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As the holidays near, sometimes we don’t have the time to decorate or even fight the traffic to buy our decorations. I have found some simple holiday decorating ideas that you can make or better yet, that even your children can make!

What did you do with your old Holiday cards last year? If you’re like me, you probably just put them in a box with your previous ones from the years past. Why not put those up? Take some ribbon and string them up. Or even take your current holiday cards and string them up as well. Take a good length size piece of ribbon, red or green colored works nicely. Tack the ends up on the wall, leaving the center hanging down a little. Then, simply hang your cards over the ribbon or add as you receive your holiday cards.

Another easy decoration to make and fun for the kids as well, is the simple popcorn string to hang around the tree. All you need is a simple needle and thread and a big bowl of popcorn, because if you’re like me, you will need extra popcorn to munch on!

Instead of hanging a wreath on your door, use it as the base of a centerpiece for your Christmas table. Use simple decorations to coordinate it with your home decor or table setting theme. You'll see how simple it is to create this beautiful and traditional Christmas Wreath Centerpiece. 

What you will need: fresh pine wreath, decorations, bow

How to make: Place the wreath down on the table, tray, or platter. Decorate the wreath by sticking ornaments, pinecones, or floral picks into the wreath. Arrange ribbons or garlands around the wreath. Place one or several colorful bows around the wreath for added color.

Thanksgiving is the season to express everything you are thankful for. This simple decoration also makes a wonderful centerpiece that's not only colorful, but interactive as well. You or your kids can make these leaf cards and as your guests arrive, ask them to write what they are thankful for inside. Just before dinner, have everyone choose a card from the bouquet and take turns reading them out loud. 

What you will need: construction paper (yellow, red, brown, green, and orange) scissors, black Sharpie marker, dowels and/or craft sticks, white craft glue, a basket of your choice, floral foam, Spanish or American moss, wide decorative ribbon and a leaf pattern.

How to make: Cut out leaves from pattern sheet or make your own. Fold construction paper in half evenly. Lay leaf pattern so that the end of the leaf rests on the crease. Trace around the leaf pattern and cut out, you should end up with leaf-shaped cards. Write the name of each of your guests on the front of the leaves. After your guests have written what they are thankful for inside the card, glue a dowel or craft stick to the back of it and let it dry. Tie a piece of decorative ribbon around the rim of a basket. Place a chunk of floral foam inside the basket and cover with moss. As the sticks dry, insert them through the moss and into the floral foam.

Here are some more simple holiday decorations to make:

Candy Cane Reindeer

Materials:
· 6 inch wrapped Candy Cane
· Ribbon 
· 2 wiggle eyes 
· Red or Brown pom pom
· 2 pipe cleaners
· Craft glue or glue gun

Leave the wrapping on the candy cane. Glue eyes on rounded face of the candy cane. Glue red pompom on the face for a nose. Tie ribbon into a bow on the straight part of the candy cane. Cut one of the pipe cleaners in half. Wrap the full pipe cleaner around the crook of the candy cane to begin the antlers. Use the cut pipe cleaners to manipulate into antlers.

Christmas Jingle Bell Door Hanger

Materials: 
· Metal Jingle Bells (15-20 mm)
· Heavy gauge wire–
· Wire cutters, pliers
· Curling ribbon
· 1 inch metal rings (key ring)

Decide how long you want your hangers to be when finished. Add two inches to that length and cut the piece of wire. Using pliers, wrap one end of the wire around the key ring or metal loop one or two times, this will be used for hanging. 
String the jingle bells onto the wire leaving enough at the end to form a secure loop. Attach several pieces of ribbon to the bottom loop and curl Now it's ready to hang from your door.

Cinnamon Stick Ornaments

Materials: 
· Short cinnamon sticks
· Miniature pine cones
· Fresh or dried evergreens
· Holiday ribbon 1/2" wide 
· Hot glue and glue gun.

Bundle a few cinnamon sticks together and secure with hot glue. Tie holiday ribbon around bundle and make a loop at top for hanging. Make a bow from same ribbon and glue on to front. Trim with evergreens, berries miniature pinecones, etc.

Whatever you decide to make, getting the family involved makes it even more special!

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Family and friends are coming for the holidays. You want to decorate your home like the experts do, but you have no idea where to begin. We’ll start with the designer tree because, the first thing people see when they walk into your home, is the Christmas tree. 

Use oversized ornaments. Remember as a kid walking into the bank or church or holiday event and the huge silver or gold ornaments shaped as balls? They were so shiny and pretty that you just wanted to reach out and grab one? Using large-sized ornaments will give your guests that feeling when they walk inside. The large silver balls and stars will have a huge impact. Even though oversized decorations may cost a little bit more, you will only need about a dozen for an averaged sized tree.

For the past years you have most likely decorated your tree by putting on the ornaments, the lights, the tinsel and whatever festive decoration you could find. But, there is an art to it. At least according to the designers there is. 

Let’s start with the lights. Sparkle and shine comes primarily from the tree lights. Faceted glass bulbs will refract more light and appear brighter. Small twinkle lights and colored lights also have impact when you layer several strands and pair them with ornaments having reflective surfaces. To illuminate the tree from the inside out, string lights around the trunk and the branches. Starting at the base of the trunk and working up, wrap the lights around every major branch, moving from the trunk to the tip and back. Don't be afraid to mix and match lights either. There's no rule stating that you can only use one type of light. Also, a "background" of white or clear lights can be highlighted with strands of colored lights that wrap the outside of the tree. It’s fun to experiment with different lighting schemes until you get one you like
Remember: For every vertical foot of tree, use a strand of 100 lights.

Next is the garland. There are no strict rules when draping garlands on a tree, but please remember not to create a sausage effect, with the branches bulging between tightly cinched garlands. Have you ever seen a garland gasping for air? It’s not a pretty site and something you won’t want depicted on your holiday tree!
Always start at the top of the tree, stringing less garland and working your way down, increasing the amount of garland. If you happen to have thin bead garlands, they look best swagged from branch to branch. The thick paper, ribbon, or foil garlands look best wrapped loosely around the entire tree. Try to use a variety of garlands, from plain to fancy, to avoid a busy look. 
Remember: For every vertical foot of tree, use about two strands of garland.

The ornaments. To showcase your ornaments, start with the most important ones first. Then hang the largest ornaments, spacing them evenly apart. Fill in around them with medium and small sizes, balancing the overall look. Finish with specialty shapes, such as bird clip-ons. For an interesting variety, include all shapes, from icicles to teardrops. Also, create depth by hanging some ornaments closer to the trunk.

Now, you always want to stick with a theme. Stars and moon ornaments keep with the night theme. Why not put a nativity scene under your tree? If you want to go for more of a nature theme, a large white butterfly would suffice. You can even place a tree skirt with floral sprays that will embellish the theme. Try doing something different than what you normally do. If you’ve decorated your tree the same way for the past 10 years, chances are when people come to visit, your tree won’t stand out as much as if you changed it every year. 

Keep these things in mind:

· Crystals also add sparkle and shine to any tree. Just remember to put them near lights to get the full sparkling effect.

· Use a mix of textures for your holiday tree. Shiny ornaments coexist happily with taffeta ribbons, metallic stars, and naturally dried hydrangea blooms on this tree.

· Repeat one type of ornament so it creates a color, shape, or theme throughout a tree. 

· Repeat your room's hues and motifs using ribbons, wrapping paper, garlands, and ornaments to harmonize with or complement what you already have.

No matter how you decorate your tree, just remember to decorate it the way you like it. Your tree exudes your personality. And since you will be seeing your tree everyday, make sure it’s something spectacular that will keep in you in awe throughout the holidays!

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So, you want to throw that holiday party that your friends, family and/or co-workers will talk about for months, even years to come, but you don’t know how to get started? Start with the food. I have seen parties that were lavishly thrown, including decorations and entertainment, but the food wasn’t up to par, which left guests with a bad taste in their mouth, literally. You can decide whether to cook your own food or hire a caterer. As we all know the holiday season is a busy one and if you have time to cook your own food, then more power to you. But, most people opt to hiring a caterer. Easy way out? Sometimes not, if you don’t get the right caterer. Here are some tips to help you choose the right caterer for your home or office event.

· Ask friends and family. Referrals are always the best way. Also, if you happen to attend an event where the food impresses you, always get the caterer's name and number.

· Set your event date. Call early enough, especially for the holidays to check the availability of the caterer of choice.

· Drop-in on them. See if you can attend an event that they are catering and judge for yourself on their work performance.

· Always ask for credentials and references. Including length of experience.

· Narrow your choices down to three. Then call each one to discuss your budget, head count and event confirmation date. Have them provide a sample menu that fits within your budget.

· Ask about guaranteed minimums. Don’t forget to ask each potential caterer their policies regarding guaranteed minimums, services they will provide for you, specific hours for the event and any extra costs besides food and beverages, such as utensils, linens, etc.

· Food preparation. Always inquire where the food is being prepared. Only a health inspected kitchen is legal. Also ask if you can see the kitchen. No use in having your guests all leave with food poisoning.

· Are they “ServSafe”? Always ask each caterer if they are insured. Find out whether the caterer is "ServSafe" certified or if they carry a food manager's certificate for sanitation purposes. Ask to see their occupational license, certification and insurance documents.

· Meet with your caterer. Plan a meeting to work out all the details of your event that they will handle including menu and beverages, and possibly facility, centerpieces, decorations and favors.

· Confirm your contract details. Just so you won’t get any last minute surprises, always confirm the details regarding the number of wait staff, their dress code, taxes, gratuities and payment schedule. Always follow up the week before your event and again the day before.

Keep in mind the above list and remember, never be afraid to ask questions. It's your money that you are spending and you have every right to know where it's going. Always trust your instincts. If you don't feel comfortable with a particular caterer, chances are, you won't have a good working relationship with him or her, no matter how good his references were.

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After hearing your friends, family, co-workers boast about how well their holiday parties have been in the past, you’ve finally drawn up the courage to throw your own. But, what if it fails? What if it’s a disaster? You’re already getting nervous about the idea of post-party blues. Of course you want everyone to have a good time and enjoy himself or herself. But, you don’t want the source of entertainment to be watching you pull your hair out!

Don’t fret. There are simple steps you can take to avoid party faux pas on your behalf. 
Ideally, you want everyone to leave their problems at the door, comes in with an appetite for anything, be swept up by the music selection, and genuinely have a great time. Hopefully these tips will help you achieve your party goals.

First off, always invite more than you expect to attend. Reality is, not everyone is going to show up, especially during the holiday season. It’s always good to have backup guests. A good tip is to have your invitees bring an extra guest. This always presents new faces to the crowd as well. When you call or write to invite people, mention the mood of the party to help them plan their wardrobe selection, and be clear about when the party starts and ends. 

Food is the key to throwing a great party. Have you ever shown up at a party starving and expecting to have a three-course meal, but only to find that tortilla chips and salsa will be the only thing you’re dining on that evening? Make sure you have a wide selection of food. If you can’t cook, then look into a caterer or enlist the help of your friends. If it’s going to be a family gathering with close friends attending as well, then have a potluck. It’s more personal and you know that people usually bring what they like, so it’s a win-win situation.

Another important factor is atmosphere. A little atmosphere goes a long way. Try to go for a theme, whether it is a color theme or holiday theme. For the holidays, you’re usually in luck, because most likely your home is already decorated with holiday lights and a tree. With the lights, the tree and any other decorations you have around your home, add a little holiday music and it’s sure to please anyone. However, if you choose to play other than holiday music, make sure you know what your guests like. For a crowd who is into heavy metal rock music, playing classical isn’t going to go over too well, if you know what I mean.

If you’re throwing a kids party, here are some things to keep in mind:

Always choose a party location that provides safety for activities, that allows close monitoring of all children, and an area that you are not afraid to mess up. No need to be petrified of spills and a little cake icing on the floor. Security is also essential. Ask other adults to help watch and position them so that no kids can disappear from sight. Make sure you have cool party favors for all of the invited children. Don’t go all out and buy expensive gifts for the invitees. Don’t go overboard on the decorations, because once the party starts the kids won't really notice or appreciate every little detail that you fussed over endlessly.

Remember that kids love stuff that moves. Bubble machines are always a big hit. Always provide games and entertainment. Never leave children idle or to their own devices. Stay ahead of them at all times with the next game or fun entertainment.

As for the food, don’t worry about preparing a lavish meal. Finger foods will suffice. Pizza is always a big hit. Chicken nuggets, nachos, popcorn, chips and dips are also hits at children’s parties. If you want to spruce up the punch, mix in some Sprite or 7-Up. That’s always a crowd pleaser and something a little different than the normal punch. 

Whether it’s your party or your child’s party, remember to relax and have fun, after all, it is a party!

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During the holidays, especially at family gatherings and company parties, there are very few things in life that hold the allure of a flute filled with sparkling wine. Very few sounds say, “let’s celebrate!” more eloquently than the short and snappy POP of its cork. But, let’s face it, sometimes we can break the bank or our wallet by ordering cases of Champagne for our guests.

Always remember that not all sparkling wine is Champagne. Champagne only refers to the sparkling wines produced in the Champagne region of France. So, hold off on buying those cases of Champagne this holiday season and try out some other sparkling wines that taste just as good, if not better. The good news: you won’t have to take out a second mortgage on your home. Shockingly enough, you will find that there are sparkling wines out there for every type of mood, personality and most importantly, every price range.
. 
Why not serve an Italian Prosecco, which is a fruity, light and fun sparking wine that usually runs about $15.00 per 750 ml bottle. Try a bottle of German Sekt (pronounced zekt), which is made from either Riesling, Pinot Blanc or Pinot Gris grapes. The top Sekts, labeled Deutscher sekt or marked with a vintage or grape variety, are fabulous, racy, elegant sparkling wines and are great for their values. 

Feel like staying domestic? Try an American sparkling wine, which is made from Chardonnay and/or Pinot Noir grapes. These sparkling wines use the same methods to make Champagne. American sparking wines come from California and Washington state and are inexpensive. Champagne-style sparkling wines can also be found from Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Argentina, and even France—known as crémant. 

Some domestic sparkling wines:

· Domaine Chandon Brut Classic, Napa Valley, California
Average Price: $16.00 per 750 ml 

· Domaine Chandon Blanc de Noir, California
Average Price: $16.00 per 750 ml

· Gruet Brut, New Mexico
Average Price: $15.00 per 750 ml

· Gruet Blanc de Noir, New Mexico
Average Price: $15.00 per 750 ml

· Korbel Brut, Methode Champenoise Champagne, California
Average Price: $12.00 per 750 ml

How about a Spanish Cava, which is produced using the Metodo Tradicional and in the end product: a sparkling wine of distinctive and ebullient quality. Cava is the sparkling wine of Spain, specifically Catalunia, produced and aged in a similar way to the wines of Champagne, the Cavas tend to be on the light, dry side, perfect for celebrations and can also be served with light desserts. Cava is also affordable, yet sophisticated. A 750 ml bottle usually goes for around $10.00 or less.

So, instead of spending your Christmas bonus on Champagne this year, why not make it sparkling wine instead? If you’re internet savvy, you can do some research online and find great prices by the case and it’s delivered to your door! If you’re a member of a shopping warehouse, shop their prices as well. Even look into warehouses that supply in bulk to restaurants. If you search thoroughly and compare prices, chances are you can stretch your hard earned dollars very far. Your guests won’t know the difference.

However you choose to pour it, plan on one drink per guest per hour to rough out the cost. Remember, not everyone is going to drink and there will be those who drink more than their share. So, if you have 50 guests, then, for a five-hour evening party, figure on 250 drinks total. Gulp!

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Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights or Festival of Rededication, is an eight day Jewish holiday that starts on the 25th day of Kislev, which may be in December, late November, or, while very rare in occasion, early January. Observed by millions of Jews every year, Hanukkah has a special place in their hearts, because it is a season that is filled with hope and miracles. Hanukkah commemorates the victory of faith over tyranny and even more importantly, the triumph of the Jewish rebels over their Syrian rulers for more than 2,000 years ago. Hanukkah is the only Jewish holiday in which the Jews exchange gifts, which is commonly misinterpreted as the “the Jewish Christmas”.

The celebration of Hanukkah goes back to 165 B.C.E. (B.C.E. stands for "Before the Common Era," which is an alternative way of referring to the Christian-based calendar). At that time, the Jews of Judea had lived for many years under the oppressive hand of Syria, whose rulers outlawed Jewish worship and desecrated the temple in Jerusalem. Even though they were outnumbered, the Jews took up arms to defend their lifestyle and religion. They overwhelmed the Syrians in two decisive battles. Their leader was Judah Maccabees, whose mythic strength earned him the nickname "The Hammer." 

Legend has it that when the Jewish army entered the temple, their first task was to rekindle the Eternal Light, a sacred oil lamp that was left burning continuously. The Maccabees had one jar of oil, enough to keep the flame lit only for a single day. They sent out a messenger to find and bring back more sanctified oil, and it took the messenger eight days to return. Miraculously, the Eternal Light continued to burn those eight days. Hanukkah, which also is called the Festival of Lights, celebrates that wonder. 

Candles are lit on a menorah, or Chanukiah, in Hebrew. A kosher menorah always has space for eight candles that are all lined up in a straight row. All eight candles must have the same height. A ninth, extra, space must be raised above the other eight candle branches. The Hanukkah menorah is lit in memory of the Menorah, which was used in the Temple. The Temple's Menorah was made from one piece of gold. Each of its seven branches, representing the days of the week were topped by a container that held the oil that fueled the flames. A Kohen, a Jew of priestly descent, lights the Menorah on a daily basis. When the candles are lit, two blessings are recited on each night of Hanukkah.

It is customary to eat foods fried in oil on Hanukkah as a reminder of the miracle of the oil that lasted eight nights. Latkes, or fried potato pancakes, are typical to almost every Jewish household on Hanukkah. Games are also played. The most popular game to play during Hanukkah is the dreidel game. A dreidel is a four-sided top containing a letter on each side. Each letter stands for one word of the phrase. The Hebrew letter, nun, stands for nes, or miracle; the gimmel stands for gadol, great; the heh, stands for happened; and the shin, stands for there, or when played in Israel, peh, which stands for here. To play the dreidel game, each player starts with ten pennies, or nuts or chocolates. Each player puts a penny in the pot. The dreidel is spun, one player at a time. If the dreidel lands on nun, nothing happens. If the dreidel lands on gimmel, the player wins the pot. If the dreidel lands on heh, the player takes half the pot. However, if the player lands on shin or peh, the player adds two pennies to the pot. When no pennies are left in the pot, each player adds one. When one player has won everything, the game is over. 

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From December 26 to January 1, many people of African decent in America celebrate Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is a Swahili word that means "first" and signifies the first fruits of the harvest. In Africa, there are many customs that are common among the various ethnic groups found on the continent. One of these is the celebration of the harvest. At this time of the year, people of the community/village come together to celebrate and give thanks for their good fortune. Working towards a successful harvest is a communal effort, as is the celebration. 

In 1966, here in American, Maulana Ron Karenga and the U.S. Organization adopted the basic principles of the harvest celebrations in Africa to create the observance of Kwanzaa. Karenga recognized that on the whole, African Americans do not live in an agricultural setting. Nonetheless, he sought to emphasize that the basic principles found in producing the harvest are vital to building and maintaining strong and wholesome communities. 

Kwanzaa is when we reflect on our use of the basic principles, share and enjoy the fruits of our labor, and recommit ourselves to the collective achievement of a better life for our family, our community, and our people. There are symbols, which have a special meaning to the celebration of Kwanzaa. The mkeka is a straw mat, which symbolizes the tradition as the foundation on which all else rests. The kinara is a seven-space candle holder, representing the original stalk from which the African people originated. The mishumaa saba (seven candles) stand for the Seven Principles. The muhindi are the ears of corn which represent the offspring (children) of the stalk (parents of the house). The zawadi (gifts) represent the fruits of the labor of the parents and the rewards of seeds sown by the children. 

It is customary to greet friends and family, during the celebration of Kwanzaa, with the Swahili phrase, "Habari gani". This means, "What is the news?" To respond, answer with the principle of the day. (Umoja, for example, is the response given on December 26th.) 
Fasting, or abstaining from food, is often done during Kwanzaa, as a means of cleansing of the mind, soul, and spirit. 

Central to the celebration of Kwanzaa, the candle lighting ceremony takes place at a time when all members of the family are present. Children are also encouraged to take an active role in all activities. 

The ceremony begins with the TAMBIKO (libation), an African form of praise which pays homage to personal and collective ancestors. To begin, the elder of the household pours wine, juice or distilled spirits from the KIKOMBE CHA UMOJA (unity cup) into the earth or an earth-filled vessel. While pouring, the elder makes a statement honoring departed family members for the inspiration and values they have left with descendants. Friends are also remembered. 

After the TAMBIKO, as a gesture of unity, the elder drinks from the KIKOMBE CHA UMOJA and then passes it for all to share. The elder leads the call, "HARAMBEE" (Let's pull together), and everyone participates in repeating the phrase seven times. Candle lighting reinforces the meaning of the principles. The placement of the mishumaa saba (candles) in the kinara is as follows: Black, for the color of African peoples everywhere, is located in the center. Three red candles, represents the blood of the ancestors, are placed to the left. Three green candles that symbolize the earth, life, and the ideas and promise of the future, are placed to the right. Beginning December 26 with the black mushumaa, a different candle is lit for each day, alternating from left to right. After the candle lighting, the principle of the day is discussed. 

The evening of December 31 (Day 6) is the KARAMU, a joyous celebration with food, drink, dance, and music for the collective family and friends. It is a time of rejoicing, reassessment and recommitment. The ZAWADI, handmade or similarly meaningful gifts for children, may be opened at the KARAMU, or on the final day of Kwanzaa, when Imani is observed. 

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So, how’s your Christmas or holiday shopping going? Haven’t started yet because you don’t have the faintest clue as to what to get whom? Have you ever ended up with a gift or two and wondered why they picked that particular gift for you and what you will do with it or who else can you recycle the gift and give it to? Well, before you buy another gift with it resulting in rolling eyes rather than smiles below are some tips on how to buy a gift based on the recipient’s personality.

First, get to know the personality types that are out there, and then match them with your gift receiver’s personality.

· Sanguines are friendly, talkative, optimistic, funny, big picture people, exciting, funny, enthusiastic – but they can be messy, loud, late, they lose things, and they love to do things the fun way.
What to get them: They like fun things, over the top, frivolous things. Spare no expense; they love things like ‘crazy slippers’! As long as it’s not boring. Take them to a theme park or a dinner mystery theater. Practical things may not go down very well.

· Cholerics are strong willed, independent, born leaders. They are also decisive and direct, You are never wondering as to what they think about anything or you. They like things to be done ‘my way or the highway’.
What to get them: They love things they don’t have to read the instructions to operate or put together. Power tools, vegetable choppers, kitchen utensils that will make like easier for their already busy and determined lives.

· Melancholics are neat and tidy, cautious people, they are list makers. Very frugal people, they are responsible and take on responsibility with determination.
What to get them: They want things to be perfect in their lives. Prefer good quality over cheap. They’re seen wearing name brands. Not much of the partying type of person. They love books, and nice music. Anything that keeps things in order, and clean, neat and tidy, that’s a good gift for the melancholy. 

· Phlegmatics are the peacemakers. They are calm, easy going and are dependable. Also known as the mediators. 
What to get them: Buy them a book, as long as it‘s not a ‘personal development’ book. A movie pass to a theatre near them, don’t make them go somewhere they’ve never been, it’ll never get used. These are very low-key people; they don’t like a lot of fuss. 

Ever give a child a toy as a gift and they either played with it for hours or tossed it to the side onto their pile of other gifts and played with another toy? You were thinking to yourself, “well, I thought he/she would have loved that toy.” Matching personality types of children is just as important as matching adults. There are two ways you can give a great gift to a child. Ask the parent or assess the child’s personality on your own. Although, as a parent myself, I know that when someone asks me what to get my son, I usually answer, “clothes”. So, asking a parent may not be too creative. Let’s move onto the second option. Children’s personalities.

· Sanguines: Everyone is the little Sanguine's best friend. They will be easily recognized by their friendly, talkative nature. Daredevils, climbers, act now and think later kids by nature. They are boisterous, loud and mischievous but their cheerful natures and wining smiles will get them out of most scrapes. In spite of their impulsive natures. Sanguines are people oriented, and love having playmates. 
What to get them: Games, toys that they can play with their friends, playhouses, and educational toys they can be played with either their friends or family member.

· Cholerics: Easily recognized by their strong will and determined spirit. This is probably one of the easiest temperaments to discern in tots, even as young as two. This is the little one who will attempt to do things "all by myself". The little Choleric will probably insist on climbing out of his stroller and walking around the shopping center by themselves. They are strong, natural leaders. He or she will be king of the sandpit and organizer of the whole family. Because of their self-confidence, the Choleric isn't usually concerned about other people's opinions and will say what they think with honesty. They thrive on activity that's productive 
What to get them: Building blocks, toys that you can put together and take apart, activity books and coloring books.

· Melancholies: These little ones may have the greatest talents of any of the personalities, with a brilliant mind and the ability to be a creative, deep thinker. They are sensitive in nature and they drive for perfection. Here is a little person who may escape reality by living in a fantasy world. 
What to get them: Make believe and role-playing games, costumes to dress up in. For little girls; costume jewelry, non-toxic make-up for children, Barbie dolls. For little boys; plastic swords, army men.

· Phlegmatics: Naturally quiet, easy going and calm. These are the most contented babies, happy to lie and gaze around. As a toddler, this little one may be slow to talk, not because they aren’t bright, more because they tend to be a spectator of life. The Phlegmatic child is likely to ignore anyone’s efforts to get them to put away their toys. Because of their easy-going, calm nature, these tots are the easiest personality to take out to a restaurant, or to church. 
What to get them: Children’s programs on DVD or VHS, a toy organizer, books or video games.

Now you’re on the road to success in gift giving! If you’ve done your homework and watched personalities, adult and children, then you will never give a bad gift ever again!

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“It’s the though that counts,” is an old adage that really has meaning behind it. You can put a lot of thought into a gift without having to put your bank account into it. Simple, yet thoughtful gifts let people know that you care and are thinking about them. Add a little creativeness and you can give your friend or loved one a gift that shows how much you love them and value your friendship or relationship with them… all for under $10!

It isn’t necessary to break your piggy bank in order to give a thoughtful gift. In fact, the key to giving inexpensive gifts is to make sure that the person will cherish and appreciate the present. In order to give a really great gift that is economical, think beyond your typical generic gifts. Try to personalize the gift to reflect the personality or hobbies of the recipient.

Here are some ideas:

· For someone who enjoys cooking, you can find a specialty cookbook for them. These usually can be found in the discount section of bookstores.
· Do you have a traveling partner? Why not get a nice photo album and add some of the photos from the trips you’ve taken together. And for an added touch, leave some pages blank and let them know that those are reserved for future trips together.
· Are you a good baker? Why not bake some cookies and arrange them in a decorative basket. 
· A homemade coupon book can be created on your computer and is always a welcomed gift. Create coupons for services that you know your loved one will enjoy. 
· This might take a little time, but you can search the DVD bargain bin and find a DVD for less than $10. You can even add an unpopped bag of popcorn.
· Gourmet coffees with a personalized coffee cup. 
· Teacup with box of herbal tea.
· Gardening gloves with a plant or flower seeds wrapped up in a flower pot.
· Your very own homemade cookie mix with instructions for baking.

For those who lead stressful lives and rarely take time out for themselves to relax, here are some ideas:

· Scented Lotions
· Aromatherapy Oils and Candles
· Stress Management Books
· Funny Books
· Stress-Relieving Music
· Spa Products for the Tub

For the men who have a stereo, television, VCR, DVD, cable or satellite dish; more than likely they have enough remote controls to confuse a rocket scientist. This is where the universal remote comes in handy and can be found for under $10. If he is into tools, there are many power tools out there for fewer than ten bucks as well. There are a variety of power screwdrivers on the market.

Great, inexpensive gifts are the ones that you put a lot of thought into, instead of money. Anyone can go to the store or online and buy something. But, to most people, it means much more if thought and careful planning go into a gift. One year a friend of mine, who wasn’t in good finances, made some wind chimes for my birthday. He had taken some copper pipes that he had laying around his tool shed that were left over from years before. He polished them, drilled holes in them and strung them together. I have them hanging on my patio and every time the wind blows, it reminds me of how thoughtful his gift was. Gifts really mean much more if they come from the heart and not just from the wallet.

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So, you wake up one morning and realize that you need a gift for your co-worker’s name you drew and the gift exchange is that afternoon! Or your Aunt Bette calls you three days before Christmas to let you know that she is showing up to your house on Christmas, the only problem is that you didn’t get her anything! Yes, it has happened to all of us before at least once in our lives. But panicking isn’t the answer.

If you’re like my mother and are organized to perfection, you keep unisex gifts on hand for this type of ordeal. In a perfect world. But , if you’re like me and most Americans, you’re running around pulling your hair out when a situation such as this arises. 

Some last minute gift ideas for adults:

· Pick up a bottle of wine or champagne and in some cases, it doesn’t need wrapping, just add a bow.
· Everyone loves to eat. Go to your local World Market or grocery store, grab a gift basket and add snack foods like smoked salmon, caviar, cheeses, crackers and some chocolate mints. This usually works well for a co-worker or boss.
· A subscription to their favorite magazine or one that has to do with their favorite hobby, this is always a very quick gift.
· For the movie buff, a couple of movie passes to the theater. Some theaters even have gift packs that include two movie passes and snacks. 
· Lottery tickets are inexpensive to give, usually a dollar each and could be worth millions. They also make good stocking stuffers.
· Gift certificate to their favorite restaurant, coffee house or bookstore.
· A movie basket: movie rental gift card, a box of microwave popcorn, a six pack of their favorite soda and their favorite candy.
· A car care basket: chamois, car wax, car soap, new car scent can, spray nozzle to attach to hose and to be really creative, you can use a bucket instead of a basket.
· For the person who has everything, make a donation to their favorite charity in their name and give them a card that shows what you have done.

If you find yourself looking for a gift for a child:

· A quick stop at the toy store for a stuffed animal will suffice for newborns and small children up to about age four or five. 
· For a baby, open a bank account (if they don’t already have one) or give a gift certificate to the local baby-clothing store. Babies and children are always outgrowing their clothes.
· For an older child, an art set works well or an arts and crafts kit.
· Puzzles are always big hits with kids. Remember to check out the age on the box though to make sure it’s suitable for the child. 

Need something for a picky teenager?

· I’ve found that gift certificates are teen pleasers. A music or clothing store is usually a big hit or even one to their favorite coffee house.
· If you are dealing with a teenage girl, soaps and lotion sets are a good choice. 
· Teens love to talk on the phone. A pre-paid cell-phone would make a great gift, if they don’t already have one.

When all else fails with teens or anyone for that matter, find a card and add some money to it. Although cash is always welcomed into anyone’s life, sometimes a gift of money, while useful, may be seen as inappropriate, offensive or thoughtless depending on the giver-receiver relationship. In a nutshell, use your best judgment on the person and what type of gift you decide for them. 

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Stuck at home with the kids this year? Just want to spend a family time at home on New Years Eve?
Regardless of what the situation is, there are many fun things you can do on New Years Eve with the family. Other than looking for local events in your area, which are sometimes few, you can plan a party in your home with your family and even some neighbors or friends and their children.

Here are some tips that will make your “family-oriented” an event to remember.

· Decorate your home. Have the kids help. Hang streamers, scatter confetti and set out party hats and noisemakers. 

· Bake some goodies. If you can’t bake, visit your local bakery for some tasty cookies and cupcakes. 

· Have everyone dress up in party clothes. Kids love to act like adults! 

· Toast the New Year at midnight with sparkling fruit cider in plastic champagne glasses that you can purchase at your local grocery store or party supply. 

Some fun additions to your party that will be a big hit:

Balloon Drop

Line up two rectangular paper tablecloths and punch holes every 2 to 3 inches down one long side of each. Stitch the tablecloths together with yarn, leaving a foot or so at the end for a ripcord. Tape the cloth to the ceiling on three sides, leaving the side opposite the ripcord open. Tape the cord up separately, so it's accessible. Let the center of the cloth hang down to allow space for the balloons. 
Inflate at least 75 balloons. You can store your balloons in large garbage bags until it's time to fill the cloth. For added fun, stuff a few balloons with dollar bills for the kids. Buy thin streamers and metallic confetti. Stuff the cloth with balloons, then add the confetti and streamers on top. (If you reverse it, the confetti will weigh down the cloth and filter out ahead of time.) Tape up the last side of the cloth. Let her rip! At the stroke of midnight, just one strong pull tears through the paper, releasing a cascade of balloons and confetti--followed by stomping feet and a cacophony of pops.

Bubble Wrap Stomp

Looking for a way to ring in the New Year that will have the crowd on its feet? Look no further than a packaging supply store. For just a few dollars, you can pick up several yards of large Bubble Wrap (or recycle Bubble Wrap that comes with holiday gifts). Just before midnight, unroll it on a hard surface, such as a wooden floor or driveway, and when the countdown concludes have the kids do the “Bubble Wrap Stomp!”

New Years Popper 

Take a toilet tissue roll, some tissue paper, tape, curling ribbon, some small candies or gifts for inside your popper. Cut a piece of tissue paper into a 12-inch square. Lay the toilet tissue roll onto the square. Tape the edge of the tissue paper onto the side of the toilet tissue roll. Roll the toilet tissue up in the tissue paper tightly. Secure the ends with tape. You should have 3-4 inches of tissue paper hanging off each end of the toilet tissue roll. Cut 2 pieces of curling ribbon, each one at least 12 inches long. Gather the tissue paper on one of the toilet tissue roll and tie it with the ribbon.

Fill your popper (toilet tissue roll) with small candies and/or trinkets. Gather the tissue on the other end of the toilet tissue roll and tie it with a ribbon. Voila, you now have fun, colorful party poppers!

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New Year’s Eve resolutions can be both troublesome and rewarding. Everyone enjoys making them, but how many actually keep them? Take a couple weeks before New Years Eve and think really hard as to what resolution you want to make and whether you’re really going to keep it or not. Don’t make a resolution that you know will be impossible to keep. Don’t give up chocolate if you know you have an uncontrollable sweet tooth. Be realistic. Be specific. Don’t say, "I want to lose weight." Instead be specific: "I want to lose 5 pounds a month so that I look hot in my new swimsuit on the fourth of July." 

Always make realistic, measurable goals and write them down. Limit the number of resolutions you make as well. Get one good resolution in, instead of making a list of non-obtainable goals. Make sure you post your list where you can see it. If you plan on losing weight, post it on the fridge and cabinet to remind you before you reach for the ice cream or a fattening snack. Enlist the support of your friends and family. Take action immediately. Make important appointments with a doctor, dietitian or counselor, if your goal is losing weight. Sign up for a gym membership or buy any equipment you need. 

Practice new behaviors that encourage success. If you want to lose weight, don’t go to a donut shop or if you absolutely have to go to a fast food restaurant with the family, order something grilled like chicken or grab a salad. Set goals and reward yourself for partial successes. If you lose 5 pounds for the month, don’t reward yourself with food. Reward yourself with a massage or that new movie on DVD you wanted.

Not sure what resolution you want to make? Here’s a Top Ten List:

· Spend More Time with Family and Friends
· Lose Weight 
· Get Fit
· Quit Smoking
· Enjoy Life More
· Quit Drinking
· Get Out of Debt
· Learn Something New
· Help Others
· Get Organized

Whatever your resolution is, keep in mind the aforementioned tips, choose wisely and keep your resolution. The upcoming year may be that prosperous year you’ve been waiting for!

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During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, most of us have a tendency to stress out and forget about relaxing. After all, who has time to relax when there’s shopping to do, parties to plan, gifts to wrap and preparations to make for family gatherings? Even though the holidays are meant to capture the joy of the holiday season, we often lose the true meaning of this special time of year.

One thing to always keep in mind is the spirit of the season. By this, I mean not pushing and shoving in stores or not cutting someone off on the road because you’re running late. Take a minute, sit down and relax. Think about ways to spread Goodwill amongst everyone including family members, friends, co-workers, and (gasp!) even total strangers. 

Spreading Goodwill is perhaps the most direct means to having a joyful holiday season and recapturing its true meaning. Remember the last time someone complimented you? Didn’t it make you feel a little or a lot better about yourself? Think about how you might make someone else feel if you complimented him or her. Keep in mind that both the giver and the receiver end up feeling happier and better about the world. Even more importantly, when we spread goodwill, we increase the odds that those we’ve touched will then spread goodwill to others. 

Some ways to spread Goodwill are:

· Do something nice for those who are less fortunate.
· Always be on the lookout for opportunities to give someone a compliment, even strangers.
· If you’re waiting in line at the store, strike up a conversation about the weather, if it’s an elderly person, chances are they will welcome the warmth of your voice.
· If there is one parking spot left, let the other person have it.
· If you have to go through a tollbooth, pay for the person behind you.
· If there’s a parking meter that has expired, why not add the extra quarter to prevent someone from getting a parking ticket.
· If a clerk at a store has had a long day or you’ve noticed that they were dealing with an irate customer, send a few kind words their way. The holiday season is probably the hardest time of the year for them.
· Organize a group of people to go caroling at a retirement home or rest home. Most of these people have been forgotten by their family or do not have any family left who are living. 

Who knows, not only may you recapture the holiday spirit, it may actually become a year-a-round habit and what a better world it would be, and not only just during the holiday season.

Besides spreading Goodwill, there are other ways to recapture the holiday season and relax at the same time. Try out a few of these and it’s sure to put anyone in the spirit of the holiday season:

· Take the family on a car ride through neighborhoods that have gone over and above decorating their homes. Sometimes, you can park and walk through the neighborhoods and sip hot coffee, hot cocoa or hot apple cider.
· Attend a church or school Christmas play.
· Organize a group of friends and or family and go caroling in your neighborhood.
· Rent some holiday movies, pop some popcorn and sit around a warm fire with your family.

Whatever it is you decide to do to recapture the spirit of the holidays, always remember that the holidays are for Goodwill and cheer. If you remember that, you should never lose your holiday spirit.

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