What are the best Christmas party games? This is difficult to answer because, one particular party game seen as fun in the eyes of some folk – may not be seen that way by others. Because of this we find ourselves in a catch 22 situation. So what do you do? Do you invite the people over for Christmas you know will like your selection of party games, or, those you prefer the company of, but won`t like your games. Do you dismiss the idea of having any Christmas party games at all? Not on your Nellie, come on this is the season of goodwill; it is a time for festive fun and cheer. Whatever games you play should make no difference, however if they do, then for the guests that refuse to jolly should be politely asked to leave. This may sound harsh but we cannot have one person or two at a push, spoiling your Christmas day.

Christmas is a time for happy gatherings, and if any kiljoy`s sit round the Christmas dinner table, or in front of an open log fire to play games, then “no happy” gathering it will be. Best Christmas party games you will find are played at office Xmas parties, Children’s Christmas Parties, and at family celebrations, and why? Because they add fun and spread the Christmas spirit! Now let the fun begin with the dreaded word game.

This game has you give each guest on arrival a small token. Now announce to all a Christmas theme word. Tell all they are not to utter this word at all during the Christmas occasion you celebrate. Words like “tree” or “holly” are fine examples. If a guest overhears another guest utter this specific word at any time they take that person`s token. The guest with the most tokens at the specific designated time of ending the game wins a special gift!

Christmas Talent Contest!

If possible for this particular game is to avoid volunteers, as more often than not they can sing and do not embarrass easy. We want fun right, and if at someone else’s expense then so be it (in a nice way). It’s more fun to hear voices like that of a wailing banshee, or watching the footwork of those who believe they have feet like Micheal Flatly. Let everyone showcase their talent by singing or dancing. Contest winner tags should “Best Singer” “Best Dancer” “Worst vocalist” “Most Unique” “Most Funny” This game guarantees the air to fill with laughter.

Remember Christmas celebrations should cater for all age groups so organize for the young and old. Best Christmas party games are the ones people can join in with.

Pass the Bows another popular Christmas game

Have your guest’s team up for this game. This game includes all participants of each side to hold hands while passing bows along a line. Hands must not unlock at any time while passing bows.
Divide the group into teams of 6 to 10 people and have the team’s line up side by side, either sitting or standing next to each other. At one end of the line place a number of Christmas bows while at the other a bowl/bucket for bows to be placed. Now prompt each player to hold the right wrist of the person to their right. You can use a Christmas cracker bang to start the game – both teams must now pass bows down to one end and place them in the bucket or bowl.

Note: If a bow is dropped, it can only be retrieved while still joined to the wrist of a team member, and if the chain breaks all the bows currently being passed must move back to the beginning of the line. (Either the front – initial starting point or the bucket / bowl – the half way point.) Not to worry if you have no bows, I am sure you can find other as a substitute

Christmas Memory Game

Gather together 10 to 20 small Christmas items and place on a tray. Examples: bows, Christmas stocking, bells, Christmas tinsel, Christmas lights, gift labels, candles, Christmas video, nutcracker, etc…

Set the tray down and allow players to study it. Then hide tray contents by covering with a cloth. Now give the players paper and a pencil and have them write down as many of the items as they can remember. The one with the most correct items written down wins. Why not fill the tray with treats, like cookies, cake, tubbed jellies or assorted types of candy. The winner of the game gets to take home the treats. This fun game becomes more serious for the participants purely because of this. Well wouldn`t you want to take home a bag of yummies.

Kick start the festive spirit by providing everyone with a Christmas hat. Not only will this add “moving color” to the room, it will have everyone excite themselves even more. Listen to the laughter as each person puts on their hat. Paper hats are inexpensive. Kill two birds with one stone and buy Christmas crackers which contain hats. If there are any lively games to be played make sure the charismas tree or lighted candles or any type of breakables are moved out of the way. There are games you can play before sitting down to feast, however normally folk are famished and just want to get stuck into the turkey, so consider playing the best Christmas games after everyone has eaten and had time to digest their food.

Nevertheless if you want to keep your guests occupied till dinner is served, play the “guess me” game. This will include long heavy socks. Place varied Christmas items in the socks. You might stuff the socks with a small ornament, roll of tape, a fir cone etc. Have each person feel the contents of the sock and write down their guesses. The winner gets, you guessed it, one of the socks! This is why this game is best played with two socks so they get a pair for the prize.

Remember that music is the most ideal aside from playing the best Christmas games to get everyone in the mood.

Keep music lively; avoid slow and somber sounds as this can dampen a person’s spirits, who at this particular time may have something to feel saddened over. Your quest is to help this person, “not to forget,” but to enjoy.

Slade’s ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ has been voted the most loved Christmas song by the British public.

Other merry Christmas songs:

Mariah Carey – All I want for Christmas is you
Wham – Last Christmas
Wizzard – I wish it could be Christmas everyday

Let us not forget why we celebrate Christmas day December the 25th. While we give gifts and pleasure in our kids delight and cook dinner we often overlook “the reason for the season”, the birth of God’s son, Jesus Christ.

A Christmas Prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson that brings the lord back in sight and thought.

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen

What are the best Christmas party games? This is difficult to answer because, one particular party game seen as fun in the eyes of some folk – may not be seen that way by others. Because of this we find ourselves in a catch 22 situation. So what do you do? Do you invite the people over for Christmas you know will like your selection of party games, or, those you prefer the company of, but won`t like your games. Do you dismiss the idea of having any Christmas party games at all? Not on your Nellie, come on this is the season of goodwill; it is a time for festive fun and cheer. Whatever games you play should make no difference, however if they do, then for the guests that refuse to jolly should be politely asked to leave. This may sound harsh but we cannot have one person or two at a push, spoiling your Christmas day.

Christmas is a time for happy gatherings, and if any kiljoy`s sit round the Christmas dinner table, or in front of an open log fire to play games, then “no happy” gathering it will be. Best Christmas party games you will find are played at office Xmas parties, Children’s Christmas Parties, and at family celebrations, and why? Because they add fun and spread the Christmas spirit! Now let the fun begin with the dreaded word game.

This game has you give each guest on arrival a small token. Now announce to all a Christmas theme word. Tell all they are not to utter this word at all during the Christmas occasion you celebrate. Words like “tree” or “holly” are fine examples. If a guest overhears another guest utter this specific word at any time they take that person`s token. The guest with the most tokens at the specific designated time of ending the game wins a special gift!

Christmas Talent Contest!

If possible for this particular game is to avoid volunteers, as more often than not they can sing and do not embarrass easy. We want fun right, and if at someone else’s expense then so be it (in a nice way). It’s more fun to hear voices like that of a wailing banshee, or watching the footwork of those who believe they have feet like Micheal Flatly. Let everyone showcase their talent by singing or dancing. Contest winner tags should “Best Singer” “Best Dancer” “Worst vocalist” “Most Unique” “Most Funny” This game guarantees the air to fill with laughter.

Remember Christmas celebrations should cater for all age groups so organize for the young and old. Best Christmas party games are the ones people can join in with.

Pass the Bows another popular Christmas game

Have your guest’s team up for this game. This game includes all participants of each side to hold hands while passing bows along a line. Hands must not unlock at any time while passing bows.
Divide the group into teams of 6 to 10 people and have the team’s line up side by side, either sitting or standing next to each other. At one end of the line place a number of Christmas bows while at the other a bowl/bucket for bows to be placed. Now prompt each player to hold the right wrist of the person to their right. You can use a Christmas cracker bang to start the game – both teams must now pass bows down to one end and place them in the bucket or bowl.

Note: If a bow is dropped, it can only be retrieved while still joined to the wrist of a team member, and if the chain breaks all the bows currently being passed must move back to the beginning of the line. (Either the front – initial starting point or the bucket / bowl – the half way point.) Not to worry if you have no bows, I am sure you can find other as a substitute

Christmas Memory Game

Gather together 10 to 20 small Christmas items and place on a tray. Examples: bows, Christmas stocking, bells, Christmas tinsel, Christmas lights, gift labels, candles, Christmas video, nutcracker, etc…

Set the tray down and allow players to study it. Then hide tray contents by covering with a cloth. Now give the players paper and a pencil and have them write down as many of the items as they can remember. The one with the most correct items written down wins. Why not fill the tray with treats, like cookies, cake, tubbed jellies or assorted types of candy. The winner of the game gets to take home the treats. This fun game becomes more serious for the participants purely because of this. Well wouldn`t you want to take home a bag of yummies.

Kick start the festive spirit by providing everyone with a Christmas hat. Not only will this add “moving color” to the room, it will have everyone excite themselves even more. Listen to the laughter as each person puts on their hat. Paper hats are inexpensive. Kill two birds with one stone and buy Christmas crackers which contain hats. If there are any lively games to be played make sure the charismas tree or lighted candles or any type of breakables are moved out of the way. There are games you can play before sitting down to feast, however normally folk are famished and just want to get stuck into the turkey, so consider playing the best Christmas games after everyone has eaten and had time to digest their food.

Nevertheless if you want to keep your guests occupied till dinner is served, play the “guess me” game. This will include long heavy socks. Place varied Christmas items in the socks. You might stuff the socks with a small ornament, roll of tape, a fir cone etc. Have each person feel the contents of the sock and write down their guesses. The winner gets, you guessed it, one of the socks! This is why this game is best played with two socks so they get a pair for the prize.

Remember that music is the most ideal aside from playing the best Christmas games to get everyone in the mood.

Keep music lively; avoid slow and somber sounds as this can dampen a person’s spirits, who at this particular time may have something to feel saddened over. Your quest is to help this person, “not to forget,” but to enjoy.

Slade’s ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ has been voted the most loved Christmas song by the British public.

Other merry Christmas songs:

Mariah Carey – All I want for Christmas is you
Wham – Last Christmas
Wizzard – I wish it could be Christmas everyday

Let us not forget why we celebrate Christmas day December the 25th. While we give gifts and pleasure in our kids delight and cook dinner we often overlook “the reason for the season”, the birth of God’s son, Jesus Christ.

A Christmas Prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson that brings the lord back in sight and thought.

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen

What are the best Christmas party games? This is difficult to answer because, one particular party game seen as fun in the eyes of some folk – may not be seen that way by others. Because of this we find ourselves in a catch 22 situation. So what do you do? Do you invite the people over for Christmas you know will like your selection of party games, or, those you prefer the company of, but won`t like your games. Do you dismiss the idea of having any Christmas party games at all? Not on your Nellie, come on this is the season of goodwill; it is a time for festive fun and cheer. Whatever games you play should make no difference, however if they do, then for the guests that refuse to jolly should be politely asked to leave. This may sound harsh but we cannot have one person or two at a push, spoiling your Christmas day.

Christmas is a time for happy gatherings, and if any kiljoy`s sit round the Christmas dinner table, or in front of an open log fire to play games, then “no happy” gathering it will be. Best Christmas party games you will find are played at office Xmas parties, Children’s Christmas Parties, and at family celebrations, and why? Because they add fun and spread the Christmas spirit! Now let the fun begin with the dreaded word game.

This game has you give each guest on arrival a small token. Now announce to all a Christmas theme word. Tell all they are not to utter this word at all during the Christmas occasion you celebrate. Words like “tree” or “holly” are fine examples. If a guest overhears another guest utter this specific word at any time they take that person`s token. The guest with the most tokens at the specific designated time of ending the game wins a special gift!

Christmas Talent Contest!

If possible for this particular game is to avoid volunteers, as more often than not they can sing and do not embarrass easy. We want fun right, and if at someone else’s expense then so be it (in a nice way). It’s more fun to hear voices like that of a wailing banshee, or watching the footwork of those who believe they have feet like Micheal Flatly. Let everyone showcase their talent by singing or dancing. Contest winner tags should “Best Singer” “Best Dancer” “Worst vocalist” “Most Unique” “Most Funny” This game guarantees the air to fill with laughter.

Remember Christmas celebrations should cater for all age groups so organize for the young and old. Best Christmas party games are the ones people can join in with.

Pass the Bows another popular Christmas game

Have your guest’s team up for this game. This game includes all participants of each side to hold hands while passing bows along a line. Hands must not unlock at any time while passing bows.
Divide the group into teams of 6 to 10 people and have the team’s line up side by side, either sitting or standing next to each other. At one end of the line place a number of Christmas bows while at the other a bowl/bucket for bows to be placed. Now prompt each player to hold the right wrist of the person to their right. You can use a Christmas cracker bang to start the game – both teams must now pass bows down to one end and place them in the bucket or bowl.

Note: If a bow is dropped, it can only be retrieved while still joined to the wrist of a team member, and if the chain breaks all the bows currently being passed must move back to the beginning of the line. (Either the front – initial starting point or the bucket / bowl – the half way point.) Not to worry if you have no bows, I am sure you can find other as a substitute

Christmas Memory Game

Gather together 10 to 20 small Christmas items and place on a tray. Examples: bows, Christmas stocking, bells, Christmas tinsel, Christmas lights, gift labels, candles, Christmas video, nutcracker, etc…

Set the tray down and allow players to study it. Then hide tray contents by covering with a cloth. Now give the players paper and a pencil and have them write down as many of the items as they can remember. The one with the most correct items written down wins. Why not fill the tray with treats, like cookies, cake, tubbed jellies or assorted types of candy. The winner of the game gets to take home the treats. This fun game becomes more serious for the participants purely because of this. Well wouldn`t you want to take home a bag of yummies.

Kick start the festive spirit by providing everyone with a Christmas hat. Not only will this add “moving color” to the room, it will have everyone excite themselves even more. Listen to the laughter as each person puts on their hat. Paper hats are inexpensive. Kill two birds with one stone and buy Christmas crackers which contain hats. If there are any lively games to be played make sure the charismas tree or lighted candles or any type of breakables are moved out of the way. There are games you can play before sitting down to feast, however normally folk are famished and just want to get stuck into the turkey, so consider playing the best Christmas games after everyone has eaten and had time to digest their food.

Nevertheless if you want to keep your guests occupied till dinner is served, play the “guess me” game. This will include long heavy socks. Place varied Christmas items in the socks. You might stuff the socks with a small ornament, roll of tape, a fir cone etc. Have each person feel the contents of the sock and write down their guesses. The winner gets, you guessed it, one of the socks! This is why this game is best played with two socks so they get a pair for the prize.

Remember that music is the most ideal aside from playing the best Christmas games to get everyone in the mood.

Keep music lively; avoid slow and somber sounds as this can dampen a person’s spirits, who at this particular time may have something to feel saddened over. Your quest is to help this person, “not to forget,” but to enjoy.

Slade’s ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ has been voted the most loved Christmas song by the British public.

Other merry Christmas songs:

Mariah Carey – All I want for Christmas is you
Wham – Last Christmas
Wizzard – I wish it could be Christmas everyday

Let us not forget why we celebrate Christmas day December the 25th. While we give gifts and pleasure in our kids delight and cook dinner we often overlook “the reason for the season”, the birth of God’s son, Jesus Christ.

A Christmas Prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson that brings the lord back in sight and thought.

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen

What are the best Christmas party games? This is difficult to answer because, one particular party game seen as fun in the eyes of some folk – may not be seen that way by others. Because of this we find ourselves in a catch 22 situation. So what do you do? Do you invite the people over for Christmas you know will like your selection of party games, or, those you prefer the company of, but won`t like your games. Do you dismiss the idea of having any Christmas party games at all? Not on your Nellie, come on this is the season of goodwill; it is a time for festive fun and cheer. Whatever games you play should make no difference, however if they do, then for the guests that refuse to jolly should be politely asked to leave. This may sound harsh but we cannot have one person or two at a push, spoiling your Christmas day.

Christmas is a time for happy gatherings, and if any kiljoy`s sit round the Christmas dinner table, or in front of an open log fire to play games, then “no happy” gathering it will be. Best Christmas party games you will find are played at office Xmas parties, Children’s Christmas Parties, and at family celebrations, and why? Because they add fun and spread the Christmas spirit! Now let the fun begin with the dreaded word game.

This game has you give each guest on arrival a small token. Now announce to all a Christmas theme word. Tell all they are not to utter this word at all during the Christmas occasion you celebrate. Words like “tree” or “holly” are fine examples. If a guest overhears another guest utter this specific word at any time they take that person`s token. The guest with the most tokens at the specific designated time of ending the game wins a special gift!

Christmas Talent Contest!

If possible for this particular game is to avoid volunteers, as more often than not they can sing and do not embarrass easy. We want fun right, and if at someone else’s expense then so be it (in a nice way). It’s more fun to hear voices like that of a wailing banshee, or watching the footwork of those who believe they have feet like Micheal Flatly. Let everyone showcase their talent by singing or dancing. Contest winner tags should “Best Singer” “Best Dancer” “Worst vocalist” “Most Unique” “Most Funny” This game guarantees the air to fill with laughter.

Remember Christmas celebrations should cater for all age groups so organize for the young and old. Best Christmas party games are the ones people can join in with.

Pass the Bows another popular Christmas game

Have your guest’s team up for this game. This game includes all participants of each side to hold hands while passing bows along a line. Hands must not unlock at any time while passing bows.
Divide the group into teams of 6 to 10 people and have the team’s line up side by side, either sitting or standing next to each other. At one end of the line place a number of Christmas bows while at the other a bowl/bucket for bows to be placed. Now prompt each player to hold the right wrist of the person to their right. You can use a Christmas cracker bang to start the game – both teams must now pass bows down to one end and place them in the bucket or bowl.

Note: If a bow is dropped, it can only be retrieved while still joined to the wrist of a team member, and if the chain breaks all the bows currently being passed must move back to the beginning of the line. (Either the front – initial starting point or the bucket / bowl – the half way point.) Not to worry if you have no bows, I am sure you can find other as a substitute

Christmas Memory Game

Gather together 10 to 20 small Christmas items and place on a tray. Examples: bows, Christmas stocking, bells, Christmas tinsel, Christmas lights, gift labels, candles, Christmas video, nutcracker, etc…

Set the tray down and allow players to study it. Then hide tray contents by covering with a cloth. Now give the players paper and a pencil and have them write down as many of the items as they can remember. The one with the most correct items written down wins. Why not fill the tray with treats, like cookies, cake, tubbed jellies or assorted types of candy. The winner of the game gets to take home the treats. This fun game becomes more serious for the participants purely because of this. Well wouldn`t you want to take home a bag of yummies.

Kick start the festive spirit by providing everyone with a Christmas hat. Not only will this add “moving color” to the room, it will have everyone excite themselves even more. Listen to the laughter as each person puts on their hat. Paper hats are inexpensive. Kill two birds with one stone and buy Christmas crackers which contain hats. If there are any lively games to be played make sure the charismas tree or lighted candles or any type of breakables are moved out of the way. There are games you can play before sitting down to feast, however normally folk are famished and just want to get stuck into the turkey, so consider playing the best Christmas games after everyone has eaten and had time to digest their food.

Nevertheless if you want to keep your guests occupied till dinner is served, play the “guess me” game. This will include long heavy socks. Place varied Christmas items in the socks. You might stuff the socks with a small ornament, roll of tape, a fir cone etc. Have each person feel the contents of the sock and write down their guesses. The winner gets, you guessed it, one of the socks! This is why this game is best played with two socks so they get a pair for the prize.

Remember that music is the most ideal aside from playing the best Christmas games to get everyone in the mood.

Keep music lively; avoid slow and somber sounds as this can dampen a person’s spirits, who at this particular time may have something to feel saddened over. Your quest is to help this person, “not to forget,” but to enjoy.

Slade’s ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ has been voted the most loved Christmas song by the British public.

Other merry Christmas songs:

Mariah Carey – All I want for Christmas is you
Wham – Last Christmas
Wizzard – I wish it could be Christmas everyday

Let us not forget why we celebrate Christmas day December the 25th. While we give gifts and pleasure in our kids delight and cook dinner we often overlook “the reason for the season”, the birth of God’s son, Jesus Christ.

A Christmas Prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson that brings the lord back in sight and thought.

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen

There are many a Christmas film to entertain during this most special time of year and in spite of this tradition not going back as far as the music and stories that accompany this season; it has become just as much apart of Christmas as any other. Christmas films; now a days are just as eagerly awaited as perhaps the season itself by cinema goers all over the world with every season bringing on a new batch, most of which will probably be forgotten before the season returns the following year.

With regards to the history behind these films perhaps it can be said that the first films of this season limited themselves to subjects which portrayed the birth and life of Jesus Christ or at least the way it is said to have taken place in the “New Testament” of the bible. These films concentrating on showing three wise men being lead by a star to a place where the virgin Mary gave birth to the one whom Christians through out the world have called the messiah. Some films would include the events of Jesus’ life but for the most part these films of Christmas would limit themselves to the events that preceded his birth.

With time however Christmas films as did perhaps the season itself; moved away from only being focused on the birth of Christ and started including such themes as Santa Claus. This being the man who supposedly lives in the North Pole and gives presents to all those children, regardless of any condition other then weather or not they have been good through out the year.

Christmas eventually stretched beyond even these two themes and like Christmas itself which expanded so did the films concerning this time of year, to include the effect this season has on most people and their relationships to one another. As a strange coincidence or perhaps it was not the first film to go a way from these two themes was “A Christmas Carol”, based on the famous book written by Charles Dickens. As it might have been this story which was the first to concentrate on another matter concerning Christmas other then Jesus or Santa Claus.

With regards however to film versions of “A Christmas Carol”, the first of which was not even given this title but “Scrooge” (though sometimes also referred to as “Marley’s ghost”), it being released way back in 1901 as a short film. Many films however would follow based on the theme created by Dickens though perhaps the one that sticks out the most from all these versions of the same, at least as far as those which are in black and white is the one staring Reginald Owen in 1938 in the role of the Ebenezer Scrooge. The biter old man who needed to be reminded by three ghosts sent to him by his deceased business partner, Marley of the joy he once held for Christmas which had been replaced by his greed for money.

Where “A Christmas Carol” can be said to have been the first film to focus on other then religious subjects perhaps it is the film “It’s A Wonderful Life” which in a way goes back to them though again not concentrating on Jesus’ birth but on an angel coming down to earth to assist “George Bailey”. This being a man who on Christmas day decided that his path would be suicide to escape from a life he considered not to have been of use to any; only to be proven that in fact many around him would be far worse of if he had not been born.

“It’s A Wonderful Life” in my opinion and that of many (at least in the United States) others has in recent years replaced “A Christmas Carol” as far as being the most symbolic film of the Christmas season. As it perhaps even more so then “A Christmas Carol” captures that spirit so abundant during this season. That being the spirit of giving and sharing with our neighbors specially should they be in need or if they through out their lives have done as much as George Bailey did for those in his town of Bedford Falls. As for myself personally I would have to say that looking at this film even from a critical angle, that it is the one that I would recommend above all others when it comes to Christmas films. It combining sentimentalism but in a strange manner those who are portrayed as such are also shown as being practical. After all they in a way are simply showing their gratitude to the man who was responsible for them being able to buy the homes they live in. This sentiment being exclaimed in the line “I wouldn’t even have a roof over my head it if wasn’t for you George” used by one of the characters who contributes to solve George’s dilemma over the money which had been stolen from his savings and loan.

Perhaps one of the reasons why “It’s A Wonderful Life” has replaced “A Christmas Carol” as the standard Christmas film is because “It’s A Wonderful Life” contrary to “A Christmas Carol” has not had so many different versions made, which makes it that when people refer to it they naturally only think of the one made by Capra staring James Stewart. This being the case though a very forgettable version called “It happened One Christmas” was made in 1977 which given the fact that many were not familiar with the original version at the time become very popular. This till “It’s A Wonderful Life” was made popular on TV to the point of almost being shown at least once a day at Christmas time. All of which sending “It happened One Christmas” back to the obscurity from which it should have never left.

“A Christmas Carol” however has had many versions made of it, making it almost that there is no version which can be considered classic or even the original one. All of which making it hard for film viewers to focus on any one particular version or associating the main character “Ebenezer Scrooge” with any particular actor, given that many from George C. Scot to Henry Winkler (mostly known for his portrayal of the “Happy Days” character the “Fonz”) to Reginald Owen have played have played it. This not being the case for George Bailey; as this character has come to be associated exclusively with James Stewart.

“A Christmas Carol” perhaps because it was first known as a great piece of literature went on however to have its theme repeated not only in many a film but TV serials as well. For instance “The Odd Couple” did so when Oscar dreamed he was “Scrooge” being visited by the ghost of Felix; given that the ghost of Marley could not make it given that it was his busiest time of year. “The Six Million Dollar Man”, a TV show about a man turned part robot also took from this theme as did many a cartoon like “Mr. Magoo” and even Walt Disney cashed in on the idea using Donald Duck’s rich but often parsimonious Scottish uncle.

However, many are the films regarding Christmas that I would say deserve honorable mention such as “The Christmas That Almost Wasn’t”, which I might add I went to see with my class while a student at the parochial school I attended in my early years in New York City. “The Christmas That Almost Wasn’t” I would recommend as being nice though it perhaps lacks somewhat in originality as it takes a page from “It’s A Wonderful Life”. This coming in the form that it is the children who help Santa raise the money he needs to pay off his debt or the toys he has worked on all year will be taken instead.

However when mentioning Christmas films there are some which I would not take even the most rotten kids I know to see such as the one made with Dudley Moore called “Santa Claus” or “Miracle On 34th Street”. This last film being in extremely poor taste in my opinion; as it tries to show the hardships of a “poor little girl” who cries because she has to content herself with living in luxurious apartment on Westside of Central Park; given her mother does not own an equally posh house in the country. This “poor girl’s” tragedy is even augmented because she has no father, as if her more then loving mother were not enough. This making me think of how one could classify those orphaned children I saw living on the streets of South America, who had to do with much less then this spoilt American child; while not having anybody what so ever.

Of course there are other films which were made and can be purchased on DVD such as “The Bells Of Saint Marry” though this film I know very little about as I have neither seen it nor read its synopsis and what little I do know about it is that there is a Swedish actress by the name of Ingrid Bergman, who plays a nun. This being what I picked up from a scene in “The Godfather” in which Michael Corleone (played by Al Pacino) and his girlfriend, Kate (Played by Diane Keaton) walk out of Radio City (when they showed films there) after seeing it and comment on how perhaps Michael would prefer it if Kate were a nun or Ingrid Bergman. I having little in the way of knowledge about this film can not recommend it though I have heard from many that it is worth seeing but then again this was what I heard about that tactless film “Miracle On 34th Street”.

As for animated films that have taken my interest during this time of year, I would have to say that “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” ranks up there as one of the finest films I have seen connected to this time of year. This 30 minute animated film by “Doctor Zeus” showing how a little girl teaches the mean Grinch, that there is more to Christmas then toys and decorations; is a real Christmas classic which no child should ever miss. Those who see this film in English and are old enough might recognize the voice of Boris Karloff (real name William Pratt), also known for his portrayal of Frankenstein. Where I recommend this animated film I by no means do so the idiotic film version made in recent years with the same title by director Ron Howard (also known for his portrayal of the Happy Days character Ritchie Cunningham) staring Jim Carey. This because I have a hard time deciding if this film is even a bigger tragedy then some of the other Christmas disasters I have tried to watch on TV; most of which I will not even mention in this article.

TV shows have also contributed great stories for this time of year known as Christmas and it is with all my heart that I would like to recommend to those who should read this article, that this Christmas they turn on Youtube and watch the episode of the Twilight Zone; entitled “Night Of The Meek”. This being a truly igneous story of a man of good nature by the name of Henry Corwin; who through the magic that is Christmas is literally transformed in to Santa Claus but not before having been fired from his Job as the department store Santa Clause for drunkenness.

It is this story which I would say is my favorite as far as stories portraying the character who is also known as Saint Nick. As it portrays Henry Corwin as a generous man, who drinks because he is unable to help the poor and helpless one’s as he refers to them who are all around him. One of which contrary to the child in “Miracle On 34th Street” asks not for a house in the country but a job for his unemployed father. It is however when confronted by a bag of Christmas presents which seems to not only never run out of presents but have in it all that those around ask for; such as toys, sweaters and just about anything anybody could want that Henry Corwin gets what he always wanted. To become the biggest gift giver of all.

In conclusion I would say that Christmas is a wonderful time of year and perhaps in a way it is made more so by the films mentioned in this article; for they thanks to their stories show us how this time of year can truly bring people closer together in a way that nothing else can. As for a personal confession of mine, I must say that “It’s A Wonderful Life” along with “The Night Of Meek” never fail to bring tears to my eyes. This being the case regardless of weather I find myself watching or even describing their plots as I have done so in this piece of mine.

It is approaching that time of year. Time to get out the red Santa hat, make your to-do list and make sure we send Christmas cards the people that are important to us. Since the emergence of ecom, a number of great sites have provided good systems that allow you to personalize holiday cards online before printing.

There are 2 basic groups of people that get involved in the tradition of sending and receiving Christmas greeting cards:

1. Friends and Family- For the ones we truly love and care for.
2. Business or Corporate- as a good will gesture of the confidence and faith your clientele has placed in you.

Traditionally we send Christmas cards once a year. It is a tradition that has continued for centuries. The first recognized usage of a Christmas greeting was a letter written by an English admiral sent in 1699. The first Commercial Christmas cards went into production in the year 1873 by an man known as Louis Prang. Louis was an inventor and a litho printer. He produced a card for Charles Dickens a well known Christmas carol writer.

Why do People Send Christmas Cards?
Sounds like a simple question. We know a brief on how and why this tradition began but why has it grown into a multi billion dollar industry?

Take a closer look at what people say when asking similar questions for the fun of it. These are comments that people say using the words “why” and or “Christmas” in the same sentence online found in Christmas topics.

1. Why do people send Christmas cards showing Santa’s butt-crack?
2. Why oh why do people send Christmas cards to people they haven`t spared 10 minutes on the phone for during the year?
3. Do you want to know Jesus, whose birth we celebrate at Christmas?
4. I don’t understand why everybody is saying happy new year already.
5. Why do people give out Christmas cards with gifts and presents at Christmas time?
6. Why some people do not like Christmas?
7. Why do people sometimes write “Christmas” with an “X”? (Xmas)
8. Do you know why Christmas is celebrated around the world?
9. Why you should send Christmas cards to clients
10. Why not get in before the rush and do “thanksgiving” cards
11. To avoid offending anyone, why not send your cards out early in January?
12. why wait until Christmas to do it.
13. why do so many people claim to hate Christmas letters when they are sent by their own friends and family?
14. Why is it cheaper to do it now?? Day after sounds good..
15. It is kind of early to send Xmas cards, why not wait until after Thanksgiving
16. Why do people give each other gifts on Christmas?

Sending out and receiving holiday greeting cards at the festive season is part of Christmas cheer that most of us share. I have a considerable collection of Christmas cards that I’ve put away and keep. I look forward to this interaction of receiving and giving every year. It seems to create some sort of radiance. For the last couple of years I’ve been including my 9 and 14 year old daughters in Christmas greeting card exchanges due to the fact that children generally don’t become engaged with Christmas gift card best wishes. Christmas day is typically enjoyed by our children to its fullest though.

Over the festive season one of the sad realities is the fact many of us catch flues and feel like crap. Sometimes one person then the whole family can get unwittingly sick in winter months so they are unable to get to send out your usual greeting cards and stuff. When you aren’t feeling like yourself details can accidentally be missed. Most friends know this, even though you feel unpleasant for not remembering to get cousin Chester a Christmas card. You gotta chuckle and take Chester out for a Pizza dinner another time I guess.

It can be allot of fun during the festive season mailing out custom greeting cards and it’s good to get about of the way. “It’s not too late to avoid the Christmas rush” is what I keep saying, the next thing you know I am duking it out with Christmas shoppers a few days before Christmas. You have your friends and family that you need to send a Christmas card to. Why cause undue stress on yourself by “put it off today, I’ll do it tomorrow”.

My feeling is in business we send Christmas cards to send warm wishes and express a sincere thank you to your patrons for the support they have given you over the past year. In your personal life we send them more as tradition and as a means to send cheer to those you cannot visit.

The Christmas Card Manufacturing business sector is a multi-billion dollar industry that grows every year. Here’s a Few Interesting Facts About The Holiday Greeting Card Industry

• Almost 7.5 billion dollars are spent on about 7 billion Christmas cards.
• In the US 90% of households will buy 30 holiday cards. There are cheaper greeting cards starting at 50 cents and some in excess of $10.

It is a huge business and there are thousands of smaller businesses that have started-up to further enhance the personalization of holiday and greeting cards.

Many businesses wonder whether to personalize cards or not. If you are going to buy holiday cards to send out then you may as well have them personalized (logo printed) by a commercial printer, it is a small extra fee and saves time. If you are buying them for personal use you’ll likely benefit more by choosing or creating a verse and have it printed or purchased as a standard blank.

What are the best Christmas party games? This is difficult to answer because, one particular party game seen as fun in the eyes of some folk – may not be seen that way by others. Because of this we find ourselves in a catch 22 situation. So what do you do? Do you invite the people over for Christmas you know will like your selection of party games, or, those you prefer the company of, but won`t like your games. Do you dismiss the idea of having any Christmas party games at all? Not on your Nellie, come on this is the season of goodwill; it is a time for festive fun and cheer. Whatever games you play should make no difference, however if they do, then for the guests that refuse to jolly should be politely asked to leave. This may sound harsh but we cannot have one person or two at a push, spoiling your Christmas day.

Christmas is a time for happy gatherings, and if any kiljoy`s sit round the Christmas dinner table, or in front of an open log fire to play games, then “no happy” gathering it will be. Best Christmas party games you will find are played at office Xmas parties, Children’s Christmas Parties, and at family celebrations, and why? Because they add fun and spread the Christmas spirit! Now let the fun begin with the dreaded word game.

This game has you give each guest on arrival a small token. Now announce to all a Christmas theme word. Tell all they are not to utter this word at all during the Christmas occasion you celebrate. Words like “tree” or “holly” are fine examples. If a guest overhears another guest utter this specific word at any time they take that person`s token. The guest with the most tokens at the specific designated time of ending the game wins a special gift!

Christmas Talent Contest!

If possible for this particular game is to avoid volunteers, as more often than not they can sing and do not embarrass easy. We want fun right, and if at someone else’s expense then so be it (in a nice way). It’s more fun to hear voices like that of a wailing banshee, or watching the footwork of those who believe they have feet like Micheal Flatly. Let everyone showcase their talent by singing or dancing. Contest winner tags should “Best Singer” “Best Dancer” “Worst vocalist” “Most Unique” “Most Funny” This game guarantees the air to fill with laughter.

Remember Christmas celebrations should cater for all age groups so organize for the young and old. Best Christmas party games are the ones people can join in with.

Pass the Bows another popular Christmas game

Have your guest’s team up for this game. This game includes all participants of each side to hold hands while passing bows along a line. Hands must not unlock at any time while passing bows.
Divide the group into teams of 6 to 10 people and have the team’s line up side by side, either sitting or standing next to each other. At one end of the line place a number of Christmas bows while at the other a bowl/bucket for bows to be placed. Now prompt each player to hold the right wrist of the person to their right. You can use a Christmas cracker bang to start the game – both teams must now pass bows down to one end and place them in the bucket or bowl.

Note: If a bow is dropped, it can only be retrieved while still joined to the wrist of a team member, and if the chain breaks all the bows currently being passed must move back to the beginning of the line. (Either the front – initial starting point or the bucket / bowl – the half way point.) Not to worry if you have no bows, I am sure you can find other as a substitute

Christmas Memory Game

Gather together 10 to 20 small Christmas items and place on a tray. Examples: bows, Christmas stocking, bells, Christmas tinsel, Christmas lights, gift labels, candles, Christmas video, nutcracker, etc…

Set the tray down and allow players to study it. Then hide tray contents by covering with a cloth. Now give the players paper and a pencil and have them write down as many of the items as they can remember. The one with the most correct items written down wins. Why not fill the tray with treats, like cookies, cake, tubbed jellies or assorted types of candy. The winner of the game gets to take home the treats. This fun game becomes more serious for the participants purely because of this. Well wouldn`t you want to take home a bag of yummies.

Kick start the festive spirit by providing everyone with a Christmas hat. Not only will this add “moving color” to the room, it will have everyone excite themselves even more. Listen to the laughter as each person puts on their hat. Paper hats are inexpensive. Kill two birds with one stone and buy Christmas crackers which contain hats. If there are any lively games to be played make sure the charismas tree or lighted candles or any type of breakables are moved out of the way. There are games you can play before sitting down to feast, however normally folk are famished and just want to get stuck into the turkey, so consider playing the best Christmas games after everyone has eaten and had time to digest their food.

Nevertheless if you want to keep your guests occupied till dinner is served, play the “guess me” game. This will include long heavy socks. Place varied Christmas items in the socks. You might stuff the socks with a small ornament, roll of tape, a fir cone etc. Have each person feel the contents of the sock and write down their guesses. The winner gets, you guessed it, one of the socks! This is why this game is best played with two socks so they get a pair for the prize.

Remember that music is the most ideal aside from playing the best Christmas games to get everyone in the mood.

Keep music lively; avoid slow and somber sounds as this can dampen a person’s spirits, who at this particular time may have something to feel saddened over. Your quest is to help this person, “not to forget,” but to enjoy.

Slade’s ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ has been voted the most loved Christmas song by the British public.

Other merry Christmas songs:

Mariah Carey – All I want for Christmas is you
Wham – Last Christmas
Wizzard – I wish it could be Christmas everyday

Let us not forget why we celebrate Christmas day December the 25th. While we give gifts and pleasure in our kids delight and cook dinner we often overlook “the reason for the season”, the birth of God’s son, Jesus Christ.

A Christmas Prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson that brings the lord back in sight and thought.

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen

Christmas is not about the presents under the tree, the decorations and the lights, the concerts or the fancy meals. It’s not about shopping, snow, caroling, or Santa Clause. True Christmas is found in the first syllable of the very word itself, who is all too often forgotten. Christmas is about Christ! And while all of the festivities, traditions, and activities that accompany this holiday are certainly appropriate and extremely fun, we must ensure that we never forget the significance of why we celebrate in the first place. And perhaps true Christmas is discovered, enjoyed, and made evident only when our actions reflect the actions and character of Him whose birth we commemorate. He loved His lambs, He fed His lambs, and He continues to feed His lambs; our great opportunity is to allow Him to feed His lambs through the service and giving of you and me.

Below is listed not only giving and service opportunities that help us participate in the true meaning of Christmas, but also fun Christmas activities and traditions that can be enjoyed by families and people everywhere:

1) Purpose of the Holiday: First and most importantly, ensure that in the midst of all the fun festivities, parties, gift exchanges, traditions, delicious meals and chocolate, and especially the anticipation of Santa Clause – that you make time to remember Him, and the real Reason why we celebrate this season!

2) ‘Adopt a Family’: Find a local family that may be struggling or has very little, and anonymously give them Christmas. For 12 days, drop off food one night, clothes the next, books, toys, kind notes, treats, etc. (or just drop it all off at once).

3) ‘Draw Names’: On Dec. 1st, each child will draw the name of another sibling or parent – and that is who they have to get a present for Christmas that year. One year, have it be a funny gift; the next year have it be a ‘no-cost’ present where everyone can not spend money; another year each person has to actually make/create their gift; or just buy the gift for the individual; etc.

4) Yearly Ornaments: Each year, every child will get to make/create a new ornament to hang on the tree.

5) Hang Mistletoe: Enough said right!

6) Family Sleepover: On Christmas Eve, the whole family will campout together in the same room. Obviously this can’t be in the room with the tree, but upstairs/downstairs or in a bedroom – all the kids (and Dad/Mom) will sleep out together.

7) Yearly Christmas Tree Outing: All the men and boys each year will go out on Dec. 1st and find the Christmas tree. While gone, the women will make a warm meal for everyone to eat when the guys get home. That evening, everyone will decorate the tree, listen to Christmas music, make the house festive for the season, and just play games and spend the evening together.

Nightly Christmas Stories: For each night in December, read a Christmas story or book, a holiday poem, the symbols of Christmas, or the words to a Christmas carol.

9) Christmas Eve Present: Allow each child to open one present on Christmas Eve.

10) Nativity Sets & Ginger-Bread Houses: Each year as a family, make a new Nativity set (or have each child make their own). Use paper, play dough, cardboard, cardstock, etc. Also, set aside one night to make Ginger Bread Houses together.

11) Secret Santa Care Packages: Identify a child who is sick at the hospital, some children from the orphanage, various people at the homeless shelter, family in need, or even a child in a developing country (work with your local non-profit) – and each member in the family (even the kids) will donate money, items, and time in putting together these care packages for people in need. Deliver it anonymously, or in person so children can feel and see the joy of giving.

12) Christmas Lights Drive: As a family, hop in the car and make it a yearly tradition to just drive around neighborhoods and downtown looking at Christmas lights. Take candy, of course!

13) Read the Christmas Story: Perhaps make Christmas Eve the night to talk about the ‘true’ meaning of and significance of Christmas. Read the account of Christ’s birth from the Bible, talk about it, or perhaps even for fun – have the kids act it out. Then, the 25th can be the day of fun and presents.

14) Mini Tree: With little kids, allow each of them to have their own little Christmas tree that they can decorate however they want – and they can keep it in their rooms.

15) Giving Tree: Set up a tree at the local schools, Churches, and community centers. Have paper ornaments on each tree with a random items that people will donate. Items could be: food, clothes, toys, books, money, toiletries, etc. Then, have a large box where people can come back and drop off their donated items. Then, give these items to local families/individuals in need. Give them to the local Salvation Army, Orphanage, Homeless Shelter, or Non-Profit.

16) Dec 1st Kickoff: Make the first day in December the official day the family starts Christmas celebrations and decorations. Make some hot cocoa, popcorn, turn on the Christmas music, and get the family together. Decorate the house, put up the tree, and just spend the night playing games and having fun together.

17) Gift to Christ: Each year as a family, and especially personally, determine something you will do as an expression of gratitude for what Christ did for you. Break a habit, develop a talent, mend a relationship, or become a better person/family in some way.

18) Christmas Giving: As a family, do one or many of the following each year: visit a nursing home or homeless shelter and take small gifts for people, make a meal or treat for a new neighbor or someone in need, invite a widowed woman or someone who is alone to share a meal, shovel snow for Elderly neighbors, etc.

19) Christmas Culture Night: Learn about how other cultures, countries, and religions celebrate Christmas.

20) Yearly Christmas Fun: Yet, in the midst of it all – have FUN! Every year, make it a tradition to do one or many of the following fun activities: go sledding, make snowmen, go to the beach, go skiing, ice skating, a performance, to a cabin, have a Christmas movie and popcorn night, have an extended family or neighborhood Christmas party gift exchange, etc. Perhaps one night you can specifically set aside as ‘Christmas Family Night’ and just be together. Get Pizza, rent a movie, play games, have a campout in the family room, etc.

Perhaps it was the great Dr. Seuss who summed it up best when he so perfectly penned: “And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” Thus, Christmas and giving is not determined by price, but in how we give and act – the season’s about Christ!

Christmas is not about the presents under the tree, the decorations and the lights, the concerts or the fancy meals. It’s not about shopping, snow, caroling, or Santa Clause. True Christmas is found in the first syllable of the very word itself, who is all too often forgotten. Christmas is about Christ! And while all of the festivities, traditions, and activities that accompany this holiday are certainly appropriate and extremely fun, we must ensure that we never forget the significance of why we celebrate in the first place. And perhaps true Christmas is discovered, enjoyed, and made evident only when our actions reflect the actions and character of Him whose birth we commemorate. He loved His lambs, He fed His lambs, and He continues to feed His lambs; our great opportunity is to allow Him to feed His lambs through the service and giving of you and me.

Below is listed not only giving and service opportunities that help us participate in the true meaning of Christmas, but also fun Christmas activities and traditions that can be enjoyed by families and people everywhere:

1) Purpose of the Holiday: First and most importantly, ensure that in the midst of all the fun festivities, parties, gift exchanges, traditions, delicious meals and chocolate, and especially the anticipation of Santa Clause – that you make time to remember Him, and the real Reason why we celebrate this season!

2) ‘Adopt a Family’: Find a local family that may be struggling or has very little, and anonymously give them Christmas. For 12 days, drop off food one night, clothes the next, books, toys, kind notes, treats, etc. (or just drop it all off at once).

3) ‘Draw Names’: On Dec. 1st, each child will draw the name of another sibling or parent – and that is who they have to get a present for Christmas that year. One year, have it be a funny gift; the next year have it be a ‘no-cost’ present where everyone can not spend money; another year each person has to actually make/create their gift; or just buy the gift for the individual; etc.

4) Yearly Ornaments: Each year, every child will get to make/create a new ornament to hang on the tree.

5) Hang Mistletoe: Enough said right!

6) Family Sleepover: On Christmas Eve, the whole family will campout together in the same room. Obviously this can’t be in the room with the tree, but upstairs/downstairs or in a bedroom – all the kids (and Dad/Mom) will sleep out together.

7) Yearly Christmas Tree Outing: All the men and boys each year will go out on Dec. 1st and find the Christmas tree. While gone, the women will make a warm meal for everyone to eat when the guys get home. That evening, everyone will decorate the tree, listen to Christmas music, make the house festive for the season, and just play games and spend the evening together.

Nightly Christmas Stories: For each night in December, read a Christmas story or book, a holiday poem, the symbols of Christmas, or the words to a Christmas carol.

9) Christmas Eve Present: Allow each child to open one present on Christmas Eve.

10) Nativity Sets & Ginger-Bread Houses: Each year as a family, make a new Nativity set (or have each child make their own). Use paper, play dough, cardboard, cardstock, etc. Also, set aside one night to make Ginger Bread Houses together.

11) Secret Santa Care Packages: Identify a child who is sick at the hospital, some children from the orphanage, various people at the homeless shelter, family in need, or even a child in a developing country (work with your local non-profit) – and each member in the family (even the kids) will donate money, items, and time in putting together these care packages for people in need. Deliver it anonymously, or in person so children can feel and see the joy of giving.

12) Christmas Lights Drive: As a family, hop in the car and make it a yearly tradition to just drive around neighborhoods and downtown looking at Christmas lights. Take candy, of course!

13) Read the Christmas Story: Perhaps make Christmas Eve the night to talk about the ‘true’ meaning of and significance of Christmas. Read the account of Christ’s birth from the Bible, talk about it, or perhaps even for fun – have the kids act it out. Then, the 25th can be the day of fun and presents.

14) Mini Tree: With little kids, allow each of them to have their own little Christmas tree that they can decorate however they want – and they can keep it in their rooms.

15) Giving Tree: Set up a tree at the local schools, Churches, and community centers. Have paper ornaments on each tree with a random items that people will donate. Items could be: food, clothes, toys, books, money, toiletries, etc. Then, have a large box where people can come back and drop off their donated items. Then, give these items to local families/individuals in need. Give them to the local Salvation Army, Orphanage, Homeless Shelter, or Non-Profit.

16) Dec 1st Kickoff: Make the first day in December the official day the family starts Christmas celebrations and decorations. Make some hot cocoa, popcorn, turn on the Christmas music, and get the family together. Decorate the house, put up the tree, and just spend the night playing games and having fun together.

17) Gift to Christ: Each year as a family, and especially personally, determine something you will do as an expression of gratitude for what Christ did for you. Break a habit, develop a talent, mend a relationship, or become a better person/family in some way.

18) Christmas Giving: As a family, do one or many of the following each year: visit a nursing home or homeless shelter and take small gifts for people, make a meal or treat for a new neighbor or someone in need, invite a widowed woman or someone who is alone to share a meal, shovel snow for Elderly neighbors, etc.

19) Christmas Culture Night: Learn about how other cultures, countries, and religions celebrate Christmas.

20) Yearly Christmas Fun: Yet, in the midst of it all – have FUN! Every year, make it a tradition to do one or many of the following fun activities: go sledding, make snowmen, go to the beach, go skiing, ice skating, a performance, to a cabin, have a Christmas movie and popcorn night, have an extended family or neighborhood Christmas party gift exchange, etc. Perhaps one night you can specifically set aside as ‘Christmas Family Night’ and just be together. Get Pizza, rent a movie, play games, have a campout in the family room, etc.

Perhaps it was the great Dr. Seuss who summed it up best when he so perfectly penned: “And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” Thus, Christmas and giving is not determined by price, but in how we give and act – the season’s about Christ!

How many of us regardless of what the occasion fear that dreaded hush around the dinner table. Once food is eaten it needs time to assimilate, and moving from the table before this can happen can cause indigestion for the guests who sit it out in silence. Even the festive period has us struggle to become conversant with all the chit chats if any. Full bellies and a few memorable stories of old are what we see and hear round the dinner table, but when the stories stop, and tummies deflate it can become somewhat embarrassing. Because of this people tend to make excuses to leave the table or the party which you went to great lengths to arrange. Keep the happy chats going while pudding is served with topical conversation? Plan ahead what to talk about, although what may have started out as one subject can lead to other talkative matters, and this is what you want a constant flow of words. Christmas talks about things like what you bought the kids for Christmas, and how much the turkey cost this year, and the matter of prices this yuletide in comparison to that of the last are not lasting subjects, so again the lips seal. Make a list of interesting subjects to gab about. Your guests, not only will have enjoyed a tasty meal but enjoyed their time around the table also. Do yourself a favour and research on the whole scenario of this season and entertain your guests with your knowledge.

1. Its surprising how the Christmas tree is always highlighted at the time of decorating with tinsel and baubles but then forgotten about unless knocked over or you notice a hanging chocolate missing. Talk Christmas trees at the table. Let your guests in on the know how Christmas trees have been popular in Germany since the 16th century but only made it over to the UK 300 years later. Prince Albert, Queen Victoria`s better half originally came from Germany and made a tree part of the official celebrations at Windsor Castle. The USA official national Christmas tree, in Kings Canyon National Park, California, is almost 280 feet tall and 2,000 years old. A young girl in 1925 remarked what an inspiring Christmas tree it would make, and the President agreed, making it the country`s official Christmas tree in 1926.

2. How many of us quickly scribble names on a Christmas card and send them without reading the actual verse or looking at the Christmas scene on the front. Most of us take greeting card pictures for granted and assume it is the robin redbreast, Santa, or Christmas tree designs, this is not good because you could be sending out meaningless greetings. Just say the cards were tampered with at the time of production and picture scenes show a headless turkey, and I shudder to think of what words rhyme on the inside.. Different people like different things so take time out to send particular friends, particular cards, they will love to receive. Let your guests know that the most expensive Christmas card in the world was a hand-drawn card that John Lennon sent to Beatles manager Brian Epstein. It sold at auction for £5,600 in April 2000.

3. How much notice do you take of the Christmas bauble. Yes they sparkle and glitter and delicate, however aside from that what do your friends know about the Christmas bauble. Baubles were probably invented due to alcohol. About 200 years ago, Bohemian glass blowers used to take pleasure in a cold drink in their hot factories, and when tipsy would compete against each other to see who could blow the biggest glass bubbles. These then evolved into Christmas decorations, thankfully had it not been for the thirst of the bubble blower then no baubles we would have.

4. What of the fairies, the fairy light sort. Fairy lights are said to have appeared in 1882, when Edward H. Johnson a close friend of Edison – had 80 small light bulbs specially made for his Christmas tree. Before this, people would use candles. Although the candle is a festive piece, they are however also a hazard to have in the home. Candles need to be placed away from Christmas decorations, curtains, tablecloths and gift wrapping paper.

5. Christmas cards were introduced in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole. Prior to this tradition it was the norm to write long letters at Christmas. This changed when Sir Henry Cole tirelessly from writing commissioned an artist to design cards filled with a short festive message inside, (greeting card.)

6. Talking of Christmas dinner, the traditional Christmas meal in England included pig`s heads and mustard. But when Queen Elizabeth heard of the destruction of the Spanish Armada on Christmas Eve 1588, she declared everyone should eat the dish she had enjoyed earlier that day – roast goose. When turkeys were introduced to Britain in the 1700s, they became a popular replacement. Turkey is now the traditional meat eaten on Christmas day over goose.

7. Everyone likes a tipple at Christmas and with Mulled wine being rationally the Xmas drink then you should know that neurologists say that Christmas spices included like cinnamon, cloves and ginger release feel-good hormones in the body. Get out the glasses.

8. Spiders, are we talking the right season here, are spiders not connected with Halloween. In the Ukraine apparently not because fake spiders and webs are used to decorate their trees and a real spider web found on Christmas morning is believed lucky.

9. Christmas carols is a festive way through verse we tell a Christmas story. Silent Night’ was first performed in Austria in 1818. Myth has it that the church organ in Oberndorf broke down on Christmas Eve, leaving the priest – Joseph Mohr – with no music for his service. He handed a hand written poem to a friend and asked that he compose music for it, and ‘Silent Night’ was born and has never died. Christmas song ‘Good King Wenceslas’ is about Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia. He was a 10th century king who legend has it is sleeping inside a mountain in the Czech Republic with his army of knights, ready to wake and save the Motherland when he`s needed.

10. Are you and your friends aware that Christmas back in 1647 was banned? Who was responsible for imposing such a ban on a time with much heartfelt meaning, in hope it to be diminished from thought? Yeah right, although celebration came to a halt across England, in spirit the festivity continued. Those responsible were the Oliver Cromwell puritans. Pro-Christmas riots broke out across the country but the holiday wasn’t officially restored until King Charles II took over 13 years later. Who said thirteen was unlucky.

11. What do you or your friends know for why the common abbreviation ‘Xmas.’ ‘X’ is the first letter of the Greek word for Christ – Xristos.

12. Include music in your conversation. It’s a fabulous topic for getting people to open up and motivate them into talking, however a debatable subject. Not everyone has the same taste in music so be careful as it is a delicate subject. Educate your friends with what you know. Tell them how the fab four (Beatles) and the Spice Girls were the only showbiz acts to have ever had three consecutive Christmas number one records – the Beatles from 1963 to 1965 and the Spice Girls from 1996 to 1998. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen is the only record to have been Christmas number one twice – in 1975 and 1991. Where was Cliff Richard these times? Spare a thought for old Santa. He has less than one millisecond to deliver gifts to every home around the globe, this calculation derives from a 30-hour a day shift allowing for various time zones.

What do guests go home with after eating Christmas dinner, well aside from extra “weight” you will find they found something far more worth than its “weight” in gold and that being knowledge. Not only will it be the 3 wise men that get a mention this time of year, so will the wise old bird that got the Christmas entertainment right for around the Christmas table. Your party guests will leave for home a lot wiser than that of when they arrived.

Christmas is not about the presents under the tree, the decorations and the lights, the concerts or the fancy meals. It’s not about shopping, snow, caroling, or Santa Clause. True Christmas is found in the first syllable of the very word itself, who is all too often forgotten. Christmas is about Christ! And while all of the festivities, traditions, and activities that accompany this holiday are certainly appropriate and extremely fun, we must ensure that we never forget the significance of why we celebrate in the first place. And perhaps true Christmas is discovered, enjoyed, and made evident only when our actions reflect the actions and character of Him whose birth we commemorate. He loved His lambs, He fed His lambs, and He continues to feed His lambs; our great opportunity is to allow Him to feed His lambs through the service and giving of you and me.

Below is listed not only giving and service opportunities that help us participate in the true meaning of Christmas, but also fun Christmas activities and traditions that can be enjoyed by families and people everywhere:

1) Purpose of the Holiday: First and most importantly, ensure that in the midst of all the fun festivities, parties, gift exchanges, traditions, delicious meals and chocolate, and especially the anticipation of Santa Clause – that you make time to remember Him, and the real Reason why we celebrate this season!

2) ‘Adopt a Family’: Find a local family that may be struggling or has very little, and anonymously give them Christmas. For 12 days, drop off food one night, clothes the next, books, toys, kind notes, treats, etc. (or just drop it all off at once).

3) ‘Draw Names’: On Dec. 1st, each child will draw the name of another sibling or parent – and that is who they have to get a present for Christmas that year. One year, have it be a funny gift; the next year have it be a ‘no-cost’ present where everyone can not spend money; another year each person has to actually make/create their gift; or just buy the gift for the individual; etc.

4) Yearly Ornaments: Each year, every child will get to make/create a new ornament to hang on the tree.

5) Hang Mistletoe: Enough said right!

6) Family Sleepover: On Christmas Eve, the whole family will campout together in the same room. Obviously this can’t be in the room with the tree, but upstairs/downstairs or in a bedroom – all the kids (and Dad/Mom) will sleep out together.

7) Yearly Christmas Tree Outing: All the men and boys each year will go out on Dec. 1st and find the Christmas tree. While gone, the women will make a warm meal for everyone to eat when the guys get home. That evening, everyone will decorate the tree, listen to Christmas music, make the house festive for the season, and just play games and spend the evening together.

Nightly Christmas Stories: For each night in December, read a Christmas story or book, a holiday poem, the symbols of Christmas, or the words to a Christmas carol.

9) Christmas Eve Present: Allow each child to open one present on Christmas Eve.

10) Nativity Sets & Ginger-Bread Houses: Each year as a family, make a new Nativity set (or have each child make their own). Use paper, play dough, cardboard, cardstock, etc. Also, set aside one night to make Ginger Bread Houses together.

11) Secret Santa Care Packages: Identify a child who is sick at the hospital, some children from the orphanage, various people at the homeless shelter, family in need, or even a child in a developing country (work with your local non-profit) – and each member in the family (even the kids) will donate money, items, and time in putting together these care packages for people in need. Deliver it anonymously, or in person so children can feel and see the joy of giving.

12) Christmas Lights Drive: As a family, hop in the car and make it a yearly tradition to just drive around neighborhoods and downtown looking at Christmas lights. Take candy, of course!

13) Read the Christmas Story: Perhaps make Christmas Eve the night to talk about the ‘true’ meaning of and significance of Christmas. Read the account of Christ’s birth from the Bible, talk about it, or perhaps even for fun – have the kids act it out. Then, the 25th can be the day of fun and presents.

14) Mini Tree: With little kids, allow each of them to have their own little Christmas tree that they can decorate however they want – and they can keep it in their rooms.

15) Giving Tree: Set up a tree at the local schools, Churches, and community centers. Have paper ornaments on each tree with a random items that people will donate. Items could be: food, clothes, toys, books, money, toiletries, etc. Then, have a large box where people can come back and drop off their donated items. Then, give these items to local families/individuals in need. Give them to the local Salvation Army, Orphanage, Homeless Shelter, or Non-Profit.

16) Dec 1st Kickoff: Make the first day in December the official day the family starts Christmas celebrations and decorations. Make some hot cocoa, popcorn, turn on the Christmas music, and get the family together. Decorate the house, put up the tree, and just spend the night playing games and having fun together.

17) Gift to Christ: Each year as a family, and especially personally, determine something you will do as an expression of gratitude for what Christ did for you. Break a habit, develop a talent, mend a relationship, or become a better person/family in some way.

18) Christmas Giving: As a family, do one or many of the following each year: visit a nursing home or homeless shelter and take small gifts for people, make a meal or treat for a new neighbor or someone in need, invite a widowed woman or someone who is alone to share a meal, shovel snow for Elderly neighbors, etc.

19) Christmas Culture Night: Learn about how other cultures, countries, and religions celebrate Christmas.

20) Yearly Christmas Fun: Yet, in the midst of it all – have FUN! Every year, make it a tradition to do one or many of the following fun activities: go sledding, make snowmen, go to the beach, go skiing, ice skating, a performance, to a cabin, have a Christmas movie and popcorn night, have an extended family or neighborhood Christmas party gift exchange, etc. Perhaps one night you can specifically set aside as ‘Christmas Family Night’ and just be together. Get Pizza, rent a movie, play games, have a campout in the family room, etc.

Perhaps it was the great Dr. Seuss who summed it up best when he so perfectly penned: “And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” Thus, Christmas and giving is not determined by price, but in how we give and act – the season’s about Christ!

It is very easy nowadays to give your Christmas cards a fully personal look and feel by using modern technology. And it isn’t expensive either. With a digital camera, your computer and your printer you can do everything yourself. But just with the digital camera you can create the part that turns your Christmas cards into a personalized gift for Christmas and have it produced by a Christmas cards printing service.

Remember, that for many the annual Christmas card is the thing that keeps the connection to other family members and friends living far away. Many people hold the feeling of belonging to someone’s inner circle for years without meeting just by receiving the annual Christmas card. Christmas cards should be taken more seriously than we might use to do.

Tips to make the personalized picture card – read on

As pictures taken with digital cameras come as immediate results you can easily experiment a little and take some alternatives.

Here are some ideas for what to focus on. Later I will give you ideas to including the Christmas feeling into the picture:

Alternative 1: You are living alone

Take a picture of yourself or of your dog, cat or pet.

Alternative, take a picture of your house, a room, part of your garden or something else people will clearly relate to yourself.

Alternative 2: You are living in a family or the like

You have very many options:

- Take pictures of the youngest member of the family. The youngest member is the one that receivers of the Christmas card will appreciate most to see the development of ‘since last Christmas’. If you have a pet in the family include that with the child.

- Take pictures of the whole family. It isn’t a problem that it is an arranged photo.

- Take pictures of the youngest child with the oldest member of the family. That will always generate a lot of feelings and attention.

How to include the Christmas feeling into the picture?

You will need very little to add that extra Christmas feeling into your photography.

If you are only taking a picture of a single person or two you can let a candlelight play a big role in the picture frame. A newly married couple looking from each side into a candlelight without any strong light added might be an intimate and cute picture for Christmas.

We have a lot of symbols we use for Christmas: Christmas tree, red ribbons, red apples, red in general, Christmas decorations, candle lights, Christmas presents made as nice packages, yes, even snow and darkness. All symbols of Santa Claus. You might have many more ideas.

Include one or two of these in the picture when you take it to underline that feeling of Christmas. (I don’t expect you to include a full Christmas tree – just a small twig will do.

How should the Christmas picture look like?

Make the Christmas picture look as simple as possible. Not a lot of detail. Focus on the main motive and idea of the picture and avoid a lot of things around. These will only make the picture messier. That means go close to capture the essence of it as a Christmas picture.

Include if possible just a few colors as that will make the picture look more professional.

Select the best alternative shot, stay with it and be happy with that

Layout of the Christmas card and printing the cards

Do it your self cards

Depending on the word processor you use you will have access to the possibility to insert pictures and insert the text you want to have printed on the card.

In many cases you will have access to card formats with pre-made card templates. That makes the whole process much easier. You can also search in Google for templates for Christmas cards or the like.

When you have finished your layout and made a proof print you can start your production of your own personalized Christmas cards. T use more heavy paper will improve the look and feel of your self-made Christmas cards.

Use a printing service for your personalized Christmas cards

Most photo service providers will be able to deliver your personalized Christmas cards in the number you want. The more cards the cheaper. You can search for bargains in Google. You will be able to select the layout and additional text online with many photo printing providers.

The earlier you start your production of your own personalized Christmas cards the better a chance you will have to get them done in time for a modest cost. Your efforts this year to provide family and friends with a truly personalized Christmas card will be highly valuated, you will see.

Christmas is not about the presents under the tree, the decorations and the lights, the concerts or the fancy meals. It’s not about shopping, snow, caroling, or Santa Clause. True Christmas is found in the first syllable of the very word itself, who is all too often forgotten. Christmas is about Christ! And while all of the festivities, traditions, and activities that accompany this holiday are certainly appropriate and extremely fun, we must ensure that we never forget the significance of why we celebrate in the first place. And perhaps true Christmas is discovered, enjoyed, and made evident only when our actions reflect the actions and character of Him whose birth we commemorate. He loved His lambs, He fed His lambs, and He continues to feed His lambs; our great opportunity is to allow Him to feed His lambs through the service and giving of you and me.

Below is listed not only giving and service opportunities that help us participate in the true meaning of Christmas, but also fun Christmas activities and traditions that can be enjoyed by families and people everywhere:

1) Purpose of the Holiday: First and most importantly, ensure that in the midst of all the fun festivities, parties, gift exchanges, traditions, delicious meals and chocolate, and especially the anticipation of Santa Clause – that you make time to remember Him, and the real Reason why we celebrate this season!

2) ‘Adopt a Family’: Find a local family that may be struggling or has very little, and anonymously give them Christmas. For 12 days, drop off food one night, clothes the next, books, toys, kind notes, treats, etc. (or just drop it all off at once).

3) ‘Draw Names’: On Dec. 1st, each child will draw the name of another sibling or parent – and that is who they have to get a present for Christmas that year. One year, have it be a funny gift; the next year have it be a ‘no-cost’ present where everyone can not spend money; another year each person has to actually make/create their gift; or just buy the gift for the individual; etc.

4) Yearly Ornaments: Each year, every child will get to make/create a new ornament to hang on the tree.

5) Hang Mistletoe: Enough said right!

6) Family Sleepover: On Christmas Eve, the whole family will campout together in the same room. Obviously this can’t be in the room with the tree, but upstairs/downstairs or in a bedroom – all the kids (and Dad/Mom) will sleep out together.

7) Yearly Christmas Tree Outing: All the men and boys each year will go out on Dec. 1st and find the Christmas tree. While gone, the women will make a warm meal for everyone to eat when the guys get home. That evening, everyone will decorate the tree, listen to Christmas music, make the house festive for the season, and just play games and spend the evening together.

Nightly Christmas Stories: For each night in December, read a Christmas story or book, a holiday poem, the symbols of Christmas, or the words to a Christmas carol.

9) Christmas Eve Present: Allow each child to open one present on Christmas Eve.

10) Nativity Sets & Ginger-Bread Houses: Each year as a family, make a new Nativity set (or have each child make their own). Use paper, play dough, cardboard, cardstock, etc. Also, set aside one night to make Ginger Bread Houses together.

11) Secret Santa Care Packages: Identify a child who is sick at the hospital, some children from the orphanage, various people at the homeless shelter, family in need, or even a child in a developing country (work with your local non-profit) – and each member in the family (even the kids) will donate money, items, and time in putting together these care packages for people in need. Deliver it anonymously, or in person so children can feel and see the joy of giving.

12) Christmas Lights Drive: As a family, hop in the car and make it a yearly tradition to just drive around neighborhoods and downtown looking at Christmas lights. Take candy, of course!

13) Read the Christmas Story: Perhaps make Christmas Eve the night to talk about the ‘true’ meaning of and significance of Christmas. Read the account of Christ’s birth from the Bible, talk about it, or perhaps even for fun – have the kids act it out. Then, the 25th can be the day of fun and presents.

14) Mini Tree: With little kids, allow each of them to have their own little Christmas tree that they can decorate however they want – and they can keep it in their rooms.

15) Giving Tree: Set up a tree at the local schools, Churches, and community centers. Have paper ornaments on each tree with a random items that people will donate. Items could be: food, clothes, toys, books, money, toiletries, etc. Then, have a large box where people can come back and drop off their donated items. Then, give these items to local families/individuals in need. Give them to the local Salvation Army, Orphanage, Homeless Shelter, or Non-Profit.

16) Dec 1st Kickoff: Make the first day in December the official day the family starts Christmas celebrations and decorations. Make some hot cocoa, popcorn, turn on the Christmas music, and get the family together. Decorate the house, put up the tree, and just spend the night playing games and having fun together.

17) Gift to Christ: Each year as a family, and especially personally, determine something you will do as an expression of gratitude for what Christ did for you. Break a habit, develop a talent, mend a relationship, or become a better person/family in some way.

18) Christmas Giving: As a family, do one or many of the following each year: visit a nursing home or homeless shelter and take small gifts for people, make a meal or treat for a new neighbor or someone in need, invite a widowed woman or someone who is alone to share a meal, shovel snow for Elderly neighbors, etc.

19) Christmas Culture Night: Learn about how other cultures, countries, and religions celebrate Christmas.

20) Yearly Christmas Fun: Yet, in the midst of it all – have FUN! Every year, make it a tradition to do one or many of the following fun activities: go sledding, make snowmen, go to the beach, go skiing, ice skating, a performance, to a cabin, have a Christmas movie and popcorn night, have an extended family or neighborhood Christmas party gift exchange, etc. Perhaps one night you can specifically set aside as ‘Christmas Family Night’ and just be together. Get Pizza, rent a movie, play games, have a campout in the family room, etc.

Perhaps it was the great Dr. Seuss who summed it up best when he so perfectly penned: “And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” Thus, Christmas and giving is not determined by price, but in how we give and act – the season’s about Christ!

Christmas is not about the presents under the tree, the decorations and the lights, the concerts or the fancy meals. It’s not about shopping, snow, caroling, or Santa Clause. True Christmas is found in the first syllable of the very word itself, who is all too often forgotten. Christmas is about Christ! And while all of the festivities, traditions, and activities that accompany this holiday are certainly appropriate and extremely fun, we must ensure that we never forget the significance of why we celebrate in the first place. And perhaps true Christmas is discovered, enjoyed, and made evident only when our actions reflect the actions and character of Him whose birth we commemorate. He loved His lambs, He fed His lambs, and He continues to feed His lambs; our great opportunity is to allow Him to feed His lambs through the service and giving of you and me.

Below is listed not only giving and service opportunities that help us participate in the true meaning of Christmas, but also fun Christmas activities and traditions that can be enjoyed by families and people everywhere:

1) Purpose of the Holiday: First and most importantly, ensure that in the midst of all the fun festivities, parties, gift exchanges, traditions, delicious meals and chocolate, and especially the anticipation of Santa Clause – that you make time to remember Him, and the real Reason why we celebrate this season!

2) ‘Adopt a Family’: Find a local family that may be struggling or has very little, and anonymously give them Christmas. For 12 days, drop off food one night, clothes the next, books, toys, kind notes, treats, etc. (or just drop it all off at once).

3) ‘Draw Names’: On Dec. 1st, each child will draw the name of another sibling or parent – and that is who they have to get a present for Christmas that year. One year, have it be a funny gift; the next year have it be a ‘no-cost’ present where everyone can not spend money; another year each person has to actually make/create their gift; or just buy the gift for the individual; etc.

4) Yearly Ornaments: Each year, every child will get to make/create a new ornament to hang on the tree.

5) Hang Mistletoe: Enough said right!

6) Family Sleepover: On Christmas Eve, the whole family will campout together in the same room. Obviously this can’t be in the room with the tree, but upstairs/downstairs or in a bedroom – all the kids (and Dad/Mom) will sleep out together.

7) Yearly Christmas Tree Outing: All the men and boys each year will go out on Dec. 1st and find the Christmas tree. While gone, the women will make a warm meal for everyone to eat when the guys get home. That evening, everyone will decorate the tree, listen to Christmas music, make the house festive for the season, and just play games and spend the evening together.

Nightly Christmas Stories: For each night in December, read a Christmas story or book, a holiday poem, the symbols of Christmas, or the words to a Christmas carol.

9) Christmas Eve Present: Allow each child to open one present on Christmas Eve.

10) Nativity Sets & Ginger-Bread Houses: Each year as a family, make a new Nativity set (or have each child make their own). Use paper, play dough, cardboard, cardstock, etc. Also, set aside one night to make Ginger Bread Houses together.

11) Secret Santa Care Packages: Identify a child who is sick at the hospital, some children from the orphanage, various people at the homeless shelter, family in need, or even a child in a developing country (work with your local non-profit) – and each member in the family (even the kids) will donate money, items, and time in putting together these care packages for people in need. Deliver it anonymously, or in person so children can feel and see the joy of giving.

12) Christmas Lights Drive: As a family, hop in the car and make it a yearly tradition to just drive around neighborhoods and downtown looking at Christmas lights. Take candy, of course!

13) Read the Christmas Story: Perhaps make Christmas Eve the night to talk about the ‘true’ meaning of and significance of Christmas. Read the account of Christ’s birth from the Bible, talk about it, or perhaps even for fun – have the kids act it out. Then, the 25th can be the day of fun and presents.

14) Mini Tree: With little kids, allow each of them to have their own little Christmas tree that they can decorate however they want – and they can keep it in their rooms.

15) Giving Tree: Set up a tree at the local schools, Churches, and community centers. Have paper ornaments on each tree with a random items that people will donate. Items could be: food, clothes, toys, books, money, toiletries, etc. Then, have a large box where people can come back and drop off their donated items. Then, give these items to local families/individuals in need. Give them to the local Salvation Army, Orphanage, Homeless Shelter, or Non-Profit.

16) Dec 1st Kickoff: Make the first day in December the official day the family starts Christmas celebrations and decorations. Make some hot cocoa, popcorn, turn on the Christmas music, and get the family together. Decorate the house, put up the tree, and just spend the night playing games and having fun together.

17) Gift to Christ: Each year as a family, and especially personally, determine something you will do as an expression of gratitude for what Christ did for you. Break a habit, develop a talent, mend a relationship, or become a better person/family in some way.

18) Christmas Giving: As a family, do one or many of the following each year: visit a nursing home or homeless shelter and take small gifts for people, make a meal or treat for a new neighbor or someone in need, invite a widowed woman or someone who is alone to share a meal, shovel snow for Elderly neighbors, etc.

19) Christmas Culture Night: Learn about how other cultures, countries, and religions celebrate Christmas.

20) Yearly Christmas Fun: Yet, in the midst of it all – have FUN! Every year, make it a tradition to do one or many of the following fun activities: go sledding, make snowmen, go to the beach, go skiing, ice skating, a performance, to a cabin, have a Christmas movie and popcorn night, have an extended family or neighborhood Christmas party gift exchange, etc. Perhaps one night you can specifically set aside as ‘Christmas Family Night’ and just be together. Get Pizza, rent a movie, play games, have a campout in the family room, etc.

Perhaps it was the great Dr. Seuss who summed it up best when he so perfectly penned: “And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” Thus, Christmas and giving is not determined by price, but in how we give and act – the season’s about Christ!

Christmas is not about the presents under the tree, the decorations and the lights, the concerts or the fancy meals. It’s not about shopping, snow, caroling, or Santa Clause. True Christmas is found in the first syllable of the very word itself, who is all too often forgotten. Christmas is about Christ! And while all of the festivities, traditions, and activities that accompany this holiday are certainly appropriate and extremely fun, we must ensure that we never forget the significance of why we celebrate in the first place. And perhaps true Christmas is discovered, enjoyed, and made evident only when our actions reflect the actions and character of Him whose birth we commemorate. He loved His lambs, He fed His lambs, and He continues to feed His lambs; our great opportunity is to allow Him to feed His lambs through the service and giving of you and me.

Below is listed not only giving and service opportunities that help us participate in the true meaning of Christmas, but also fun Christmas activities and traditions that can be enjoyed by families and people everywhere:

1) Purpose of the Holiday: First and most importantly, ensure that in the midst of all the fun festivities, parties, gift exchanges, traditions, delicious meals and chocolate, and especially the anticipation of Santa Clause – that you make time to remember Him, and the real Reason why we celebrate this season!

2) ‘Adopt a Family’: Find a local family that may be struggling or has very little, and anonymously give them Christmas. For 12 days, drop off food one night, clothes the next, books, toys, kind notes, treats, etc. (or just drop it all off at once).

3) ‘Draw Names’: On Dec. 1st, each child will draw the name of another sibling or parent – and that is who they have to get a present for Christmas that year. One year, have it be a funny gift; the next year have it be a ‘no-cost’ present where everyone can not spend money; another year each person has to actually make/create their gift; or just buy the gift for the individual; etc.

4) Yearly Ornaments: Each year, every child will get to make/create a new ornament to hang on the tree.

5) Hang Mistletoe: Enough said right!

6) Family Sleepover: On Christmas Eve, the whole family will campout together in the same room. Obviously this can’t be in the room with the tree, but upstairs/downstairs or in a bedroom – all the kids (and Dad/Mom) will sleep out together.

7) Yearly Christmas Tree Outing: All the men and boys each year will go out on Dec. 1st and find the Christmas tree. While gone, the women will make a warm meal for everyone to eat when the guys get home. That evening, everyone will decorate the tree, listen to Christmas music, make the house festive for the season, and just play games and spend the evening together.

Nightly Christmas Stories: For each night in December, read a Christmas story or book, a holiday poem, the symbols of Christmas, or the words to a Christmas carol.

9) Christmas Eve Present: Allow each child to open one present on Christmas Eve.

10) Nativity Sets & Ginger-Bread Houses: Each year as a family, make a new Nativity set (or have each child make their own). Use paper, play dough, cardboard, cardstock, etc. Also, set aside one night to make Ginger Bread Houses together.

11) Secret Santa Care Packages: Identify a child who is sick at the hospital, some children from the orphanage, various people at the homeless shelter, family in need, or even a child in a developing country (work with your local non-profit) – and each member in the family (even the kids) will donate money, items, and time in putting together these care packages for people in need. Deliver it anonymously, or in person so children can feel and see the joy of giving.

12) Christmas Lights Drive: As a family, hop in the car and make it a yearly tradition to just drive around neighborhoods and downtown looking at Christmas lights. Take candy, of course!

13) Read the Christmas Story: Perhaps make Christmas Eve the night to talk about the ‘true’ meaning of and significance of Christmas. Read the account of Christ’s birth from the Bible, talk about it, or perhaps even for fun – have the kids act it out. Then, the 25th can be the day of fun and presents.

14) Mini Tree: With little kids, allow each of them to have their own little Christmas tree that they can decorate however they want – and they can keep it in their rooms.

15) Giving Tree: Set up a tree at the local schools, Churches, and community centers. Have paper ornaments on each tree with a random items that people will donate. Items could be: food, clothes, toys, books, money, toiletries, etc. Then, have a large box where people can come back and drop off their donated items. Then, give these items to local families/individuals in need. Give them to the local Salvation Army, Orphanage, Homeless Shelter, or Non-Profit.

16) Dec 1st Kickoff: Make the first day in December the official day the family starts Christmas celebrations and decorations. Make some hot cocoa, popcorn, turn on the Christmas music, and get the family together. Decorate the house, put up the tree, and just spend the night playing games and having fun together.

17) Gift to Christ: Each year as a family, and especially personally, determine something you will do as an expression of gratitude for what Christ did for you. Break a habit, develop a talent, mend a relationship, or become a better person/family in some way.

18) Christmas Giving: As a family, do one or many of the following each year: visit a nursing home or homeless shelter and take small gifts for people, make a meal or treat for a new neighbor or someone in need, invite a widowed woman or someone who is alone to share a meal, shovel snow for Elderly neighbors, etc.

19) Christmas Culture Night: Learn about how other cultures, countries, and religions celebrate Christmas.

20) Yearly Christmas Fun: Yet, in the midst of it all – have FUN! Every year, make it a tradition to do one or many of the following fun activities: go sledding, make snowmen, go to the beach, go skiing, ice skating, a performance, to a cabin, have a Christmas movie and popcorn night, have an extended family or neighborhood Christmas party gift exchange, etc. Perhaps one night you can specifically set aside as ‘Christmas Family Night’ and just be together. Get Pizza, rent a movie, play games, have a campout in the family room, etc.

Perhaps it was the great Dr. Seuss who summed it up best when he so perfectly penned: “And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” Thus, Christmas and giving is not determined by price, but in how we give and act – the season’s about Christ!