Showing posts with label organization. Show all posts
Showing posts with label organization. Show all posts
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Top 10 Christmas Lists
Top Ten is a generic term used to indicate the ten items that are best, worst, or otherwise notable according to some criteria. Enjoy the top ten lists about Christmas. Where do you find the world’s tallest Christmas tree? How do you nick an elf? Top 10 lists are good, fun, and decisive ways to get an overview of many Christmas topics. 365 Days of Christmas brings a selection of top 10 lists here (at the blog site). Click around, have some fun, and learn a bit more about Christmas.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Christmas Before Halloween
Why start thinking about Christmas even before Halloween? Every wonderful experience starts with a vision. In October, we're going to figure out what our holiday season will look like and we'll take November to make it happen.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Safely Store Your Ornaments & Holiday Decor
Proper storage of your ornaments and decorations keeps them in perfect condition year after year. Purchase sturdy storage containers and resolve to store your treasures properly this year!
WHAT NOT TO DO!
Don't wrap ornaments or decorations in newspaper, printed tissue, or other printed papers. The inks can rub off on the ornaments and ruin them.
Keep glass ornaments away from damp environments, like basements, garages, storage units, or attics. These treasures need to be kept inside to avoid mold or mildew damage.
Avoid using plastic shopping bags for storage as they tend to break down or weaken over time.
CONTAINERS
Compartmentalized ornament boxes are wonderful and can be found at discount department stores or ordered online.
Specially made containers are great, but you can also use sturdy cardboard boxes and inexpensive plastic bins with lids. It's a good idea to save your original ornament boxes whenever possible, especially for breakable items as they are usually packaged to prevent damage.
POSITIVE PACKING TIPS
Save and organize your gift wrapping materials in a plastic organizer made especially for this purpose. You won't have to buy all new materials next year, and you'll know exactly where your papers and bows are when you need them.
Long rolls of paper can also be stored by tying the rolls together with string or ribbon (don't tape them or use rubber bands that can mark or tear the paper) and lying them flat on a closet shelf. Store gift bags by removing any tissue paper from the bags, fold bags carefully, and store the folded bags in your largest gift bag or in a large department store bag. Hang or place the bag so that it won't be crushed or come into contact with moisture.
Sturdy cardboard inserts (like the ones packed inside all those toy packages) work great for wrapping garlands around to keep them flat and untangled. Layer in paper bags for protection and easy handling next year.
Wrap individual strings of lights around cardboard inserts. Check for broken or burned out lights and replace or mark with a colored twist-tie for replacement next year. Buy replacement bulbs in the after Christmas sales.
You can quickly make cloth bags to store and protect your lights by cutting the legs from a pair of old, worn out jeans and either sew, glue or use fusible web to seal one end. Place lights inside the bag and secure the open end with a large rubber band and by tying a length of string securely around the end. The bags can then be securely hung up in your storage area on a hook or nail. Store smaller strings of lights (for wreathes, or other decorations) in plastic containers marked to identify what the lights are used for.
Store extension cords with lights so you can locate them next year when you need them.
Use acid-free tissue paper to wrap loose ornaments and place in shallow, sturdy cardboard boxes or plastic ornament containers.
Many home/school made ornaments have candy (peppermints, etc.) that can deteriorate, get gooey or sticky, attract pests, and are generally not easily stored. If you want to try to keep them, place each in a Ziploc baggie to protect other items from direct contact.
Cushion ornaments by using lots of tissue between them. I don't recommend Styrofoam peanuts as packing material because they can get wedged into an ornaments tiny openings and cause breakage, and moisture can also cause the material to stick to your ornaments
Avoid overcrowding a box of ornaments or making too many layers.
Use sturdy cardboard boxes to store antique or fragile ornaments rather than airtight plastic containers.
Ornaments with photos, natural materials (pinecones, dog biscuits, macaroni, etc.) should be wrapped in acid-free tissue paper and stored in airtight containers to avoid attracting insects. Note that some natural materials may not store well from year to year.
Place small packets of silica gel (available at arts & crafts stores) in storage boxes to avoid mildew.
Wreaths should be wrapped in tissue paper and can be stored in cardboard boxes; avoid stacking wreaths.
Separate out any ornaments or objects in need of minor repairs and set aside to fix before packing them away.
Store collections or like items together so that each collection can be easily put together next year.
Label boxes for easy identity next year.
Use a clear plastic shoebox to organize and store extra gift tags, tape, scissors, small ribbons, trims, ornament hangers, cookie cutters, and other small miscellaneous holiday items.
Ribbons and bows are best stored in a large plastic box so they won't be crushed or exposed to moisture.
STORAGE ENVIRONMENT
A cool, dry area where the temperature remains fairly steady is preferable for storage of your treasured collectibles.
Avoid storing holiday decorations in laundry rooms, garages, outside storage buildings, basements, or attics that are not temperature regulated.
A high closet shelf or indoor under-the-stairs storage area where the boxes can remain undisturbed is ideal, especially for fragile items.
WHAT NOT TO DO!
Don't wrap ornaments or decorations in newspaper, printed tissue, or other printed papers. The inks can rub off on the ornaments and ruin them.
Keep glass ornaments away from damp environments, like basements, garages, storage units, or attics. These treasures need to be kept inside to avoid mold or mildew damage.
Avoid using plastic shopping bags for storage as they tend to break down or weaken over time.
CONTAINERS
Compartmentalized ornament boxes are wonderful and can be found at discount department stores or ordered online.
Specially made containers are great, but you can also use sturdy cardboard boxes and inexpensive plastic bins with lids. It's a good idea to save your original ornament boxes whenever possible, especially for breakable items as they are usually packaged to prevent damage.
POSITIVE PACKING TIPS
Save and organize your gift wrapping materials in a plastic organizer made especially for this purpose. You won't have to buy all new materials next year, and you'll know exactly where your papers and bows are when you need them.
Long rolls of paper can also be stored by tying the rolls together with string or ribbon (don't tape them or use rubber bands that can mark or tear the paper) and lying them flat on a closet shelf. Store gift bags by removing any tissue paper from the bags, fold bags carefully, and store the folded bags in your largest gift bag or in a large department store bag. Hang or place the bag so that it won't be crushed or come into contact with moisture.
Sturdy cardboard inserts (like the ones packed inside all those toy packages) work great for wrapping garlands around to keep them flat and untangled. Layer in paper bags for protection and easy handling next year.
Wrap individual strings of lights around cardboard inserts. Check for broken or burned out lights and replace or mark with a colored twist-tie for replacement next year. Buy replacement bulbs in the after Christmas sales.
You can quickly make cloth bags to store and protect your lights by cutting the legs from a pair of old, worn out jeans and either sew, glue or use fusible web to seal one end. Place lights inside the bag and secure the open end with a large rubber band and by tying a length of string securely around the end. The bags can then be securely hung up in your storage area on a hook or nail. Store smaller strings of lights (for wreathes, or other decorations) in plastic containers marked to identify what the lights are used for.
Store extension cords with lights so you can locate them next year when you need them.
Use acid-free tissue paper to wrap loose ornaments and place in shallow, sturdy cardboard boxes or plastic ornament containers.
Many home/school made ornaments have candy (peppermints, etc.) that can deteriorate, get gooey or sticky, attract pests, and are generally not easily stored. If you want to try to keep them, place each in a Ziploc baggie to protect other items from direct contact.
Cushion ornaments by using lots of tissue between them. I don't recommend Styrofoam peanuts as packing material because they can get wedged into an ornaments tiny openings and cause breakage, and moisture can also cause the material to stick to your ornaments
Avoid overcrowding a box of ornaments or making too many layers.
Use sturdy cardboard boxes to store antique or fragile ornaments rather than airtight plastic containers.
Ornaments with photos, natural materials (pinecones, dog biscuits, macaroni, etc.) should be wrapped in acid-free tissue paper and stored in airtight containers to avoid attracting insects. Note that some natural materials may not store well from year to year.
Place small packets of silica gel (available at arts & crafts stores) in storage boxes to avoid mildew.
Wreaths should be wrapped in tissue paper and can be stored in cardboard boxes; avoid stacking wreaths.
Separate out any ornaments or objects in need of minor repairs and set aside to fix before packing them away.
Store collections or like items together so that each collection can be easily put together next year.
Label boxes for easy identity next year.
Use a clear plastic shoebox to organize and store extra gift tags, tape, scissors, small ribbons, trims, ornament hangers, cookie cutters, and other small miscellaneous holiday items.
Ribbons and bows are best stored in a large plastic box so they won't be crushed or exposed to moisture.
STORAGE ENVIRONMENT
A cool, dry area where the temperature remains fairly steady is preferable for storage of your treasured collectibles.
Avoid storing holiday decorations in laundry rooms, garages, outside storage buildings, basements, or attics that are not temperature regulated.
A high closet shelf or indoor under-the-stairs storage area where the boxes can remain undisturbed is ideal, especially for fragile items.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Christmas Connection #10
If you plan to travel during the holidays, now is the time to finalize your plans and book your flights & accommodations. Make any other travel arrangements like informing your sister that you are coming, buying a special game for the kids to keep them entertained while traveling, gathering all your medical cards & medical information in case of emergency.
Shop now for any accessories you might need during your travel.
Write down your packing list so you don't forget anything. Take the list with you in your luggage so you remember everything to bring back home.
Shop now for any accessories you might need during your travel.
Write down your packing list so you don't forget anything. Take the list with you in your luggage so you remember everything to bring back home.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Christmas Connection #9
How are you doing so far this season in getting things planned and organized? Let us know the good and the bad. The good will encourage others; the bad will help us plan assignments geared toward your goals and needs.
By planning your season step by step, you'll be happy and singing Christmas carols in your head instead of worrying that you'll forget something, or that you'll do something too late. Christmas will again be a time of wonder and joy!
Will you be including Christmas photos of your family with your cards? Do you take annual photos so you can show how big the kids have gotten or how much weight you lost? Plan now! What will you wear? Who will take the photo? Fancy studios are nice, but photos you take yourself are just as pleasant. If going to a studio get it scheduled today. If doing the photo yourself, check the batteries and get the family together this week to get the photo done so you have time to get the photo printed, purchase frames, etc., for mailing and gifts.
By planning your season step by step, you'll be happy and singing Christmas carols in your head instead of worrying that you'll forget something, or that you'll do something too late. Christmas will again be a time of wonder and joy!
Will you be including Christmas photos of your family with your cards? Do you take annual photos so you can show how big the kids have gotten or how much weight you lost? Plan now! What will you wear? Who will take the photo? Fancy studios are nice, but photos you take yourself are just as pleasant. If going to a studio get it scheduled today. If doing the photo yourself, check the batteries and get the family together this week to get the photo done so you have time to get the photo printed, purchase frames, etc., for mailing and gifts.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Christmas Connection #8
Get out the calendar and look ahead to all the upcoming events and parties you will be attending.
Make a list of all of the places you are going, especially those places where you'll be expected to bring a dish. List each dish you will be making and gather all of the ingredients. Do you have everything you need? Do the shopping now (or schedule it now) for the missing ingredients so won't have to rush out at the last minute.
Make a list of all of the places you are going, especially those places where you'll be expected to bring a dish. List each dish you will be making and gather all of the ingredients. Do you have everything you need? Do the shopping now (or schedule it now) for the missing ingredients so won't have to rush out at the last minute.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Christmas Connection #7
When the Christmas catalogs start arriving in the mail, start a section in your binder for catalog gift ideas. Tear out any pages in catalogs that you think somebody might like, circle the item and write the person's name by it so you don't forget. Make sure the phone number or website is listed. It also helps to write the catalog number or customer number from the catalog address label to speed ordering. When it's time to buy ANYTHING this year for ANYONE for ANY OCCASION, you'll be ready!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Christmas Connection #6
Flip through the cooking section of your notebook. Take out any recipes you tried that you/family didn't like. Add notes on the ones you tried that you did like (such as "add more cheese next time" or "needs more peppermint").
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Christmas Connection #5
Print out a monthly calendar for each month, October through January. Its easier if you do one month per page so you have lots of writing room. What kind of grid/calendar you use is based solely on personal preference. Below are various free printable calendar pages. After you got all four months printed, take the time to write in all your holidays, birthdays, school events, etc.
Then schedule some baking days, crafting days, and shopping days. Do this in pencils since life often gets in the way and schedules need adjusted.
Calendar Pages
http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/calendars/a/122900a.htm
http://www.dltk-cards.com/calendar/
http://www.printablecalendar.ca/
http://www.abcteach.com/directory/teaching_extras/calendars/
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/calendar/
Then schedule some baking days, crafting days, and shopping days. Do this in pencils since life often gets in the way and schedules need adjusted.
Calendar Pages
http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/calendars/a/122900a.htm
http://www.dltk-cards.com/calendar/
http://www.printablecalendar.ca/
http://www.abcteach.com/directory/teaching_extras/calendars/
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/calendar/
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Christmas Connection #4
This week's assignment is to make your card list, including friends, family, colleagues, children's friends, church family, teachers, children's classmates, online groups, mailman, hair dresser, etc. Complete your list as completely as you can.
If creating your own cards, determine how many you need (see above) and what date you want to have all your cards mailed. Remember that cards going overseas need to go 1 to 2 weeks earlier to arrive in time for Christmas. Divide how cards needed by how many weeks are left (depending on your own personal due date). For example, if mailing on December 3rd and its now the beginning of October, you have 8 weeks to create your cards, so each week you should be creating 25 cards if mailing 200 cards total. That means each day you should create 3-4 cards.
Use the same formula above to determine how many cards need addressed and stamped each day.
If creating your own cards, determine how many you need (see above) and what date you want to have all your cards mailed. Remember that cards going overseas need to go 1 to 2 weeks earlier to arrive in time for Christmas. Divide how cards needed by how many weeks are left (depending on your own personal due date). For example, if mailing on December 3rd and its now the beginning of October, you have 8 weeks to create your cards, so each week you should be creating 25 cards if mailing 200 cards total. That means each day you should create 3-4 cards.
Use the same formula above to determine how many cards need addressed and stamped each day.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Christmas Connection #3
You should at least by now, have something to keep track of your thoughts and ideas. A notebook, a binder, a composition book, whatever suits YOU. If not get one this week because you need a place to keep track of everything!
This week start getting all those summer photos of vacations and pool time downloaded and off your digital camera to free up the memory for the upcoming school dances, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving feasts, and, of course, Christmas activities and Christmas day. If you are using a 35mm camera then start buying rolls of film.
Continue to work on your gift list for ideas, etc. Work on your list of the things you are going to make and the people you are planning on making things for. If you are making things, start your planning process to decide what to do. At minimum, begin to look through your idea books and notes to see what you want to do.
Work on a list of activities you want to do or that the kids cherish. Just write the list down for now... seeing Santa at the mall, Christmas caroling, baking, donating to charity, etc.
This week start getting all those summer photos of vacations and pool time downloaded and off your digital camera to free up the memory for the upcoming school dances, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving feasts, and, of course, Christmas activities and Christmas day. If you are using a 35mm camera then start buying rolls of film.
Continue to work on your gift list for ideas, etc. Work on your list of the things you are going to make and the people you are planning on making things for. If you are making things, start your planning process to decide what to do. At minimum, begin to look through your idea books and notes to see what you want to do.
Work on a list of activities you want to do or that the kids cherish. Just write the list down for now... seeing Santa at the mall, Christmas caroling, baking, donating to charity, etc.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Rudolph Day
Each month on the 25th is Rudolph Day.
Whether you take a few minutes or several hours, do something -- anything -- Christmas related.
Some ideas:
Whether you take a few minutes or several hours, do something -- anything -- Christmas related.
Some ideas:
- Address a couple cards.
- Bake a few batches of cookies, then freeze.
- Get swap items ready.
- Wrap a few presents.
- Get some shopping done.
- Get your decorations organized.
- Decorate the house.
- Go through your gift list.
- Make some crafts with the kids.
- Create some ornaments.
- Work on your Christmas notebook.
Please join me on the 25th of each month. I hope this will help motivate you to get in the Christmas spirit.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Christmas Connection #2
Start to get an idea(s) to what you need. Look at your budget. Do you need ideas for presents? Do you need ideas for cards and tags or do you have the perfect one ready to make?
Write up the gift list. Write every family, friend, colleague, group you purchase for. This includes your children, spouse, children's class mates, swaps, etc.
Write down any ideas you have for gifts. If you have already bought gifts get them written down in your notebook now.
If creating your own wrapping paper, get the all the supplies bought such as ribbon/twine, Kraft paper, stamps, stickers, etc.
If creating your own cards and tags, get all the supplies bought such as cardstock, stickers, embellishments, stamps, ink, etc.
Next week there will be another challenge/assignment so we can all get planning for Christmas. This is to help us make things easier in our lives.
If you altered your book/binder that you got last week, please share what you did.
Write up the gift list. Write every family, friend, colleague, group you purchase for. This includes your children, spouse, children's class mates, swaps, etc.
Write down any ideas you have for gifts. If you have already bought gifts get them written down in your notebook now.
If creating your own wrapping paper, get the all the supplies bought such as ribbon/twine, Kraft paper, stamps, stickers, etc.
If creating your own cards and tags, get all the supplies bought such as cardstock, stickers, embellishments, stamps, ink, etc.
Next week there will be another challenge/assignment so we can all get planning for Christmas. This is to help us make things easier in our lives.
If you altered your book/binder that you got last week, please share what you did.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Christmas Connection
Instead of waiting until fall to get started, let's get started early this year. Just imagine how organized you will be, how much more can be done, how relaxed you will fill when Christmas time gets here.
These challenges are posted help us get ready for Christmas (or whatever holiday(s) you celebrate). We will be planning, getting presents picked out, gifts made, cards made, tags made, things to help you get ready for that fun, special day.
Your First Assignment
Get a notebook/binder. You can alter it, if you wish. You might want to find something you can use for dividers too. This notebook will fill up fast so find something that will hold enough paper to write all your stuff down. Go find a special pen just for this notebook.
Make your dividers. Your list may look like this. Make the dividers to fit YOUR needs.
Gifts - include bought and handmade
Cards - store bought or hand made
Tags & wrapping stuff - buying or making
Decorations - how are you going to decorate
Parties - attending or planning
Baking - buying or making
Shopping List
Inventory - where are all the decorations stored
These challenges are posted help us get ready for Christmas (or whatever holiday(s) you celebrate). We will be planning, getting presents picked out, gifts made, cards made, tags made, things to help you get ready for that fun, special day.
Your First Assignment
Get a notebook/binder. You can alter it, if you wish. You might want to find something you can use for dividers too. This notebook will fill up fast so find something that will hold enough paper to write all your stuff down. Go find a special pen just for this notebook.
Make your dividers. Your list may look like this. Make the dividers to fit YOUR needs.
Gifts - include bought and handmade
Cards - store bought or hand made
Tags & wrapping stuff - buying or making
Decorations - how are you going to decorate
Parties - attending or planning
Baking - buying or making
Shopping List
Inventory - where are all the decorations stored
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Get Organized Now for Christmas - Day 23 - Gifts, Gifts, Gifts
The greatest gift is a portion of thyself.
~~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~~
Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients
of a truly merry Christmas.
~~ Peg Bracken ~~
You don't have to be rich to share lavish gifts. Gifts created are usually he most treasured.
Paint It
Buy a plain shirt and print/paint on it. Or make a iron-on via an ink jet printer. Create your own design on the computer or use a favorite picture.
Monogram It
Use the sewing machine to create a monogram using the recipient’s initials and add the monogram to a set of bath towels.
Bake It
Give cookies and breads. Buy or recycle seasonal containers -- boxes, tins, etc. -- and package your homemade goodies.
Cook It
Offer to make one meal a month for a single-parent family. Double your recipes for a few days and put the extra in the freezer. When needed, unthaw the dinner and deliver to your friends.
Be It
Give some of your time. Offer to drive an elderly neighbor to an appointment. Offer to shovel the sidewalk for your grandfather. Offer to help with the Christmas decorations for a handicapped friend. Offer to read a story or two at the local library. Offer to teach a class at your local church.
Donate It
Drop off the kids' extra toys and books to the library, doctor's office, or Head Start classroom.
Donate It Again
Make a donation in someone’s name. If the person you would buy for has plenty and does not need or want more, give a donation in their name.
Carol It
Get a few friends or family together and set up a time to go to the local hospital or senior citizen's center and sing Christmas carols. The patients/residents don't care if you sing off-key.
Craft It
There are many crafts to make and create. Below is a very brief list from the 1000s of sites on the Internet.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Get Organized Now for Christmas - Day 22 - Involve the Whole Family
Ask each person in your household questions about Christmas, such as:
What is your favorite Christmas food?
What is your favorite Christmas activity?
What is your favorite Christmas song?
What is your favorite Christmas memory?
When you compile the answers, it will give you ideas about what is important to those closest to you. You might just be surprised at what makes the holidays special to those around you. With this information you might want change some things. For example, if it is important to the children to have a movie night as a family activity and not go ice skating, save the money and rent a Christmas movie and enjoy the evening together as a family.
By asking the above questions you can create a Christmas celebration around things everyone in the family enjoys and not just what you think they want to do.
What can your family help you with? Have the kids help make the Christmas goodies with you -- will they be perfect -- no, is that OK -- yes. Have the teenagers help with running errands. Have your husband help with wrapping gifts. This is one way to help reduce your Christmas stress . . . just let go and involve your family.
What is your favorite Christmas food?
What is your favorite Christmas activity?
What is your favorite Christmas song?
What is your favorite Christmas memory?
When you compile the answers, it will give you ideas about what is important to those closest to you. You might just be surprised at what makes the holidays special to those around you. With this information you might want change some things. For example, if it is important to the children to have a movie night as a family activity and not go ice skating, save the money and rent a Christmas movie and enjoy the evening together as a family.
By asking the above questions you can create a Christmas celebration around things everyone in the family enjoys and not just what you think they want to do.
What can your family help you with? Have the kids help make the Christmas goodies with you -- will they be perfect -- no, is that OK -- yes. Have the teenagers help with running errands. Have your husband help with wrapping gifts. This is one way to help reduce your Christmas stress . . . just let go and involve your family.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Get Organized Now for Christmas - Day 21 - Traditions
What is it about traditions, especially Christmas traditions, that make them so important to us? We all help decorate the big traditional tree, we bake the same cookies every year, we read Christmas stories or do a small activity every night in December . . . the list goes on and on.
Traditions provide great value. Family traditions provide great value, and the value lasts far beyond the moment. The value of a tradition isn't in completing the ritual; the value comes from what it provides for those who participate.
Traditions provide stability. Activities that are observed year in and year out become a means by which family members can build trust and security. Regardless of what else may happen, the traditions will not change. So much in our lives these days is temporary. Family traditions provide something for every person to hold on to and to rely upon.
Traditions give us a sense of identity. They are one of the things that make us unique to other families. I remember reading about a person who recalled his childhood Christmas traditions. The writer was clearly moved by thoughts of his mother's Ambrosia Salad that was served every Christmas Eve. In this article, he commented that he experienced a "normal American Christmas." For him, Ambrosia Salad was the crowning glory of Christmas.
Although our Christmas traditions may have some commonality with other families, each household still has their own way of living out those traditions. That is what is so special about them. Each family's unique twist is what gives that family its identity and helps the members bond with one another. Ethnic foods, decorations, special activities, all help families become distinctive.
Traditions provide continuity between generations. It can be difficult to keep up with extended family members these days, and, of course, it is impossible to touch those who are long gone. But traditions create a bridge between the young and the old, between the past and the present. We have some Christmas decorations that have been passed down through the years. What better way for the generations to mix and mingle than over a table laden with foods made from well-loved family recipes?
Traditions provide goodness for families. We can build memories and share stories so that we draw near to one another.
With everything there is to do these days, how can a family determine which activities ought to become traditions?
Here are some tips to help you figure out what will work best for you:
Traditions provide great value. Family traditions provide great value, and the value lasts far beyond the moment. The value of a tradition isn't in completing the ritual; the value comes from what it provides for those who participate.
Traditions provide stability. Activities that are observed year in and year out become a means by which family members can build trust and security. Regardless of what else may happen, the traditions will not change. So much in our lives these days is temporary. Family traditions provide something for every person to hold on to and to rely upon.
Traditions give us a sense of identity. They are one of the things that make us unique to other families. I remember reading about a person who recalled his childhood Christmas traditions. The writer was clearly moved by thoughts of his mother's Ambrosia Salad that was served every Christmas Eve. In this article, he commented that he experienced a "normal American Christmas." For him, Ambrosia Salad was the crowning glory of Christmas.
Although our Christmas traditions may have some commonality with other families, each household still has their own way of living out those traditions. That is what is so special about them. Each family's unique twist is what gives that family its identity and helps the members bond with one another. Ethnic foods, decorations, special activities, all help families become distinctive.
Traditions provide continuity between generations. It can be difficult to keep up with extended family members these days, and, of course, it is impossible to touch those who are long gone. But traditions create a bridge between the young and the old, between the past and the present. We have some Christmas decorations that have been passed down through the years. What better way for the generations to mix and mingle than over a table laden with foods made from well-loved family recipes?
Traditions provide goodness for families. We can build memories and share stories so that we draw near to one another.
With everything there is to do these days, how can a family determine which activities ought to become traditions?
Here are some tips to help you figure out what will work best for you:
- Recognize that some traditions just happen. When my children were young, I started Christmas morning by singing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus. I hadn't planned on this becoming a tradition; it just happened.
- Traditions need to include everyone. We usually have a quiet Christmas morning with the children and I. Grandparents visit and friends drop by. Activities that can easily accommodate different numbers of people are more apt to make for good traditions. One tradition we observe is reading The Night before Christmas by Clement Clark Moore on Christmas Eve. It is a good time for everyone to quiet down, enjoy being together, and everyone can participate.
- Choose activities that reflect faith. We also read the story of Jesus' birth from the Gospel of Luke on Christmas Eve.
- Choose activities that will serve others. Christmas is a great time to practice generosity. Over the years my children have bought gifts for disadvantaged children, donated books to the local library, baked cookies for the local firefighters, collected hats and mittens for disadvantaged children, provided holiday foods for others, and participated in the Samaritan's Purse program.
- Choose activities that are fun and will relieve stress. This may seem obvious, but sometimes we get caught up in the idea that we need to provide a perfect Christmas for our families. We don't. We need to give them homes that are happy and filled with love and joy. One of the best decisions I ever made was when I decided not to travel from parent to parent to grandparent to grandparent's house (up to 7 houses) on Christmas Day. Every year I panicked as I travelled snow-filled roads to see every family member ON Christmas Day. I finally realized that I was the only one who cared about all of that.
- Choose activities that are easily reproduced year after year. The Lord Himself created the idea of traditions and yearly festivals. In Numbers 28:6 and Deuteronomy 16:1-17, He commanded the people to observe specific holy days and rituals every year. What is important is not that the traditions be elaborate, but rather that they be lived out repeatedly.
All of us have holiday memories. Some of those memories are hard and painful. If a loved one is no longer living, Christmas can be something that is dreaded rather than anticipated. Some of our memories are good as we remember a special gift, a fun event, or a moment when it seemed that all of life came together and we held it in our hands. We cannot plan all of those moments for our families. Through creating and maintaining family traditions, we can offer stability, identity, and continuity to our loved ones. We can look to the past and not be afraid of remembering those who are no longer with us. We can enjoy the present, knowing that we are building strong families. We can look forward to the future, when our children will sit by the fire in their homes and tell stories of their Christmas traditions.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Get Organized Now for Christmas - Day 20 - Mailing
The sooner you mail packages the less money you will have to pay because you can use the longer shipping methods. Consider mailing packages the day after Thanksgiving because the lines at the post office are often short as most people are out shopping.
Remember that if you are late in getting that package mailed you still have the option of Express Mail (overnight) and Priority Mail (1-2 days) and it is guaranteed from the post office to be delivered on time, including Saturday and Sunday. They even deliver on Christmas day but it will cost you more. Check out United States Postal Service site for more information.
Consider condensing gifts into one box if multiple people are going to one location during the holidays. For example, if you and your siblings all go to your parents' home during the holiday season (even if it is not at the same time), send all the gifts to your parents' home instead of each individual family's house. This will save you time and money on shipping!
Purchase your Christmas stamps for cards now before the post office gets busier.
Save on postage by hand delivering cards to friends and others you see on a regular basis. If you still want to send something in the mail consider mailing Christmas postcards.
Remember that if you are late in getting that package mailed you still have the option of Express Mail (overnight) and Priority Mail (1-2 days) and it is guaranteed from the post office to be delivered on time, including Saturday and Sunday. They even deliver on Christmas day but it will cost you more. Check out United States Postal Service site for more information.
Consider condensing gifts into one box if multiple people are going to one location during the holidays. For example, if you and your siblings all go to your parents' home during the holiday season (even if it is not at the same time), send all the gifts to your parents' home instead of each individual family's house. This will save you time and money on shipping!
Purchase your Christmas stamps for cards now before the post office gets busier.
Save on postage by hand delivering cards to friends and others you see on a regular basis. If you still want to send something in the mail consider mailing Christmas postcards.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Get Organized Now for Christmas - Day 19 - Baking
One of my favorite things to do every year is to bake things for other people and to have baked treats at home.
Many cookie doughs, cakes, pies and candies can be made ahead and frozen. Even if you do not want to freeze some items you can mix up the dry ingredients ahead of time and they will be ready for you to mix with the wet ingredients and bake. There are definite time savers that you can put into action for your holiday baking with just a little planning.
It is important to plan. What items do you want to give? Narrow it down to one or two items for person/family to help make baking your gifts a little easier. What type of packaging will you use? How do you plan to deliver the gifts? Add your notes and ideas to your notebook.
When do you plan to deliver/mail your baked gifts? Mark your calendars now.
Plan a day or two to do all of your baking. Schedule an extra day or two in case of scheduling conflicts.
An idea:
Think about organizing a day devoted to this task and involve your family and friends followed with a dinner from the crockpot and a few "samples" from your baking gifts for dessert.
Many cookie doughs, cakes, pies and candies can be made ahead and frozen. Even if you do not want to freeze some items you can mix up the dry ingredients ahead of time and they will be ready for you to mix with the wet ingredients and bake. There are definite time savers that you can put into action for your holiday baking with just a little planning.
It is important to plan. What items do you want to give? Narrow it down to one or two items for person/family to help make baking your gifts a little easier. What type of packaging will you use? How do you plan to deliver the gifts? Add your notes and ideas to your notebook.
When do you plan to deliver/mail your baked gifts? Mark your calendars now.
Plan a day or two to do all of your baking. Schedule an extra day or two in case of scheduling conflicts.
An idea:
Think about organizing a day devoted to this task and involve your family and friends followed with a dinner from the crockpot and a few "samples" from your baking gifts for dessert.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Get Organized Now for Christmas - Day 18 - Crafting
Does this sound like your house . . . fabric piled high in one corner, yarn piled in a basket, soap making supplies spilling off the shelf and scrapbook supplies tower over you? Many of us purchase items to make gifts for others, yet not all of us give the gifts because we do not get around to making these special items.
Now is the time to start planning what you want to make and who to make it for. To help get a handle on your crafting for the holidays here are several steps to follow:
Examine your gift list and mark the people you think would appreciate your handmade gifts from the heart. Be honest with yourself about the people you mark -- not everyone appreciates or values the time and dedication it takes to handcraft a gift.
As you go through your supplies use two boxes to sort your craft supplies. In one box put items you want to use for this year's holiday crafts. In the other one put items you will not use. Take the second box to a senior center, day care center, public library, Girl Scout troop, or preschool where those supplies will get used. It will also clear out much needed space in your house while serving a useful service for a group who could put them to good use.
Make a list of things you would like to make for the holidays. Add this list to your notebook.
Make a list of needed items to complete each craft. Make a notation indicating which items you need to purchase and which you have on hand.
On your calendar select days to work on different crafts to ensure you have your gifts completed by the needed date. Give yourself an extra day or two in case of scheduling conflicts.
Now is the time to start planning what you want to make and who to make it for. To help get a handle on your crafting for the holidays here are several steps to follow:
Examine your gift list and mark the people you think would appreciate your handmade gifts from the heart. Be honest with yourself about the people you mark -- not everyone appreciates or values the time and dedication it takes to handcraft a gift.
As you go through your supplies use two boxes to sort your craft supplies. In one box put items you want to use for this year's holiday crafts. In the other one put items you will not use. Take the second box to a senior center, day care center, public library, Girl Scout troop, or preschool where those supplies will get used. It will also clear out much needed space in your house while serving a useful service for a group who could put them to good use.
Make a list of things you would like to make for the holidays. Add this list to your notebook.
Make a list of needed items to complete each craft. Make a notation indicating which items you need to purchase and which you have on hand.
On your calendar select days to work on different crafts to ensure you have your gifts completed by the needed date. Give yourself an extra day or two in case of scheduling conflicts.
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