Decorate for ChristmasWritten by Caroline Shaw
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Need something for kids to do? Take tag paper and cut out a Christmas tree shape that is about 24 inches tall. Put it on a bulletin board, then make two different sized ornament patterns for kids to use and have them trace ornaments on more tag paper. Let kids cut ornaments out. Take crayons and markers and decorate a couple to model how to decorate them for kids. Provide some glue sticks and let kids glue their ornaments on their very own tree. In your living room or family room, create a warm feel with plaid coverlets thrown across your couches and chairs. If you have a mantel, string some berries into a garland….or use cranberries. Place wooden candlestick holders and white candles. Place ivy around base….a very simple but elegant presentation. After dinner have pie with coffee and tea. Pass out some carols and sing together. If you have a musical instrument, this would be a great time to accompany your guests. You can print some carols ahead of time. Make them into little booklets using old Christmas cards for covers. CHRISTMAS-CAROLS.NET - Rejoice in Christmas Spirit! Serve some spiced cider: 1 gallon of Apple Cider 10 cinnamon sticks Some whole cloves (about 10) Simmer on top of stove for about 15 minutes and strain into some nice Seasonal mugs… Enjoy your family and don't forget to take photos. Merry Christmas!
Caroline Shaw, Pittsburgh, PA mom@amomslove.com http://www.amomslove.com Caroline Shaw holds a B.S. degree from Duquesne University. She is a mom to six children,editor and publisher of the Online Magazine,"A Mom's Love." with informative articles for WAHMs, single moms, working moms, and more.
| | Money Is A Family AffairWritten by Terry J. Rigg
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You may be surprised at what kids will come up with. When I bought my first house I made a miscalculation on how much I would need to come up with for down payment. When I realized it we had maxed out our credit cards and wasn't sure where we would get rest of money. My wife and I discussed this with kids and they offered to baby-sit and mow lawns. They came up with enough to cover down payment. I'll never forget how proud that made them feel and how proud we were of them. All too often one person in family is strapped with making money decisions. This is a great idea and best way to keep things organized but they shouldn't take all blame when something doesn't work out. A family solves difficult problems everyday. Money is just one of them.
Terry Rigg is the author of Living Within Your Means - The Easy Way http://www.homemoneyhelp.com/ebookadpage.html and editor of The FREE Budget Stretcher Newsletter and Budget Stretcher web site http://www.homemoneyhelp.com. He has 25 years of experience counseling individuals and families concerning their personal finances.
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