PM heads panel on 150th birth anniversary of Tagore

PM heads panel on 150th birth anniversary of Tagore

NEW DELHI, May 4: A 35-member panel led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was set up on Tuesday to frame guidelines to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore that falls on May 9. According to Culture Ministry sources, the government is determined to celebrate the poet-nationalist’s birth anniversary who wrote the country’s national anthem in a befitting manner. The committee will decide the various activities to take place to mark the event. The other members of the panel are Chief Justice K.G. Balakrishnan, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal, Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee and Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni. (IANS)

Danish couple enter into wedlock as per Hindu custom

Danish couple enter into wedlock as per Hindu custom

PUDUCHERRY, May 2: Fascinated by the way Hindu marriages take place, a pair from Denmark today entered into wedlock in the traditional custom amidst chanting of ‘mantras’ in the premises of an ancient temple here. Karsten, the 57-year-old bridegroom, and Ulla, 63, came to India three months back for an Ayurvedic treatment. While undergoing treatment at some clinics in some places in Kerala and Chennai, they came to know about Hindu marriage rituals and decided to enter into wedlock in the traditional custom, though they had married earlier in their country as per Christian traditions, Pierre, an associate of Karsten, said. The wedding, amidst chanting of vedic mantras by Sanskrit scholars led by priest Karthikeyan, was held in the premises of Sri Vedapureeswarar temple. (PTI)

Mother's Day: 'Do not lose your identity'

Motherhood was probably the best thing that could happen to me,’’ says television anchor Mini Mathur.


The mother of two says that it is a matter of knowing your priorities and the delegating the tasks. “It’s important for a mother be happy from within. She should have her own identity,’’ she says. Mathur, who gave birth to her daughter Sairah six months ago, was back shooting a few months later.

“I took a year off when I gave birth to Vivan six years ago. But this time I took a break of just four months.” Ever since I’ve had my kids, I have become more selective about the projects I take up. I would never take up something that would require me to shoot through the month,’’ she says.

Mathur ensures she spends quality time with her children. “I always give my work a hundred per cent. But before I leave, I ensure that everything is in place and my children will be well looked after in my absence. When I’m at home, however, I’m completely available to them.’’

The fact that her mother-in-law stays with her is also a great help, she says. “Besides, my husband and I coordinate our schedules in such a manner that one of us is always around for our children,’’ she said.
According to Mathur, women are gifted with the ability to multi-task. “With a little intelligent time management, we can juggle kids, a marriage, a home and a career.’’

Women who give up having babies in exchange for a fruitful career really miss out on an important aspect of life, feels Mathur. “All it needs is a little extra effort on your part,’’ she says.

“My son Vivan understands my need to work. He has never once complained when I leave for my shoots. In fact, he is thrilled that his mother appears on television.

“Although I have to preempt and pre-plan things to ensure everything’s in place in case of an emergency, it is worth it. Work takes on a new meaning when one’s personal life is in place,’’ she says.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Mothers-Day-Do-not-lose-your-identity/articleshow/4497555.cms

Mother's Day: Balancing act

Motherhood no longer means stepping down from the corporate ladder. It’s no longer about devoting one’s entire life to running a home. Most urban women today are expected to juggle corporate and family life with relative ease, and while it often calls for compromises, few mums are balking at the task.

It certainly helps that the government has become more sensitive to needs of the working mother: On the anvil is a three-year child-care leave for women working in the public sector. Even the private sector is reaching out to working mothers in its force, either by offering additional nursing leave or extending flexi-time work patterns.

Bandra resident Sonu Dhami, for instance, worked out of her house for eight months after her son’s birth, thanks to her employer’s open policy. She works for a multinational company (MNC). Media personnel Charu V has been working out of home for the last 18 months — albeit for a lower salary than the one she drew when fully employed. “But it is the only way I can manage both work and my baby,’’ she says.

Samyukta Mehta, a marketing official who lives in Santa Cruz, typifies the New Age supermum: She is mindful of the company’s targets, but has yet to miss her six-year-old son’s school events She admits, though, that it’s not easy. In the workplace, everyone is expected to pull their weight, irrespective of their personal responsibilities. “It is not easy, but it is possible to juggle motherhood with a successful career,’’ says Mehta. “At the end of the day, it all boils down to management and prioritisation,’’ she says.

It helps when families pitch in. The fact that my in-laws live with us helped to a great extent. Moreover, my boss was very understanding and would give me leave to check on my son as and when required,’’ Mehta adds.

And with working mums, it’s all about quality time. “I help my son with his homework, and weekends are fun days with family outings,’’ she says.

Despite the success stories of women sailing effortlessly through teething problems, skinned knees, coughs and colds along with board meetings, deadlines and achieving targets at work, there are some who struggle to strike a balance. Ask 28-year-old Meenakshi Agarwal, an advertising professional who gave birth to her daughter last year. Resuming work has been quite a task. “At times, I am at a loss. I don’t know how to devote time to my daughter as well as put in long hours at work,’’ she says.

Agarwal’s in-laws who live in Bangalore, visit at times to help. “But frequent visits are rather strenuous for them too. Thankfully I have found a day-care centre where I can leave my girl. But I feel so guilty about the time I spend away from her. This is when she really needs me around her,’’ she adds.

This is where employers come into the picture. With the availability of video conferencing, internet, flexi-time and extended maternity leave, working mothers can avail of a number of options.

A senior HR personnel states that companies now realise that by not extending ‘friendly practices’ to working mothers, they can stand to lose out a chunk of their trained personnel.

Tina Ghosh, an HR professional with an MNC, says that although the Union government’s Maternity Benefits Act mentions that new mothers can avail of two breaks of 15 minutes each (excluding travel time) to nurse their babies, it is rarely practised. “Blame this on the long commute in a city like Mumbai,’’ says Ghosh. She adds that providing working mothers with daycare centres in the office premises would help to a great extent.

A proposal to this effect has been mooted by city authorities and could be implemented soon.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Mothers-Day-Balancing-act/articleshow/4497557.cms

Budh Purnima

Buddha Jayanti or also known as Buddha Purnima is the most sacred festivals of Buddhist. Buddha Purnima (Buddha Birthday) is celebrated in remembrance Lord Buddha. Lord Buddha is the founder of Buddhism. This day is the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha. It falls on the full moon of the fourth lunar month (month of Vaisakh) i.e. April or May. This day commemorates three important events of Buddha's life

- His birth in 623 BC.
- His enlightment i.e. attainment of supreme wisdom, in 588 BC.
- His attainment of Nirvana i.e. the complete extinction of his self at the age of 80.

This day is a thrice blessed day. Lord Buddha is considered the ninth avatar (incarnation) of Vishnu (Preserver in the Hindu Holy Trinity of Creator-Preserver-Destroyer). Gautam Buddha "lived and died in about the fifth century before the Christian era". Buddha means "enlightened one" - someone who is completely freefrom all faults and mental obstructions.

Gautam Buddha was not a god and the philosophy of Buddhism does not entail any theistic world-view. The teachings of the Buddha are solely to liberate human beings from the misery and sufferings of life.

According to the Buddhism, sorrow and desire are the main cause of all the evil and suffering of this world. Lord Buddha advocated the Eightfold Path consisting of precepts like right conduct, right motive, right speech, right effort, right resolve, right livelihood, right attention and right meditation to gain mastery over suffering. It is only after following this path one can reach the ultimate aim of Nirvana. Nirvana is the transcendental state of complete liberation. Gautama Buddha lived and taught in northern Inda in the 6th Century B.C.

Buddha travelled far and wide teaching hundreds of followers. Even after death his disciples continued to spread his teachings.

Rich and poor alike were attracted by the simplicity of Buddha’s teaching and his emphasis on complete equality of all, a notion antithetical to the existing Hindu caste system. The Mauryan Emperor Ashoka espoused the Buddhist religion in the 3rd century B.C. and helped in spreading it far and wide. Sarnath and Bodhgaya are two of the most important pilgrimage centres for the Buddhists.

Though Buddhism originated in India and the religion has gained tremendous popularity throughout the Far East in Asia, there are very few practising Buddhists in the country. The number of Buddhists in the world ranges "from less than two hundred million, to more than five hundred million, with the lower number closer to reality."

Buddha Purnima (Buddha Jayanti) 2009
Buddha Purnima will fall on 9th May on Tuesday in year 2009

United colours of India

The festival of colours is back! Packed with fun and excitement, it's time to get together with your loved ones and enjoy the splash of colours...

Holi, one of the most vibrant and colourful festivals celebrated across India, exhibits a timeless harmony of the spirit of celebration. It's observed all over North India on the full moon day in the month of Phalgun (March) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It heralds the end of winter and the beginning of spring and marks the rejuvenation of the spirit of life.

Here's a look at how the festival is celebrated across India...

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshowpics/4245174.cms

Lip-smacking Holi delicacies

All that playing and dunking family and friends in colour can make you hungry! Try out these recipes for a sumptuous Holi...

Gujia (Makes about 40 gujias)

Ingredients:

500 gms maida (flour)

1 kg khoya

3 tbsps kismis (raisins)

200 gms almonds (cut into thin strips)

6 tbsps cooking oil (keep some more aside for deep frying)

200 ml water

500 gms sugar

200 gms grated cheese (optional)

Other ingredients:

1. Ghee: 1/2 cup

Bhang leafs: 1/2 cup

Method:

Heat ghee in a pan. Add bhang. Cook on medium heat till the ghee starts to take the green colour from bhang.

Turn off the heat. Wait about 5 minutes.Mix six tablespoons of oil with the maida.

Now, add some water as required and knead into soft dough. Set aside and cover with a damp cloth. Fry khoya in a deep-frying pan to a light brown colour.

Add sugar, almonds and kismis into the khoya and mix well. Add ghee and bhang.

Remove from the fire and let it cool.Roll out the kneaded dough into a small and thick chapati.

Fill half the chapati with the khoya and cheese mixture and seal the round, twisting the edges inwards.Deep-fry these gujias to a deep golden brown color on slow flame.

Take them out with a sieve type ladle and drain the oil completely.

(Courtesy: Tivoli Garden Hotels, Chattarpur)

How to throw a Holi party

Celebrate the festival of colour with friends, colour, food and thandai!

Holi is all about fun, frolic and colour. The colourful festival brings people closer and reignites relationships. And what better way to celebrate this joyful festival than with your friends, family and loved ones?

Says Shivani Wazir, emcee, “I have been to a couple of Holi parties in the past and feel that this wonderful festival can be truly enjoyed in its real spirit with friends and dear ones.”

Therefore, if you plan to play host this Holi, there is no need for stress; all you need is a little planning and a few easy tips to ensure your guests and you have a great time.

Guest List
The first and foremost thing to remember when throwing any party is the guest list. “While deciding the guest list, make sure all the guests know each other well, so you can be sure they are all having a good time as you relax yourself and enjoy the party,” suggests Shivani. Jitendra Sharma, an event planner adds, “Take into account the size of your party area. Expect 70 to 80 percent of invited guests to show up for a large event.”

Invites/Dress Code
“Spread the word. The best part about Holi is that you don’t have to dress up. However, do specify the dress code (if there is one),” says Sharma. Mira, a party enthusiast proposes, “You can make it mandatory for your guest to dress in white to add to the fun.”

Music
A Holi party is incomplete without music. Sharma advises, “You can organise some live music, a dance floor and DJ where guests can put in requests for their favourite songs to be played. However, if you’re planning a small party, you can compile a list of popular Bollywood Holi numbers like Rang Barse , Holi ke din , Do me a favour lets’s play Holi.” However, Shivani prefers “the traditional dholak and folk songs on Holi because it really brings in the desi flavour.”

Food
“Plan your menu a week in advance. Consider keeping the menu simple. For a day party, you can getaway with serving loads of finger foods and something like biryani with sauces and dips in the main course,” adds Sharma. “You can also put aside trays of sweets like burfis, which your guests could even carry back as a return present,” says homemaker Susmita.

Sweets/Bhaang
How can Holi be complete without sweets and bhaang ! “In sweets, have gujiya, malpua, laddoos . In drinks, you can consider serving thandai , milkshakes and lemonade as they act as good coolants. Hire a bartender if your group is larger than 30 and you’re serving cocktails, wine and beer. Ensure everyone gets to drink what they like,” suggests Sharma. Says Priyanka Rawlani, who hosted a party last year, “ Bhaang is a traditional drink and synonymous with Holi. We had bhaang ke pakora and bhaang laced thandai .”

Colours/Water
Shivani warns, “Holi is the festival of colours but make sure to use organic colours that don’t ruin the skin.” Adds Sharma, “Keep plates of dry colour on each table from where your guest can easily access them.” And don’t let your guests get away without getting wet!

Page 3 regular Laveena says, “If possible, arrange an inflated tube pool, which you can fill up with water; a sprinkler is another option. Alternatively, you can keep few pitchkaris and buckets of water handy to soak your guests up, just in case there is no direct supply of water,”

In the end, just remember to create a festive and fun mood that carries through the party. Enjoy your Holi!

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Lifestyle/Specials/How_to_throw_a_Holi_party/articleshow/4244460.cms

Think naughty this Holi

Aaj na chodenge bas humjoli..khelenge hum Holi
Chahe bheege teri chunariya chahe bheege re choli

Holi’s a chance for some wet-n-wild fun! So, gear-up for some masti this Holi... and check out these tips to play a sensuous Holi with your partner...

Sizzle in see-through

First things first, get the right look. That faded jeans and tee-shirt look is a strict no-no if a sexy Holi is what you have in mind. Though nothing woks better than a sensuous saree, you can go for a white kurta and churidaar for comfort. For him, an unbuttoned white shirt teamed with jeans is perfect. If you’re in a private space, try the topless avatar — and use the opportunity to flaunt those abs! Need tips? Check out any of the numerous Bollywood rain dance numbers!

Have fun with water balloons!

Balloons are not just for kids... here’s what you can do as a grown-up! Go on your private terrace and spread out some water balloons in your private zone. Now, lie down close and let the action begin! As the heat builds up and the balloons squash and burst between you, let the excitement get to you! Make sure you don’t have peeping Toms around, or they’ll forget playing their Holi to watch you instead!

Music can add masti

Don’t underestimate the magic of music. Play your favourite Holi number and groove to the naughty tunes with your partner. While dancing, don’t forget to colour each other in hues of love and let the water supply remain on. Some hot Holi songs include Ang se Ang lagana (Darr) and Rang Barse (Silsila). With these numbers beating in the background, it will be hard to stay away from each other!

Think alternatives to colours!

No, we’re strictly not hinting at eggs here! The deal is to tempt your partner... how about a foodie-Holi? Head kitchen-wards and take out all those colourful jams, jellies and juices and use them as great substitutes for colour. With these yummy edibles flowing down your bodies your, allow your lips to make the decisions for you! Not only will these edibles make up for a healthy Holi but also a yummy one.

Get the coloured-rain effect!
You need the the privacy of your bathroom for this. Mix some scented watercolours into your water tank and turn the shower on as both of you get under it — of course, with your clothes on! As the water cascades on your bodies, colouring you in the hues of love, an ever-lasting magic is bound to cast its spell. Think fun, think chemistry!

Muddy Holi

Of course, you can be a brat for a day! Shun your inhibitions and come out of your cleanliness freak identity. Arrange for a mud bath for the two of you. A better option can be a seeweed spa bath. Enjoy the feel of your bodies massaging each other in the tub and indulge in the pampering after all the rough and messy fun you’ve had. For clues, watch Akshay and Rekha having some hot muddy-fun in the song ...In the night no control...

It’s time to get clean

After all the gooey and greasy fun that you’ve had while celebrating your cozy Holi, it’s time to clean up your act. Splash into a bathtub filled with water, with generous amount of bath gels for both of you and loofahs. Get ready to help each other get clean! Rub, massage and... wish each other many more Happy Holi (s) together.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Lifestyle/Specials/Think_naughty_this_Holi/articleshow/4244301.cms

Maha Shivratri

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Maha Shivratri or Maha Shivaratri (Night of Shiva) is a Hindu festival, celebrated all over the country with much pump and enthusiasm. The festival usually falls every year on the 13th night/14th day in the Krishna Paksha of the month of Maagha (as per Shalivahana) or Phalguna (as per Vikrama) in the Hindu calendar. The festival is exclusively dedicated to Lord Shiva which is known by hundreds of names.

Maha Shivratri is the day to rejoice…to pray to the almighty for wellness. Almost all Hindus throughout the world offer prayers in the morning/evening and some observe fasting throughout the day. Most people visit the nearby temples of Shiva and offer prayers in large crowds. The prayers and worship continue throughout the night and the devotees offer coconut, Bilva leaves, fruits and specially prepared sacred food to Shiva and his divine consort Parvati. As this is a dark fortnight,
Mahashivratri devotees light candles and diyas (a lamp made usually of clay, with wick made of cotton and dipped in ghee) throughout the night – this is a symbol of spiritual manifestation. source: http://www.festivalsofindia.in

Goddess Saraswati

Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and arts, represents the free flow of wisdom and consciousness. She is the mother of the Vedas, and chants to her, called the 'Saraswati Vandana' often begin and end Vedic lessons.

Saraswati is the daughter of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga. It is believed that goddess Saraswati endows human beings with the powers of speech, wisdom and learning. She has four hands representing four aspects of human personality in learning: mind, intellect, alertness and ego. She has sacred scriptures in one hand and a lotus – the symbol of true knowledge – in the second.With her other two hands she plays the music of love and life on a string instrument called the veena. She is dressed in white – the symbol of purity – and rides on a white swan – symbolizing Sattwa Guna or purity and discrimination. Saraswati is also a prominent figure in Buddhist iconography - the consort of Manjushri.

The learned and the erudite attach greater importance to the worship of goddess Saraswati. As a practice, only educated people worship her for knowledge and wisdom. They believe that only Saraswati can grant them 'moksha' - the final liberation of the soul.

Saraswati's birthday - Vasant Panchami - is a Hindu festival celebrated every year on the 5th day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magha. Hindus celebrate this festival with great fervor in temples, homes and educational institutes alike.

The following prayer is recited on this day:

"May Goddess Saraswati,
who is fair like the jasmine-colored moon,
and whose pure white garland is like frosty dew drops;
who is adorned in radiant white attire,
on whose beautiful arm rests the veena,
and whose throne is a white lotus;
who is surrounded and respected by the Gods,
protect me. May you fully remove my lethargy,
sluggishness, and ignorance."

Centre puts states on high alert ahead of Republic Day

NEW DELHI: In view of "serious" threats to the country from a number of "terrorist, extremist and insurgent groups", the Centre has asked all states
to be on high alert to prevent any untoward incident during the "vulnerable" period leading to Republic Day.

"The period before and after Republic Day is especially vulnerable. The government has sensitised states and asked them to remain at the highest level of alertness," home secretary Madhukar Gupta said on Thursday.

Besides, the government also sought cooperation of the people in preventing terrorist threats and appealed "to report suspicious activities and movement of suspicious persons in their neighbourhood to the local police".

"This can be done by calling the police control room at the district/city level or, where the service is available, by calling the toll free number 1090. The security forces will be able to discharge their duties more effectively if they have the fullest cooperation of the people," Gupta said.

Though it appeared to be a routine drill followed ahead of any important occasion, home ministry officials said the level of alertness was substantially heightened this time keeping in view some serious inputs.

Without giving details, the home secretary said there were "a number of terrorist, extremist and insurgent groups which continue to pose a serious threat to the security of the country".

He said alerts had been issued to all states and wherever there was specific input, it was passed on to them.

Home minister P Chidambaram recently held meetings to review the security scenario across the country and also discussed arrangements with Delhi Police to ensure that the Republic Day function passed off peacefully in the Capital.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Centre_puts_states_on_high_alert_ahead_of_Republic_Day/articleshow/4018554.cms

About Republic Day : 26th January

26th January 1950 is one of the most important days in Indian history as it was on this day the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state. In this day India became a totally republican unit. The country finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the numerous freedom fighters who, fought for and sacrificed their lives for the Independence of their country. So, the 26th of January was decreed a national holiday and has been recognized and celebrated as the Republic Day of India, ever since.

Today, the Republic Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm all over the country and especially in the capital, New Delhi where the celebrations start with the Presidential to the nation. The beginning of the occasion is always a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and the succeeding wars for the defense of sovereignty of their country. Then, the President comes forward to award the medals of bravery to the people from the armed forces for their exceptional courage in the field and also the civilians, who have distinguished themselves by their different acts of valour in different situations.

To mark the importance of this occasion, every year a grand parade is held in the capital, from the Rajghat, along the Vijaypath. The different regiments of the army, the Navy and the Air force march past in all their finery and official decorations even the horses of the cavalry are attractively caparisoned to suit the occasion. The crème of N.C.C cadets, selected from all over the country consider it an honour to participate in this event, as do the school children from various schools in the capital. They spend many days preparing for the event and no expense is spared to see that every detail is taken care of, from their practice for the drills, the essential props and their uniforms.

The parade is followed by a pageant of spectacular displays from the different states of the country. These moving exhibits depict scenes of activities of people in those states and the music and songs of that particular state accompany each display. Each display brings out the diversity and richness of the culture of India and the whole show lends a festive air to the occasion. The parade and the ensuing pageantry is telecast by the National Television and is watched by millions of viewers in every corner of the country.

The patriotic fervor of the people on this day brings the whole country together even in her essential diversity. Every part of the country is represented in occasion, which makes the Republic Day the most popular of all the national holidays of India.

Source: http://festivals.tajonline.com/republic-day.php

Christmas Special: A Timeline for Your Christmas Dinner

Creating a Timeline for Your Christmas Dinner Will Make it Easier and Stress-free During This Busy Time of Year

A Timeline for Your Christmas Dinner

Creating a timeline for your Christmas Dinner will make it easier and stress-free during this busy time of year. If your make brunch instead of dinner or have your dinner on Christmas Eve just move adjust the timeline ahead slightly to suit your specific needs.

Late November
Invite all of your guests. Even if they “know” to come each year it’s nice to invite/remind them. You’ll want to do this several weeks out because people plan early for the big day.

If the dinner is a potluck, keep a list of who is bringing what for the feast. (Tip: in the event they can't come at the last minute have a similar dish you can substitute if necessary.)

Determine any specific dietary needs for your guests and plan for this.

Make lists – a grocery list split into nonperishable and perishable items, decorating, house/yard cleaning and food preparation. Create a menu list and timetable for when to do what on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (this will eliminate forgetting to serve the vegetables, etc.)

If you’re serving a fresh turkey or a honey baked ham, order it now.

Take your shopping lists and check the weekly newspapers for specials and note what products are on sale on what store on each list. You can buy the nonperishable items on your regular shopping trips. By mid-December you’ll have most of that shopping completed.

Late November/Early December

Decide what table linens, china, crystal and serving pieces you’ll be using. (Tip: You can also do this when you take out the linens, dishes, etc. for your Thanksgiving Dinner if you’re also hosting that holiday.) Send your table linens out for cleaning or pressing if necessary, or, launder and iron them at home. Buy any necessary items. (Tip – Use plastic cups for cocktails, & Christmas themed paper plates for appetizers & dessert.)

Create any decorations you want to make. Pull out of storage any of your other Christmas decorations and lights. If you’re planning to use a floral centerpiece, order it now and see if they’ll deliver it. (Tip: Try to use your centerpiece and other decorations more than once if you’re hosting other parties.)

Decorate your home and outside. You might also want to put lights outside in your backyard also. I have the little white twinkle lights around the square columns in my patio and I light them whenever I entertain (even indoors) because they look very festive.

Buy your tree and decorate it. You may be a family that prefers to do a day or two before the actual holiday, or, even on Christmas Eve. I do it as soon as I get home from my Thanksgiving Holiday – I LOVE the holidays. It also stays up through “little Christmas,” January 6th.)


Mid December

Finish shopping for all your nonperishable items, including, film, batteries, candles, wine, soda, etc.

Complete your decorations and major house cleaning. Make sure your back and front yards are presentable

Clear your refrigerator out so you’ll have room for the extra groceries.

Create any favors, place cards and similar items. Wrap any gifts you’ll give to your dinner guests.

Order any fancy desserts or anything else you need for your dinner table.

Bake and freeze or store any dishes that can be prepared ahead.


The Week Before Christmas or Early Christmas Week

Purchase your perishable food items, trying to avoid going to the grocery store on Christmas Eve. (Tip – I’ve always found Tuesday and Wednesday early evenings the best time to shop for groceries.)

Verify any dishes your guests are bringing if it's a potluck

Again, bake and freeze or store any dishes that can be prepared ahead.

Dec. 23rd

Clean your produce, bake the pies and cakes and similar items. Actually, these this day is the best for cooking anything that keeps until Christmas Day

Clean your house

Thaw the turkey, if necessary

December 24th

Pick up any last minute items (the fresh turkey, bakery items, Prepare any other dishes that will keep until the next day
Set your table & bar area, buffet, dessert serving areas, etc

Chill the wine, champagne, sparkling cider, etc.
Do any last minute household chores (Tip: check the guest bathrooms to be sure they’re “good to go” and that your guest closet looks nice and has room for your guests coats and jackets.)

Christmas morning
Get the turkey roasting (or BBQ, frying in oil, etc) to fit your day’s timetable

Double check your table setting and add the necessary items

Cut the bread and cover and place on the table (or rolls, etc.)

Prepare your appetizers if you’re serving them

Prepare the remaining dishes you’ll need for the day

Clean up wrapping paper, etc. if you opened gifts at your home

Do any last minute dusting, etc. if necessary

Leave enough time for yourself to get dressed, do your hair & make up


Have a Merry Christmas!

Christmas Trees and Decorations in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Lake Charles, Louisiana has several establishments where a customer can purchase their Christmas decorations. These decorations range from the perfect Christmas tree, to holiday towels for the bathroom and anything in-between. A few of these establishments are Wal-Mart, Kmart, Target, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Stine’s and Greengate Garden Center.

Wal-mart has several locations throughout the city. One such location is 3415 Highway 14 E., which can be seen from Loop210. At this location, one can find holiday décor such as stockings, Christmas trees, inflatables, Christmas bouquets, lawn décor and Santa suits. Decorations such as figurines, glass platters, mugs, snack stacks, snow globes, music boxes, cardholders, photo albums and personalized decorations can also be purchased here. Wal-mart also has wreaths, ornaments, tree skirts, and Christmas music and gift baskets. For more information, call 377-477-7799 or visit www.walmart.com.

Kmart, located at 4070 Ryan Street, can also outfit a complete home for the Christmas holidays. Customers here will find home decorations such as tree toppers, garland, wreaths, tree skirts, stocking hangers, stockings, snow globes, decorative trees, novelty and stuffed animals, Christmas village pieces, electronics and animation pieces, holiday pillows and throws and holiday bath items. Kmart also has yard decorations such as lighted sculptures, lighted trees, lighted candy canes, inflatable characters, holographic decoration and projections as all sorts of lights. For more information, call 377-477-9665 or visit www.kmart.com.

Target, located at 1720 Prien Lake Road, offers its customers Christmas trees, some of which are pre-lit, décor classics, trim the tree items such as ornaments, tree toppers, tree skirts, garland and ribbon. Target also offers Trim the Home items such as stockings and hangers, wreaths and garland, decorative accents, snow globes, nativities, licensed décor, wall décor, Christmas cards and ribbon. Customers here will also find holiday food gifts, themed candles, creative candlelight, Holiday Velvet Décor and Holiday Chenille. For more information, call 377-474-2391 or visit www.target.com.

Home Depot, located at 3200 E. Prien Lake Road, is another location, which has a variety of Christmas decorations available to its customers. These decorations include fresh cut Christmas trees with stands, artificial trees that range from 4’ to 15’, inflatable yard decorations, fresh cut garland, gift bags, pre-lit garland, lights, animated figurines, snow globes, 3-D yard ornaments, grapevine deer as well as wreaths and mistletoe. For more information, call 337-475-9998 or visit www.homedepot.com.

Lowe’s, located at 2800 Derek Drive also carries Christmas decorations. Customers here will find themed Christmas trees, string lights, illuminated garland, pre-lit trees, wreaths, inflatable outdoor décor, holographics, fiber optic figurines, animated figurines and other decorations such as acrylic snowmen, 3-D decorations and more. Tree stands, tabletop décor, poinsettias and wreath storage bags are also available here. For more information, call 337-474-8220 or visit www.lowes.com.

Stine Lumber Yard and Garden Center, located at 1313 Country Club Road also has Christmas trees, fresh cut and artificial as well as ornaments, outdoor décor, wreaths, poinsettias and more. For more information, call 337-477-7512 or visit www.stinelumber.com.

Greengate Garden Center, located at 4226 Lake Street is one more location where shopping for that perfect Christmas décor can be accomplished. Here customers will find Christmas trees and more. For more information, call 337-477-6080 or visit www.ggate.com.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/15222/christmas_trees_and_decorations_in.html?page=2&cat=8

Christmas Special: How Not to Cut Down a Christmas Tree

The festive holiday season is upon us. Streets and stores are decorated with festive holiday lights and ornaments. Homes across the world are decorated with strings of lights, ornaments, giant snow globes, lighted reindeer, Santa Claus and Christmas trees.

Christmas trees come in a number of forms these days. The live evergreen tree is the classic holiday favorite. There are trees to fit every taste, Frasier Fir, Balsam, Scotch Pine, long needles, short needles, tall, short, skinny, fat and even artificial trees in unnatural colors. There are all kinds of Christmas Trees. Cutting down a fresh tree at a tree farm has an old fashioned, romantic association.

Cutting down a Christmas tree at a tree farm can make a wonderful family outing, involving everyone in the choice of the tree and the of action bringing it home. Tree farms signify a type of commitment to the tree not found in a pre-cut tree lot, garden nurseries or at home stores.

This is the story about why cutting down your own Christmas Tree may not be for everybody.

We were newlyweds and our first married Christmas was fast approaching. I had told my husband that I would like to get a fresh cut tree for Christmas. I meant really fresh cut, the kind you cut down yourself. There was a tree farm a little over an hour's drive north of us. We agreed that it would be cool to drive up to the tree farm and cut down our own tree.

That is, I thought we agreed. What really happened is that my husband verbally agreed and then did exactly what he wanted to do, which did not include cutting down a Christmas Tree.

Mid December was upon us and still no tree. When I told my husband that if he didn't want to cut down a tree, I would go do it myself, he surprised me by saying okay. He supplied me with a small dull ax, and off I went on my Christmas Tree Adventure.

My route to the tree farm was not a straight one. A detour to visit a friend and a little wine delayed my arrival at the farm in the Kettle Moraine area of Wisconsin.The sunlight was dimming when I arrived at the tree farm. There was about a half hour to cut down a tree before closing. Boldly, I trekked through the forest of Christmas Trees, not at all concerned that I was l alone in a wooded area. A tree of the right size came into view, and I decided that was the tree for me. That is when I found out that cutting down a Christmas tree is not as easy as it looks. Especially when the ax is small and dull.

Cut it down, I did, in spite of the fact that it resisted my every cut. Then came the next part, actually getting the tree to the car. Now the light was really dim, it was cold, and I just wanted to get the tree in the trunk of the car and get home. The tree was heavier then it looked as I dragged it laboriously through the snow. Eventually I got it to the car. Anxiety set in, as sounds of people leaving and "Good Nights" filled the forest.

Somehow, I hoisted the tree, which was getting bigger and heavier by the second, into the car trunk. The trunk popped wide open with the fluffy tree inside so it had to be tide it down. I took a piece of heavy twine and started to loop it through the loop in the trunk, designed for just that. That is when things took a turn for the worse.

I stuck my finger into the hole to loop the twine. When I tried to pull out my finger, I could not. My finger was stuck in the trunk, with my hand held high in the air, above my head. It was now dark. I tugged and pulled and could not get my finger out of the trunk. I was alone in the tree section that I was in, could see no one, and they could not see me. It was now dark, but I had cleverly left my car's headlights on for light. With the setting of the sun, any warmth left in the day was gone. This would be a silly way to die. I was starting to feel trapped and fearful.

Didn't the staff patrol the grounds before leaving? It didn't seem so. I could still hear vehicles starting and people calling out "Good Night" to each other. The forest started to feel ever more deserted, and I was now cold and frightened.

Panicky, I now started calling out "Help, Help". My voice sounded very small in the dense forest, and I despaired that anyone would ever hear me calling.

Finally a man appeared with a flashlight. I explained my dilemma, and he scratched his head, puzzled. Just how do you get a finger out of a trunk? I was silently praying that his solution would not involve an Ax. He went to get help, and shortly three men appeared. As they approached, my finger magically came out the loop. So they never had to actually do anything, but it was comforting to know they would have tried.

They helped me tie the tree into the trunk, I thanked them and they walked away. I got into the car and turned the ignition switch and,....nothing. The battery was dead because I had cleverly left the lights on. One man was still visible and I called him. He had to get his truck and returned to give my battery a jump to start the car.

The prize still hadn't been paid for, so I drove to the barn. The staff gathered in the cozy barn, drinking hot cocoa. When I entered the barn I was greeted with hoots of laughter, 'Is this the lady who got her finger stuck in the trunk?" I smiled and put on a brave face, but didn't find it all that hilarious. Red faced and mortified, I paid for the tree and left.

On the long, cold, dark ride home, I never seemed to warm up. It was a miserable hour's drive.. I arrived home chilled and more then a little cranky.

My darling husband was good enough to get the tree from the car to our fifth floor apartment. There was an elevator, so his contribution was nothing compared to mine.

The next day, we put the Christmas Tree up. The tree was cantankerous to the end, resisting the tree stand, being difficult to put up. My husband straightened the tree as much as he could, looked at it critically, and said "The trunk is crooked." As you can imagine, I now wanted to throw the tree at him.

We made a decision, then and there, that for the rest of our married life, all Christmas Tree decisions would be up to him.

He skipped the romance of cutting down the trees himself and always purchased fresh trees at the local tree lot. Did I mention that having your husband go the tree lot to purchase a tree and bring it home is romantic?.

Enjoy the spirit of Xmas during the holiday season.

Merry Xmas and Happy New Year



http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/465915/how_not_to_cut_down_a_christmas_tree.html?page=3&cat=30

My Christmas Tree Adventure

For many people, the day after Thanksgiving brings a fun family tradition. No, not shopping at the crack of dawn, but Christmas tree hunting. And everyone knows that U-Cut trees are best. So after a couple of hours in freezing cold temps, when I said I found the most perfect, absolutely be-a-u-tiful tree the lot had to offer, my husband kept his skepticism to himself and chopped it down.

So now 'twas the fourth of December and our Christmas tree had been sitting in the back yard since the day after Thanksgiving.

Since then, my husband had thrown out his back and I, measuring up at a towering 5'1", decided to haul the eight foot tree in all by myself instead of patiently waiting for his back to get better - or for him to at least get back from watching the Lions game to supervise. How hard could it be? The poor thing was sitting under three inches of snow and trussed up like a Christmas goose!

I was slightly dismayed to find its resting spot located directly under a leaky rain gutter, but undaunted, took a hammer and began to chip away at the ice attaching the tree firmly to the ground. As my eight year-old stepdaughter cheered (laughed her little butt off), I managed to maneuver the thing upright.

Since reliving this is painful in itself, I'll skip the couple of pulled muscles and few thousand strategically placed pine needles.

Once the tree was snug in it's "easy" to use stand (the kind with the vicious-looking spike that miraculously holds the tree in place), I took a step back to admire my handiwork. Looked ok to me. So buying a tree that tall doesn't really allow for a star. The star doesn't necessarily have to go on top. I cut the twine that bound the branches back.

Immediately the stupid thing started to tip forward, threatening to squash me. As I hugged the eight foot tall tree, my mouth filled with pine needles, I realized I had a problem. My tree had scoliosis (severe curvature of the trunk).

I ended up leaning the thing drunkenly against the wall, noting that it not only had scoliosis, but that the trunk was not even (preventing it from sitting in the stand correctly) and it also had mange.

This was not the tree I picked out. Someone had to have snuck into my back yard and swapped their cruddy tree with my perfect one. Animals must have nested in it and chewed half its branches off. A dog must have dragged it away, rolled on it, buried it, dug it up again, and put it back in the exact same spot outside my door.

To make a long story short, we took it back to the tree farm, had them cut a couple feet off the bottom, re-drilled it and called it good. But the moral of this story is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And it's usually a good idea for the beholder to get a second opinion.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/16249/my_christmas_tree_adventure.html?page=2&cat=60

Christmas Special: Christmas Carols: The History of These Timeless Songs

"A Merry Christmas, uncle! God save you! cried a cheerful voice. It was the voice of Scrooge's nephew, who came upon him so quickly that this was the intimation he had of his approach.

"Bah!" said Scrooge, "humbug"

As the pages turn in this delightful story written by Charles Dickens there is the written sound of a Christmas Carol:
"God, bless you. merry gentlemen! May nothing you dismay!"

"Silent Night'', "Oh Come All Ye Faithful", "Joy to the World', "Away in the Manger', and other beautiful carols are the Christmas songs we know. Although a carol was a special form of song, today the name it is used for most Christmas songs.

The word ' carol came from the Ancient Greek word 'chorus', meaning 'to dance', or a similar word meaning 'to accompany the dance on the pipes and flutes'. The Christmas carol (also called a 'noel' in French and 'villancicos' in Spanish) is a song or hymn whose lyrics are on the Christian theme and are traditionally sung during the Christmas season. The tradition of Christmas carols stems far back as far as the thirteenth century; they are based on medieval chord patterns, which give them their uniquely characteristic musical tone. .

The earliest carols celebrated any happy event or season, and not all were of a religious nature. The dance was dropped after a time. The carols told a story and sung by minstrels or by wandering musicians; they sang their verses and stanzas and their audiences joined in on the burden (the burden was like a refrain). It was only at a later period that carols became closely tied to religion and sung in churches written to tell the Biblical story and to be specifically associated with Christmas.

Most churches have special services at which carols are sung, generally combined with readings from scripture about the birth of Christ. Tradition has it that Christmas carols were introduced into church services by St Francis of Assisi in the 12^th century. In the 19th centuries and onwards the popularity of Christmas carols grew in religious observances in the United States spreading their good faith. Composers like Sir Arthur Sullivan helped to popularize the Christmas carol, and it the nineteenth century, and it is in this period that gave rise to the favorite carols, "Good King Wenceslas" and "It Came upon a Midnight Clear". There is also a tradition that gave rise to performances of serious music relating to Christmas including Handel's 'Messiah' and the 'Christmas Oratorio' by Bach.

It's difficult to imagine celebrating Christmas without the music of the season. Whether we're listening to the traditional strains of Silent Night or contemporary tunes such as the 'Little Drummer Boy', speak so much of the joy and wonderment of the season as does music.

Today carols are sung by individual singers, but are also often sung by larger groups, including professionally trained choirs. In England, and some other countries there is a tradition of Christmas carolling (earlier known as wassailing), in which groups of singers travel from house to house, singing carols, for which they are often rewarded with varied favours including money (all monies contributed to charity).

We express the joy in our faith at the coming holiday season through the singing of carols. You too can join in the singing of carols on Christmas eve, either in your church, with your friends, or at home with your family. If you are not sure of the words log on 'www.christmas-carols.net' or 'www.carols.org.uk' .

"A Merry Christmas, Bob!" said Scrooge. With and earnestness that could not be mistaken,

as he clapped him on the Back. "A Merry Christmas, my good fellow..."

NOTES:

1) Perhaps the best known Christmas carol is 'Silent Night', written in 1818 by an Austrian assistant priest Joseph Mohr. He was told the day before Christmas that the church organ was broken and would not be repaired in time for Christmas Day. Saddened, he sat down to write three stanzas that could be sung by choir to guitar music.

2) Secular songs such as "I'll be Home for Christmas" , "Jingle Bells", "We Wish you a Merry Xmas" are not true Christmas carols, though they are also popular in the period before Christmas, and should therefore be considered to be Christmas songs.. The most popular of the present day Christmas songs is "White Christmas", which was written by Irving Berlin in 1942 during the Second World War. It was made famous by Bing Crosby.

3) Some Easter carols were written, but little by little carols came to associated with the Christmas season.

4) Many Christmas traditions are relatively recent such as Santa Claus with his team of reindeer riding through the sky bear no relation to Christmas carols.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/99699/christmas_carols_the_history_of_these.html?page=3&cat=33

Christmas Special: History of Some Well-loved Christmas Carols

Do You Know How Your Christmas Carols Came About?

JINGLE BELL ROCK

Every holiday season since 1957 - the year Decca Records released the hit with crooner Bobby Helms singing the bouncy lyrics and Hank Garland on the happy guitar - "Jingle Bell Rock" has been a Christmas chestnut. Considering the song's success, one might assume its authors celebrate the holiday season with years of fat royalties. Nothing could be further from the truth. Instead, songwriter Hank "Sugarfoot" Garland, now an Orange Park, Fla., resident, claims that Decca Records stole "Jingle Bell Rock" and the profits it generated from him and Bobby Helms. To this day, Garland hasn't received a penny of ownership royalties.

DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?

Noel Regney wrote the seasonal standard with Gloria Shayne, then his wife, in 1962. It was recorded by Bing Crosby and Perry Como, among others, in more than 120 versions, in musical styles ranging from jazz and New Age to funk and reggae. But Mr. Regney wrote it as a clear and plaintive plea for peace at the time of the Cuban missile crisis, in October 1962. His favorite version was Robert Goulet's. When Mr. Goulet came to the line "Pray for peace, people, everywhere," he almost shouted the words. "I am amazed that people can think they know the song - and not know it is a prayer for peace," Mr. Regney said in an interview in The New YorkRadio France.

DECK THE HALLS
The music to Deck the Halls is believed to Welsh in origin and was reputed to have come from a tune called "Nos Galan" dating back to the sixteenth century. In the eighteenth century Mozart used the tune to Deck the Halls for a violin and piano duet J.P. McCaskey is sometimes credited with the lyrics of Deck the Halls but he only edited the Franklin Square Song Collection in which the lyrics were first published. The first publication date of Deck the Halls is 1881. The author is unknown but the words are said to originate in America.

HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS

The heart warming Christmas song Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas was first published in 1943 and was immortalized by Judy Garland when she sang this song to Margaret O'Brien and brought tears to the eyes of the audience. The lyricist was Ralph Blane and the haunting music was composed by Hugh Martin. It is undoubtedly one of the saddest Christmas songs of the century.

THE CHRISTMAS WALTZ

The Christmas Waltz' s words and music were written by Sammy Cahn & Jule Styne It was recorded by The Carpenters in 1978. This lesser known Christmas standard has actually been performed quite a bit over the years. This is easily the song most likely to get hummed around the office.

THE ROCKING CAROL

This carol is of Czech origin. It was collected in the early 1920 by a Miss Jacubickova as 'Hajej, nynjej' and translated (very loosely) by Percy Dearmer, for The Oxford Book of Carols in 1928. Dearmer was a clergyman and socialist with a keen interest in contemporary concerns, social gospel and rescuing neglected English carols and introducing European carols. The final line of Dearmers's version has not appealed to everyone, and some have sought to change it, e.g. to 'Son of God and Son of Man.' The tune for the carol has a close resemblance to that of another traditional lullaby, 'Twinkle, twinkle, little star', and it is possible that this carol originally accompanied cradle rocking, a custom which began in German churches in medieval times and spread from there across Europe. The carol was popularised in the English speaking world by a recording made in the 1960s by Julie Andrews.

ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH

Angels We Have Heard on High" is an anonymous French carol that was first published in Nouveau recueil de cantiques, 1855. Many years ago, shepherds tending their flocks in the wintry hills of southern France had a custom of calling to one another on Christmas Eve, each from his own peak, singing "Gloria in excelsis Deo, gloria in excelsis Deo," just as the angels might have first announced the birth of Christ. The traditional tune the shepherds used, probably from a late Medieval Latin chorale, is the refrain of the angels We Have Heard on High.
The music for the verse probably 18th century-comes from a different source (a popular tune of the time), as does the text itself, a translation of the old French carol "Les Anges dans nos Campagnes." They were first published together in a carol collection dated 1855.

JINGLE BELLS

Believe it or not Jingle Bells, one of the most popular and well-known American Christmas songs, was actually written for Thanksgiving! A minister named James Pierpoint was the author and composer of Jingle Bells, he wrote it in 1785 for the children celebrating Thanksgiving in his Boston Sunday School. The song was so well-received that they song it again at Christmas, and indeed Jingle Bells has been repeated ever since. The sound effects of using the bells with the song have come to represent sleigh bells and reindeers to the delight of children of all ages!

THE FIRST NOWELL

"There are some carols whose authors remain unknown, as anonymous but beloved as the shepherds in the Christmas story. Even the word "Noel" has debatable origins, making this carol all the more intriguing. "Noel" a French word, and has come to mean either "Christmas" or "carol." In this particular carol, it is used as a shout of joy at the birth of baby Jesus. It probably is derived from the Latin word "natalis" meaning "birth." When the word found its way to England, it was spelled "nowell" and came to mean "Now all is well," because that is what the angels told the shepherds, when Christ was born. The music is assumed to be from a French or English medieval shepherd's tune.

ANGELS FROM THE REALMS OF GLORY

Writer James Montgomery was considered something of a radical in his time, twice put in jail over editorial opinions expressed in his newspaper in Sheffield, England. The son of Moravian missionaries, he was a devout Christian, and created nearly four hundred hymns while being an active participant in political and community affairs. On Christmas Eve in 1816, he printed the words to this carol in his newspaper, perhaps the most beautiful and least controversial "editorial opinion" he ever wrote.
The poem was published in a collection three years later. It eventually was set to a melody by the blind composer and organinst Henry Smart.

THE CHRISTMAS SONG
"This song, which was first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1947, was actually written by composer Mel Torme due to an inspiration of friend and lyricist Robert Wells on a sweltering summer's day. He had written a few lines in pencil on a spiral pad: Chestnuts roasting ... Jack Frost nipping ... Yuletide carols ... Folks dressed up like Eskimos. Bob didn't think he was writing a song lyric, he said he thought if he could immerse himself in winter he could cool off. Forty minutes later that song was written. Torme wrote all the music and some of the lyrics."

CAROL OF THE BELLS

The tune for this carol was written by Mykola Dmytrovich Leontovich (1877-1921) and was based on an old Ukrainian melody. There is a legend that at the stroke of midnight on the evening when Jesus was born all the bells on earth suddenly began pealing joyously together of their own accord-and there was never a sound like it for majesty and grandeur. "Carol of the Bells," based on an old Ukrainian motif, probably springs from that legend, as it tells of the "sweet silver bells" that pealed joyously in unison. Traditionally, the "Carol o/the Bells" is sung quietly in the beginning, grows louder and ever louder as each voice adds to the tintinnabulation, and finally dies away to a pianissimo as the pealing gradually ceases.

GOD REST YE MERRY, GENTLEMEN

The origin of the carol is a mystery; some say that it is from Cornwall, England. There are many various versions, some of are dated all the way back to the 15th century. Even though it was written in a minor key, this song still exudes Christmas joy, and is happy and triumphant. The music was written by Sir John Stainer, "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" was typically the first carol heard on the streets of London at Christmas time. It is believed that this particular carol was sung to the gentry by town watchmen who earned additional money during the Christmas season. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen continues to be enjoyed. It one of the oldest carols yet one of favorite among jazz musicians.

COME, THOU LONG-EXPECTED JESUS

Charles Wesley wrote our Christmas hymn, "Come, Thou, Long-Expected Jesus." He also wrote 17 other Christmas carols. He did not want to just paint a picture of Jesus in the manger; he wanted the entire Christmas story to have a personal application. Wesley wanted to impress God's people that Jesus is not only the "desire of every nation" but should be the personal "joy of every longing heart." We also know that Jesus has the "government on his shoulders" but he was born to reign personally "in us.".

GOOD KING WENCESLAS
This Christmas carol is unusual as there is no reference in the lyrics to the nativity. Good King Wenceslas was the king of Bohemia in the 10th century. Good King Wenceslas was a Catholic and is portrayed in an almost saintly vein because of his charitable attempts to give food to the poor. The saint referred to in Good King Wenceslas is St. Stephen whose feast day was celebrated on 26th December which explains why this song is performed as a Christmas carol

I SAW THREE SHIPS

The origins of this song are unknown but it is believed to be an English carol from the Victorian era. The theme for I saw three ships is extremely optimistic and the repetition rate of the chorus lines of I saw three ships ensure that the carol will be well remembered. Christmas legends concerning ships probably had their origin among people of seafaring countries. The traditional English carol "I Saw Three Ships" describes the arrival at Bethlehem on Christmas morning of the ships bearing Jesus and Mary (the English in long-ago days may not have realized that Bethlehem is nowhere near the sea).

HERE WE COME A WASSAILING

"Wassailing" was the term used long ago in England for Christmas caroling. It was an old English custom that was used to toast neighbors to a long and healthy life. The custom of wassailing may go back to the 5th century, although the first mention in print was in 1140. In ages past, kings and cheiftains used to give gifts in Europe but in Iceland, this tradition with regular folk only started a 100 years ago.



Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/974536/history_of_some_wellloved_christmas.html?page=2&cat=74

Christmas Special : Preschool Parents Christmas Must Have Buying Guide

Little Girls Tell All: What I Want for Christmas

As the holiday shopping season approaches, parents and grandparents begin the quest for that perfect gift or gifts. The gift that brings a light to their daughter's eyes, a smile to their lips and a great big hug that tells you your gift is - as my daughter says, "Perfect!"

To find out what it is that preschool girls want, I went straight to the source, preschool girls! Armed with my Wal-Mart, Target and ToysRUs shopping flyers these little preschool aged princesses speak out on what they really want for Christmas.

All I Want for Christmas is . . . Doll Houses:

Doll houses seem to be tried and true throughout time as a perfect gift for little girls. There is a wide range of dollhouses available, but our play date friends prefer:

Fisher Price Loving Family Grand Dollhouse: Best priced at Wal-Mart

This dollhouse comes with eight rooms, a staircase, a beginner house and family set complete with mom, dad and two babies and we were able to purchase it with the bonus patio pack that includes a grill, swing, and slide and patio furniture for the family.

The Fisher Price Dora Dollhouse (approximate cost $79.00), based on the popular Nickelodeon characters.

The Imaginarium 3 story Barbie Doll house w/ elevator: Toys R Us Price $129.00. The unique thing about this house is it's so tall; your children can stand and play as well as sit.

All I Want for Christmas is . . . Baby Dolls:

Is there a little girl alive from the ages of 3-5 who does not have a baby doll of some sort on her list to Santa? Our girls tell all with their baby doll list which includes:

Baby Alive Learns to Potty (approximate price $48.00); complete with potty chair, dress and 2 diapers

Baby Alive Go Bye Bye Doll: (Target Best Priced with an approximate price $24.00): complete with dressed doll and "carrier"

Chou Chou Bye Bye Baby: (Target Best Priced with coupon for $24.99) this four in one baby doll comes with carrier that folds to create a purse or seat for baby. The baby doll is interactive and says "bye bye" phrases when you wave her hand and makes kissing bye bye sounds.

I think there is a pattern here. These girls want their babies to act like real babies and they want to be able to take them with them wherever they go.

All I Want for Christmas is . . to get moving

Don't get me wrong, our girls are not only interested in their dollies and dollhouses, but really want to move and groove. Their Christmas list for Santa includes:

Radio Flyer 1^st Scooter for Girls: Approximate price $40.00 pretty in pink, and folds for easy storage. And we old people remember the radio flyer scooter from the long ago Christmas movie classic A Christmas Story.

Fisher Price Power Wheels Barbie Princess Little Quad: Approximate price $50.00 a battery powered ride on toy that let's your little princess go four-wheeling just like the big kids.

Also on their moving Christmas wish list is an assortment of bicycles such as the: Girl's Dora the Explorer Bike 12" by Huffy; the Girls 16" Barbie Bike, and Girls Huffy 12" or 16" Princess Bike, depending on the age and size of the little girls.

Note to parents: be sure to pick up a helmet for your little girls safety, knee pads and elbow pads are also a must for just learning how to ride little girls.

All I Want for Christmas is . . . a Computer

The little girls in our group love to imitate mom and dad. Let's face it mom and dad spend time on the computer, so these girls want to too. Among their picks for their own laptop computers are:

ClickStart from LeapFrog: Approximate cost $45.00 plus $20.00 per game. This keyboard turns your TV into an interactive computer game for your child to play. With a variety of software programs to purchase with your child's favorite cartoon character from Princesses to Bob the Builder children can learn basic keyboarding skills as well as basic skills such as letters, numbers, counting, matching and others.

JumpStart Tag Along Laptop: Approximate cost: $34.99 comes with several different levels of games, plus the ability to customize and translate words from Spanish to English.

V-Tech Laptops come in a variety of designs to fit each one of the little girls in your life. The "Tote and Go" is attached mouse and easy to carry handle is the one we own. You can also get this in Pink. Other available designs include "Little Einstein's" with a piano keyboard; and the "Thomas and Friends." Prices vary depending on design from $20-25.00. Each comes with a great selection of learning games and activities to play.

All I Want for Christmas . . . .I have seen to many commercials:

Our little girls seem to be feeling the commercial influence this year, as they also choose the following gifts for their Christmas wish list:

My Meeba Interactive Pets: Approximate cost for each $14.99

The Rescue Pets Swim to Me Puppy: Swims in the tub or pool, and "walks" along with your child. Approximate cost $30.00.

Princesses: The Disney princesses are popular with this group of girls. Anything princess, it doesn't even have to be Disney, but it sure does help. From vanities to dress up and dolls, princesses really rate among our little princesses.

and

Barbie's: All that is Barbie, from dolls and dresses to houses and play sets.

It is true, commercials, peer pressure, and what the "Jones'" have can influence your children even as young as preschool. But with our little preschool girls to guide us, we can use their Christmas wish list and the best of our parenting skills to provide them the Christmas presents we know they will love. With this helpful buying guide - sponsored by the 50 some parents in our playgroup, you can start your Christmas shopping early, and get exactly what your little girls wants.


Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1215116/preschool_parents_christmas_must_have.html?page=3&cat=25

Christmas Special - All I Don't Want for Christmas

I use to love buying presents almost as much as I did getting them. Not any more. I now hate getting them almost as much as I do buying them. What has happened over the year to us? Is it just age?

Is it consumerism gone mad? Have we lost something really special? Remember how it felt to write to Santa Claus, daring to reveal your gut-wrenching desire for a Treasure Island, or Barbie's caravan.

You wanted this so badly that you actually needed it. You were convinced that your life would not be the same without it. You prayed every night that your parents would pick up the hints you dropped every time you passed in front of the shop window. On shopping expeditions, as you got closer to the shop, you would start to slow down and drag your feet, so that by the time you were at the window, you were at a standstill. Never mind that there were six other people peering in, you would duck and slide and slip through their legs until your nose was up against the glass, and you could not see in because you were misting it up.

Look at it. So beautiful. The most beautiful thing you had ever seen. You could imagine all days ahead filled with the joy of taking all the bits out and putting them all back again. By then, your mother will have realized that she had lost you and panic ensues. By the time she finds you, so mesmerized that you did not hear half a dozen people call your name, she is so relieved that she is frothing at the mouth. All your entreaties to go in and have a quick look are in vain. You get a few fingernails digging deep into your shoulder and a hissed "Don't you dare do that again".

So you write to Santa and on Christmas Day, well at one minute past midnight, you sneak out and find a brand new tricycle. It is a lovely tricycle, with colored ribbons hanging off the handlebars, and a basket with a lid, and reflecting bits on the wheels. It is perfect except for one small detail. It is not a Barbie caravan. You weep, you sulk, you whine. Ungrateful so and so.

The years pass and you become the giver of dreams. It is easy to sneak a look into the letter to Santa before it gets posted, but then what? What when none of the shops anywhere has the ultimate gift. The marketing boffins do all they can. I can order from mail-order catalogs and have them delivered home. I can order from Amazon and have them in November. But there will always be that moment when the child opens the present and you see that glimmer of disappointment. It doesn't matter how much you spend. It doesn't matter how well you have coordinated the wrapping paper and ribbon.

All that matters is that it is not something else, something that you would never ever have thought of. We tried to come up with a better plan. We buy the presents for our kids and they buy the presents for theirs and then we swop them. But it still doesn't feel the same. It is too tempting to buy practical things for your own kids: clothes, and scarves, and books that you would probably have bought them anyway. Only aunts buy things that are silly, that are not strictly speaking educational, that make noise, that need batteries.... To make things more complicated, kids want things now, today, now this very minute, and not at Christmas.

What fun is it to get a skateboard in August, and just a reminder at Christmas? And so many things kinds want are ridiculously expensive. Is there really any magic when you say "Don't forget they you got your present for your birthday and Christmas?" And as for getting presents... It is my fault.

I don't write to Santa any more. I can't remember the last time that I yearned for something so much that it hurt. Life is like that. You yearn for the oddest things as you get older: half and hour with nothing to do, a telephone call from a friend you haven't heard from in ages, a cuddle from your teenage son. Sure, I look into shop windows some times and think "Oh, I'd love to have that!" but I usually either forget about it or just buy it for myself. It's sad though. Something is missing. I wonder what I will do this year. Maybe I should just buy myself that Barbie caravan...



Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1285245/all_i_dont_want_for_christmas.html?page=2&cat=9