Tag: celebrations

What Are Christmas Crackers?

A British tradition,  Christmas crackers are traceable back to Victorian times. Tom Smith, a confectioner, began adding romantic poems to his bonbons. He would twist the wrapping around the sugary treat with the poem inside. Generally, only men would buy the almond-flavored bonbons to give to women as a romantic gesture.

Sitting by a crackling fire one night, Tom Smith came up with the idea to add the snap sound to the bonbon treats. Eventually, the bonbon name was set aside for the Christmas cracker or Cosaques. The novelty of the Christmas cracker was successful.

The Christmas crackers are colorfully decorated tubes filled with small items. Typically the cracker contains a paper hat, a joke or motto, and a small gift. The jokes inside the crackers are usually ridiculous.

When pulling on the cracker, generally two people tug at each end, a little snap occurs. The fun novelty item is perfect for any holiday celebration.

Homemade Christmas Crackers

Yes, you can make your own Christmas crackers.

  • Use paper tubes.
  • Fill inside with goodies. (When you make your own, you can fill the tubes with age-appropriate items. For example, for adults, you could add one dollar lottery tickets or miniature bottles of alcohol. For teenagers, consider adding lip balms, USBs, or small usable items.)
  • Wrap with tissue paper, cloth, or wrapping paper.
  • Secure the ends with string
  • Decorate with individual names or other items

Did You Know?

In the U.K. on December 20, 2001, the children, staff, and parents at Ley Hill School and Pre-School, Chesham presented the world’s largest Christmas cracker. The cracker measured 207 feet long and 13 feet around. Now, that was a Christmas cracker with a loud bang.

Many design Christmas crackers to promote a business. Using company themed items, the Christmas crackers are given away with logos or other designs on the small trinkets inside.

Millionaire Christmas crackers contain expensive jewelry. The specially made bracelets, earrings, and necklaces are given at fancy parties as extravagant gifts.

Whether you make your own or buy Christmas crackers, add them to your holiday party list. Enjoy the party favors at your next gathering.

 

 

 

Reference: The History of Christmas Crackers. https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/crackers.shtml

 

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Creating a Christmas Season Bucket List

Ushering in a magical time of year, the holiday season is now in full swing. Soon, your schedule will be busy with all sorts of work, school, and other Christmas time commitments. Taking time to enjoy every moment is vital to making long-lasting memories.

Before you realize, Christmas vacation will be here. Get the best out of your holidays, make a Christmas Season Bucket List. Ask your family or friends for ideas on how to make the holiday season more fun. 

Ideas for Your Christmas Season Bucket List

Do you need some inspiration to get your bucket list started? Consider the following activities for your Christmas Season Bucket List. 

  • Decorate for Christmas
  • Put up the Christmas Tree
  • Decorate and hang stockings (don’t forget to add one for your dog)
  • Make your own Christmas ornaments
  • Go to the library to get Christmas-themed books
  • Bake and decorate Christmas cookies
  • Attend a Christmas parade
  • Visit Santa (Yes, even adults can have their picture taking with Santa. Enjoy the season!)
  • Write Santa
  • Make homemade Christmas cards
  • Go to a community event
  • Go caroling
  • Volunteer
  • Decorate a gingerbread house
  • Make holiday goodies to deliver to friends and relatives
  • Go ice skating
  • Host an Ugly Christmas Sweater party
  • Build a snowman
  • Host a Christmas tea
  • Have a Christmas movie marathon 
  • Make homemade hot cocoa (perfect for the movie marathon)
  • Sponsor a child or donate to a local charity
  • Make a Christmas wreath (make an extra one to give to a friend)
  • Ride around to view Christmas lights and other holiday displays 
  • Donate toys and gently used coats to your local charity
  • Make cookies or cupcakes for your local fire department
  • Get a professional Christmas portrait
  • Attend a live Nativity 
  • Go to Christmas services at a local church
  • Host a Christmas craft day
  • Go sledding or snowboarding
  • Play in the snow
  • Build a snowman
  • Call loved ones who live far away

Regardless of what you decide to do, spend quality time with those you love. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures of your activities. Make a Christmas scrapbook. Have fun, and enjoy the Christmas season. 

Celebrating Veteran’s Day

Did you know today, November 11th is Veteran’s Day? A federal holiday is more than just getting a day off from work. Veteran’s Day focuses on honoring all who have served in the United States military. Formerly known as Armistice Day, in 1938, the holiday initially was set to honor the end of World War I, which was on November 11, 1918. Moving from Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day in 1954, the holiday included U.S. Veterans from all wars.

How to Celebrate Veteran’s Day

Do you want to participate in celebrating Veteran’s Day? The day is about more than a day off from work. The holiday is about honoring those who have been in the military. The individuals who have stood for freedom during times of conflict and peace.

If you need help trying to find a way to celebrate Veteran’s Day, consider the following ideas:

  • Go Out to Dinner: Ask a Veteran out to eat. Take them to breakfast or dinner. Allow them to pick the spot. Older veterans may enjoy time out of the house.
  • Learn Their Story: Ask Veterans to share stories about the time served in the military. (For instance, a veteran shared the story of the flying tree stump. During his time in Vietnam, they were trying to remove a tree stump from the military base. They decided to use explosives on the stump. The stump blew in the air, landed on the mess hall roof which was tin, and created a loud noise all the way to the ground.)
  • Homemade Treat: Bake a pie, cake, cookies or other delicious treats for your favorite veteran
  • Write a Thank You Note: Write a note of thanks to a veteran. Getting your children involved is a great way to learn about the day.
  • Learn History: Read about the different wars that U.S. Veterans fought. Watch a documentary on the subject.
  • Research Your History: Did you have a family member serve in a war? What one? Learn about the time served. Where was your ancestor sent? The research may provide insight into your family’s personal history.
  • Take Time: Visit your local VA hospital
  • Display Your Military Pride: Fly the U.S. Flag proudly
  • Events: Attend a Veteran’s Day parade or other community activities
  • Give Your Time: Volunteer at a nursing home to spend time with veterans
  • Monetary Donations: Donate money to a cause that focuses on helping Veterans
  • Holiday Help: Adopt a military family for the holidays
  • Care Package Donation: Many organizations accept items to send to military members serving overseas. Donate items or send a package to help celebrate Veteran’s Day.
  • Long Term Commitment: Participate in organizations that write and sponsor military personnel
  • Simple Thank You: An easy way to show your thanks, share your gratitude on your social media pages. Your heartfelt post has the potential to reach more than one veteran.

Regardless of how you celebrate, take the time to honor U.S. Veterans on Veteran’s Day.

 

Throwing a Last Minute Halloween Party

Is the perspective Halloween forecast limiting your trick-or-treating options? Keep your children inside, throw a Halloween party. Planning an impromptu Halloween is the perfect way to celebrate on a cold, windy night. 

Tips for Last-Minute Halloween Party Planning 

The key to throwing a last-minute Halloween party is organization. Grab a tablet and begin to make plans. Do you need some help? Consider the following tips to make your party planning go smooth.

Guest List

The guest list is essential. Start by writing out a potential guest list. Begin calling, texting, or emailing the people on your list. If you are on Facebook, consider making a private group or invite page for the Halloween party. The group allows you to keep track of the number of people coming. Parents will be able to ask questions about the party. Most parents will ask what can they do to help. Do not be afraid to accept their help.  

Menu

When you get an estimate on the number of people attending, you can start food shopping. Finger food is always a party favorite. Mini sandwiches, snacks, and punch are simple treats for quick party planning. Or if your budget allows order pizzas. 

Craft Area

Set up a corner with different crafts for children to enjoy. The crafting material does not need to be elaborate or costly. 

  • Paint 
  • Paintbrushes 
  • Glue 
  • Glitter 
  • Pompons 
  • Markers 
  • Yarn
  • Googly eyes

Use small gourd-shaped pumpkins for painting. Or go to your local store to find some Halloween themed wooden cutouts. Even a posterboard can be a template for a spooky theme. Allow children to create and decorate. The party-goers will love the fact they get to take their creation home with them.

Games & Activities

Kids love to participate in fun, easy games. 

  • Long-Standing Tradition: Bobbing for apples is a Halloween tradition.
  • Ghost Toss: Make ghosts from white lunch bags.  Stuff the inside with newspaper or other lightweight material. Set up baskets to toss the ghosts in. 
  • Pumpkin Smile: Instead of Pin the Tail on the Donkey, play pin the smile on the pumpkin. Use large orange poster board to make a pumpkin cut out. Draw in the eyes and nose. Use yellow or black poster board to cut out mouths.
  • Scavenger Hunt: Hide Halloween themed items throughout the house. Make out clues that will lead your partygoers from one place to another. 
  • Ghost Hunt: Use tissue paper to wrap suckers in the shape of ghosts. Hide the ghosts throughout the house for your Halloween guests to find. 
  • Photo Booth or Display: Use a black sheet or other cloth to set up a photo area. Set out Halloween themed props. Designate someone at your party to be the official photographer.
  • Fear-Factor Inspired: Putting your hand in a box without knowing what is inside can be scary. Cold spaghetti noodles can pass for worms. Peeled grapes can be eyeballs. Just use your imagination. Or have some edible insects on hand for those who are brave enough to try. 

Take-Home Treat Bags 

Fill treat bags with goodies. The Halloween take-home bags do not necessarily have to be filled with just candy. Balls, fangs, spider rings, skeletons, puzzle pads, and other Halloween themed items are available. The size of the treat bags is entirely up to you. If you use the ghost toss game, the extra white bags are perfect for take-home treats. 

 

4th of July Craft Table

Are you hosting a 4th of July party or BBQ? Do you want to keep the children busy? Many children love to socialize, swim, and play various outdoor activities. Others may need a quiet space to relax. Setting up a crafting table is a great way to keep children entertained during a family event. If your party experiences rain, you will be prepared.

Ideas for a 4th of July Crafting Table

Children’s imagination is limitless. Setting up a variety of options will help keep children engaged. Use the 4th of July as a theme for your art and craft activities.

Painting Fireworks

Roll out long pieces of butcher paper or set out black poster boards. Supply red, white, and blue paint to create fireworks. When painting the fireworks, offer different options. Paint brushes, straws, pipe cleaners, and sponges create unique textures. The fireworks will look unique to each child’s preference.

Paint Rocks

Rock painting is a popular craft choice. Line a table with varying sizes of rocks. Supply paints and brushes. Allow the children to create their own personal masterpieces.

Paint Clay Planters

When preparing for your party, pick up some clay planters to paint. A planter is the perfect take-home item.

Tie-Dye Shirts

Older children and adults love to tie-dye t-shirts. Ask parents to bring white shirts or supply different sizes for everyone. Use a tie-dye kit or traditional dye to make the shirts. Supply rubber bands and marbles to help create designs. The shirt may turn into a lasting memory.

Beading

Red, white, and blue pony beads are an inexpensive way to create necklaces and bracelets. Stringing the beads in a variety of designs allows each child to create a unique jewelry accessory.

Collages

Using construction paper or poster board allow children to create collages. Set out different art supplies including:

  • Red, white, and blue paint
  • Glitter
  • Glue
  • Scissors
  • Pom-pons
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Sequins
  • Pieces of material
  • Tissue paper

Drawing 

A craft table does not need to be elaborate for children to enjoy. Set out paper, crayons, markers, colored pencils. Children will use the materials to draw and create.

While engaging with others, a craft table is a great way for children to make art. Being able to take home a project instantly creates a memory of the event.

Happy 4th!

Memorial Day Weekend Ideas

The last Monday in May honors men and women who have died during their service in the United States military. In 1971, Memorial Day became an official federal holiday. Observing the holiday is different for everyone. Many families attend community events, host BBQs, go on a road trip or simply stay home for the extended weekend.

If you need ideas for the weekend, consider the following:

  • Go to a Memorial Day Parade: Many communities hold a wide variety of Memorial Day events. A parade is generally a fixture of the scheduled activities.
  • Moment of Silence or Prayer: Another activity generally involves the United States flag raising ceremony. Depending on the sponsorship of the event, the activity may hold a moment of silence for the fallen or a prayer.
  • Attend a Community Concert: Many communities will sponsor free outdoor concerts with a patriotic theme. Gather your family or ask your friends, pack a picnic lunch, and enjoy the music.
  • Attend a Fireworks Show: Another popular community event is a fireworks show. Enjoy the fireworks display with your friends and family members.
  • Go to a National or State Park: With over 50 National Parks and ten thousand state parks, getting outdoors to view the beautiful scenery is a must. Check your state to find the one closest to your location and go.
  • Volunteer: Volunteering is always a self-rewarding activity. For example, many organizations place flags on the headstones of military members. The process is simple to carry out. The activity provides you with a chance to remember the meaning of Memorial Day.
  • Learn Your Family’s Military History: Search your family’s history. Finding information about family members who served is a rewarding experience.
  • Host a BBQ: Gather your family or friends for a BBQ at your home, park, lake or other areas of interest. When serving, take a moment to toast those who have fallen in service.
  • Be Thankful: Whether you chose to travel, attend events, or stay home, be thankful for your choice.

Celebrating Memorial Day is a great way to enjoy the company of your family or friends. The Memorial Day weekend unofficially kicks off summer. Celebrate, remember, and appreciate the weekend.

 

Celebrate! Love Your Pet Day

Did you know, today, February 20th is Love Your Pet Day? Whether you have a dog, cat or other furry little critter, pets bring companionship, joy, and fun to your home. Dedicated pet owners always show love to their furry or feathered friends. Today just focuses on the love you have for your pet. Life should be about small celebrations.

How to Celebrate Love Your Pet Day?

Being a responsible pet owner, you already know the activities your dog (or cat) enjoys the most. Set some time aside to engage in your pet’s favorite pastime. If you are looking for new activity, consider the following ideas to celebrate Love Your Pet Day:

Time

Work, family, school, or other commitments keep you busy. Being home alone may leave your pet feeling lonely. Spending some extra quality time with your faithful companion is the perfect way to celebrate Love Your Pet Day.

  • Go to the local dog park or find a new one to explore
  • Go hiking on a new trail
  • Go for a car ride together to find a special treat
  • Snuggle on the sofa

New Toy

Pick up a new toy for your beloved pet. A new squeaky toy for your dog or cat nipped filled mouse for your feline friend will brighten your pet’s day.

Homemade Treats

Head over to Pinterest to search for homemade animal treats. Baking homemade dog or cat treats shows extra love for your pet on this special day. Most recipes require basic ingredients that you may already have on hand. The wide range of recipes available ensures the perfect fit for your pet.

Spa Treatment

Many dogs love pampering (cats not so much). Send your pooch to the local doggy spa for a fresh bath, nail trimming, and more.

Photo of the Occasion

A photo of the occasion is the best way to mark Love Your Pet Day.

  • Take a selfie
  • Set up your own photo shoot
  • Get a professional portrait

Need a Pet? Adopt

Bringing home a pet from a local rescue or animal shelter immediately shows love. Celebrating Love Your Pet Day with a new furry companion goes beyond recognizing the day, the action may actually save a life.

February Photo Prompt Inspiration

Are you ready for the shortest month in the year? February brings Valentine’s Day, the Super Bowl and much more. Enjoy the month by making memories. Take pictures. Gather inspiration. And, simply enjoy.

February Photo Prompts

  1. Selfie
  2. Outside your window
  3. Something small
  4. Landscape or skyscape
  5. Pet or animal
  6. Warm drink
  7. Favorite romance
  8. Flowers
  9. Love
  10. Something fuzzy
  11. Valentine’s Day or other sweet treats
  12. Red/pinks
  13. Hearts
  14. Valentine’s Day fun
  15. Sign or symbol
  16. Stuffed animal or toy
  17. Favorite meal of the day
  18. Patterns
  19. Low view
  20. Snack or special treat
  21. Water
  22. Something blue
  23. High view
  24. Birds
  25. Sunrise or sunset
  26. Clouds
  27. Happiness
  28. Dream

January Photo Prompt Ideas

Happy New Year! Did you make any resolutions? Is engaging in creative ventures, part of your resolution list? Photo prompts are perfect for inspiring your creative side. Consider the following for the first month of the New Year.

Photo Prompt Inspiration for January

  1. Selfie on the first day of the New Year (Even if you look tired from last night’s activities, celebrate the first day of 2019.)
  2. New Year Resolution
  3. Snow or cut out Snowflakes
  4. Favorite hot beverage
  5. Landscape/waterscape
  6. Pet
  7. Your current view
  8. Friendship
  9. Close up
  10. Favorite book or current read
  11. New purchase
  12. Something old
  13. Nature
  14. Something up high
  15. Something down low
  16. Motivation
  17. Breakfast
  18. Desert
  19. Night time plans
  20. Black and white
  21. Something blue
  22. Snack
  23. Reflection
  24. Current mood
  25. Rough surface
  26. Smooth surface
  27. Your happy place
  28. Wildlife
  29. Stuffed animal
  30. Family
  31. Last photo of January 2019

Photos represent your current mood. Print your photos. Make a scrapbook. Ask friends or family members to join. Create a group page to share. Be creative.

December Photo Prompt Ideas

Kicking off the holiday season, December provides numerous opportunities for photos. Whether you use your phone or a camera, capture the holiday spirit that surrounds you on a daily basis.

Photo Inspiration Prompts for December

  1. Christmas Tree
  2. Ornaments
  3. Christmas Lights
  4. Landscape or Skyscape
  5. Something Old
  6. Outdoor Decorations
  7. Candy Canes
  8. Glitter
  9. Red/Green
  10. Shopping
  11. Traditions
  12. Santa
  13. Favorite Warm Beverage
  14. Baking Fun
  15. Stockings
  16. Festive/Joy
  17. Black and White
  18. Holiday Fun
  19. Toys
  20. Peace
  21. Christmas Wrap or Wrapping Presents
  22. Bells
  23. Candles
  24. Christmas Eve/Holiday Food
  25. Christmas Day Fun
  26. The day after Christmas/Messy
  27. Snow/Snow Globe
  28. Morning
  29. Scarf/Mittens/Warmth
  30. Snowman
  31. Last Photo of 2018—Your Choice

Photos are a great way to explore your environment. Encourage your family or friends to take daily photos. Create a Facebook group to share or tag your photos for others to view.  After the month is over, print the photos for a scrapbook.