envelope Advent Calendar

Stocking Stuffer Ideas 24/7

2009-11-19T09:38:00.002-05:00

I want to take a minute and share a great site that lists tons of gift ideas for everyone on your stocking stuffer list! Check it out at Amy's Stocking Stuffers!

Advent Calendars

2009-11-07T21:10:00.004-05:00

Looking for a way to count down to Christmas this year with your children.
Here are some ideas I found that you may want to try out.
Click on the picture for instructions.

Bingo Advent

Spool Advent Calendar

Candy Christmas

Pizza Pan Advent

Cookie Sheet Advent

Sock Advent

Holiday Gift Idea

2009-11-01T21:50:00.002-05:00

Keurig B40 Elite Gourmet Single-Cup Home-Brewing System

Click Here To Check It Out!

Great List Of Christmas Music

2009-10-30T19:03:00.004-04:00

1. Burl Ives: Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer
2. Burl Ives: A Holly Jolly Christmas
3. Mariah Carey: All I Want For Christmas Is You
4. Faith Hill: Where Are You Christmas
5. Soundtrack Version: Frosty The Snowman
6. Amy Grant: Silent Night
7. Johnny Mathis: It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
8. Westminster Choir: Carol Of The Bells
9. Bryan Adams: Christmas Time
10. Wham: Last Christmas
11. Gayle Peevey: I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas
12. Eartha Kitt: Santa Baby
13. Julie Andrews: My Favorite Things
14. Bing Crosby: White Christmas
15. Nat King Cole: The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You)
16. Amy Grant: Grown Up Christmas List
17. Amy Grant: The Night Before Christmas
18. Vince Gill: Let There Be Peace On Earth
19. Josh Groban: Believe
20. Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Chipmunk Song
21. Burl Ives: Silver & Gold
22. Vince Guaraldi Trio: Linus & Lucy
23. The Harry Simeone Choir: The Little Drummer Boy
24. The Royal Guardsmen: Snoopy's Christmas
25. Shedaisy: Deck The Halls
26. Brenda Lee: Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree

Amazon.com Widgets

How To Wrap Presents

2009-10-30T12:48:00.005-04:00

Wrapping gifts can be fun but it also can be frustrating. Here are some videos that can help us wrap a gift with style and other cool ways to wrap hard to wrap gifts!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Holiday Gift Idea - Sister's Mug

2009-10-25T13:57:00.004-04:00

Sisters Ceramic Mug

Best Sisters Coffee Mug - Hug Sisters Ceramic MugShare the unity of sisterhood with this unique Sisters Coffee Mug. Make sure you order two#44; one for each of you to enjoy a good mug of coffee together along with great conversation.Our Sisters Ceramic Mug Dishwasher and Microwave safe#44; holds 11 ounces. Hugging Sisters on one side and the other side reads: "It?s amazing that you always know when I need a hug.

Christmas Music - John Denver & The Muppets "The 12 Days Of Christmas"

2009-10-25T10:00:00.002-04:00

Click here to listen to more Christmas music or click on the picture to purchase
the MP3 Download.

Christmas Music - Josh Groban "Believe"

2009-10-24T18:49:00.003-04:00

Click here to listen to more Christmas music or click on the picture to purchase
the MP3 Download.

Santa Letters

2009-10-24T18:13:00.008-04:00

Here are a few links on how to create some cool things from Santa!

Give your kids a
"Good List Certificate"

You can make this free certificate here.

Create a letter from Santa

Create a letter here.

Don't forget the envelope...

Create the envelope here.

Christmas Tree Themes

2009-10-22T13:10:00.001-04:00

Do you want to try something new this year with your Christmas Tree? Here are some Christmas Tree Themes you can try.

1. Thanksgiving Tree - Perfect if you put up multiple trees, this can be your first one to decorate! Use any Thanksgiving decor.
2. Snow Tree - Use anything that is white & blue or snow.
3. Pink Tree - Use anything that is pink.
4. Upside Down - Buy an upside down Christmas Tree.
5. Garland Tree - Check it out here on how to make your own Garland Tree.
6. Antique Tree - Use antique or antique looking ornaments.
7. Kid Tree - Ornaments that your children or grandchildren have made for you through the years or anything kid like.
8. 12 Days Of Christmas - Decorate your tree with ornaments that tell the story of the 12 Days Of Christmas.
9. Candy Tree - Use real or fake candy to decorate your tree.
10. Disney Tree - Add your favorite Disney Characters to your tree.
11. Nativity Tree - Keep the meaning of Christmas by displaying Mary, Joseph, Jesus and all the remaining Nativity animals & people on your tree.
12. Woodland Forest Tree - Add forest creatures to create a woodland forest tree.
13. Ribbons & Bows - Fill your tree with ribbons and bows to make it look like the tree is a gift.
14. Santa Tree - A tree full of Santa's!
15. Snowman Tree - Fill the tree with all kinds of snowmen.
16. Sports Tree - Have your tree display your favorite sports or sports team!
17. Gingerbread Tree - Fill your tree with gingerbread men.
18. Victorian Tree - Go back to a time of Victorian style.
19. Western Tree - Bring out the cowboy (or cowgirl) in you...hee haw!
20. Old Fashion Tree - Bring back the Old Fashion Christmases you or your Grandparents remember.

10 Ways To Wrap Your Gift

2009-10-19T07:22:00.009-04:00

When I receive a gift, I appreciate whatever anyone gives me. But, for some reason, the gift givers that seems to put a little more detail to their wrapping I remembered more then the gifts that are not wrapped and thrown in a gift bag. Here are 10 ideas you can do to have the gift you give be remembered...

1. Add an ornament or floral spray on top of the gift.
2. Use multiple colors of ribbon.
3. For children attach a small toy or pencil to the top of the gift.
4. Take party streamers and wrap the gift into a ball.
5. Wrap a gift with 2-3 layers of wrapping paper or wrap the gift and put it in a box then wrap that box and put it in another box, wrap that box, then put in another box and so on.
6. Instead of Wrapping paper, wrap your gift from the Comic section of the newspaper or a road map.
7. Wrap with colored duct tape.
8. Scanned some family photos, then glued them on plain brown paper.
9. Buy pretty cloth, cut it with shears, into squares, hem it and make a dishtowel then wrap the gift in it & tie with yarn.
10. Make or buy a pinata, fill it with a gift(s) instead of candy.

Stocking Stuffer Ideas For Everyone In Your Family!

2009-10-18T11:50:00.004-04:00

I always have trouble trying to figure out what to put in my children, parents and hubby's stockings besides candy. So I finally came up with a list of different stocking stuffer items that I'd like to share with you...

Adult Son (in-law)/Husband/Father (in-law)
1. Pocket Knife
2. Wallet
3. Fishing Hooks
4. Tools
5. DVD
6. Books
7. Travel Mug
8. Gift Cards
9. Key Ring
10. Lottery Tickets
11. Movie Tickets
12. Video Game
13. Razor
14. Deodorant
15. Golf Balls
16. Car Air freshener
17. Tie
18. Handkerchiefs
19. Watch
20. Pens/Pencils
21. Calculator
22. Belt
23. 365 Day Desk Calendar
24. Puzzle Books
25. Stress Ball
26. Cologne
27. Dog Tags
28. MP3 Player/Ipod
29. Memory Stick

Adult Daughter (in-law)/Wife/Mother (in-law)
1. Incense
2. Aromatherapy Oils
3. Hair Accessories
4. Magnets (Herculittles)
5. DVD
6. Books
7. Tide To Go Pen
8. Purse Planner
9. Travel Mug
10. Gift Cards
11. Ear Muffs
12. Journal
13. Key Ring
14. Lottery Tickets
15. Movie Tickets
16. Razor
17. Deodorant
18. Car Air freshener
19. Watch
20. Pens/Pencils
21. Candles
22. Lotion
23. 365 Day Desk Calendar
24. Puzzle Books
25. Stress Ball
26. Perfume
27. MP3 Player/Ipod
28. Memory Stick

Children Ages 1 & under
1. Gerber Puffs
2. Cheerios
3. Stuffed Animals (year the child was born embroidered on the stuffed animal)
4. Socks
5. Rag Doll
6. Hair Ties (girls)
7. Books
8. Teething Rings
9. Baby's 1st Christmas Ornament
10. Pacifier
11. Wrist Rattles
12. Savings Bond
13. A Bib
14. Sippy Cup
15. Small Bath Toys

Toddlers
1. Jumbo Crayons
2. Hair Ties (girls)
3. Socks
4. Stuffed Animals
5. Rag Doll
6. Books
7. Savings Bond
8. Small Bath Toys

Children 3 & up
1. Crayons
2. Hair Ties (girls)
3. Books
4. Gift Cards
5. Video Game
6. Pens/Pencils
7. Sunglasses
8. Savings Bond
9. Small Bath Toys
10. Bubbles
11. Play-do

Teenagers
1. Hair Accessories (girls)
2. Books
3. Journal
4. Jewelry (girls)
5. Key Ring
6. Lottery Tickets
7. Movie Tickets
8. Video Game
9. Razor
10. Deodorant
11. Watch
12. Pens/Pencils
13. Calculator
14. Lotion
15. 365 Day Desk Calendar
16. Puzzle Books
17. Cologne/Perfume
18. Sunglasses
19. Dog Tags
20. MP3 Player/Ipod
21. Savings Bond
22. Memory Stick

Write Your Christmas List A Little Different This Year

2009-10-17T05:00:00.000-04:00

As a child I would right out my Christmas List. My list was usually long, not because I wanted everything on the list (I knew I wasn't that good), but just to give everyone, including Santa, a wide selection to choose from. I was never a picky person, I loved everything I got big or small. But as I got older, I wanted to do something different then writing my list on a piece of paper. Here are some idea's you may want to use for this years Christmas List....

1. Go through magazines, fliers or even through the internet and print and cut out the items you like. Then glue them on a piece of paper.

2. Write a poem and list your gift preferences through out the poem and then print it up on a pretty card!

3. Instead of using words, paint what you would like

4. Make a slide show from your computer of all the items on your list. If you don't have a program on you computer (such as Windows Movie Maker) to do so, go to rockyou.com (or any other site that offers this free service), and upload pictures to the slide show. Be even more creative and add some background music. You could email the slide show to the person who's asking for the list or burn a copy on a DVD and give them the DVD.

Here is an example...

Create Your Own

Gifts With Cute Sayings...

2009-10-15T07:27:00.002-04:00

I've been looking for some cute sayings for simple little gifts I can give to my friends and family. By attaching the cute saying to a simple gift makes the gift receiver look at the gift differently. Here are some idea's I found...

1. Any sweet treat: "Wishing you a season filled with sweetness!"
2. A plate of cookies: "Wishing you a wonderful Christmas, from your "crummy" neighbors.
3. Barq's Root Beer: "Have a wonderful Christmas, it shows you're "barqing" up the right tree!"
4. Any soda: "We're "soda-lighted" to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
5. Popcorn: "We just "popped" in to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
6. Loaf of bread: "For being there when you were "kneaded", for "rising" to the occasion, large or small. For never "loafing" on the job, for helping others "heel" with TLC. No matter how you "slice" it, you do a terrific job loving others."
7. Bananas: "If we could choose our friends, and we searched the whole world through, we'd go "bananas" trying to find a better "bunch" than you!"
8. Bear Shaped Honey: "Hoping our "honey" of a friend has a "beary" Merry Christmas".
9. Microwave Popcorn and 2-liter of soda: "Pop, pop, fizz, fizz, oh what a good friend you is!"
10. Mug with Hot Chocolate Mix: "To our special friends so dear, wishing you a cup of cheer."
11. Eggnog: "Have an "udderly moovalous" holiday!"
12. Ice Cream: "Have a cool yule!"
13. Hershey's Kisses in a Wire Wisk: "We "whisk" you a merry "kiss" mas.
14. Paper Towels: "Blot out your troubles, "absorb" the Christmas spirit!"
15. Candle: "Hope your Christmas is full of light"
16. Pencil and notepad: "Hope your Christmas is something to write home about!"
17. Matches: "To our matchless friends"
18. Bubble Gum or Bubble Bath: "May your holidays "bubble" over with fun!"
19. 7Up: "7 Up ideas for a wonderful holiday season" (include 7 uplifting thoughts/ideas)
20. Sprite: "May your Christmas be Merry and "Sprite"!"
21. Rootbeer: "We're "rooting" for you to have a Happy Holiday Season!"
22. Any Pop: "We're "soda-lighted" to have you as our friends!"
23. Popcorn: "We're "popping" by with a holiday HI!"
24. Chocolate Covered Cherries: "Wishing you a very "cherry" Christmas"
25. Mints: "We "mint" to wish you a Merry Christmas"
26. Snickers Candy Bar: "Don't "snicker" - just be glad you got something!"
27. Cookie Dough: "Here's a little extra "dough" for Christmas"
28. Jar of Jam: "Hoping your Christmas is "jam" packed with cheer"
29. Veggies & Dip: "Dip into the holidays and a healthy New Year!"
30. Pasta: Have a "pasta-tively" happy holiday!"
31. Muffins or Muffin Mix: "You're gettin' "muffin" for Christmas!"
32. Grater & Cheese: "To a "grate" neighbor"
33. Seasoning Mix: "Seasoned with love - Happy Holidays!"
34. Any Sweet Treat: "Wishing you a season full of sweetness!"
35. Whisk Broom: "Take a break, From a Busy Day, and Sweep All Your Cares Away!"
41. Wooden spoon w/ favorite drink or baking mix: "Not a creature was "stirring"..."
42. Oven Mitt filled w/ treats: "We have to ad-"mitt" you're a great neighbor!"
43. Frozen cookie dough w/ cookie cutters: "Bake up some Christmas cheer!"
44. Apple Cider w/wassail mix: "Spice Up Your Christmas!"
45. Bag/Box of Whoppers: "Hope you have a "whopper" of a Christmas"
46. M&M's: Have a Merry and Most Wonderful Holiday Season!"
47. Frozen or Ready-To-Bake Pizza: "Warm up to a wonderful holiday season "topped" with Christmas cheer!"
48. Apples and Hershey's Hugs: A teacher can't live by apples alone...she needs hugs too!"
49. Popcorn Balls: "Hoping you have a "ball" this Christmas season"
50. Jolly Ranchers: "Have a holly "jolly" Christmas"
51. Chex Party Mix: "Remember Santa "chex" his list twice to see who's been naughty or nice...so be good for goodness sake!!!
52. Box of Hostess Ho-Ho's:" Hope a merry "Ho-Ho-Ho" fills your heart the whole year through!"
53. Jar of Jelly: "Jelly is like love -- you can't spread it around without getting some on yourself!"
54. Christmas Tray: "We "tray"sure your friendship!"
55. Bell: "With each chime of this festive bell, may a Christmas wish come true, and bring you peace and happiness to last the whole year through!"
56. Yule Log: "We send you warm greetings this Christmas seasoning"
57. Potpourri: "May this weet scent bring back thoughts of warm Christmasses long ago!"
58. Cleaners: "You add sparkle and make our life brighter!"
59. Nuts: "We're nuts about you!"
60. Lifesavers: "You've been a life saver!"
61. Juice pitcher filled with candy canes: "We pitcher you raising a little "cane" during the holidays"
62. Broom or Feather Duster: "You're "dust" the finest neighbors we know!"
63. Measuring Cup or Spoons: "Wishing you a joy beyond "measure"!"
64. Star ornament: "Remember the reason for the season!"
65. Chocolate Mousse Mix: "Merry Christmousse to our "deer" friends!"
66. Wooden Spoon: "Whether stirring up cakes, cookies, soups or souffles; You'll find this sppon useful in so many ways. But whatever it's use, it says, "Merry Christmas from us to you!"
67. Flower: "If friends were flowers, we'd pick you!"
68. Heart Ornament: "May the joy and love you give away, come back to you on Christmas Day"
69. Cinnamon Sugar for toast: "May your Christmas be sprinkled with laughter and love!"
70. Christmas music: "May the sweet song of Christmas make your heart rejoice!"
71. Filled Basket: "Wishing you a basket full of Christmas blessings"
72. Salsa: "Add a little spice to your holidays"
73. Stocking or Filled Jar: "Have a fun filled Christmas this year!"
74. Candle: "May your days be happy, your heart be light, your Christmas merry and the New Year bright!!!"
75. Calendar: "Keep Christmas in your heart the whole year through!"
76. Sugar Cookies: "Rolling out a batch of Christmas cheer, for someone we think is very dear!"
77. Cherry 7-Up: "Just a little Christmas cheer from Happy Hearts this time of year!"
78. Sparkling Cider: "Wising you a sparkling hoilday season!"
79. Warm casserole or bread: "Bundled up with warm wishes"
80. Eggbeater: "Have an "eggstra" special holiday!"
81. Pie: "Wishing you a scrupmtuous Christmas"
82. Oranges: " Orange" you glad we're Friends!?" Merry Christmas!!
83. Chocolate Orange: "Orange" you glad it's Christmas? Hope your Christmas is a Sweet one!
84. Ice Cream Snowballs and Hot Fudge: "Here's some packaged"snowball" treats - Just Drizzle Hot Fudge and its ready to eat!...Enjoy!!"
85. Box of Light Bulbs: "Have a bright and radiant Christmas"
86. Anything Santa: "Ho - Ho - Hoping your Christmas is Heavenly!"
87. Anything Angel: "Hoping you have a Heavenly Christmas!!"
88. Gingerbread House: "Nibble, Nibble like a mouse, We hope you'll nibble at this house!" Merry Christmas!!
89. Mugs with Hot Chocolate Mix: "To our special friends who are so Dear, We wish you all a cup of Cheer!"
90. Cocoa Mix: "Wishing you a warm and wonderful Christmas!"
91. Gum: "By Gum, You're a great Neighbor!! "Have a Merry Christmas"
92.Christmas Shaped pasta: "Have a Pasta-tively Happy Holiday!"
93. Jar of Jam: "Hoping you have a Holiday "Jammed" packed with fun!!" "Have a "Berry" nice holiday season!!" Or "Hoping your Christmas is "Jam-packed" with Christmas Cheer!!"
94. Homemade Frozen Rolls: "Here's a little holiday treat. Rise and bake, it can't be beat! Warm fresh rolls just for you. Top with butter that's all you do! Warm Holiday Greetings to you"
95. Brownie Mix (or other mix): "Whip up this mix for a wonderful holiday fix! Wishing you a "rich" Holiday Season!!" (Attatch the recipe!)
96. Homemade carmels: Hoping you have a "Rich" and "wonderful" Holiday!!"
97. Pie: "Just a "Holiday Hi" and a tasty Pie!! Happy Holidays!!"
98. Divinity: "May your Christmas be "Divine" and your Holidays so Fine! Sweet Christmas Wishes!"
99. Rice Krispie Treats: "Snap, Crackle, Pop" We think You're really Tops! "
100. Toffee or Brittle: "Any way you break it, We think you're the greatest!"
101. Fudge: "Fudge" a little on the calories and enjoy the Holiday Season!"
102. Cheese Ball and Crackers: "We don't mean to sound "Cheesey", we just hope you have a "Ball" this Holiday Season! Or "Spread a little Christmas Cheer this Holiday Season!"
103. Apple Anything (pie, cobbler, crisp, muffins etc.): "Sending you a "Bushel" of love this holiday Season!!" Or " You are the apple of my eye, Teacher!"
104. Banana Bread: "Banana Bread just for you, because you have so much to do... We also love you a whole "Bunch" too! Merry Christmas!"
105. Cinnamon Rolls: "Here's a sweet treat "Rolled" up with warm Holiday Wishes! Merry Christmas!"
106. Homemade Chocolates: "You're so sweet...having you as neighbors is really a treat! Have a Heavenly Holiday Season!"
107. Cake or Cupcakes: "You take the "Cake" neighbor, We think you're first rate! Happy Holidays to you!!"
108. Cornbread or Mix: "We're not trying to be "Corny" we just want you to have Merry Christmas!"
109. Carrot Cake: " I Really "Carrot" alot about you!! Merry Christmas"
110. Spiced Drink Mixes: "Hoping your Holidays are "Spiced" Just right!"
111. Recipe: "Just like you friend...it's tried and true, just for you! Happy Holiday Baking or Merry Christmas Cooking!"
112. Pizza : "Hope your Holiday has a touch of "Pizza - z!!" Merry Christmas!!"
113. Crayons and Coloring Book: Hope your Holidays are Colorful!
114. Plant: "The kindness you showmakes our friendship grow and grow! Hope you have a Happy Holiday!!"
115. Stuffed animal: "Pawsing" to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
116. Donuts: "Donut" you know we love you??? Have a happy Holiday!!"
117. Tree shaped pasta, tree shaped container or a small Christmas tree: "Hope your Christmas is "tree-mendous"!"
118. Payday candy bar: "It's the "nutty" time of the year again, so please don't lose your cool! Relax, and much this little treat and have a happy yule!"
119. Squeeze-It Juice drink & a Hershey's Kiss: "Here's a "squeeze and a "kiss", to remind you you're loved all through the year!"
120. Salsa & Tortilla Chips: "Have a hot and spicy Christmas!"
121. Scouring pad/sponge: "I scoured the earth for a friend like you!"
36. Basket of Bath Items: "When you feel like a basket case, take a break...and slow your pace"
37. Basket of Rolls and Honey Bear: "Have a honey of a Christmas"
38. Hershey's Kisses: "Merry "Kiss"mas"
39. Bath oils, bubbles, salts: "The holidays can be a strain on our body and brain, so when you feel stressed, a hot bath is best, it truly will help keep you sane!"
40. Soup mix: You're "souper" - Merry Christmas"

Aloha Friday - October 2, 2009

2009-10-02T05:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday.

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link at An Island Life. Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

My question is:

What Is It About Christmas Music,
That Your Really Enjoy?

I enjoy the feeling I get when I listen to Christmas Music.
I feel at peace, happy and the goodness all around us.

Aloha Friday - September 25, 2009

2009-09-25T06:57:00.001-04:00

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday.

My question is:

Where Do You Do Most Of Your Holiday Shopping?

I do most of mine online, and usually at Amazon.com!

Homemade Gift Ideas #1

2009-09-20T11:26:00.003-04:00

Let's spend one day of the week and share a homemade gift idea. With times now being a little tight, it could get very expensive buying gifts for all our family and friends. Plus, homemade gifts tend to mean a little more to the receiver, because it comes from the heart.

Aloha Friday - September 18, 2009

2009-09-18T07:53:00.002-04:00

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday.

My question is:

Do you go shopping on Black Friday?

I use to, but now any more. I can't handle the mob of people.

Aloha Friday - September 11, 2009

2009-09-11T06:23:00.004-04:00

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday.

My question is:

Have you started your holiday shopping yet?

I have bought a few things, but not a lot of stuff.

Homemade Gift Idea - DVD Slideshow

2009-09-09T06:11:00.005-04:00

Here's a great idea for anyone one on your Christmas list. Put together some of you precious memories of pictures in a slide show onto a DVD. To top it off add the perfect background music to the slide show. Make one for you best friend, mom, dad, brother, sister, husband/wife/boyfriend/girlfriend, children/grandchildren, grandparent etc. Just grab 20-30 pictures of you and/or the gift receiver, add them to a movie player pick out the perfect song then burn it onto a DVD and your done.

Here is what you'll need:

Computer
Blank DVD-R or DVD-RW
DVD Case
Some Photo's
Window Movie Player (or anything similar)
DVD Labels
MP3 Downloads

Here's a video I put together of my boys:

Shopping List Suggestions:

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Free Printables Of The Day

2009-09-07T05:00:00.000-04:00

Click on the image to download these "Don't Open 'til Christmas" gift tags.

Free Printables Of The Day

2009-09-06T07:39:00.002-04:00

Click on the image for your free Christmas Gift Tags.

Free Printable Gift Tags

2009-09-05T21:40:00.003-04:00

Need some gift tags, here is a list of links for hundreds
of free printable gift tags for your packages.

mintprintables.com
freeprintablegifttags.net
domania.us
holidays.momsnetwork.com
kate.net
seussville.com
thekoala.com
gulf-shores-real-estate.com
debidawn.com
office.microsoft.com
gingerbreadnook.com
kidsturncentral.com
ornamentshop.com
tasteofthesouthmagazine.com
hgtv.ca
homemakers.com

Do Not Open Until Christmas Tags
christmasmagazine.com

A New Look!

2009-06-18T10:17:00.005-04:00

Today I've decided to change the look of this blog. It seem to be to busy before, to many columns and to many ads. I'm going to try to keep this way. What do you think?

EA Sports Active

2009-04-21T07:30:00.002-04:00

It's Never to early to start Christmas shopping!
I just pre-order 2 of these! One for me and the other a Christmas present.
Can't wait to get it. I think it'll be lots of fun and motivate me!
You can pre-order it now too. Check it out here at amazon.com.

Product Features

Game includes a deep co-operative multiplayer game mode.
Engage in fitness made easy through 20 minute circuits feature a variety of familiar activities that target upper body, lower body as well as cardio.
Follow the guidance, motivation and training tip of your very own virtual personal trainer.
30 day challenge' of tailor made 20 minute workouts, that change as you progress each day, and track calories, intensity and progress throughout your journey.
Gameplay/workout options are extended with the included Nunchuck strap and resistance band accessories, and compatibility with the Wii Balance Board (not included).

Swagbucks...Get Free Stuff Just From Surfing The Web

2009-04-08T20:54:00.001-04:00

If you surf the web, wouldn't it be great to get something for it! This site is you can do that, and it's free!

How does it work?

1. SEARCH

Search the web using www.swagbucks.com and receive results from Google and Ask.com.

2. EARN

Swag Bucks are periodically awarded as you search the web.

3. REDEEM

Redeem your Swag Bucks for exclusive swagbucks.com products and more in the Swag Store.

Other Ways to Earn Swag Bucks

Trading In Cell Phones & Video Games
Inviting Your Friends To Join
Shopping In Their Shop & Earn Mall
Interacting On Their Facebook Page
Finding Swag Codes
Submitting A Poll Idea

Do You Like To Shop? You Can Get Cash Back With All Your Online Purchases!

2009-03-25T09:49:00.002-04:00

This is the best thing I've ever done!!! A lot of us shop online everyday, why not get some of that money back! The more you purchase, the more you get back. There is a HUGE list of shops that we shop at everyday. Plus, it free to join!!! And when you join you automatically get $5.00 dollars! You can't go wrong there! This is a win win site. Well, I'm going back their now to do some more shopping and redeem more cash back! You should check it out to, just click here and sign up today!

Celebrate Me Day - March

2009-03-16T12:53:00.003-04:00

For celebrate Me Day, I did my hair again. This time, I got my hair trimmed and dyed red. I really like it. Here is the before:

Now: Of course this is the day after, I can't style it like the stylist does...

Celebrate Me Day - February

2009-02-15T19:03:00.003-05:00

I didn't get to "Celebrate Me Day" on the 14th because it was my son's birthday. So I did it today. My sister-in-law and I went and got our hair trimmed and colored. I chose the color auburn. I like it a lot!

Here is the before:

Here is the after...
...of course I won't be able to fix it like the hair stylist did.

Christmas Shopping In January

2009-01-16T15:14:00.004-05:00

Here is what I bought today for my Christmas 09 shopping!
Stocking to give to my niece & nephew, cousins, and best friends kids.
Bubbles for my kids and my niece & nephew.
Jump ropes for my best friends daughter, niece and cousin.
A cute summer outfit for my niece. I made sure it'll fit her next summer.
Some red ornaments for a craft project I'll be working on later.
I also bought a 3 foot Christmas tree for only $3.50!
I had lots of fun today!

Celebrate Me Day!

2009-01-14T13:22:00.008-05:00

It's Time To Celebrate Me Day!
What is Celebrate Me Day?
It's the day once a month you spend pampering or doing something for yourself.
What day is it?
It's the same day as your birth date!
So since my Birthday is June 14, my Celebrate Me Day is the 14th of every month!
Join Me!

Today is my Celebrate Me Day.
I'm sick.
Not really able to do much. But, I'm going to go to my mom's this evening and she's making Chicken & Biscuits for dinner, which is one of my favorite meals. Yummy. So she'll be cooking dinner for the family, so it gives me a break for today. So I'm celebrating Me Day by not preparing dinner. Not much for my first Celebrate Me Day. Hopefully next month, I'll be able to pamper myself more. Maybe tonight, I'll soak in the bath tub. I'll update later...

Homemade Gift Boxes

2009-01-02T12:18:00.003-05:00

I've decided this year that I'm going to create gift boxes instead of using the gift bags to transport my gifts in for family and friends. Here is what I did...

You will need:
Wrapping Paper
Scissors or a Knife
Tape
Box

First cut off any flaps from the top of the box.
Then measure the wrapping paper with the box laying on the side, width and additional that will cover 1/2 the bottom of the box.
Make sure the paper's length will cover all 4 sides of the box

Wrap the paper around the box. The tape. I place the crease on the corner of the box so it won't be as visible.

On the bottom, wrap it like you would a gift and secure with tape.

Cut another piece of paper as you did the first time, but not leaving much of extra. Maybe 1/2 of inch.

Fold the 1/2 inch upward so the back of the paper is showing

Fold the whole sheet in half and crease it. This will be put in the boxes corner to make it easier to insert.

Wrap the inner paper around the box, and secure with tape

Cut out a piece of paper the same size as the bottom of the box

Fold the sides in about 1/4 inch

Place inside of box and secure with tape

My box had handle holes so I cute them out as well.
Now I'm done!

Christmas 08

2008-12-25T21:00:00.005-05:00

Christmas morning was calm. We all got to sleep until 7:00. I got my coffee and then Tristan came out of his room. As he walked down the hall, squinting from the bright light, I said look Tristan, Santa came. He said oh yeah. His looked so happy and surprised. Here he is with his hot cocoa yelling "Merry Christmas"

Shortly after, Brayden woke up. He was pretty happy & surprised too.

Here are some Christmas present moments....

A Wonderful Family

2008-12-25T18:31:00.004-05:00

Christmas was very nice. I was afraid with limited funds, that Christmas may not be as exciting for my boys. But not true at all. My parents provided some lovely gifts that they all got to enjoy. We then went to my brother and sister in-laws for presents and dinner there too. My sister in-law did so much for my boys. More than I can thank her for.
I was touched by everything she gave us. But one thing that got me was she made those no-sew blankets for all three boys. Not small ones either. They will be able to use them for years to come.

Here is Brayden's

Here is Jayden's

Here is Tristan's

Homemade Christmas Cards

2008-12-24T08:07:00.003-05:00

Things are really tight this year. So I made some easy, no skill needed Christmas card. I found these instructions HERE. Very simple, and fun!

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

2008-12-21T17:42:00.002-05:00

Wow! We are getting hit with snow tonight. I came over to my mom's house yesterday to do a cookie bake with her and my aunt. Well the drive to her house, which is only 10 min on good weather, got me all nerved up that I decided to stay the night and leave in the morning. The weather man said the Big Storm won't start until around 10:00am the next day. So I figure I had time to leave my mom's house in the morning. Well at 8:00am this morning, it started flurring. Plus the road were still messy from yesterday's snow. So, I'm staying the night again. My mom and I brought my 2 older boys out to play in the snow. They had a ball. I did too. After we got down playing in the snow, we came in and had some homemade hot chocolate. Mmmm, memories.

Christmas Tours Of Our Homes 2008

2008-12-19T18:47:00.005-05:00

I joined the Christmas Tours of our Homes 2008, & Kimba's Open House Party.
Don't really have a lot up, but wanted to share anyway...

My End Table

My Santa & Elf Clothes Line

My Criss Cross In Living Room

My Criss Cross In The Kitchen

My Hallway Of Lights

Yahoo Best Answer

2008-12-18T08:49:00.003-05:00

Wow! I am very honored to get a yahoo best answer on Yahoo Answers. I've got them before with just everyday questions, but this one is a treat for me. It was about Christmas trees, and making them more decorative. My tree still needs a lot of help. But because of the doves, it got reconition. I hope to add more next year. Some one suggested squirrels, nuts, you know more woodland creatures. I've never had a theme before, but it looks like I'm leaning to a Nature Theme.

Here is the question link:
My xmas tree needs a makeover. see pic?

Fruit Loop Garland

2008-12-11T10:16:00.005-05:00

My son and I did this. He had fun, and snacked as we put it together.
All you need is some Fruit Loops, Scissors, Tape, and Yarn.

First cut a string to any length you want.
Then place a piece of tape at one of the ends of the string. This will be used to thread the fruit loops on. Don't put to much on it, just enough so the loop will slide on.

Knot an anchor at the other end of the string with a fruit loop.

Now thread the fruit loops on the string...to whatever length you want.

Here is the finish project..

My boys, Grandma and Cousin Robbie

2008-12-10T14:48:00.002-05:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Office Party

2008-12-09T20:23:00.001-05:00

Here is me and my boys and Grandma!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Tristan Singing The Twelve Day's Of Christmas

2008-12-08T13:08:00.003-05:00

A Snowball Fight!

2008-12-07T21:19:00.001-05:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

This is Tristan and his cousin Gabbi vs Uncle Alan, Aunt Shannon and brother Brayden!

Make Your Own Wrapping Paper

2008-12-06T08:29:00.002-05:00

Make Your Own Wrapping Paper

What you'll need:

Butcher Paper
Sponges
Scissors
Tempera Paint

Instructions:
Cut a regular kitchen sponge to shape into some simple shape such as a star, holly leaf, berry, etc. Pour paint onto saucer or other flat item. Spread butcher paper out on the flat surface. Dip sponge in paint, making sure to cover entire surface and sponge off excess. Stamp sponge 2-4 times over surface of paper. Reapply paint and repeat. You can sprinkle glitter over the wet painted paper as well to give it a sparkling effect.

My Dancing Elves

2008-12-05T13:15:00.002-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

You can do this too at elfyourself.jibjab.com

My Christmas Tree Is Up!

2008-12-02T08:00:00.003-05:00

Finally, it took me 3 days to get my tree up. Of course I was sick one of those days, so I couldn't do to much. Not to extravagant but, I like it. I did do the doves like I mention earlier this year. Looks neat. Here are some pictures.

Where Is Christmas? Not At Walmart!

2008-11-29T07:40:00.006-05:00

This is the most ridicules story I have heard. A wal-mart employee dies because of disrespectful, uncaring, selfish, and barbaric shoppers. This is not Christmas. Christmas is about love, caring of others, help in need, giving of oneself and being thoughtful. These shoppers didn't have any of this. They were just thinking of themselves. I was sad as I read the story about the employee, but disgusted and angry about the shoppers. How can buying a present be more important than someones life. It's just material, it's not a life. Then, some shoppers were mad because the security wanted to close the doors because now it's a crime scene. Some shoppers complain because they were in line all night. What? Not even caring that someone had died, doing his job, more concern because they waited in the cold night for a stupid bargin. I'm outrage. There are no morals here. These people need to learn about Christmas, because obviously they don't know what it is.

Jesus wouldn't want us to go chaotic for a gift, he'd want us to be with our love ones, which is the best gift anyone could get. Of course some people now a days believes the more gifts, the more expensive the better. That's were Christmas isn't in there hearts, it's just about material.

Giving a gift, is special, and yes that is the point of Christmas, is to give, but giving with love and care behind it, not a person's death, not fighting crowds and being rude to one another.

Make Your Own Gift Tags

2008-11-28T18:58:00.003-05:00

Here is another idea on how to make your own gift tags with things around your house.

Materials:

Piece of Paper
Scissors or Cutters
Tape or Glue
Aluminum Foil
Hole Punch
Stickers
Colored Pen

1. Take a piece of paper and fold it in half

2. Then fold in half again

3. The fold it half again

4. Now unfold it

5. Cut along the folds with scissors or a cutter

6. Take a piece of aluminum foil, bigger than the tags, and wrap it around the tag as it was a present. Make sure the shiny side is facing out.

7. When you're all done, flip it around.

8. Now decorate anyway you want. Add a hole for the tie or not.

A Small But Merry Christmas

2008-11-28T09:07:00.002-05:00

As I'm putting up the tree today, and listening to some Christmas music, it's really hitting me that Christmas is not that far away. I also realize how small it's going to be this year. Small with gifts, but I'm going to make it big with warm memories. I'm going to do all that I can to make it a happy Christmas for my boys. I love them so much, and of course as parents we all want the best for our children. Though, they're young and really don't know what Christmas is. My oldest, Tristan who is 4 is starting to understand, but still don't do the "I Want" speeches. Looks like I'm going to be only afford 1 gift each this year for them. Just writing that, brings tears to my eyes. But, I grew up with small Christmas' and you know, they really warm my heart when I think of them or look at the pictures from my childhood. My parents didn't have a lot of money, but they always made it great, even if it was just the 4 of us. I just hope I can give my boys those kind of memories too.

I was watching the news, and all those people standing in line for Black Friday, and spending lots of money on gifts, that makes you wonder if their child will appreciate it. I admit, at a different time, I was one of those shoppers. I also remember before I had children, I would go to the local bank, and pick 2 angels from the tree, and buy like crazy for those who would have small Christmas'. It felt so good to do something good, even though I would never meet those children, but I would think of them Christmas morning,unwrapping their gifts and hoping they loved what they got. Someday, I hope to do that again, someday.

For now, I'm going to make this Christmas as special as I can for my boys. They're only 4 years old, 22 months old and 9 months old, but there's always pictures for them to look back on.

Thanksgiving Centerpiece

2008-11-26T18:03:00.002-05:00

I'm not really creative, as you can see, I need a little work. But here is our Thanksgiving Centerpiece for tomorrow. I should have got more flowers, but there's always next year.

All you need is

Pumpkin
Knife
Spoon
Floral Foam (or Salt Dough & Aluminum Foil)
Fake Flowers

1.
Take your pumpkin and cut off the top.

2.
Remove the top and gut it out.

3.
Place your floral foam inside.
I did not have floral foam so I made some salt dough and wrapped it up in aluminum foil.

Salt Dough Recipe
1 Cup Salt
1 Cup Water
2 Cups Flour

4.
Place your flower arrangement how you'd like it

My Top 10 Favorite Christmas Movies

2008-11-26T16:18:00.004-05:00

10. Home Alone 2 - Lost In New York

9. Comfort & Joy

8. The Santa Clause

7. Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer

6. How The Grinch Stole Christmas - Ron Howard

5. Beauty & The Beast Enchanted Christmas

4. Muppet's Christmas Carol

3. National Lampoons Christmas Vacation

2. Home Alone

1. Little House on the Prairie - A Christmas They Never Forgot

Beauty And The Beast

2008-11-21T10:54:00.005-05:00

This isn't really Christmas related, but in a way it is. Last week my mom and I went to our local school Christmas craft fair. They have about 50 vendors, it's big. We go every year, and every year the student perform some sort of musical. We never buy the tickets. Why? I don't know. But this year, it was Beauty & The Beast, my favorite Disney movie. So I convinced my mom to buy the tickets, she said it'll be an early Christmas present for both of us. I was ecstatic.

So last night my mom & I went to Disney's Beauty And The Beast. I have to give the actors and crew 5 stars. It was an awesome performance. The leads were all superb . They're singing, oh, was right on. I kept thinking some of these singers need to go for an American Idol tryouts, they were that good.

Over 4 years ago, my mom and I went to Pennsylvania on a bus tour, and one of the things on the itinerary was a dinner & theater, which was Beauty And The Beast. Those actors were older and professional, and I LOVED the performance there. But I have to say, the High School performance was just as good as those who performed at that dinner & theater performance. I'm still in WoW. My mom was hesitant at first, because being on a work night for her, she'd be awfully tired the next morning. But she enjoyed it and was glad she went. She said it was worth it.

Also I encourage any theater teacher out there, who don't know what to perform for their school, do the Beauty And The Beast! It's a great story, that everyone loves!

I really recommend everyone to check out there local school theater. Those kids work hard, and who know, may someday be famous! Plus it's great to get involve with the community!

Found a clip on you tube of the play...hopefully they'll be more.

Christmas Chain Advent

2008-11-19T11:12:00.002-05:00

Today My oldest son and I put together a Christmas Chain Advent. Here is what you'll need...

3 pieces of construction paper. (May need more, depends on how many colors you'll be using to make the chain).
Tape or Glue
Pencil
Ruler
Scissors
Marker

Step 1
Using 1 piece of construction paper mark 1 inch along the edge.
Turn it to the opposite side and mark 1 inch along the edge again

Step 2
Connect the 1 inch marks from left to right using your ruler

Do the same with the other pieces of construction paper until you have 25 1 inch strips.

Step 3
Now number the 1 inch strips. I use red & green so red was all odd numbers and green was all even numbers. But if using more than two colors pick your own pattern. This is how the chain will be connected.

Step 4
Cut out all the strips

Step 5
Take #1 chain and roll it in a circle

Step 6
Tape or glue the ends of the circle together

Now you have your first chain.

Step 7
Now with #2 slide it in the circle of #1, then tape the ends together to form 2 chains.

Step 8
Keep doing this until you have a chain of 25

Here is our finished chain..

Now on December 1st your child will rip #1 chain off, then on December 2nd your child will rip #2 off, and so on.

I put a little jingle bell on #25 just to give it more excitement for my son. Do whatever your imagination can think of.

Webkinz For Christmas Gifts - For Kids & Adults!

2008-11-16T17:21:00.005-05:00

I've started some of my Christmas shopping. So far I got 4 gifts. I decided to buy some Webkinz for my niece & nephew. I also bought Webkinz for my brother & sister in-law. My best friend bought me one for my birthday this year, and yes, there fun to play with, even for adults.

What is a Webkinz?
Webkinz pets are lovable plush pets that each come with a unique Secret Code. With it, you enter Webkinz World where you care for your virtual pet, answer trivia, earn KinzCash, and play the best kids games on the net!

I have a monkey. I bought my brother a crocodile, my sister in-law a koala, my nephew a skunk and my niece a pink pony. They're so cute, plus they're collector items! They have a huge variety of animals!

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-11-16T16:08:00.004-05:00

My mom just informed me that we set a date for our family baking day. This is where me, my mom, aunt & cousins get together to bake cookies, candies, fudge or whatever we want to cook that day, then exchange with each other after we're all done. I can't wait. I got to find something different. One of the cookies I'm going to back is Chocolate Chip Cookies in the shape of Gingerbread Men. I've just purchased the Gingerbread Cookie Cutter 6pc Set from Amazon.com since I don't have any cookie cutters. So we're going to be doing it on December 20th. I'm going to do a trial run when my cookie cutters come in and I'll post a pic afterwords.

Here is a recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookies. They come out great when using an airbake cookie sheet pan.

1 Cup Butterflavor Crisco
2 Eggs
3/4 Cup Brown Sugar
3/4 Cup White Sugar
1/2 Teaspoon Water
1 Teaspoon Vanilla

Beat Until Creamy

Add

1 Teaspoon Baking Soda
1 Teaspoon Salt
2 1/4 Cups Flour

Stir by hand. Add 1 6oz (or more for more chocolate chips) Chocolate Chips

Drop by teaspoons on ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake 10-12 minuets at 375 degrees

A Rich Christmas

2008-11-15T06:08:00.004-05:00

Things are going to be tight this year. With me not working and the only income is from Adam, Christmas is going to be small. Small with presents that is, but that don't mean it's going to be a disappointment. I'm going to have the boys make some gifts for the family and how about those construction paper chains that we use to do as a kid. Tristan is 4 now, so I think he'll have fun doing that. Plus I'm planing on doing a baking swap. It's sort of like the cookie swap, the only difference is we all bake together. It's usually my mom, me, my aunt & my cousin that do this. We haven't done it in about 3 years. We all bring a recipe and bake/cook something and then when we're all done, we exchange what we made with each other. It's really nice to have the family together, even something simple as that. We usually end up laughing, and telling stories. Now my cousin and I have stories to tell about our children, heck they can help too.

I'm looking for more ideas of what a family can do during the holiday, and some homemade Christmas gifts. I already have one gift my sons are going to make for the family, but still looking for some more. The best thing about the internet, there are thousands of ideas out there!

Doing Holiday Pictures From Home

2008-11-07T07:01:00.005-05:00

This year I've decided to do my own holiday pictures. Studio's are becoming more and more expensive, and with 3 little boy's I end up working up a sweat. So I got a green screen and the software for it and did my own, when my boys were ready...sort of. At least I didn't get stressed this time.

Now I have a Christmas picture to put in the Christmas cards. Check it out...

You can do it too...for all kinds of occasions.

Jeff Dunham Very Special Christmas Special (2008)

2008-10-26T12:40:00.001-04:00

FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY AND DESTINED TO BECOME A HOLIDAY FAVORITE!

INCLUDES ONE HOUR OF EXCLUSIVE FOOTAGE NOT SEEN ON COMEDY CENTRAL BROADCAST!

Jeff Dunham and his cast of characters join to make Christmas very special -- and hilarious -- like only they know how. All new show also includes bonus material with numerous DVD extras. Share this must-have event with the entire family for Christmas and all year long!

DVD is loaded with additional footage and extras not seen on television including Holiday Tips, Outtakes, Ask Santa-Walter, and Behind The Scenes.

2008-10-26T12:30:00.001-04:00

Larry The Cable Guy's Star Studded Christmas Extravaganza (2008)

Like Mistletoe and fruitcake, Larry the Cable Guy is becoming a Christmas tradition. The DVD only 'Star Studded Christmas Extravaganza' from the comedy phenom follows 2007's 'Christmastime in Larryland' album and 2004's gold album 'A Very Larry Christmas'. Filled with music, including from Montgomery Gentry, and Larry The Cable Guy's countified humor, aided and abetted by other well-known comedians, 'Star Studded Christmas Extravaganza' is a Christmas variety show Git-R-Done style.

The Chipmunks

2008-10-20T09:32:00.006-04:00

I love this movie. Turning classic cartoons to real-life made this movie a future classic in my book. I actually went to the movie theater with my mom and nephew last year. It was a very snowy day. We actually got caught in a snow storm. I was surprised my mom still went, considering she hates driving in the snow as much as I do, but we went. It was a great movie. Though, if we do deside to go to the theater and it starts to storm in the future, we'll probably reschedule. Lucky for us, the storm ended when the movie finished. In this case, it was well worth it!

The Holiday Classics

2008-10-18T05:41:00.003-04:00

I bought this collection about a year ago and loved it! It has 4 Christmas Classic TV shows on DVD. They are the shows that when I was a child would watch every year. We'd adjust the rabbit ears, add some tin foil and were able to somewhat watch the snowy, black & white TV screen. When I got older and watched it on video, I was amazed at how much I didn't see. Thank goodness for modern satellite and DVD's! This is a collection my children will to cherish as they get older.

This collection has Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer; Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town; Frosty The Snowman; Frosty Returns; The Little Drummer Boy; Cricket On The Hearth.

We Three Kings

2008-10-17T21:50:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite songs of Christmas is "We Three Kings" by Blackhawk. Take a moment to listen to the song. Their voices are mezmorizing.

We Three Kings

Christmas Planner Inspiration

2008-10-17T13:24:00.009-04:00

Wow, I am so inspired to do my Christmas Planner. Haven't started it yet, but I'm going to start this weekend. I seem to over crowd my mind when I see ideas and then I don't know where to begin. So I've got to stop looking for ideas, and start doing my ideas.

A Chrismtas Planner will help keep the holiday in order and not as chaotic. Though I really want to share this video I found on YouTube.com. It's very inspiring and had motivated me to start my planner.

I hope it'll help those who seem to procrastinating too.

I'll Be Home For Christmas (1998)

2008-10-03T04:42:00.008-04:00

Jake (Jonathan Taylor Thomas)a self-center college student makes a deal with his dad, that if he comes home for christmas by 6:00, he can have his fathers porsche. Desperate to claim his gift, he flies, crawls, cons, races, bullies, and even sleighs his way back home. The closer Jake gets to home, the closer he gets to the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of family. It's a hilarious comedy adventure that celebrates the believer in all of us.

Christmas Music All Year Long!

2008-10-01T14:58:00.002-04:00

Did you know that you can listed to Christmas Music all year long on your computer? Well I didn't. But I found a web-site that plays traditional Christmas Music all day all the time!

www.accuradio.com

Stocking Stuffer Idea - Cute Reindeers

2008-09-29T14:38:00.002-04:00

Too Cute Reindeer Craft

I'm going to make these for the children I give to this year. I think they are so cute.

Materials needed:
Two standard-sized washcloths, tan and white
2 bars of bath-size soap
4 wiggle eyes
2 red pompoms
4 brown pipe cleaners
2 rubberbands
12 tiny jingle bells
Decorative cord or ribbon
Velvet ribbon for bow
Small bell for Rudy
Tacky glue
Blush make-up for cheeks

Directions:
1. Open washcloth and place it on the table with one corner facing you. This makes the washcloth a diamond shape.
2. Place the soap in the center of it.
3. Bring the corner facing you and the back corner up together. Roll the two corners backwards down to the top of the soap. <>4. Take the two side corners in your hands and bring together at the top this will form the ears.
Secure them together with a rubberband down next to the soap. Shape to resemble ears.
5. Fold one pipe cleaner in half and poke it between the ears and through the rubberband.
6. Cut another pipe cleaner in half and twist it around to make the antlers. Do this on both sides.
7. Now attach the tiny jingle bells through the ends of the antlers. Fold the pipe cleaners back to secure them on.
8. Tie a decorative ribbon, cord or bow around the bottom of the ears. The bow shown in the sample has a small bell attached.
9. Glue on pompom nose and wiggle eyes.
10. Put a small amount of blush on each cheek.

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

2008-09-24T21:21:00.000-04:00

Dear Editor—
I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O’Hanlon

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Christmas Cookie Swap Meet

2008-09-22T13:32:00.003-04:00

Step 1
Grab your pen and paper and jot down who you would like to call and invite them to come to your Cookie Swap. This is an opportunity for them to share their favorite recipes and bring their own homemade baked Cookies. Encourage them to also bring the recipes to the Cookies they are bringing to the Swap. Keep track of who is coming and what they are bringing. Be sure to set a specific date and time. Don't forget to send out Invitations to those who you couldn't personally invite.

Step 2
Create individual Goodie Bags to hold all of the guest's Cookies. Medium sized paper bags work fine. Use your pen to personalize each bag with the name of each guest.
(You could also use tins, boxes or whatever you can imagine)

Step 3
On the day of the swap, be sure to have several copies of your favorite recipes on note cards displayed near the plate of the Cookies you just baked.

Step 4
Be sure that every guest is happy and takes home a variety of Cookies

Crochet Christmas Baubles

2008-09-22T07:26:00.001-04:00

Crochet Christmas baubles

Crochet baubles
Finished sizes: about 13cm in circumference (small bauble); about 16cm in circumference (large bauble)
Gather your supplies
Pellicano Perle No 5 mercersied cotton in White 7901 and Ecru 0608; Arista in Red 318, Soft Gold 303, Silver 301 and Soft White Gold 302; 2.00mm crochet hook; tapestry needle; scissors; 38mm and 50mm polystyrene balls

Tension: Check your tension before you start. If your tension sample is larger than recommended, use a slightly smaller hook. If your tension sample is smaller than recommended, use a slightly larger hook. Small bauble: Crochet first 3 rnds of pattern. Sample should measure about 3.3cm in diameter. Large bauble: Crochet first 4 rnds of pattern. Sample should measure 4.5cm in diameter.

Notes: When working on a new round, always crochet over thread ends. This saves time on threading ends in later. Tie a small knot at the end of Arista thread to prevent it from unravelling.

The beginning, 1st and 18th Rnds are all made using Pellicano. Rnds 2-17 are made using Arista. If you are making striped baubles, simply finish off thread at the end of the round and use another colour for the next round (join new thread to a stitch from previous round using a slipknot). The instructions will only tell you to finish off thread when changing from Pellicano to Arista thread but you may wish to finish off and swap colours at the end of any row.

Rounds 2, 3, 4, 15, 16 and 17 are made using htr stitches and therefore the stripes will be quite wide. Rounds 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are made using dc stitches (if you would like your stripes to be even in width, work 2 rnds of dc stitches in the same colour to make the stripes similar in width to the htr stripes).

If you are choosing to continue crocheting in the same colour of Arista, disregard the 'joining a new colour' instructions.

Make sure when working the rounds that you do not crochet into the slip stitch from the end of the previous round.

Refer to crochet stitch diagrams and abbreviations by
clicking here

Here's how
Begin with Pellicano in colour of choice, make 5ch. Join with sl st to form a ring.
1st Rnd: 2ch (represents 1st htr), 11htr in ring, sl st in 2nd of 2ch from beg of rnd. Finish off Pellicano.
2nd Rnd: Using Arista thread in colour of choice, join thread to a htr of previous rnd using a slipknot. 2ch (represents 1st htr), htr in same st, 2htr in each htr to end, sl st in 2nd of 2ch from beg of rnd.
3rd Rnd: Using Arista in colour of choice, join thread to a htr of previous rnd using a slipknot. 2ch (represents 1st htr), 2htr in next htr, *htr in next htr, 2htr in next htr, (repeat from * to end of rnd), sl st in 2nd of 2ch from beg of rnd.
4th Rnd: Using Arista in colour of choice, join thread to a htr of previous rnd using a slipknot. Small bauble: 1ch (represents 1st dc), dc in each htr of the previous rnd, sl st in 1ch at beg of rnd. (36dc made in rnd, including counting the 1ch at beg as 1st dc).
Large bauble: 2ch, (represents 1st htr), htr in next htr, 2htr in next htr, *htr in next 2htr, 2htr in next htr, (repeat from * to end), sl st in 2nd of 2ch from beg of rnd (48htr in rnd, including counting the 2ch at beg as 1st htr).
5th, 6th 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th Rnds, small bauble only: Using Arista in colour of choice, join thread to a dc of previous rnd using a slipknot. 1ch (represents 1st dc), dc in each dc of the previous rnd, sl st in 1ch from beg of rnd. At the completion of the 12th rnd, insert the foam sphere into the crochet and begin crocheting rounds 13, 14 and 15 over the top of the foam sphere.
5th Rnd, large bauble: Using Arista in colour of choice, join thread to a htr of previous rnd using a slipknot. 1ch (represents 1st dc), dc in each htr of the previous rnd, sl st in 1ch at beg of rnd (48dc made in rnd, including counting the 1ch at beg as 1st dc).
6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th Rnds, large bauble: Using Arista in colour of choice, join thread to a dc of previous rnd using a slipknot. 1ch (represents 1st dc), dc in each dc of the previous rnd, sl st in 1ch at beg of rnd. At the completion of the 14th rnd, insert the polystyrene ball into the crochet and begin crocheting the following rnds over the top of the ball.

Shaping top of baubles
Note: In the 13th Rnd of small bauble, the 15th Round of large bauble and in following rounds of each, make 2htr tog in a cl to decrease at top of bauble. (In 13th rnd of small bauble and 15th Rnd of large bauble, you will be crocheting into the dc stitches of the previous rnd. In following rnds, you will be crocheting into the htr stitches or htr cl stitches of the previous rnds).

To make 2htr tog in a cl to decrease: wrap thread around hook and insert hook into 1st stitch, wrap thread around hook and draw thread back through this stitch (there will be 3 loops on hook). Wrap thread around hook and insert hook into next stitch. Wrap thread around hook and draw thread back through this stitch (there will be 5 loops on hook). Wrap thread around hook and draw through all
5 loops on hook.

13th Rnd, small bauble only: Using Arista, join thread to a dc from previous rnd using a slipknot. 1ch, htr in next 2dc, *make next 2htr tog in a cl to decrease, htr in next dc, following the instructions above, repeat from * to end, sl st in 1st htr at beg of rnd.
14th Rnd, small bauble only: Using Arista, 1ch, htr in next st, *make next 2htr tog in a cl to decrease (repeat from * to end), sl st in 1st htr from beg of rnd (miss 1ch made at beg of rnd). Finish off Arista.
15th Rnd, small bauble only: Using Pellicano, join thread to the 1st htr from beg of previous rnd. 1ch, htr in next htr cl, *make next 2htr tog as a cl to decrease (repeat from * to end), sl st in htr at beg of rnd (miss 1ch made at beg of rnd). Finish off Pellicano. Follow instructions to make hanger.
15th Rnd, large bauble only: Using Arista, join thread to a dc from previous rnd using a slipknot. 1ch, htr in next dc, htr in next 2dc, *make next 2htr tog in a cl to decrease (following the instructions above), htr in next 2dc (repeat from * to end), miss 1ch from beg of rnd, sl st in 1st htr at beg of rnd.
16th Rnd, large bauble only: Using Arista, join thread to a stitch from previous rnd using a slipknot. (In this and following rounds you will sometimes be crocheting into htr stitches and sometimes crocheting into cluster stitches made in previous rnd. These instructions, therefore, ask you to crochet into the next st, rather than specify what that stitch will be. ) 1ch, htr in next 2st, *make next 2htr tog in a cl to decrease, htr in next st (repeat from * to end), miss 1ch made at beg of rnd, sl st in 1st htr at beg of rnd.
17th Rnd, large bauble only: Using Arista, 1ch, htr in next st, *make next 2htr tog in a cl to decrease (repeat from * to end), miss 1ch made at beg of rnd, sl st in 1st htr from beg of rnd. Finish off Arista.
18th Rnd, large bauble only: Using Pellicano, join thread to the 1st htr from beg of previous rnd. 1ch, htr in next htr cl, *make next 2htr tog as a cl to decrease (repeat from * to end), sl st in htr at beg of rnd (miss 1ch made at beg of rnd). Finish off Pellicano.

Hanger
Attach Pellicano to a stitch from the last rnd using a slipknot. Make 40ch, sl st in the top of the bauble in the last rnd. Finish off by weaving in all threads.

Make a Footprint Ornament

2008-09-20T20:59:00.004-04:00

Prints of their precious little feet become a perfect memento ornament for baby. Use scrapbook paper as a background and embellish with a ribbon border.

What You Need
Baby's footprints
Two pieces of light-colored scrapbook paper
Silver card stock with satin finish
Paper glaze such as Aleene's Paper Glaze
Paintbrush
Scissors
Embossing stylist tool
Two-sided adhesive foam dots
Double-sided tape
Crafts knife
Access to computer/printer/copier or letter stickers
3/8-inch-wide ribbon
2 silver rondelle beads

How to Make It
Copy an image of baby's footprints onto a piece of light-colored scrapbook paper. Brush two coats of paper glaze onto the scrapbook paper, allowing drying time in between. (This will protect the paper from fingerprints and dust, etc.)

Cut out the paper footprints. Cut a square of colored scrapbook paper large enough to display the footprints. Cut a slightly larger square of silver card stock. Turn silver paper over and lay it on a soft surface such as a piece of craft foam or cardboard. Using a stylist tool, make dot impressions around the edge of the square.

Apply foam dots (two layers) to the back of footprints. Apply footprints to square of colored scrapbook paper. Apply paper square to square of silver paper using double-sided tape.

The next step can be done two ways:

Option 1: Cut out a square of scrapbook paper larger than the silver card stock. Adhere it with double-sided tape and apply adhesive letter stickers for the birth information.

Option 2: Print directly onto the paper using a computer and printer paper. Create a document and type in the middle of the document page the birth name and birth date. Print it out in portrait mode. Next create another document; type in the birth length on one page and the birth weight on another page. Feed the birth name, birth date page back into the paper feeder so the birth length will print on that page. Then feed the same page through again so the birth weight will print on it as well. This takes a little practice to line up the words. Trim the paper into a rectangle and adhere it with double-sided tape to the silver paper.
Using a crafts knife on a protected surface, cut two small diagonal slits in the top two corners of the ornament. Cut one end of the ribbon on a diagonal and feed it through the slit from back to front. Thread one rondelle bead through the ribbon. Tie a knot in the ribbon and feed the loose end back down through the bead and through the second slit to the back. Repeat for the other side.

Tree Decorating

2008-09-17T12:16:00.006-04:00

Well I just saw the coolest idea for decorating my tree. I'm going to try it this year, I just got to buy the dove's first.

Hang doves from the ceiling with strings of beads in their mouths as though they were flying in and decorating the tree. Use white thread to suspend the birds and pushpins to secure them to the ceiling. The beads are going to be attached to the birds’ beaks with hot glue or with straight pins. They can also be attached to the feet. The string of beads should be long enough to drape the end over a limb of the tree. Place the doves at different distances from the Christmas tree. The end result should look like the doves are decorating the tree with beads. Also I'm going to have one or two of the doves carrying Christmas ornaments attached to their feet as if they were flying in to place the ornament on the tree.

Here's an example...but when I get mine done I'll post it.

Create a Holiday Gift Container

2008-09-17T07:23:00.003-04:00

The Correct Way The Post Office Would Like You To Address Envelopes

2008-09-17T06:34:00.003-04:00

Forget everything your fourth-grade teacher told you about flowing capitals and indented addresses. Here is how the Post Office would like to see your cards addressed:

MR AND MRS STEPHEN EWER
P O BOX 1234
ANYTOWN WA 98765-4321

The rules are:
(1) use block capital letters,
(2) do not use periods or commas,
(3) use proper postal abbreviations and (4) use the nine-digit zip code, if you know it.
Missing Zip codes? The Internet makes it easy. Find the USPS Zip Code Locator at http://zip4.usps.com/zip4/welcome.jsp .
Get a list of state and addressing abbreviations at http://www.usps.com/ncsc/lookups/usps_abbreviations.htm.

Today's software can often go a step further and add a postal bar code to the envelope or label, but CEO hesitates to raise the ire of the Purists to quite that extent. Let's just say if you're on the Geek Cool side of the fence, it's a nifty touch, and the Postmaster will thank you.

Time to write out that Christmas card list

2008-09-16T13:45:00.002-04:00

Today I'm going to write out my christmas card list. Instead of racking my head after Thanksgiving and being in a hurry, my cards will be ready to be mailed out the first of December!