Mormon Life - Christmas Guide tag

{Lifestyle} Holiday Etiquette

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:35:00 -0700

by SarahJo Ciotti
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Whether you are hosting or attending, with family and friends or just acquaintances, this holiday we can help you keep your napkin on your lap and your pinkies out with our holiday etiquette "do"s and "don’t"s!

The most wonderful time of the year is filled with social gatherings at family homes, friends’ apartments, and even offices. Some may be staying with their own families, but others may be visiting with roommates or the in-laws. In these and other social gatherings we don’t always know what is expected of us. So, cracking open our figurative book of holiday etiquette, we’ve compiled a few "do"s and "don’t"s for various holiday occasions.

Gift giving and receiving

On budget

Do talk to family about limitations. If your family is growing, buying for cousins, brothers and sisters, and their children can become more than you can handle. It is perfectly acceptable to bring up other options such as only gifts for the kids, secret Santas, or a dollar amount limit per gift.

Don’t overextend your budget. If you can only afford $13 gifts per family member, stick to it. Even if you get something more expensive from someone else, don’t feel obligated to price match. There is no need to run up a credit bill you will be paying off well into the New Year.

The unexpected

Do be gracious. Even if your Aunt Clara makes you a homemade pink-bunny onesie, smile and say, “Thank you, you must have put a lot of time into this. The stitches are tiny!” If the item is returnable (sadly you may be stuck with a handmade item like the bunny suit) taking it back to the store is perfectly acceptable later.

Don’t run out and buy a gift when you receive one from an unexpected source. Of course you can accept the gift, and even express embarrassment for not having something in return. Put the person’s name on the list for next year, and don’t stress about what stores are open where you can run out and buy something and have it gift wrapped before they leave.

At the work place

Don’t be overly extravagant. You are not required to give a gift to your boss, although a small token of appreciation is acceptable. If you go overboard, though, you may cause some awkwardness among co-workers who may believe you are kissing-up for a promotion.

Do find out whether anyone at work exchanges gifts at the holidays. If not, don't begin a custom that will make others feel uncomfortable.

For a visit

Do make the visit easy. As the host, sharing details beforehand about routines or traditions will make visits go smoothly for both your guest and yourself.

Don’t leave a mess. As a guest you want to clean up after yourself, fix your bed, tidy the bathroom when you’re done, help clear the table, and offer to help whenever possible.

Do show that you’re enjoying yourself. Being gracious and happy will make the holidays bright as well as make your host happy to have you around.

Preparing and participating in a holiday dinner or party

Before

Do bring a host/hostess gift. Candles, breakfast muffin mix, or even a bag of ice (just in case), would show the host or hostess that you appreciate the work they put into making you feel comfortable at their party or dinner.

Do offer to help. Setting the table, volunteering for a game, or serving dessert--there are many things guests can do to be helpful. But if your offer is turned down, the most help you can give is to enjoy yourself.

During

Do pay attention. While serving yourself, be careful not to spill or drop food. If you do, immediately dab or pick up the food to make cleanup easier on the host later.

Don’t refuse a dish. It is polite to take a small taste of each dish offered. However, when with a closer gathering of family and friends, a polite “No, thank you,” is acceptable for refusing a dish. When an allergy is the reason, it is never impolite to refuse.

Don’t season your food before you taste. Giving the cook the benefit of the doubt is a great compliment, regardless of whether or not you sprinkle some salt over the dish after the initial bite.

Do make conversation. Being social is the point of Christmas feasts. To reconnect and exude the holiday spirit, don’t get lost in the mashed potatoes; look up and connect with those around you.

Don’t be a lump. Participate in whatever the host has planned, whether it’s charades, new foods, or just chatting with people around you.

After

Don’t linger. As the guests begin to put on their coats and leave, take that as your cue as well. Typically dinner guests are expected to stay for about an hour after dinner, unless invited to stay longer.

{LDS How-to} Celebrate Christmas on a Sunday

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:05:00 -0700

by Kate Ensign-Lewis
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: It happens once every seven years or so: Christmas on Sunday. Aside from attending an hour of church, the rest of the day might seem roughly the same as other years. But my theory is Sunday Christmas can be even better.

I've come to the following conclusion: Christmas on Sunday is a double whammy of awesomeness.

I remember celebrating Christmas on Sunday when I was young. The thing I remember most is that I thought it was novel (and beyond exciting) that we only had to go to one church meeting. (I must admit: I still find it exciting.) Other than that, Christmas on Sunday generally seemed a little less thrilling and more subdued--and when you look forward to that day all year long, subdued is not what you really want.

As I've thought about the circumstances of Christmas this year, though, I can honestly say I'm thrilled to be celebrating Christmas on Sunday. I won't be as tempted to sit lounging in pajamas all day in a post-present, post-food stupor. Instead, I will have good reason to pull myself away from my own sphere, worship the Savior in word and song with other believers, and continue to really consider Him all day long. (I can now appreciate why Catholics, and other religions, attend meetings right before or on Christmas--it's a wonderful way to remember what the day is for.)

So, unlike Halloween on a Sunday (which I wrote about last year), Christmas on a Sunday seems to fit perfectly. The day can, I think, augment the holiday even more. After all, what better way to honor the Savior's birth and life than by celebrating it in a Sabbath fashion?

That said, this year's celebration will likely see a few alterations among LDS families. Here are a couple different ideas to still celebrate the day and honor the Sabbath:

Do the big dinner on Christmas Eve. Yes, it might be a break in tradition for your family not to have it on Christmas Day. But allow me to share one of my favorite quotes about tradition, from Lloyd Newell (announcer for Music and the Spoken Word): "What may have worked last time, what may have worked twenty years ago, may no longer be the best tradition for a dynamic family unit. Adjusting traditions and not just doing 'what’s always been done' is good for families."

Before I read this a few years ago, I was a "tradition or nothing" kind of person; things HAD to be done the way they had always been done. But once I read this, I realized: we aren't made for traditions; they're made for us. And when they don't work, it's silly to compromise ourselves (or our sanity) in order to keep them. So this year, think about what traditions might not fit for a Sunday observance, such as the big dinner. Or a Christmas Day movie. Or the polar bear swim. And do something new.

Give "thank you" cards as stocking stuffers and gently encourage your family to use the down time of the Sabbath to write heartfelt thank you's to those who gave them gifts. This Sabbath activity sometimes gets overlooked, but writing letters (especially letters of gratitude) is a great way to spend time on this special day.

Sometime during the day, conduct a "silent lesson" about Christ's birth with your family. (Click here for the lesson material.) I remember having this lesson years ago in Young Women, and I still remember it as a special, testimony-building experience. This is a lesson that explores the Savior's birth, but due to its reverence, allows for extra introspection and thought. If you have younger children (and since this lesson works better for teenagers and up), consider acting out the nativity with our "Kid-friendly Nativity Script."

One final note: Many of my family's traditions will still work with a Sunday Christmas, and I'm sure yours will, too. But the attitude of a Sunday seems to fit Christmas in such a way that I can only think about this year's holiday with added anticipation. The spirit of worship will make the day even more special--and I'm sure on that day, as now, I'll wonder why I never thought to celebrate Christmas that way before.

What traditions, if any, will you be changing for this year's Sunday Christmas?

{Food Dish} Ultimate Guide: Ridiculously Cute Christmas Foods

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:57:00 -0700

by Kaela Worthen
source: MormonLife.com

I'm really good at making food taste good. What I'm not so good at is making it look pretty. I also happen to be a Pinterest addict, which means I get almost all of my food inspiration from my visual pinboard cookbook. The results usually go something like this:

(Thank you, Pinterest, for illustrating my life so well for me.)

However, that doesn't mean I can't still enjoy looking at pretty food and wishing I had such skills. And since I know some of you do actually have such skills, I'm going to share with you some of my favorite finds, in the hopes that someone will get to make and eat them.

Melted snowman cookies. Seriously. How ridiculously cute are these?

Christmas cheese party tray.
It's easy to make desserts decorative, but not so with many other party foods. This is great.

Brownie Christmas trees from Betty Crocker.
Not only are these possibly the most delish of the bunch, but I think I could possibly make them without messing them up too horribly.

Santa feet cupcake.
And several other cute cupcakes I could never be capable of making.

Christmas reindeer mini donuts.
I could SO make these.

Reindeer peanut butter cookies.
I might even be able to make these ones.

Santa hat pretzels.
Cute neighbor Christmas gift, anyone?

And for those of you with super food skills, you can check this link out for even more Christmas cupcake inspiration. (If you're like me, though, don't look. Please. It'll keep you from getting depressed.)

{Single Saints} 5 Secrets to Dating Success During the Holidays

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:04:00 -0700

by Alisa Snell - Dating Coach
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Avoid winter dating woes by studying up on common mistakes made during the holidays and learning the secrets to counteract them.

The holidays often have huge romantic expectations and disappointments. If you are in a relationship (or wanting to be in one), you canʼt afford to make these five common mistakes. However, if you apply the accompanying five secrets, you may instead find lasting love.

Mistake #1: Hibernating for the Winter

For some singles, the winter and holidays can be lonely and depressing, whereas other singles use the cold as an excuse to just wall-up inside and do nothing. In either case, hibernating for the winter can have a huge impact on your happiness and relationships and can make you less attractive to the opposite sex. Not only does a sedentary lifestyle add to depression, anxiety, and weight gain, but it also prevents you from meeting new singles. Additionally, when men and women hang out instead of being actively involved, they often feel less passionately toward each other. Thus, being actively involved in life and doing things together makes you and the relationship more attractive, interesting, and desirable.

Secret #1: Treat the winter as a time to step out of your comfort zone and do something new with other singles or a dating partner.

In other words, women, take up a new hobby such as indoor rock climbing, scuba diving instruction, marathon training, etc. These can be great places to meet men. Men, take a dance class or join a new exercise group or yoga class. Lots of women attend these types of classes, and being physically active increases the chance of one or both of you feeling more chemistry.

Mistake #2: Inviting a Date to a High-pressure Event

If you just started dating someone, now is not the time to invite him or her to your work or family parties for the holidays. Itʼs too much pressure and can make you appear too "into" them. Instead plan on going to these events alone this holiday season, unless your date invites you to one of their holiday parties.

Secret #2: Women, follow the lead of the men you date, and men, set limits when needed, but in a loving way.

Ladies, if he invites you to a holiday party, it is safe to invite him to one of yours (not two or three). Following his lead means that you match his efforts, not exceed them. Men, if the woman you are dating asks you to a holiday party and the pressure of this event feels too great, simply say, “Wow, thanks for wanting me to come, but if itʼs okay I would rather wait until we have been dating a little longer.” Then offer to take her out for a date on another night. By doing this you avoid rejecting her personally while also avoiding the pressure that could prematurely drive you away from the relationship.

Mistake #3: Engaging in "Define the Relationship" Conversations

If you are wondering where the relationship is going, the holiday season is not the time to ask. The holidays alone can create too much pressure, and asking, “How do you feel about me and our relationship?” often makes you look desperate and needy.

Secret #3: Focus on having fun over the holidays and saving any serious conversations about how your dating partner feels about you until January.

Instead of cornering the person and making them analyze what they are feeling (or not feeling) just have fun and assume that the relationship is less serious (even if they invite you to their family or work parties). If you assume less you will create less pressure, whereas if you assume too much, the other person may panic and run. And for those singles who were hoping to have a Christmas Eve engagement experience: Unless they were ring shopping with you before Thanksgiving, put such dreams out of your mind. Itʼs not likely to happen and pressuring them to move more quickly will only cause tension or break ups.

Mistake #4: Buying Expensive Gifts

You may want to buy your new dating partner an expensive gift, but unless you are in a clearly defined girlfriend/boyfriend relationship, keep your gifts to $50 or less (preferably $30 or less).

Secret #4: Give a gift that matches but does not exceed their efforts or the seriousness of the relationship.

If you fear that they may buy you something expensive and you donʼt want to look cheap, then buy two gifts (one that is more expensive and one that is less expensive) so you can pull out the appropriate gift based on their gift, and then return the other. And, if you have only been on one or two dates, forgo giving a gift altogether and instead prepare a simple treat, like something you would give a neighbor. Such a gesture is enough to show you are thinking of them but are not assuming that the relationship is more serious than it is.

Mistake #5: Introducing Your Date as Your Boyfriend/Girlfriend

When attending a work or family party, it is reasonable to assume that others will ask you or your date if you are serious or just friends. Anticipate this problem beforehand so as to avoid an awkward moment that could create too much pressure. You need to look confident and comfortable with the least serious description of your relationship so your date doesnʼt feel shocked by any descriptions that donʼt match their feelings.

Secret #5: Express that you intend to introduce your date as a good friend (or just a date) until they say they want to be introduced as more (boyfriend/girlfriend or fiance).

Determine the least serious description you think you could both agree on, then make sure to share this assumption with your date before the event so that they also donʼt feel hurt. To do this, say, “Just to be on the safe side, if anyone asks about us, I plan to say that we are just good friends [or just dating]. Let me know if you would prefer that I introduce you as more than this.” Then smile, act confident, and change the subject. They will appreciate the less-pressure-filled description while feeling free to jump in with a different description (i.e., “Iʼm okay with you saying Iʼm your boyfriend”) if they prefer it.

For more dating techniques like these and to help you avoid hundreds of other dating mistakes or issues, visit itsyourtechnique.com. After all, regardless of your dating past, itʼs NOT you--itʼs your technique. With the right knowledge and skills, you can find the relationships you are looking for.

Alisa Goodwin Snell is a licensed marriage and family therapist and dating coach with 17 years of experience. She is the author of the Mormon Dating System. Visit itsyourtechnique.com/specialoffer to get amazing discounts on her books, DVDs, and audios (only available on her website).

{Lifestyle} Out of Gift Ideas? Try This.

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:03:00 -0700

by Connie Sokol
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Choose something a tad more personal to give for Christmas this year and really enjoy giving it, instead of crossing it off the old list.

Despite our lack of time, energy, or planning (perhaps you’ve put off holiday shopping as long as I have), giving a meaningful gift doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. It’s about sharing the real you or blessing someone’s life with a simple act. It’s the gifts of forgiveness, love, or peace (or not sending that sequined cowboy hat).

In the book Becoming a Better You, author Joel Osteen shares the experience of a woman driving a new car when she gets in an accident. Afterwards, in tears, she explains that her car was a gift from her husband. As she reaches into the glove compartment, she sees attached to the insurance information a note that says, "Honey, just in case you ever have an accident, please remember I love you and not the car."

These kinds of thoughtful, gentle gifts are priceless and lasting. A few years ago when I came down with pneumonia, a neighbor brought by a grocery bag full of chick flicks and a book series. But what made this more poignant is that she had been sick too—she knew, as a woman, what I would want: quiet, soothing, lovely images to distract me from the daily reality. That book series saw me through an intensely difficult time and has become a personal favorite.

Personal gifts share a bit of who you are: your tastes, your joys, your talents. One lady chose to type and bind some of her favorite recipes and give them as gifts. Before everyone had cell phones (truly back in the day), my husband bought gift phone cards for his family—that way he could call them whenever he wanted throughout the year. Another Christmas I hand painted ornaments for family, but I did it the smart way. I went on an overnighter at a very comfy hotel and painted while watching all six episodes of Pride and Prejudice and eating tasty vittles. Ahhh, that was a meaningful Christmas gift.

You’ll often find that a heartfelt gift doesn't need to involve things. Is there a friend you haven’t spoken to because of unhealed differences? A family member you avoid or a co-worker you can’t stand? Perhaps this year, for just one month, you can give them the gift of love. Each time you see them, say a silent “I love you” in your mind. Even if you don’t feel it. Even if just being in the same square footage makes you want to reach in and pull out their larynx. We can do anything for 30 days. Give it a try.

Meaningful gifts take a little thought and a bit of sacrifice, but that’s exactly what makes them so meaningful. Mary Ellen Edmunds shares in her book, Love is a Verb, about being asked as a child to take her prized numbers game to a sick girl in her sixth grade class. Mary Ellen says that “It was not with a burning sense of charity that I put that numbers game in the sack.” They drove to the girl’s small house where nine children lived, including small, pale Beatrice. As Mary Ellen handed her the game, Beatrice immediately lit up and began playing with it. Mary Ellen recalls, “Something happened inside of me at that moment—something significant. I was too tough to let it show on the outside, but in my heart something very important and good was happening. I felt happy. I felt I’d done something that mattered.”

Choose to give something that matters this season, even if it’s just one offering. Whether it’s about a fender bender, forgiving someone, or sacrificing something important, perhaps our greatest joy this season could be giving the meaningful gift.

Connie Sokol is a mother of six—expecting her seventh—and a presenter, former TV and radio host, and author of several books, including Faithful, Fit & Fabulous. For tips, podcasts, columns, and books visit 8basics.com.

Neighbor Christmas Gift Ideas

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:04:00 -0700

by Alysha Cauffman
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: One of the most magical parts of Christmas is the opportunity to give. We’ve helped make gift-giving simple and affordable this season by sharing our top Christmas neighbor gift ideas. Gather your family, vote on your favorites, and make some magical Christmas memories together.

That’s right, our #1 neighbor gift idea is No Gifts. As fun as it is to give and receive Christmas gifts from neighbors, we wanted our #1 idea to be one that truly encompasses the true meaning of the Christmas spirit. This idea could take a little planning on your part, but the rewards could be the greatest.

 Instead of giving neighbor Christmas gifts, agree as a neighborhood not to. Use all of the money that would have been spent on each other towards a charitable cause.

 Here is an example of a possible invitation for a neighborhood caroling night:

 “Instead of giving neighborhood gifts, 
Together a family’s hearts we will lift. 
Use that money to fill your shopping cart 
With toys and food, a gift from the heart. 
One family will start the caroling tradition 
Singing while on a neighborhood mission. 
We’ll arrive on your doorstep singing a song, 
Grab your family and join in, you’ll come right along. 
But before stepping out and starting to sing
Don’t forget your charitable donation to bring. 
To the next door we’ll carol and add to our crowd 
We’ll add and we’ll add ‘til we’re incredibly loud. 
Finally we’ll stop for a neighborhood treat, 
At the Cauffmans’ home we will mingle and greet. 
Although our fingers and toes may be freezin’ 
We will capture the true spirit of this special season.

"Please join us as our neighborhood carols for a cause on December 15th. We will start caroling at 7 o’clock and pick up your family sometime shortly thereafter. We plan to finish at the Cauffmans’ home for treats around 8 o’clock. Thank you for being a part of something bigger this year as our neighborhood grants a special family’s Christmas wish. Think of the smiles…"

At first glance, it is easy to look at a towel as a most ordinary object. Have you ever stopped to think that for thousands of years, the towel has been used for many wonderful purposes? For example, the mother who wipes the tears of a child to soothe an emotional or physical hurt, the physician who binds the wounds of a bleeding patient, or the woman in her home wiping her hands as she moves from task to task.

Perhaps the most significant use of the towel happened nearly two thousand years ago when our Savior, only hours before He hung on the cross, took an ordinary towel in His loving hands and dried the feet of His disciples. This simple, loving act personifies the selflessness and loving service we seek to give during our lives. It illustrates that an ordinary thing like a towel, in the right hands, and with a giving heart, can lighten another’s load. As with every action performed by the Savior on this earth, His act of service reminds us that simple day-to-day kindnesses are the Savior’s way to bless and comfort.

Tag idea: “This towel is given with love and with the hope you will do works of goodness with it as the Savior did so many years ago. May the absorbing spirit of the season blot our problems, soak up sorrows, wipe away difficulties, and may your holidays be shining and bright!’

Doing the dishes for your neighbor? What could be a better gift than that? Deliver paper plates with a tag saying, “Don’t let your dishes pile up this busy holiday season. Let our family ‘do the dishes’ this week!"

Batteries are essentials on Christmas morning. Your neighbors will appreciate this practical gift!

Tag idea: “Hope you have enough energy to make it through the holidays! Merry Christmas!”

The best gifts are always simple, useful, and inexpensive. Try this easy idea: transparent tape. We all need it, especially at Christmastime. Decorate it or simply put the rhyme on it.

Here’s the poem that can be attached to it:

"Christmastime is often a rush,
With so much to do and no time to hush.
We hope this tape on the fridge in full sight,
Will keep you home from the store one more night!"

Cute, huh? But here’s what makes it ingenious: hot glue a magnet on the back so that it never gets lost because it’s on the refrigerator. We love this.

Our dollar store has the dispenser that is solid on the back so it’s easy to glue the magnet on. Dispensers with an open back wouldn’t work as well, so keep that in mind when you’re buying your tape.

We keep our tape on the side of the refrigerator all year and never have to scramble to find it. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

We love giving this gift. Not only that, we’d love to receive this! This no-calorie gift is practical and fun to receive, and you can use any type of soap.

Tag idea: “We wash you a merry Christmas, we wash you a merry Christmas, we wash you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!”

Attach to a bag of M&M’s a tag that says the following:

“As you hold these candies in your hand and turn them you will see,
The M become a W, an E, and then a 3.
They tell the Christmas story, it’s the one I’m sure you know.
It took place in a stable a long, long time ago.
The E is for the East, where the star shone so bright.
The M is for the manger where baby Jesus slept that night.
The 3 is for the Wise Men bearing gifts and so they came.
W is for worship—Hallelujah, praise His name.
So as you eat these candies, or share them with a friend,
Remember the meaning of Christmas . . . It’s a story that never ends.”

Spread some love this season with holiday heart attacks!

You’ve probably seen paper “heart attacks” around Valentine’s Day, but why not show your neighbors some love at Christmas time? Make a bunch of Christmas-colored hearts with your family and write little notes to your neighbors on them. Then stick them on the front of their door for a fun holiday heart attack surprise!

Do you often take the opportunity to tell your friends and neighbors how grateful you are and that you “take note” of how much they do for you? Christmas is the perfect occasion for gratitude and recognition, and this is the perfect avenue.

Everyone can use a cute note pad. We got ours at a craft store for a dollar, and it has a magnet on the back (added plus). Remove the cellophane and personalize it by being the first one to leave a note for your friend.

Christmas is always so busy, so why not take all the hard work you did in the summer and make Christmas a breeze? We took gallons of cherries and made them into Christmas gifts in July, so when the holidays arrived we were already prepared.

Tag idea: “Don’t let the season get you in a jam. We hope this helps keep your Christmas cherry and bright.”

If you’re feeling ambitious, take your jam with a loaf of bread or some rolls. Too busy for any of the homemade stuff? Buy the jam, decorate it, and you’re good to go!

These are so great for cold toes after sledding or a snowball fight. You just pop them in the microwave for a couple minutes, put them on your cold toes or hands, and—aahh—instant warmth. They are also great for sore muscles.

Tag idea: “Stay warm and toasty this holiday season. Merry Christmas!”

To make: Sew a pouch, fill it with wheat or rice, and sew it closed. I used a washcloth for my material and added a ribbon embellishment, but you could use any fabric. (Be sure not to use ribbon with wire in it—for obvious reasons.)

Clean and cover any type of can that has a lid (baby formula cans work great) with festive scrapbook paper or wrapping paper. Grab your favorite cookie recipe and start baking with your family.

Fill your Christmas cookie cans (to the brim please!) and deliver to smiling neighbors and friends.

Dinnertime is crazy, especially during the holidays. Relieve your neighbors one night by ‘making’ them dinner: a frozen meal. If you have enough time, you can make a day of it and make a lot of frozen dinners . . . or just buy some. Either way, you can feel good knowing you’ve helped out your neighbor for one night.

Tag idea: “‘What’s for dinner?’ During the holidays we hear this a lot; just heat this [lasagna] until it is hot!”

Attach Christmas tags and bows to a roll of wrapping paper and you have an easy neighbor Christmas gift you know they can use.

Tag idea: “Wrap yourself up in a wonderful holiday season.”

We hope these gift-giving ideas make your Christmas season a little simpler, and hopefully you make some sweet family memories.

Alysha Cauffman contributes to howdoesshe.com, a blog for crafts, recipes, DIY projects, and more.

{Lifestyle} Christmas Crafts for Kids

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:59:00 -0700

by Ashley Evanson
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: 10 Christmas crafts to keep your kids entertained this holiday season.

Photo from Parents magazine Christmas Finger Puppets

Photo from Martha Stewart Snow Globes

Photo from The Other White House Handprint Christmas Tree

Photo from Pepper Design Blog Paper Ornaments

Photo from Back to the Drawing Board Stained Glass Tree Art

Photo from Classic Play Homemade Christmas Cards

Photo from Craft Rookie Footprint Christmas Tree

Photo from Parents magazine Simple Ornaments

Photo from Martha Stewart Peppermint Ornaments

Photo from Macula Paper Toy Elves

{A&E} Ultimate Guide: Christmas Reading

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:05:00 -0700

by SarahJo Ciotti
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Here are a few essential books to curl up with this Christmas season.

As the holidays come each year, excitement builds, decorations go up, and Christmas songs play on the radio. In celebration of all the hubbub, we’ve compiled a list of essential Christmas stories to read, whether on your own, with your children, or the whole family.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

“Bah!” said Scrooge. “Humbug!”   

These famous words mark the beginning of a tale that renews the spirit of joy and caring that is Christmas. This book warms our hearts with favorite memories of Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet-to-be—and will remind us with laughter and tears about the true meaning of Christmas.

A Christmas tradition for many, including President Thomas S. Monson, this story is always a delight to read and reread during the Christmas season.

Christmas Jars by Jason F. Wright

Newspaper reporter Hope Jensen uncovers the remarkable secret behind the “Christmas Jars,” glass jars filled with coins and bills anonymously left for people in need. But along the way, Hope discovers much more than the origin of the jars. When some unexpected news sets off a chain reaction of kindness, Hope's greatest Christmas Eve wish comes true.

Read the book that has spawned a new Christmas tradition that has spread across the country—and even the world. A story of mystery and secrecy, the story behind the Christmas Jars is one of discovery and kindness, and wishes coming true.

Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennett

A prequel to Dickens’s classic A Christmas Carol, R. William Bennett rewinds the story and focuses the spotlight on Scrooge’s miserly business partner, Jacob T. Marley, who was allowed to return as a ghost to warn Scrooge away from his ill-fated path. Following the events leading to his death, perhaps we will discover what happened that bound Marley in chains after death.

Written in a voice reminiscent of Dickens, Jacob T. Marley is a masterfully crafted story of remorse and redemption and sure to become a Christmas favorite.

The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore and illustrated by Tom Browning

The classic poem paired with the original illustrations by award-winning Tom Browning brings to life the excitement and fun that children and adults alike have enjoyed for generations. The visions that this book will leave with your family will be memories to cherish together forever.

The Forgotten Carols by Michael McLean

The Forgotten Carols tells the story of a nurse whose empty life is changed when a new patient recounts the story of Christ's birth as told by little known characters in the nativity story. The accounts from the innkeeper, the shepherd who fell asleep, the midwife who helped Mary, Joseph, and many others help her discover what the world has forgotten about Christmas, and open her heart to the joy of this special season.

Since this is a reading list, we’re sharing the book with you (there’s also a newer children’s version out—you can check it out here), but this is a timeless classic that encompasses a CD of songs, a DVD, and best of all, a show that has been enjoyed by sold-out audiences nationwide. Now you can feel the warmth of the Christmas spirit from the stage performances in your own home.

Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect by Richard Schneider

In a beautiful forest far away, Small Pine aspires to one day be the royal Christmas tree. Small Pine is perfect on the outside - until the tree's warm heart inspires it to give shelter to cold rabbits and birds and food to hungry deer. Afraid his hopes are lost, Small Pine in fact becomes the Queen's choice because his appearance reminds her of the meaning of Christmas.

This is a beautiful story about true "perfection," and is a wonderful reminder about Jesus Christ's love.

The Mansion by Henry Van Dyke

John Weightman surrounded himself with beauty and riches and was very careful with how he spent his money. “No pennies in beggars’ hats,” he liked to say. Until one night he dreamed that he died . . .

John travels to the Celestial City, where each individual will be rewarded with a mansion based on treasures set aside. Thinking that his mansion will be the most grand, John Weightman learns what it truly means to lay up treasures in heaven.

A favorite of President Thomas S. Monson, who rereads this story every year, the 100th anniversary edition contains an illustrated abridged version for children as well as the original unabridged story.

The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans

A couple and their 4-year-old daughter are welcomed into the home of an ailing widow as her caretakers. Before long, their relationship with the widow becomes more special than any one of them could have realized. These tender relationships and real-life struggles are the backdrop for unraveling a mysterious secret that pulls the reader through this holiday classic. Originally written simple to express his love for his two daughters, The Christmas Box is now a national bestseller and a must-have for every home.

Christmas Oranges by Linda Bethers and illustrated by Ben Sowards

The only home little Rose has ever known is the orphanage where Mrs. Hartley cares for all the children as if they were her own. When tragedy occurs Rose is sent to a new orphanage, which is as cold and cruel as her previous home was kind.

Gradually Rose makes a few friends, and she learns that every Christmas a generous neighbor donates a box of oranges for the children. But on Christmas morning, Rose is brokenhearted when she learns that there is no orange for her. However, Christmas is a time of friendship, love, and miracles...

A tale of discovery and hope, perfect to share with children as you tuck them in on Christmas Eve. (Or, if you’re like our associate editor, you like to eat it while savoring a chocolate orange…)

Snow Angels by Angel Randall and illustrated by Brandon Dorman

Best friends Angel and Krystal discover the secret of the snow angels. With that secret, they find many ways to joyously make a difference in the lives of others. Krystal and Angel show children and adults alike that we're never really alone when we're serving others—angels are closer than we might think.

An opportunity to teach young children about the gift of service to others during the holiday season, this story warms your heart.

And, of course, you should always read the true Christmas story found in the scriptures. Check out our article on Advent for a more in-depth list of scriptures to study this holiday season to focus more on Christ.

Your turn: What's your favorite Christmas story? Did we miss any that you would add to the list?

{LDS How-to} Throw the Perfect Ward Christmas Party

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:53:00 -0700

by Whitney Sorensen
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Christmastime is here. While you may already have most of your ward party finalized, check out these ideas for wrapping up some of the details and taking your party to the next level.

Carols. Candy canes. The ward Christmas party. These signs of the season are just about to arrive. Since wards no longer have formal activities committees, the coordinators of this annual event will vary from ward to ward, but the following tips will help anyone host an unforgettable Christmas bash.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
The holiday season is full of neighborhood and work get-togethers, so how do you find the perfect day for your ward family’s celebration? Earlier in the month may be more convenient since families are still in town and kids are still in school. Plus, not stressing about the details of the ward party later in the season leaves you time to enjoy it, too. Weekend evenings or Saturday mornings work well, but coordinating with the young men and women leaders to host the party on a mutual night lets you accomplish two purposes in one evening.

Deck the Cultural Hall
Don’t let finding decorations for your party seem like a chore. Instead of spending time and money assembling brand new centerpieces, borrow holiday decorations from a few ward members. Maybe someone has a collection of holiday tins to display or those spare ornaments and bells would look great presented in a jar. Edible accents for centerpieces like red and green M&M’s are always a hit—and they practically clean themselves up!

To make the decorations more interactive, hold a decorating contest. Get each table the same centerpiece—like a small Christmas tree or a box to be gift-wrapped—and tell guests to come prepared to decorate for their dinner. Award extra points for arriving on-time, and have the bishopric or a ward-decorating expert select the best of the bunch. The winning table gets to go through the buffet line first.

Décor could also center around the theme of your party, if you choose to include one. To stage your own Christmas in Bethlehem, for example, set up booths like a street market and create your own manger.

Bring Us Some Figgy Pudding
Although the party is more about fun and friendship than food and flavor, you’ll want to include treats or a meal in the festivities. For a variation on traditional holiday fare, host a Christmas potluck. Ask ward members to bring a dish that signifies the holiday season at their home. Have people sign up to bring either an appetizer, a salad, a entrée, or a dessert so all tastes are satisfied. All you need to prepare is a buffet table for all the goodies and a seasonal beverage to complement the food—anything from cider and hot chocolate to eggnog and milk.

Have Yourself a Merry Christmas Party
Adequate time for socializing is a must, but entertaining activities will make your party memorable. Outgoing wards might enjoy a Christmas relay race, but others would be happier with a simple Christmas talent show. If you combine your Christmas party with a New Year’s celebration, you can commemorate the big events of the past year—families that have moved in, memorable ward activities, and Scout or Young Women service projects—with a photo slide show that plays all night or at the beginning or end of the festivities.

O Come, All Ye Faithful
Don’t forget to have a spiritual element to the celebration. Singing carols is a simple standby, but if you want a different activity, reading a brief but uplifting story can highlight the purposes of Christmas in a new way. Incorporate service by assembling hygiene kits or care packages. Set up a table where people can write brief notes to missionaries. And instead of anticipating the visit from Santa, primary children can draw what they would leave for Christ at the manger.

For more ward Christmas party ideas, visit our list in "The Annual Ward Christmas Party."

{Single Saints} Surviving the Holidays after Divorce

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:05:00 -0700

by Jessica Carter
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: The holidays can be an especially difficult time for the recently divorced - what with all the family, traditions, and memories that will certainly be affected. How can you bring back some of the cheer? Earlier this week we ran an article on what to say (and not say) to the recently divorced. But the holidays can be an especially difficult time. If you’re facing the holidays for the first time as a divorced person, try the following tips to brighten the season.

Accept the invitations. Resist the urge to sit home in your pajamas feeling sorry for yourself. Take every opportunity to have fun and socialize. If the party invitations aren’t pouring in, plan your own get-together.

Recharge. Social gatherings are a great way to lift your spirits, but pampering yourself is also essential. Treat yourself to a massage or that new novel you’ve wanted to read. Do something that makes you happy, and don’t feel guilty for taking a little time for yourself.

Make goals. The holiday season is definitely not the time to dwell on the negative. But with the New Year fast approaching, meaningful reflection and sincere resolve to improve yourself in specific areas can give you hope for a happier life in 2012.

Create new traditions. Undoubtedly, the holidays will conjure memories of your ex spouse, and the traditions you loved can make the season more painful for you and your children. Take the time to plan different activities and create new, positive experiences for everyone.

Coordinate with your ex well in advance. If you have children, make sure you plan the holiday schedule early on so everyone knows what to count on. Where will the children spend Thanksgiving? Christmas Eve? Christmas Day? Are there any family gatherings planned? Working out the kinks as soon as possible will make the holidays more enjoyable for everyone involved. Be flexible. And above all, be civil.

Stay positive. I know, it’s definitely easier said than done, but it is possible. Surround yourself with upbeat people and avoid those friends and family members who love to commiserate and complain. A positive attitude is especially important if you have children—like it or not, your mood will set the tone for their holiday, too.

Preparing for a Christ-centered Christmas

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:04:00 -0700

by Eric D. Hunstman
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Do you want to focus on the true spirit of Christmas this year? Consider celebrating Advent, a celebration that uses the four Sundays prior to Christmas as a time to contemplate Christ’s birth. Get ready to start this Sunday!

Stores and radio stations have already begun to prepare us for Christmas, trotting out their decorations and playing seasonal music much earlier than the day after Thanksgiving that was once the traditional beginning of the Christmas season in the past. For families and individuals who want a less commercial and more spiritual period of preparation, here are a few ideas, some arising from long-standing Christian traditions and practice and others having developed from our own family’s practical experience.

Decorating . . . with a Purpose
It is no secret that so many of our traditional Christmas decorations actually have pre-Christian antecedents. While few today look at Christmas trees, lights, mistletoe, and Yule logs and think of the early pagan midwinter festivals and practices they came from, these decorations can be more than just festive if we take the time to think and talk about the Christian meanings that we have since given them.

In our family, we decorate the tree and put up most of our decorations on the Monday after Thanksgiving. That gives us a chance to use our Family Home Evening to talk about the symbolism that we have given each of these decorations (see, for example, Sherry Dillehay “On the Symbolism of Christmas” from “The Sixth Word,” Especially for Mormons, Vol. 2, and Eric D. Huntsman, Good Tidings of Great Joy, 8). We talk about how the green Christmas tree and wreaths represent the eternal life that Jesus was born to bring, and we point out how the lights, both outside and inside our home, represent that Jesus, the True Light, came to light up a world in darkness. Likewise, the stars on our trees and even in the shapes of our cookies remind us of the Star of Bethlehem, calling us, too, to come to the newborn King.

But in addition to these kinds of trimmings, we have decided to make one set in particular the center of our Christmas decorations. While the tree and other decorations go up on the Monday after Thanksgiving, the day before, on Sunday, we set up our Nativity scene. Setting up this crèche has become a treasured tradition in our family. Elaine and I bought the stable and the figures of the Holy Family, a shepherd, and the wise men for the first Christmas in our first home. Since then we have established the pattern of buying one new figure each Christmas season to add to the set—which is fast becoming quite a crowd! But by putting the Nativity out first, it helps the children, and us, remember what the holiday is all about throughout the season.

Celebrating Advent
While stores use a month (or more) to prepare us to shop for Christmas, we try to use that month as a season of spiritual preparation. Many Christian traditions have long used the four weeks as a period to celebrate the Advent, or coming, of Jesus Christ into the world. While celebrating Advent is not a common Latter-day Saint practice, many with German or Scandinavian roots or those who are converts from other faiths may be familiar with the practice of using the four Sundays before Christmas as a special time to gather and look forward to the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Advent can also look forward to his glorious Second Coming that still lies ahead.

In 2002, our family decided to add a modified version of Advent to our Christmas traditions. Like many who observe Advent more formally, we purchased a simple green wreath and set in its circle four candles and placed a single white candle in the middle. On the fourth Sunday before Christmas we light the first candle, and each Sunday thereafter we light another until Christmas Eve, when we light the center candle as well.

Lighting these candles each Sunday of Advent and then again on Christmas Eve provides us with an opportunity to hold a family devotional that helps us keep our Christmas focused on the birth of Jesus and the joyful hope of his return. One tradition holds that these candles represent the Advent themes of hope, love, joy, and peace, so on each of the four Sundays before Christmas we read selections from the scriptures, including the Book of Mormon, and talk about how they relate to those themes. After singing a seasonal song, we have our family prayer and then move to more fun traditions, such as opening that day’s pocket in our Advent calendar and then sharing a treat together.

Having a Scripture-Centered Holiday
Reading scriptural passages together on each of the Sundays of Advent is only one of the ways we have tried to keep the scriptures the center of our holiday season. Borrowing ideas from others, we have put together a list of scriptures about the coming of Christ and use it together with a collection of Christmas stories and carols that we draw upon for each of the days in December leading up to Christmas Eve. Before our family prayer each night during that month, we gather to read a story, read a scripture, and sing. These daily Christmas devotionals have done much to keep all the commercialism and other festive holiday practices from squeezing out the true meaning of Christmas.

But in addition to this use of the scriptures with my family, I have found that in-depth personal study of the coming of Jesus Christ does more than anything else to bring the Spirit into my life and help me focus on the meaning of Jesus’ birth—and his later suffering, death, and resurrection. There are four weeks in the Advent season, and there also happen to be four chapters in the so-called Infancy Narratives of Mathew and Luke. So part of my personal study each December is to read, study, and think about Matthew 1 the first week, Luke 1 the second, Luke 2 the third, and finally Matthew 2 the fourth. When I do this, I am better able to teach and bear testimony of what Christmas is all about when we finally arrive at Christmas Eve.

Remember What the Gifts Are All About
The happy custom of exchanging gifts first and foremost is a recollection of how God so loved the world that he gave us the greatest gift, the gift of his only Begotten Son (see John 3:16–17), and how Jesus so loved us that he was willing to die, and rise, for us (see John 15:13). Like many, we use the story of the wise men bringing gifts as a precedent for our own gift-giving (Matthew 2:11), but in addition to thoughtfully making or purchasing gifts for our loved ones as a way of showing our love, we also talk about what gifts we can offer our Savior that year. A few years ago we adopted the tradition of some friends who hand out a small card with a picture of Mary or Joseph with the Baby Jesus to each member of the family on Christmas Eve. We then take time to write on the back of that card what we can offer the Savior that year in return for His love and mercy.

The True Meaning of Christmas
Recalling why Jesus came into the world reminds us of an important fact, that “there would be no Christmas if there had not been Easter. The babe Jesus of Bethlehem would be but another baby without the redeeming Christ of Gethsemane and Calvary, and the triumphant fact of the Resurrection.” As a result, as we decorate, I always point out that besides green, the other traditional color of Christmas is red, reminding us of the blood that Jesus would shed for us. Likewise, when we celebrate Advent, we use the fifth candle, which we light on Christmas Eve and again on Christmas Day, to represent a new Advent theme, that of the salvation that Jesus Christ came to bring.

Finally, just as I make the Infancy Narratives of Matthew and Luke the focus of special study during the four weeks before Christmas, I also read with them beautiful prophecies about the coming of Christ from the Book of Mormon such as 1 Nephi 11:12–33, Mosiah 3:1–13, Alma 7:9–14, Helaman 14:1–8, and 3 Nephi 1:1–21. These passages not only talk about birth of Jesus, they also tie it directly to his atoning sacrifice and Resurrection, making the “good tidings of great joy” of the Christmas story as much about the “glad tidings of great joy” of Easter.

Ideas for the Sundays of Advent

First Sunday of Advent: Hope
•    Scriptures about hope: Isaiah 61:1–2; Jacob 4:4–5; Romans 5:1–5; Moroni 7:41; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17
•    Read the Annunciation to Zacharias: Luke 1:5–17
•    Suggested song: “O Come, O Come Emmanuel”
•    Week’s study: Matthew 1, Son of David

Second Sunday of Advent: Love
•    Scriptures about love: Isaiah 49:13–16; 1 Nephi 11:14–22; John 3:16–17; Moroni 7:47–48
•    Read the Annunciation to Mary: Luke 1:26–38
•    Suggested songs: “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “O Holy Night”
•    Week’s study: Luke 1, Promised Savior

Third Sunday of Advent: Joy
•    Scriptures about joy: Isaiah 12:2–5; Mosiah 3:3–4; John 16:20–22
•    Read the Visitation of Mary to Elisabeth and Mary’s Magnificat: Luke 1:39–55
•    Suggested songs: “Joy to the World,” “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” “The Holly and the Ivy”
•    Week’s study: Luke 2, Babe of Bethlehem

Fourth Sunday of Advent: Peace
•    Scriptures about Peace: Isaiah 11:1–4, 6–10; Mosiah 15:18–20; John 14:27; Philippians 4:7
•    Read the Annunciation to Joseph: Matthew 1:18–23
•    Suggested song: “It Came upon the Midnight Clear”
•    Week’s study: Matthew 2, King of Israel

--
Eric Huntsman is an associate professor of ancient scripture at Brigham Young University. He has authored or co-authored many books, and his most recent book, Good Tidings of Great Joy, is a book of ideas for celebrating Christ’s birth throughout the Christmas season, and is a companion volume to God So Loved the World. Click here for more information.

Christmas Cleanup

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 17:00:00 -0700

by LDS Living Staff
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Sooner or later you'll be putting away the Christmas fanfare. If you followed our tips for unloading your decorations, the cleanup should be easier. Here are a few more tips in putting away your decorations to help you prepare for decorating next year and protect the decorations you have. Lights. Take a picture of your outdoor light display. Use it as either a cautionary tale or a template for what you want to do next year. If you want to do the same thing again, label nondescript things (such as colored mini lights) as you put them away so you know where they worked well. Lastly, don't stack a bunch of lights in one box; doing so increases the likelihood that the ones on the bottom will get damaged.

Linens. Pack linens with a few dryer sheets to keep moths away and keep them smelling fresh. Air release bags or suitcases also work well for keeping them safe from water damage.

Delicates. Glass and keepsake ornaments should be kept in their original boxes, if you have them. If not, allow your stockings and linens to do double duty by packing them with fragile ornaments. You may also want to use other linens to pack delicate things - but make sure to put a note at the top of the box so next year you can remember to carefully handle specific stocking or blankets filled with fragile items. For candles and other things that scratch or dent carefully, stick them in old socks. Store all delicate items in a climate-controlled place to avoid heat damage.

The tree. Putting away an artificial tree with the lights still on is the hardest part of the Christmas cleanup, but a few simple steps will help you keep it in a smaller place and preserve it longer. First identify any lights that aren't working and replace them immediately; this will prevent your entire string of lights from burning out. Then un-fluff the tree by folding baby branches back to the big branches. (This step is commonly skipped, but it protects the needles, branches, and lights better.) Carefully wrap and tie the tree in a plastic bag.

Inventory. With your boxes already labeled, make a list of the things that went into each box. Keep this somewhere you'll remember it (like in box #1) so you can easily find items next year.

A Christmas Glove

Fri, 27 Dec 2002 08:19:00 -0700

by Joseph Walker
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Mom didn't want much that first Christmas after she and Dad were married. Which was just as well. It was the end of America's Great Depression, and there wasn't much to be had. "All I want," she told Dad, "is some nice black gloves."

"But you have black gloves," he protested. "Nice ones. I gave them to you last year."

"I sort of lost one," she said. "The left one. So I've just been wearing the right one."

"Those were expensive gloves," Dad sighed. "And I know how much you liked them."

"I did," Mom said. "So if you could get me some new ones, I don't need anything else."

"I don't know," Dad said with a slight smile. "If you're just going to lose them . . . "

Mom was pretty sure Dad was teasing. Still, she didn't know what to expect when at last the time came to exchange Christmas presents. She would have been pleased with anything, but she really did need the gloves, especially for her left hand. She carefully removed the ribbons and paper and opened the box. There they were! Beautiful new black gloves!

"Oh, Bud, they're perfect! Just exactly what I . . . " She paused. "There's only one glove."

"Yes, that's right," Dad said, smiling proudly.

"But gloves usually come in pairs, don't they?"

"That's true. You'd be surprised how hard it is to find one glove. But there it is!"

"So where did you get it?" Mom wanted to know.

"I got it at Stanley's," he said forthrightly, almost proudly and certainly stupidly.

"Stanley's!" Mom recoiled as she pulled the glove off her hand. "You bought my Christmas present at Stanley's?" Immediately, Dad could see that he was in trouble.

"Well, I looked at some other places," he said, apologetically. "But that's the only place I could find the right glove. Er, left glove. Er . . . "

"That's my present? A glove from a second-hand store? What did it cost? A dime?"

"Twenty-five cents!" he blurted.

The fire shooting from Mom's eyes told Dad that revelation hadn't helped his situation.

The drive to Mom's parents' house for Christmas dinner passed without a word being spoken between them. When they arrived, Dad went with Mom's father and her little brother, Jack, to do some target shooting. Mom went straight to the kitchen to get some sympathy.

"Mother," she said, "you won't believe what Bud did for Christmas."

Her mother smiled and nodded. "Wasn't that something?" she asked.

"You mean . . . you knew?" Mom asked.

"Darling, we've been immersed in it! He was here for hours, looking for your lost glove. Then he started going to every store in town looking for an exact copy. Whenever he found one that was close, he'd buy it and bring it to me to approve. He must've bought 20 left-hand gloves!"

"But that's . . . so . . . "

"Silly? Yes, I thought so, too," Mom's mother said, shaking her head. "And I told him so. But he said, 'Wanda loves these gloves. I'm sure I can find another left glove somewhere.'" A lump began growing in Mom's throat.

"Now there's just one problem," Mom's mother said, picking up a stuffed pillow case. "What do we do with these?" Laughing, she emptied a pillow case full of black left-hand gloves.

The next hour passed slowly, as Mom awaited Dad's return. When at last he walked up the sidewalk she was standing at the door, her arms outstretched, a black glove on each hand.

Which, it turns out, was exactly what she wanted all along.

Creating Christmas Traditions

Fri, 27 Dec 2002 08:12:00 -0700

by Jeanette Bennett
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Traditions—and especially Christmas traditions—are as wide and varied as there are children who remember them. My family celebrated the holidays with anonymous and heartfelt gifts. Here are some other reminders of traditions you may not realize you already have. I could almost smell the turkey roasting when Mom set out the laminated pilgrim scene in the early days of November. The pumpkins, Indians, pilgrims and corn stalks were carefully arranged along the top of the black piano. We eagerly awaited Thanksgiving—and the Christmas season that followed.

The day after our family feast, four boxes with torn lids and bulging bottoms would be carried up from the basement. The decorations they held would soon spread down the banister and along the exterior roofline of the house. Others would adorn the fresh tree cut during our annual snowmobiling quest to find the roundest, tallest, most fragrant pine tree in the forest near Island Park, Idaho.

Decorating the house for Christmas was almost as much fun as Christmas morning itself. Un-boxing familiar ornaments, holiday candles and stuffed Santas rekindled our love for the magic season. And, of course, the day after Thanksgiving was the day Christmas music began playing constantly all over the house.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas tape and our Ricky Tanner record were favorites, while Mom added her own version of “O Holy Night.”

Once the tree was decorated and colored lights blinked throughout the house, we basked in the Christmas spirit. Each year Mom made a booklet with pages for each of us to write down our Christmas wishes. Some years our lists were very long, as we hoped good behavior would result in a magical Christmas morning.

One year my family of nine was facing financial hardship. A school teacher’s salary and a new baby in the home made money very tight. This was the year our family was in charge of delivering Sub for Santa gifts in the ward, where dad was bishop. Each auxiliary had been diligent in gathering funds and toys to give needy families within the ward’s boundaries.

Two days before Christmas, we finished rapping the gifts and loaded them into the station wagon. Part of me secretly hoped our family would be the beneficiaries of this generous collection of goodies. As our station wagon pulled past the stop sign on Taylorview Lane, my hopes sank. We really were going to give all these gifts away.

As a new non-Santa-believer, I understood that the gifts I’d receive this Christmas morning would be directly related to my parent’s budget. Even if I was better behaved than my friend Lindsey across he street, my Christmas morning would likely pale in comparison to hers.

Our wheels crunched along the frozen streets until we reached a government housing development. To my surprise, I was beginning to feel excited. I could tell my sisters were, too, because we were all singing Christmas tunes faster than Sister Richardson could have ever led them. She always gave the elderly organist a workout by hurrying the tempo for every Sunday hymn.

Pulling into a parking stall, Dad whispered that we were very lucky to be elves tonight. As he got out of the car and opened the trunk, we weren’t sure what our role would be. The sub-zero air made me hope my job would be to stay and keep the seat warm, but Dad motioned all of us out and loaded our arms with gifts. I grabbed two Barbies—easily identified by the jingle bell paper I’d wrapped them in—along with some lighter packages.

Dad started toward the dimly lit porch and we followed. As we stacked red and green packages outside the door, I said good-bye to any hopes that these gifts were for me. Then I began thinking about how this young family would react. After quietly stacking the last few boxes, we all hid behind a snowdrift. My older sister rang the doorbell, and then rushed to join us.

When the door opened, we all leaned forward to hear the response—first, a mother’s gasp. Small feet pattered to the door and we heard exciting squealing. “He came, he came!”

“Mom, you were wrong,” we heard a child say. “Santa didn’t forget about us this year!” A warm teardrop crawled down my wind-chapped check.

This was the true Christmas spirit. For the first time, I felt the joy that couldn’t be contained within me. I wanted to leap, sing, cry, and rejoice.

As we drove home that night, we weren’t singing aloud. But because of that experience many years ago, a Christmas song begins in my heart as soon as I begin helping with the Thanksgiving dishes.

Since that memorable Christmas, our family traditions have included anonymous gifts to those who may need a little help. While we enjoy wrapping the treasures, our biggest joy comes in sneaking up to the doorstep, then rushing off before we’re caught. We’ve probably given more gifts this way than we’ve given to each other. We’ll always need a way to continue capturing the true Christmas spirit in our hearts and in our homes.

Tips for Creating Family Traditions

Don’t put undue pressure on yourself. You probably already have traditions, but don’t realize it because it’s “just the way you do it.” Ask your children what you family traditions are. You may be surprised at what they think holiday time is all about.

Pick a tradition that doesn’t depend on a big budget. Traditions are more likely to be handed down through generations if their success isn’t dictated by your pocketbook.

Be consistent with fragrances, foods, songs, and decorations. Seeing a 12-inch stuffed Santa with my name embroidered on it or smelling cinnamon sticks always evokes my sense of tradition.

Read your ancestors’ journals and biographies to see if they had family traditions worth rekindling.

Don’t forget Christmas is a 24-hour day. Maybe your tradition could be something after the morning madness ends. Play basketball at the church after lunch. Go caroling at noon. Hold a family recital or art festival in the afternoon. Consider a family gift like a game or puzzle that can be enjoyed Christmas evening.

Consider a Christmas with no presents. Donate the money you would have spent to a worthy cause. Consider taking a family trip instead of exchanging gifts. Time together can be more memorable than opening last-minute gifts.

Avoid stress. Traditions don’t have to be perfect. Don’t make your family uncomfortable if things don’t go as planned.

Use the special talents of your family members. If your teenage son can carve wood, ask him to care your stocking hangers each year. If your family has musical talents, encourage members to write lyrics or compose a family theme song for the holidays.

Have a “Secret Santa” drawing with specific rules. Perhaps you can’t spend any money, but must do one good thing each day. Reveal the Secret Santas on Christmas Eve.

Do the “12 Days of Christmas” for someone in your neighborhood. They may not need a partridge in a pear tree, but being remember for a dozen consecutive days would surely brighten anyone’s holiday.

After your children go to bed Christmas Eve, create sleigh tracks and reindeer prints outside your house. When the children wake up, have them look for signs that Santa came.

Perhaps the most common—and most important—family tradition is reading or acting out the Christmas story from the Bible. Always bring the true spirit of Christmas to your home by remembering the birth of the Savior.