Holidays are not only a break from our work world, but an insurance policy for future. We have past to look upon and learn from, and present gives us time to slow down, reflect or remember, plan, and move on into future.

Many people shy away from holidays because they are expensive and they usually end up paying for gifts two to three years down line. Don’t fall into this trap of outdoing and outbuying. Nothing is more appreciated than something you have made or created. Store bought gifts and decorations are fine in their own right, but joy of making your own with family or friends is chalked down to creativity, imagination and care. Bake your own celebration goodies, or prepare a meal that everyone contributes to and you have makings of a great time. Let kids make their own musical instruments or party favors and day will be grander yet. As for gifts, give from heart, not pocketbook. Have a coffee lover, then buy a great coffee mug and fill it with “goodies”. Simple, personal, and definitely from heart. Have a quilter, artist, writer, secretary, doctor, bus driver, teacher, or any other interest or occupation on your list? Devise a fanciful way to celebrate who they are. If you knit or are creative, then by all means - be! Use your skills and talent to make gifts that are hand-made. If you lack in “craft or skill” category, then imagination is free and abundant. Think of a gift that takes into account who this person is and what fine point in them that you find special. A simple gift box or basket with items related to their hobby or interest is always a heartfelt gift. A picture or book that they may have admired, or create a collage of their favorite items, laminate, and they have a coffee table tray or dresser tray to spark a smile or laugh for a long time.

Decorations should also be personal and do not have to be perfect. Let children help, as well as everyone in household or office. Not only will you get great decorations, but a wonderful time of laughter, conversation, and downright fun.

Holidays are definitely a time of celebration. Make your own up for your private personal events, and make note of major ones. Write them on your calendar, plan, and make way for great moments, memories and heartwarming times. Don’t let past press into future. It has its place but so does today. The future will be better for everyone if you lend a hand, make a gift, string some homemade garland, and enjoy yourself. Your smile, your laugh, and your effort will go a long way - don’t be selfish and let world do without. Without you, there will always be something missing. Let’s have complete, wonderful holidays to look forward to. ENJOY! ©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 June

5. Always accompany your child into a public restroom.

6. Keep an up-to-date color photograph of your child, a Child ID, and medical and dental history, and have your child fingerprinted.

Child abduction is a growing concern and there are simple precautions that you can take to help safeguard your children.