Christmas is a special time of the year. It can also be a frustrating time of the year financially. Children and adults are both bombarded with advertisements for the latest toys, gadgets, gear, and jewelry, and many of these items can make a big dent into a family’s budget. Fortunately, there is no reason that Christmas can’t still be special while keeping a sane budget.

The first thing to do to make Christmas special while on a budget is to remember what it is that makes Christmas special for you. Perhaps it is the childhood memories, the family gatherings, or religious beliefs and traditions. Identifying what it is about Christmas that means the most to you and your family, and spending time with your family talking it out can take some of the pressure off to buy the latest Elmo doll or MP3 player.

Homemade gifts for friends and family are another great way to make Christmas special on a budget. Making personalized calendars, homemade jams, pies, or other foods, or any variety of crafts can not only save you money, but they send a message to the recipient that you cared enough about them to not just throw some money at a product, but to invest some of your time, energy, love, and thought into the gift. Often, it is these homemade gifts that will be remembered for years to come.

Volunteering is another way to make Christmas special. Perhaps you can be a bell-ringer for the Salvation Army or another charity. Maybe you can volunteer to help serve meals at the local homeless shelter or women’s facility. You might be able to help an organization by volunteering to wrap charity presents, even if you are not in a position to purchase any.

Don’t be afraid to buy some used items. Your local second-hand shop will often have perfectly good toys and other items for sale. Many times, these are just overstocked items that are still new in the box. There is, of course, always the internet and the online auction sites such as eBay that can save you a good chunk of change on the items that you need to buy. Just be sure to buy these items early enough to allow for shipping time.

Spending time with the ones you love is one of the best ways to make Christmas special. Go caroling with your daughter’s girl scout troop. Visit a living nativity at a local church. Spend a Saturday baking Christmas gifts as a family. Your children are guaranteed to remember these things long after they’ve forgotten the remote-controlled car that was under the tree.

The Christmas and holiday season is generally associated with peace, goodwill, and good times with family and friends. Unfortunately, Christmas & the holidays are also a time in which there are increased risks of fire hazards. On the average, fires during the holidays injure more than 2,500 people and create nearly $1 billion in damage in the United States. Fortunately, there are some basic fire safety tips for Christmas & the holidays that can help keep you and your family safe during this time.

One of the biggest fire risks during the holidays is the risk involved when using a live Christmas tree. When using a live tree, it is important to take certain precautions. You should try to purchase a fresh tree. A fresh tree is one in which the needles are green and difficult to pull back from the branches. The needles should also not break easily. The trunk will be sticky. If you bounce a tree on the ground and a large number of needles fall off, the tree is probably too old to safely use. You should also make sure to place your tree away from heat sources, such as fireplaces or heating vents. You should always keep your tree stand full of water, and should not leave the tree up for more than two weeks.

Christmas or holiday lights are another fire risk. You should make sure that your lights don’t have wires that are frayed, broken or cracked light sockets, or large amounts of wear or kinking. You should also not overload your electrical outlets, and try to keep three or less strands of lights to each socket. You should also not leave your Christmas lights unattended.

Some other basic fire tips for Christmas and the holidays include:

- Try to use only decorations that are not flammable

- Keep decorations away from heating vents.

- If you have an artificial Christmas tree, make sure it is also flame retardant.

- If possible, avoid using lit candles. If you do use them, make sure they are in holders that are stable and cannot easily be knocked over.

- Don’t go near a Christmas tree with an open flame of any sort.

- Make sure that your smoke alarms are installed and have fresh batteries.

Many countries around the world celebrate Christmas. While there are many things in common in the places that Christmas is celebrated, many times the traditions can be different. Each place has its unique traditions that it practices when it comes to the Christmas season.

In many countries around the world Christmas is observed as primarily a religious holiday. In some, such as in the United States, Christmas is seen as a secular holiday, or at least a mixed holiday. In countries where there is more emphasis on the religious side of Christmas, it is often tradition to attend Church at various times. This might include a midnight mass on Christmas eve, morning services on Christmas day, or even services on every day of the twelve-day season.

In some places around the world, particularly where the Eastern Orthodox Church is dominant, it is tradition to celebrate Christmas earlier in December. Often, Christmas falls on or around December 6th. The difference comes from their use of the older calendar for figuring religious holidays. In some countries, they observe the full “twelve days of Christmas,” giving gifts daily from Christmas eve through the end of the festival.

Santa Claus is one of those nearly-universal Christmas traditions. This figure of goodwill and gift-giving goes by a different name in many countries. In England, for example, he is called “Father Christmas.” In Brazil, he is called “Papai Noel.” In France, “Père Noël.” In Germany, “Der Weihnachtsmann.” In Belgium, he is “Sinterklaas.” In some countries, Santa Claus brings gifts on Christmas Eve. In Finalnd, for example, it is tradition for one family member usually dresses up like Father Christmas and distributes presents to the children. In Germany, ‘Der Weihnachtsmann’ brings Christmas presents on Christmas Eve day, often when the family has gone to church. In Hungary, Santa comes on December 6th and deposits candies or small toys into the children’s’ shoes.

The traditional Christmas meal is celebrated differently in different countries around the world as well. In New Zealand, at midnight on Christmas eve, they eat a special dish made of salted, dried codfish with boiled potatoes. On Christmas day, they might have turkey with the trimmings, and a Barbecue later in the day. In Russia, Christmas dishes include cakes, pies, and dumplings with meat. In Sweden, a special meal is served on Christmas eve, consisting of ham, herring, and brown beans. In Transylvania, they had stuffed cabbage on Christmas eve and then again for lunch on Christmas after attending Church. In Belgium, a special sweet bread shaped like the baby Jesus is served for breakfast. In Finland, people eat rice porridge on Christmas Eve, and Christmas dinner usually includes casseroles with things like macaroni, carrots, potato, and rutabaga. In Germany, Carp or Goose is often served on Christmas day.

There are many different types of Christmas books that target the younger market. Whether you are looking for something to tell the story of the birth of Christ or rather how Santa Claus travels the world supplying gifts for good girls and boys, there are many choices to choose from. Here are a few ideas.

1. The First Christmas by Tommie dePaola
This special holiday read features beautiful folk art in an enchanting pop-up style. It employs several scenes that depict the birth of Christ. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, it tells a wonderful tale and will instantly become a family favorite.

2. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
This holiday favorite was recently turned into a major motion picture. It is a winner of the Caldecott Medal and the illustrations are equally as delightful as the story. It tells the story of a young boy who believes in Santa despite the skepticism of his friends. He takes a magical trip to the North Pole where he finds out the truth. It reinforces the gift of giving and how important it is to believe in the spirit of Christmas.

3. The Little Drummer Boy by Ezra Jack Keats
This beautifully illustrated book based on the popular Christmas carol is wonderful for all ages. It tells the story of a young boy who takes the long journey to Bethlehem to visit the new baby Jesus. It will definitely put your family in the Christmas spirit.

4. The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore
This is a fun twist on the old favorite. Folk inspired illustrations dress up the story of the anticipation felt on Christmas Eve. All children can relate to this heartwarming story, which makes it an instant winner.

5. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Older children will most definitely enjoy this Christmas read. It’s a classic that all should have the chance to experience. It reiterates the importance of keeping in the Christmas Spirit and will certainly put your family in the holiday mood.

Christmas hits and the stress rises. With all the people to purchase gifts for, budgets can be easily blown and time can run out fast. Purchasing gifts for people you don’t know well can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. If you or your child wishes to purchase a gift for a teacher it doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are a few ideas for easy yet wonderful gifts for teachers.

Gift baskets may seem simple but are always enjoyed. Pick a few unique coffee or tea flavors and purchase an interesting holiday mug. If you wish to add something else, gift certificates to restaurants or food stores are a great idea.

Chocolate is repetitively a favorite for everyone. Many chocolate goodies are manufactured in cute holiday shapes. Personalize this gift by picking your favorite brand and flavors for a sweet treat that can’t be denied.

Most teachers love to read. Purchase a gift certificate from a local bookstore. Movie theater or rental certificates are another option. By choosing a special gift certificate they can pick what they wish, yet you have personalized the gift by choosing the location.

Teachers of lower grades usually purchase their own class supplies. Buy markers, colored pencils, or paper for the class to share. Fun, age appropriate games are also neat and well appreciated.

If you want to get the whole class involved for a budget friendly gift, here’s a great idea. Purchase a large piece of poster board and some Christmas or holiday decorations. Have each student in the class decorate and write a special holiday message. Not only will this gift be personal, it is something the teacher can keep to remember his/her class for years to come.

Keep in mind the holiday season is supposed to be fun. The gift of giving is a great moral to instill in your child at a young age. If you are purchasing a gift for your child’s teacher, make sure they are involved in the process. It will make the gift more special and keep the Christmas spirit alive!

With all the purchasing that has to be done during the Christmas season, budgets can be easily depleted. Fundraising is a great idea to get a community or school involved in raising money specifically for the holidays or to use later. Here are a couple of neat fundraising ideas to use during Christmastime.

Have a group of people sign up for window painting. Holiday phrases or scenes look great on house or business windows during the winter season.

Have the artistic people of the group study Christmas cards for ideas. Stencils are great for fool proof painting. Window paint can be purchased at most art stores or discount retailers such as Wal-mart. Keep scenes and phrases simple. Having too much going on can look messy.

Have those that are less artistically inclined to do the promoting and purchasing of materials. Make a trip to the local art store to purchase the paint, brushes, and cleaning materials. Make flyers and give them to neighbors and businesses. Let them know that the window painting is for a fundraiser and offer to come back after the holiday to clean up.

Make sure to stay organized, with all the business you could be getting at the end of November and early December, things could get hectic. Make sure to keep enough people working at all times.

Another great fundraising idea for Christmas is decorating local businesses with holiday decorations. Many businesses don’t have time to decorate themselves and don’t mind paying a little extra money for the help.
If you are working with a school or church that has extra storage space, purchase large Christmas decorations that can be used year after year. Have volunteers sign up to visit local businesses for promoting and decorating. Make sure to offer to clean up when Christmas is over. To save even more money have a group of people make the decorations or donate them.

Get online and do some research. Many companies promote catalogs that sell Christmas and holiday foods or gift ideas which can be used as fundraisers. Find a company that you like and have your volunteers knock on doors or call relatives to shop through the catalogs. Companies that have fundraising in mind usually give a good deal of profits to the cause.

Need a Halloween costume fast? On a budget? Here are a few spooky ideas for fabulous Halloween costumes that you can make at home.

1. Scarecrow
This old favorite is surprisingly simple! Grab an old pair of denim overalls and a flannel shirt. Use clear tape (packing tape is durable!) and attach raffia to the cuffs of the shirt and the hems of the pants. Find an old straw hat, eyeliner for freckles, and blush for cheeks and you are set to go!

2. Grapes Fit for a King
Dig in your drawers for a purple or green sweat suit. If you cant find one, they are relatively cheap at discount stores. Purchase balloons in the same color and inflate. Attach the balloons to the sweats using safety pins. A little face paint is a great touch!

3. Dalmatian
Purchase or find a white hooded sweat suit. You will also need black felt. Cut the black felt into circles and glue strategically onto the sweat suit. Many art stores carry fusible felt that can simply be ironed on. Use black face paint for a black nose, whiskers, and a few spots.

4. Skeleton
This is very similar to the Dalmatian idea. Purchase a black hooded sweat suit and white felt. Cut out bone shapes and attach to the sweat suit. Black and white face paint is another nice touch.

5. Pair of Dice
This is a wonderful idea for couples. Find two relatively large cardboard boxes. Cut the top and bottom out of the box as well as holes for the arms. Cover the boxes with paper the color of your choice. Use black paper or felt to make the dots. You can’t roll a bad pair with this idea! If you want to be a wrapped gift, follow the same steps, but wrap the box in wrapping paper and ribbon. Make a bow to use as a topper on your head. For females, attach to a headband or use bobby pins. For a male, bows can be easily attached to baseball caps.

Halloween is notorious for its tricks and treats. Here are a few ideas for spooky treats to give on this ghoulish holiday.

Temporary tattoos and stickers are great for Halloween and easy on the budget. Most kids love temporary tattoos and they can often be found on the web or in stores in a variety of patterns and themes. Halloween stickers are also a great idea. They provide for easy decorating and hours of fun.

Pencils, novelty erasers and pencil toppers are another option. These low budget favors are popular among a variety of ages and actually provide functionality. Pencils, erasers, and pencil toppers with a Halloween theme can be found online or in the arts and crafts section of most stores.

If you fancy edible treats, here are a few recipes for a disgustingly haunting good time!

Earth Worm Surprise
Ingredients:
1 box of chocolate pudding
1 bag of assorted gummy worms
1 box of chocolate cookies (Oreos work well)
1 bag of clear plastic cups

Make chocolate pudding according to directions on box. Put one or two gummy worms in each cup and pour pudding over them to set. Top with a layer of cookie crumbs. Have gummy worms poking out of crumbs for a spooky surprise.

Goblin Guts
Ingredients:
Popped popcorn
Dried apricots
Dried cranberries
Raisins
Mixed nuts

Mix all ingredients together for a Halloween version of the traditional trail mix. Substitute candy for fruit for a sweeter treat.

Candied Apples
Ingredients:
2 cups of light corn syrup
1 cup of sugar
½ cup of cinnamon red hot candies
8 medium red apples on popsicle sticks
Chopped peanuts (optional)
Pour nuts into a shallow dish or bowl. Line a baking sheet with wax paper. In a saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and candies. Bring mixture to a boil over medium high heat. Continuously stir until mixture has boiled. Cover and continue cooking for three minutes. Uncover and continue cooking until mixture has become 270-290 degrees F on a thermometer. Cool mixture for 2 minutes and then dip apples. Roll apples in nuts if desired. Set on baking sheet to harden.

With so many choices, picking the best Halloween costume for you may be tricky. Many contemplate all year about the perfect ensemble. There are many choices that span a variety of budgets. If you are having a hard time deciding what ghoulish creature or funny prankster to be this spooky holiday season, here are a few ideas.

Make sure your costume is comfortable. Comfort is key for a number of reasons. Masks that impair vision are not only annoying, but can be dangerous. If your costume is too long or baggy it could be a tripping hazard. As you think, make sure that your options won’t impair movement or sight.

If you are attending a fun Halloween party, think about the audience involved. If you know the people well feel free to let your imagination fly. If there is a theme, limit your choices to something within that range. If children are involved, make sure your choice is age appropriate!

If you like to stand out, choose a costume that is controversial or thought provoking. Anything that has to do with politics is usually good and will allow for lots of conversation!

If you are on a budget or just want to hand make your costume, remember a few things. Keep in mind how much you are willing to spend on supplies, and don’t pick a costume that is too difficult for your current sewing or designing skills.

If you plan to buy a costume, do it as early as possible! Popular choices sell out fast. Shop late September or early October for the best costumes at reasonable prices.

Renting a costume is another option. If you want to stand out and be one of a kind, costume stores are the way to go. Watch your budget though, some costumes can be pricey. Also make sure to take care of it while in use, damages are not cheap either!

Shopping online for Halloween costumes and supplies is a fabulous idea. With online retailers you can shop year round. If you already know what you want to be next season, go ahead and buy it during the off time for an incredible discount.

When you think of Thanksgiving you can practically smell the turkey baking in the oven. But, you might stop and wonder why we actually serve turkey on Thanksgiving? Many believe the pilgrims had turkey on that first Thanksgiving day although we now know that is more than likely not the case. In fact, it is much more likely that cod, seal, lobster, venison, fowl, and the like were served at the very first feast and not turkey. So, how did the turkey become the main part of our holiday meal?

Maybe the Reason Why We Eat Turkey Is
There are lots of interesting stories behind the turkey being Thanksgivings most important dish. One is that Queen Elizabeth was celebrating a Fall Harvest and celebrated with a baked goose as this was considered a delicacy and a celebration indeed. Upon hearing that the Spanish Armada had sunk as it was on its way to attack England the Queen was so pleased with the news that she ordered an additional roast goose. Englanders were so accustomed to roast goose being associated to celebrations and that was what they would have celebrated with had the New Colony been full of wild geese. But, this was not the case and wild turkeys were much more plentiful. So, as they started a new life they also started a new tradition of serving turkey on days of celebration and giving thanks.

Of course, there could be plenty of other sound reasons why we eat turkey on Thanksgiving Day and some people certainly have their own ideas. However, on thing is for certain. We dont eat turkey on Thanksgiving Day because the pilgrims did because it is almost certain that they did not. So, while we like to imagine the pilgrims and Indians sitting down for a big turkey meal followed by pumpkin pie it just didnt happen that way. When it comes down to the real reason you will just need to make up your mind what you believe!