Friday, February 22, 2013

Popular Christmas Traditions and Christmas Decorations in Spain

Popular Christmas Traditions and Christmas Decorations in Spain


ItemTitle

Throughout the world, Christmas is one of the most well known holidays. In Spain, as well as in many other countries, this holiday focuses on the celebration of Christ's birth. It is a time for families to gather together to celebrate and share the joy of the season with song, dancing and family meals. Christmas trees and handmade decorations, as well as the Nativity scene are familiar sights. Although these traditions are common in many countries, there are some aspects of the Christmas holiday which are unique to Spain.

Popular Christmas Traditions and Christmas Decorations in Spain

Holiday Wreath

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 3.03 Mins.



How To Make A Bow For The Holidays



Dana Plazyk of www.flowers-by-design.com explains how to make a beautiful bow with a wired ribbon.

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays


How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

No URL How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

Christmas in Jamaica


ItemTitle

Christmas, no matter how it is celebrated, brings together family and friends to celebrate Christ's birth. Being predominantly Christian, Jamaica celebrates Christ's birth and lends its own distinct flavor to Christmas.

Christmas in Jamaica

Holiday Wreath

Crankin' Out Crafts -ep21 Deco Mesh Wreath



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 1.97 Mins.



Crankin' Out Crafts -ep21 Deco Mesh Wreath



Puna is back to show you this super quick Deco Mesh wreath made on a work wreath.

Crankin' Out Crafts -ep21 Deco Mesh Wreath

Crankin' Out Crafts -ep21 Deco Mesh Wreath


Crankin' Out Crafts -ep21 Deco Mesh Wreath

Crankin' Out Crafts -ep21 Deco Mesh Wreath

No URL Crankin' Out Crafts -ep21 Deco Mesh Wreath

The Story of the Advent Wreath


ItemTitle

Beautiful and symbolic, the Advent Wreath reminds Christians of the deeper meaning of Christmas and stirs within the heart love, joy, peace and hope for our world. There are several theories about the origination of the Advent Wreath. Whether it began as a non-Christian tradition or whether it did not appear until the 19thcentury are discussions best left to historians. It really does not matter because the Advent Wreath has become a symbol of great significance to Christians.

The Story of the Advent Wreath

Holiday Wreath

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 5.43 Mins.



How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)



Want to make a homemade gift for someone this holiday season? We've got you covered! ==OTHER AWESOME STUFF== LET'S PLAYS youtube.com MERCHANDISE stephenshop.spreadshirt.com FACEBOOK http TWITTER twitter.com WIKI stephengeorg.wikia.com

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)


How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

No URL How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

17 Fun Christmas Decorating Ideas to Add Sparkle to Your Home


ItemTitle

'Tis the season to decorate your home in all the splendor of Christmas. I personally love decorating for the holidays... pulling out all of those bins of forgotten decorations... discovering new items I purchased throughout the year... and falling into deep nostalgia. Decorating for Christmas is almost as fun as the actual day of Christmas. It truly is a special time of the year and making your home special will bring warmth to your family and friend's hearts... and create wonderful memories.

17 Fun Christmas Decorating Ideas to Add Sparkle to Your Home

Holiday Wreath

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 1.75 Mins.



How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies



Watch more Christmas Recipes videos: www.howcast.com Subscribe to Howcast's YouTube Channel - howc.st Make Christmas wreath cookies with cornflakes following these simple steps. Howcast uploads the highest quality how-to videos daily! Be sure to check out our playlists for guides that interest you: howc.st Subscribe to Howcast's other YouTube Channels: Howcast Health Channel - howc.st Howcast Video Games Channel - howc.st Howcast Tech Channel - howc.st Howcast Food Channel - howc.st Howcast Arts & Recreation Channel - howc.st Howcast Sports & Fitness Channel - howc.st Howcast Personal Care & Style Channel - howc.st Howcast empowers people with engaging, useful how-to information wherever, whenever they need to know how. Emphasizing high-quality instructional videos, Howcast brings you experts who provide accurate information in easy-to-follow tutorials on everything from makeup, hairstyling, nail art design, and soccer to parkour, skateboarding, dancing, kissing, and much, much more. Step 1: Melt butter Melt 1/2 cup of the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Step 2: Add marshmallows Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly with a spatula until they're melted. Then remove from heat. Tip Be careful not to overheat the marshmallow mixture as it will burn. Step 3: Add food coloring Add the food coloring to the marshmallow mixture and stir until the color is thoroughly mixed in. Step 4: Stir in cornflakes Stir the cornflakes into the marshmallow mixture ...

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies


How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies

No URL How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies

Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning


ItemTitle

There are many different Christmas classroom activities that can be used with students in the lead up to Christmas. Many of these are both fun and also educational so that while the children enjoy themselves they will also be learning. The Christmas theme can be used in math activities, writing activities, spelling activities, craft activities and there are also educational Christmas puzzles that can used with students. There are also many educational Christmas games that can be played in the classroom with either small groups or with the whole class.

Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning

Holiday Wreath

How to Make a Rag Wreath



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 4.28 Mins.



How to Make a Rag Wreath



Why wear pants when you can turn them into holiday decorations???

How to Make a Rag Wreath

How to Make a Rag Wreath


How to Make a Rag Wreath

How to Make a Rag Wreath

No URL How to Make a Rag Wreath

Christmas in Jamaica


ItemTitle

Christmas, no matter how it is celebrated, brings together family and friends to celebrate Christ's birth. Being predominantly Christian, Jamaica celebrates Christ's birth and lends its own distinct flavor to Christmas.

Christmas in Jamaica

Holiday Wreath

Christmas 2010 The Mendelsohns



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 4.50 Mins.



Christmas 2010 The Mendelsohns



Christmas decorations at the mendelsohns 2010 decorated By TC Crawford

Christmas 2010 The Mendelsohns

Christmas 2010 The Mendelsohns


Christmas 2010 The Mendelsohns

Christmas 2010 The Mendelsohns

No URL Christmas 2010 The Mendelsohns

Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning


ItemTitle

There are many different Christmas classroom activities that can be used with students in the lead up to Christmas. Many of these are both fun and also educational so that while the children enjoy themselves they will also be learning. The Christmas theme can be used in math activities, writing activities, spelling activities, craft activities and there are also educational Christmas puzzles that can used with students. There are also many educational Christmas games that can be played in the classroom with either small groups or with the whole class.

Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning

Holiday Wreath

Christmas Wreath Card application Martha Stewart Branch punch



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 7.07 Mins.



Christmas Wreath Card application Martha Stewart Branch punch



Here is a card with a wreath I made using the Martha Stewart Branch punch....so much fun!!! Thanks for watching and have a blessed day!!!

Christmas Wreath Card application Martha Stewart Branch punch

Christmas Wreath Card application Martha Stewart Branch punch


Christmas Wreath Card application Martha Stewart Branch punch

Christmas Wreath Card application Martha Stewart Branch punch

No URL Christmas Wreath Card application Martha Stewart Branch punch




Here is a card with a wreath I made using the Martha Stewart Branch punch....so much fun!!! Thanks for watching and have a blessed day!!!




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Christmas Spelling Game


Holiday Wreath

Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning



One of the Christmas classroom activities that is sure to be a hit with the kids is the Christmas Spelling Bee Game. Although it might not sound like fun, kids love this fast moving game that has an element of chance to it.



Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning

For this Christmas game the children stand in a circle. The caller gives a word for the children to spell and nominates the person to start. Children give one letter at a time going in a clockwise direction. The child who is after the person who says the last letter says 'Jingle Bells'. Then the next child is out and sits down. If a child says a wrong letter, they are out and sit down also. Then the next person must give the correct letter. When the word is completed, the caller then gives the next word and play continues around the circle. The last child standing is the winner. Christmas words can be used for the spelling bee. Here are some words to get you started, stocking, chimney, wreath, carols, elves, merry, holly, presents, Santa, angel, Rudolph, tree, candles, sleigh, and decorations.

Christmas Math Activities

Christmas math activities are also ideal as Christmas classroom activities. A simple Christmas math activity is to draw several Christmas trees on the board and then put the numbers from an addition, subtraction, multiplication or division operation jumbled up in each tree. The pattern for the operation is then written under the tree. If the numbers 2, 4, 6 and 7 are in the tree, the pattern? X? =??, would be added under the tree. Children then have to unjumble the numbers in the tree to create a true operation to fit the pattern. The answer for this one would be 6 X 7 = 42. More complex operations can also be used.

Other Christmas classroom activities include Christmas craft activities where decorations, gifts, cards and wrapping paper can be made.

Christmas Pasta Wreath

A simple but very effective Christmas craft activity is to make a Christmas wreath from a paper plate and different shaped pasta pieces. Cut a hole out of the center of the paper plate and then glue pasta around the wreath shape in a pattern. It won't look very interesting yet, but spray it with silver or gold spray paint and it will great. It can then have a ribbon tied to the top of it and be hung on a door or wall as a Christmas decoration.

There are loads and loads of Christmas classroom activities than be used to give the kids some fun in the classroom before Christmas. If you choose your activities carefully, then not only will the kids have fun but they will also be learning at the same time.


Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning









Christmas decorations at the mendelsohns 2010 decorated By TC Crawford




Keywords:


Traditional Christmas carols are also sung in the tropical islands in the same way these are sung in almost all countries. Yet to give it a Jamaican flair, a lot of the popular Christmas carols are re-recorded in reggae rhythm. Reggae versions of popular Christmas carols are now acquiring popularity the world over.


Holiday Wreath

Christmas in Jamaica



Perhaps the most important sign that marks the Christmas season in Jamaica would be the food. Bakers and homemakers start baking Christmas fruit cakes using mixed fruits marinated in wine months in advance, and rum made from locally grown sugar cane. Sorrel, Jamaica's Christmas drink, is also prepared using sorrel sepal, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, orange peel, and white rum. Served over ice, sorrel is served all over Jamaica during the Christmas season. Celebrating Christmas day in Jamaica is a whole-day feast starting with ackee, salted fish, breadfruit, fried and boiled bananas, fresh fruit juice, and tea. Because of the hearty breakfast which can go on until before lunch, Christmas dinners are served in the early afternoon. Roasted chicken or duck, stewed ox tail, goat curry, ham, rice, and peas are the usual offerings.



Christmas in Jamaica

Johnkano celebrations, a pagan ritual introduced by African slaves that highlight masked dancers and musicians are also celebrated in some of Jamaica's rural areas. A lot of houses are painted, and homeowners hang new curtains and western Christmas decorations such as wreaths, tinsel, and Christmas lights. Santa Claus, a western Christmas concept, also adorns houses and shop windows. This is despite the fact that Jamaican houses do not have chimneys where Santa usually descends! In some rural communities, Santa Claus delivers his gifts riding a cart pulled by donkeys.


Christmas in Jamaica









Why wear pants when you can turn them into holiday decorations???




Keywords:


Christmas Spelling Game


Holiday Wreath

Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning



One of the Christmas classroom activities that is sure to be a hit with the kids is the Christmas Spelling Bee Game. Although it might not sound like fun, kids love this fast moving game that has an element of chance to it.



Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning

For this Christmas game the children stand in a circle. The caller gives a word for the children to spell and nominates the person to start. Children give one letter at a time going in a clockwise direction. The child who is after the person who says the last letter says 'Jingle Bells'. Then the next child is out and sits down. If a child says a wrong letter, they are out and sit down also. Then the next person must give the correct letter. When the word is completed, the caller then gives the next word and play continues around the circle. The last child standing is the winner. Christmas words can be used for the spelling bee. Here are some words to get you started, stocking, chimney, wreath, carols, elves, merry, holly, presents, Santa, angel, Rudolph, tree, candles, sleigh, and decorations.

Christmas Math Activities

Christmas math activities are also ideal as Christmas classroom activities. A simple Christmas math activity is to draw several Christmas trees on the board and then put the numbers from an addition, subtraction, multiplication or division operation jumbled up in each tree. The pattern for the operation is then written under the tree. If the numbers 2, 4, 6 and 7 are in the tree, the pattern? X? =??, would be added under the tree. Children then have to unjumble the numbers in the tree to create a true operation to fit the pattern. The answer for this one would be 6 X 7 = 42. More complex operations can also be used.

Other Christmas classroom activities include Christmas craft activities where decorations, gifts, cards and wrapping paper can be made.

Christmas Pasta Wreath

A simple but very effective Christmas craft activity is to make a Christmas wreath from a paper plate and different shaped pasta pieces. Cut a hole out of the center of the paper plate and then glue pasta around the wreath shape in a pattern. It won't look very interesting yet, but spray it with silver or gold spray paint and it will great. It can then have a ribbon tied to the top of it and be hung on a door or wall as a Christmas decoration.

There are loads and loads of Christmas classroom activities than be used to give the kids some fun in the classroom before Christmas. If you choose your activities carefully, then not only will the kids have fun but they will also be learning at the same time.


Christmas Classroom Activities for Fun and Learning









Watch more Christmas Recipes videos: www.howcast.com Subscribe to Howcast's YouTube Channel - howc.st Make Christmas wreath cookies with cornflakes following these simple steps. Howcast uploads the highest quality how-to videos daily! Be sure to check out our playlists for guides that interest you: howc.st Subscribe to Howcast's other YouTube Channels: Howcast Health Channel - howc.st Howcast Video Games Channel - howc.st Howcast Tech Channel - howc.st Howcast Food Channel - howc.st Howcast Arts & Recreation Channel - howc.st Howcast Sports & Fitness Channel - howc.st Howcast Personal Care & Style Channel - howc.st Howcast empowers people with engaging, useful how-to information wherever, whenever they need to know how. Emphasizing high-quality instructional videos, Howcast brings you experts who provide accurate information in easy-to-follow tutorials on everything from makeup, hairstyling, nail art design, and soccer to parkour, skateboarding, dancing, kissing, and much, much more. Step 1: Melt butter Melt 1/2 cup of the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Step 2: Add marshmallows Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly with a spatula until they're melted. Then remove from heat. Tip Be careful not to overheat the marshmallow mixture as it will burn. Step 3: Add food coloring Add the food coloring to the marshmallow mixture and stir until the color is thoroughly mixed in. Step 4: Stir in cornflakes Stir the cornflakes into the marshmallow mixture ...




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I love decorating for Christmas so much, it looks like Christmas blew up in my house... but in a good way! :-)


Holiday Wreath

17 Fun Christmas Decorating Ideas to Add Sparkle to Your Home



So... I've listed 17 ideas for decorating home your home for the holidays. I hope that you find at least one new idea for you... and maybe a few will inspire you with a whole list of original ideas!



17 Fun Christmas Decorating Ideas to Add Sparkle to Your Home

1. Brighten your christmas tree

It's easy to string lights on your Christmas tree... but take tree lights very seriously at my house. My husband wraps each individual branch and twig with lights. Yes, it's a bit tedious... but the result is breathtaking. Hey, you're going to be looking at that tree all month... take the extra time and really make your tree glow... literally.

2. Decorate your stair rail

This is a given, but it amazes me how few actually do it. Whenever you see beautifully decorated homes in magazines you see this grand staircase wrapped in garland and lights. It's stunning. And you can have the same exact effect in your home. It's easy! Wrap your banisters with garland. You can go cheap and use the standard green garland in a box... or you can go all out and get some more realistic garland. Whatever your budget can handle... do what's best for you. Now, wrap the garland in white lights. It doesn't matter what kind of garland you use... because once those lights are on... wow! But don't stop there! Tie a pretty christmas ribbon bow at the bottom and top of the hand rails. And if you have enough ribbon, wind the ribbon loosely around the rail. Don't wrap the ribbon exactly like you wrapped the garland... offset it a bit. Now, you're really decorating!

And if you're inspired... grab some shiny christmas ball ornaments and hang those on your garland all the way up the stairs. I bet you didn't know your house could look so luxurious!

3. Add christmas bows

I add bows made of all kinds of christmas ribbon all over my house. On the stair rail, on my wreaths... on the ends of my draped garland. On door knobs. I attach them to my outdoor house lights. I add a big swag christmas bow just below my angel on my christmas tree. And for my second tree (yes, my second tree) I have a big 2-ribbon tree topper bow.

4. Hang wreaths in windows

It's common to hang wreaths on your front door. But I love hanging wreaths on my windows. I'm not talking about just on the outside of your house. I also mean on the inside. I don't hang wreaths in all my windows... my I select a room that needs a little extra Christmas spirit and hang one in each window. I also hang a wreath above the fire place. And another on my book shelves. And guess what... I add bows to all of them.

5. Greet visitors with some fun

All the formal decorating stuff is nice... but don't forget to add some personality and fun to your rooms. Especially in your foyer. Find something that makes you smile and put it where people will see it as soon as they come into your house. I found this Christmas center piece that is made of holly leaves, berries and 3 stacked gingermen. It is adorable! It makes me smile and I put it on a table in my foyer. Now, I enjoy it when I come home... and others can enjoy it when the visit. It's silly and I love it!

6. Create memories with small decorations

Growing up, I always remembered my Mother's little Christmas knick-knacks. Like snow globes and funny little snow men. I really didn't follow in tradition when I first had kids. But my Mother gifted me little silly items every year. And as the years have gone on, my children ask about some of these items when we decorate the house. I have a little igloo with snowmen that has a little light that acts like a fire. My daughter remembered this from last year and was so excited when she saw it out. It's the little things... literally... that can be the most special.

7. Decorate your fireplace mantel

My fireplace mantel varies from year to year. I've draped garland and lights and hungs stockings. I've displayed a variety of different sized candles dressed in pine cones and garland. I've displayed framed photos of the family. Whatever you decide... just have fun with it. Experiment. Try varying heights of a few different items. Try simple... try cluttered. Find your style.

8. Add garland

Like wreaths, add garland everywhere! I wrap garland on the banisters... I frame the door ways. I drape garland with fruit over my french doors. I lay garland along the top back of my couches. I even wrap my columns in garland.

10. Add a little character to your front yard

I used to do the "nice" decorating in my front yard. White lights on the shrubs. Garland and white lights around my door. And it IS nice. But now, I try to add a little fun. Not too much... I still don't want my yard looking like I'm having a yard sale! This year I lined my front walk in light up candy canes. So cute! I still have my white lights on everything else... but its the candy canes that make me smile. And my kids love them!

11. Place wrapped gifts

Wrap boxes in shiny paper... tie a ribbon on them... and place them around your house. What fun! I place wrapped gift boxes on my book shelves, a few in a blank corner... some under the tree... anywhere that you need to add a little Christmas cheer. What an easy way to decorate!

12. Candles

Ah, the soft flicker of candle light can really add to the mood of a cozy home. I love the look of candles in windows. Obviously, don't use real candles for this. I also like to light a few candles around my home. The smell of cinnamon and holly is delicious.

13. Fill glass vases with cranberries and sparkle

Pull out those glass vases that just sit in your cupboard. Fill them with fake cranberries, clear glass stones, salt, pine cones, and/or christmas balls. Layer and be creative. And then leave these filled vases out. This a professional decorator trick. It's quick and it looks amazing!

14. Bowl of ornaments

Take a large bowl and fill it with some of your extra christmas balls. Or, collect some unique ones that you personally love... and place those in your bowl. Place this bowl in the center of your coffee table or dining table.

15. Photos of Christmas memories

Pull out some of those precious memories of Christmases past and put them in some decorative frames. Shiny silver frames... red painted frames. Whatever you like. And place these around your house. You'll find that you'll start remembering stories and sharing these moments with your friends and family.

16. Christmas hand towels and bathroom mats

Don't forget the bathrooms! Add a cute hand towel and a christmasy floor mat. I have a chimney tissue box that I place on the back of the hall bathroom toilet. Just add a little somethin'.

17. Set your dining table

You may not be expecting dinner guests, but it's always nice to have a decorated and set table. Pull out your favorite holiday dishes. I have these fun white dishes that have reindeer, christmas trees and santas painted on them. I love them! Dress up your table with colorful place mats.... place random christmas balls over the table... place a dramatic center piece... and light some votive candles.

As I write this article, I can already think of a few more christmas decorating ideas. But I have to end this list at some point. Decorating your home for the holidays can create a lot of wonderful memories that you'll relive each year you pull out those bins. So, get to it! And happy holidays!

Oh... and don't forget to hang jingle bells on the doors... and mistletoe above the doorways... ok, ok, I'll stop!


17 Fun Christmas Decorating Ideas to Add Sparkle to Your Home









Want to make a homemade gift for someone this holiday season? We've got you covered! ==OTHER AWESOME STUFF== LET'S PLAYS youtube.com MERCHANDISE stephenshop.spreadshirt.com FACEBOOK http TWITTER twitter.com WIKI stephengeorg.wikia.com




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Advent defined by Webster is the "arrival" or "coming" of something significant. For Christians, the birth of Christ and His later crucifixion were momentous events. As Christians, we celebrate His birthday, Christmas. Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas. For many Christians, part of the celebration of Advent is the beautiful Wreath.


Holiday Wreath

The Story of the Advent Wreath



Every part of the Advent Wreath is steeped in symbolism. Made of various evergreens that represent continuous life, the Wreath is also a reminder that with Christ, we have everlasting life. Each evergreen has its own specific meaning. The prickly leaves of holly serve as a reminder of the crown of thorns placed on Christ at the crucifixion. Using laurel represents victory over persecution. Pine cones used in decorating the Wreath signifies life and resurrection. Of course, the circular shape of the wreath symbolizes eternity and enduring life.



The Story of the Advent Wreath

Four candles adorn the Advent Wreath. Most Advent Wreaths are made with three purple candles and one pink candle. Many modern Wreaths include a larger white candle in the center of the wreath which represents Christ. The four outer candles represent the four weeks of Advent. Each Sunday, an outer candle is lit. On Christmas Eve or Christmas morning, the middle candle or Christ candle is lit. According to historians, in the early years of the church, each candle in the Wreath was given a name. The outer candles were hope, peace, love and joy and the center candle, the Christ.

Through the years, the Advent Wreath has become a family tradition for many Christians. Not all churches formally recognize the season of Advent and do not include the Wreath in Christmas celebrations. However, it's interesting to note that in recent years, many of the Protestant and Evangelical Christians have recognized the spiritual importance of Advent. As a result, more churches have revived some of the Advent customs with this Wreath being one of those customs.

Whether or not your church displays the Advent Wreath, this is a tradition you can observe in your home. Advent Wreaths can be purchased or made. Creating a Wreath as a family would certainly magnify its importance in Christian families. This is a wonderful family tradition you can begin. The beautiful memories you make with your children will last forever. As adults, they will want to continue this wonderful tradition.


The Story of the Advent Wreath









Puna is back to show you this super quick Deco Mesh wreath made on a work wreath.




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Traditional Christmas carols are also sung in the tropical islands in the same way these are sung in almost all countries. Yet to give it a Jamaican flair, a lot of the popular Christmas carols are re-recorded in reggae rhythm. Reggae versions of popular Christmas carols are now acquiring popularity the world over.


Holiday Wreath

Christmas in Jamaica



Perhaps the most important sign that marks the Christmas season in Jamaica would be the food. Bakers and homemakers start baking Christmas fruit cakes using mixed fruits marinated in wine months in advance, and rum made from locally grown sugar cane. Sorrel, Jamaica's Christmas drink, is also prepared using sorrel sepal, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, orange peel, and white rum. Served over ice, sorrel is served all over Jamaica during the Christmas season. Celebrating Christmas day in Jamaica is a whole-day feast starting with ackee, salted fish, breadfruit, fried and boiled bananas, fresh fruit juice, and tea. Because of the hearty breakfast which can go on until before lunch, Christmas dinners are served in the early afternoon. Roasted chicken or duck, stewed ox tail, goat curry, ham, rice, and peas are the usual offerings.



Christmas in Jamaica

Johnkano celebrations, a pagan ritual introduced by African slaves that highlight masked dancers and musicians are also celebrated in some of Jamaica's rural areas. A lot of houses are painted, and homeowners hang new curtains and western Christmas decorations such as wreaths, tinsel, and Christmas lights. Santa Claus, a western Christmas concept, also adorns houses and shop windows. This is despite the fact that Jamaican houses do not have chimneys where Santa usually descends! In some rural communities, Santa Claus delivers his gifts riding a cart pulled by donkeys.


Christmas in Jamaica









Dana Plazyk of www.flowers-by-design.com explains how to make a beautiful bow with a wired ribbon.




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Leading up to the Christmas holiday, the Spanish celebrate a tradition called "Hogueras" (bonfires). This is a celebration of the winter solstice which is the shortest day of the year. At this time, people jump over a bonfire, symbolizing a protection against illness. Also during the winter solstice, swing sets are constructed to be used by the people in the belief that by swinging high they will cause the sun to move higher in the sky.


Holiday Wreath

Popular Christmas Traditions and Christmas Decorations in Spain



On Christmas Eve, tiny lamps are lit in the windows throughout the villages, representing the stars in the Christmas Eve sky. At midnight, bells are rung in each of the villages, calling everyone to "La Misa Del Gallo", the Mass of the Rooster. It is called this because the rooster was known as the first of the animals to announce Christ's birth.



Popular Christmas Traditions and Christmas Decorations in Spain

After the midnight Mass, Christmas dinner is served. The traditional holiday meal includes "Pavo Trufado de Navidad", which is Christmas turkey with truffles. Roast lamb, suckling pig, duck, and seafood such as lobster, shrimp, trout and salmon may also be served, depending on which part of the country one is in. Traditional desserts may include marzipan, made of honey, almonds and eggs, and polvorones, which is a sweetbread. Nuts, dried fruits, and caramel custard are among other desserts served. No meal is complete without a drink. Cava is the Spanish champagne, and it often accompanies the Christmas meal.

In many countries a visit by Santa Claus is an important part of a Christmas celebration. However, in Spain, this is not the case. The children do receive small gifts from "Papa Noel" on Christmas, but this is not a big part of the festivities. Instead, they celebrate January 6, which is the Three King's Day, a day commemorating the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the Baby Jesus. On January 5, the children take part in a parade to see the Three Kings when they come to their village or town. When given the chance, they ask the Three Kings for the presents they are hoping for. On the eve of this special day, the children leave their shoes out where they are easily found. They are filled with straw and carrots for the camels on which the Wise Men travel. On the next morning, the straw and carrots are gone, replaced by presents. On this day, a special dessert is served, the "Roscon de los Reyes" which is a large circular cake. It is decorated with candied fruits, which represent the jewels which were on the Three Kings' robes. There is a surprise baked into the cake, and whoever finds it becomes the king or queen of the house.

Spain's celebration of Christmas is similar to the manner in which other countries celebrate it with Christmas trees and Christmas wreaths.. But by also having its own unique traditions, a visitor can gain insight into the people of Spain and their lives. Knowing the traditions of various countries such as Spain can give one a new appreciation of the Christmas holiday around the world.


Popular Christmas Traditions and Christmas Decorations in Spain






Wednesday, February 20, 2013

How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?

How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?


ItemTitle

The main colors of Christmas are red and green. Did you ever wonder why this is? The association of red and green with Christmas is worldwide. One can speculate and come up with lots of ideas about when and why these colors were first associated with Christmas.

How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?

Holiday Wreath

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 5.43 Mins.



How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)



Want to make a homemade gift for someone this holiday season? We've got you covered! ==OTHER AWESOME STUFF== LET'S PLAYS youtube.com MERCHANDISE stephenshop.spreadshirt.com FACEBOOK http TWITTER twitter.com WIKI stephengeorg.wikia.com

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)


How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

No URL How to Make a Homemade Christmas Wreath (Day 1116 - 12/14/12)

Eight Ideas for Holiday Candy Cane Decorations


ItemTitle

When the candy canes come out, it's a sure sign that the holidays are near. Unlike nowadays, there used to be just one type of Christmas candy. These candies, colored red and white striped and peppermint flavored, are always a wonderful holiday treat.

Eight Ideas for Holiday Candy Cane Decorations

Holiday Wreath

DIY Geometric Wreath



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 1.08 Mins.



DIY Geometric Wreath



Here is an easy and cool winter DIY geometric wreath how-to that takes no time at all and leaves a huge impact! These wreaths make great gifts and pack easily. *Keep your eyes peeled for a bonus mini DIY near the end. Happy holidays!

DIY Geometric Wreath

DIY Geometric Wreath


DIY Geometric Wreath

DIY Geometric Wreath

No URL DIY Geometric Wreath

How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?


ItemTitle

The main colors of Christmas are red and green. Did you ever wonder why this is? The association of red and green with Christmas is worldwide. One can speculate and come up with lots of ideas about when and why these colors were first associated with Christmas.

How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?

Holiday Wreath

Holiday and Winter Safety



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 2.48 Mins.



Holiday and Winter Safety



Make sure you and your family stay safe this holiday season with simple tips on the purchase and use of consumer products. Follow Health Canada's holiday safety advice on products and food safety to help your family enjoy the holidays at www.hc-sc.gc.ca

Holiday and Winter Safety

Holiday and Winter Safety


Holiday and Winter Safety

Holiday and Winter Safety

No URL Holiday and Winter Safety

Christmas in Jamaica


ItemTitle

Christmas, no matter how it is celebrated, brings together family and friends to celebrate Christ's birth. Being predominantly Christian, Jamaica celebrates Christ's birth and lends its own distinct flavor to Christmas.

Christmas in Jamaica

Holiday Wreath

Vel & Marco Discover Praying Mantis Egg Cases @ Vel's Purple Oasis Garden



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 13.42 Mins.



Vel & Marco Discover Praying Mantis Egg Cases @ Vel's Purple Oasis Garden



One can never imagine what one will stumble upon when one embarks on a trek to make a holiday wreath.

Vel & Marco Discover Praying Mantis Egg Cases @ Vel's Purple Oasis Garden

Vel & Marco Discover Praying Mantis Egg Cases @ Vel's Purple Oasis Garden


Vel & Marco Discover Praying Mantis Egg Cases @ Vel's Purple Oasis Garden

Vel & Marco Discover Praying Mantis Egg Cases @ Vel's Purple Oasis Garden

No URL Vel & Marco Discover Praying Mantis Egg Cases @ Vel's Purple Oasis Garden

Looking For Christmas Door Decorating Contest Ideas?


ItemTitle

Are you looking for Christmas door decorating contest ideas? There are definitely a lot of Christmas door decorating contest ideas here. The holidays are just around the corner and once again, it's Christmas time. There are so many ways to celebrate Christmas, be it at home, in the office, or in school. Aside from gift-giving, a lot of people celebrate the holidays with raffles and various contests. If you are looking for ideas on Christmas door decorations, then you've come to the right place. Let's take a look at a couple of ideas below.

Looking For Christmas Door Decorating Contest Ideas?

Holiday Wreath

Keep Your Greenery Fresh Throughout the Holiday Season



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 2.57 Mins.



Keep Your Greenery Fresh Throughout the Holiday Season



Help your Christmas decorations last a little longer this year. In this video, Allen explains how to keep greenery fresh and fragrant throughout the holiday season.

Keep Your Greenery Fresh Throughout the Holiday Season

Keep Your Greenery Fresh Throughout the Holiday Season


Keep Your Greenery Fresh Throughout the Holiday Season

Keep Your Greenery Fresh Throughout the Holiday Season

No URL Keep Your Greenery Fresh Throughout the Holiday Season

The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath


ItemTitle

The Christmas wreath is as popular today as it was when it was first introduced to the world. People take great pains to make these beautiful Christmas decorations but most people have no idea just how far back the tradition of the wreath really goes. It goes back to Pagan times and the ancient culture of the Persian Empire.

The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath

Holiday Wreath

how to accomplish a bonbon band :: kid crafts :: teachmama.com



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 4.63 Mins.



how to accomplish a bonbon band :: kid crafts :: teachmama.com



Making a candy wreath is easy, and it's a great homemade gift that children can help make for friends, families, or offices. Having children help with cutting, tying, and arranging candy is a great way to teach them about how good it feels to create handmade gifts for loved ones.

how to accomplish a bonbon band :: kid crafts :: teachmama.com

how to accomplish a bonbon band :: kid crafts :: teachmama.com


how to accomplish a bonbon band :: kid crafts :: teachmama.com

how to accomplish a bonbon band :: kid crafts :: teachmama.com

No URL how to accomplish a bonbon band :: kid crafts :: teachmama.com

Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament


ItemTitle

It wasn't until I started working at the preschool that I heard about these candy ornaments, a co-worker had told me how to make them. I liked the idea so I tried to make some at home just to see how they would turn out and I loved it. You can either turn your candy wreathes into ornaments for your Christmas tree or put them in stockings as stocking for a tasty suffers treat on Christmas morning. Just make sure not to put any glue on them if you plan on eating them. Follow these few easy steps to make your own peppermint candy wreath ornament.

Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament

Holiday Wreath

Ali's Holiday Recipes



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 10.02 Mins.



Ali's Holiday Recipes



budurl.com Ali's Recipes for Living include food for the body,mind and spirit. Enjoy life!!

Ali's Holiday Recipes

Ali's Holiday Recipes


Ali's Holiday Recipes

Ali's Holiday Recipes

No URL Ali's Holiday Recipes

The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath


ItemTitle

The Christmas wreath is as popular today as it was when it was first introduced to the world. People take great pains to make these beautiful Christmas decorations but most people have no idea just how far back the tradition of the wreath really goes. It goes back to Pagan times and the ancient culture of the Persian Empire.

The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath

Holiday Wreath

Haunted Mansion Holiday 2009



Samsung Galaxy

Tube. Duration : 6.93 Mins.



Haunted Mansion Holiday 2009



A video walkthrough of the Haunted Mansion Holiday in 2009. Jack Skellington has clasped Christmas into his claw like clutches once more within the Haunted Mansion at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim California.

Haunted Mansion Holiday 2009

Haunted Mansion Holiday 2009


Haunted Mansion Holiday 2009

Haunted Mansion Holiday 2009

No URL Haunted Mansion Holiday 2009

Christmas in Jamaica


ItemTitle

Christmas, no matter how it is celebrated, brings together family and friends to celebrate Christ's birth. Being predominantly Christian, Jamaica celebrates Christ's birth and lends its own distinct flavor to Christmas.

Christmas in Jamaica

Holiday Wreath

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 3.03 Mins.



How To Make A Bow For The Holidays



Dana Plazyk of www.flowers-by-design.com explains how to make a beautiful bow with a wired ribbon.

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays


How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

No URL How To Make A Bow For The Holidays

Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament


ItemTitle

It wasn't until I started working at the preschool that I heard about these candy ornaments, a co-worker had told me how to make them. I liked the idea so I tried to make some at home just to see how they would turn out and I loved it. You can either turn your candy wreathes into ornaments for your Christmas tree or put them in stockings as stocking for a tasty suffers treat on Christmas morning. Just make sure not to put any glue on them if you plan on eating them. Follow these few easy steps to make your own peppermint candy wreath ornament.

Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament

Holiday Wreath

How to adapt a Christmas Wreath



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 3.77 Mins.



How to adapt a Christmas Wreath



CountryLife horticulturist Malachy shows you how to prepare a festive Christmas wreath for your home. www.countrylife.ie www.facebook.com/CountryLifeGardening

How to adapt a Christmas Wreath

How to adapt a Christmas Wreath


How to adapt a Christmas Wreath

How to adapt a Christmas Wreath

No URL How to adapt a Christmas Wreath

Christmas Assembly Ideas


ItemTitle

What are your options?

Christmas Assembly Ideas

Holiday Wreath

Video 3 - Wreath Tips With Nancy: Door Wreath From Start to Finish (Greenery)



Samsung Galaxy

Video Clips. Duration : 20.93 Mins.



Video 3 - Wreath Tips With Nancy: Door Wreath From Start to Finish (Greenery)



www.ladybugwreaths.net Nancy has completed this video series on making a large, bird house wreath from start to finish. You'll learn how to distress a new bird house, making it look old, how to add honeysuckle, greenery, and flowers to your wreath also. When you complete this series you will definitely know how to make a wreath, and will have a beautiful door wreath to hand on your front doot!

Video 3 - Wreath Tips With Nancy: Door Wreath From Start to Finish (Greenery)

Video 3 - Wreath Tips With Nancy: Door Wreath From Start to Finish (Greenery)


Video 3 - Wreath Tips With Nancy: Door Wreath From Start to Finish (Greenery)

Video 3 - Wreath Tips With Nancy: Door Wreath From Start to Finish (Greenery)

No URL Video 3 - Wreath Tips With Nancy: Door Wreath From Start to Finish (Greenery)




www.ladybugwreaths.net Nancy has completed this video series on making a large, bird house wreath from start to finish. You'll learn how to distress a new bird house, making it look old, how to add honeysuckle, greenery, and flowers to your wreath also. When you complete this series you will definitely know how to make a wreath, and will have a beautiful door wreath to hand on your front doot!




Keywords:


1) Trawl the net. Its hard work and over and over you find things that you have done before or are unsuitable,
2) Ask colleagues. Decide to put some PPA time over to coming up with a few ideas between you.
3) Buy a book!
4) Ask the kids to come up with some ideas.


Holiday Wreath

Christmas Assembly Ideas



I want to deal with number (2) in the rest of this article - the art of generating ideas.



Christmas Assembly Ideas

Most people seem to get the Christmas assembly freeze when they are faced with coming up with new ideas. It's that blank sheet of paper problem. The best way of getting around it is to use some simple techniques to get the juices flowing.

1) Find an object in your house. In one minute, and it's best if you actually act these out because of how it stimulates the brain, come up with as many ways of using that object as you can which is different from it's intended use. For example a hat could be used as a bowl, hand warmer, Frisbee, fan. You get the idea. It doesn't matter if it isn't Christmas-y.

2) Quickly grab a sheet of paper and produce a mind-map of everything you can think of that relates to Christmas. Anything goes here. Trees, presents, short days, Christingles.

3) Just like you did in part 1, generate more ideas off the ideas you came up with in (2), be creative, be ingenious.

4) Now take a second sheet of paper and scribble down a list of ideas that you really want to say about Christmas and get creative again. Just a few ideas could be peace, hope, joy, love, new start, friends, family, value, Jesus life (and death?). Again create a second layer of ideas on your mind-map of everything that you can think of to do with these words.

5) Look at all the material you have come up with so far and start combining the ideas. Just put the words in the two different mind-maps together and consider how might you use those ideas in an assembly.

More than often you will come up with a few brand new ideas that will take you safely through the Christmas period and Christmas assemblies time of year.


Christmas Assembly Ideas









CountryLife horticulturist Malachy shows you how to prepare a festive Christmas wreath for your home. www.countrylife.ie www.facebook.com/CountryLifeGardening




Keywords:


Start by preheating the oven at 250 degrees, do this before you start so the oven will be warm when you are ready to use it. I like to use both the red and green peppermint candies to add more color and design to my wreath ornament. First open about four of each color candies out of their individual wrappers so you will have four red and four green. The number will depend on the size pie pan you are using so you may need a couple more or less. I use the mini pie pans which makes the perfect size ornament. Take the mini sized tin pie pan and place it on a cookie sheet then put the candies in the pie pan about a half inch from the edge of the pie pan. Alternate the green and red candies in the pie pan to create a pattern.


Holiday Wreath

Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament



Now place them in the oven for about three to five minutes or until the candies have melted together creating a ring shape. Once melted together pull out of the oven and allow to cool for at least fifteen minutes. When the wreath has cooled if you plan to eat it use icing to make a bow at the top and it's ready to eat. For ornament use spray it with a clear cote hi-shine glaze on both sides then let dry. This will create a seal around your candy wreath. Take some ribbon and a bow and a loop then glue the bow on the top center of the wreath and the loop on the back of the top center of the wreath ornament. Now your ornament candy wreath is ready to be hung on your Christmas tree.



Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament

For a bigger wreath you can just use a full sized pie pan. Also if you want a quicker project just leave the wrappers on the candies and glue them together instead of melting them.

What you Need:
Mini pie pan
Cookie sheet
2 bags of peppermint candies one green and one red
Ribbon
Glue
Clear cote hi-shine glaze


Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament









Dana Plazyk of www.flowers-by-design.com explains how to make a beautiful bow with a wired ribbon.




Keywords:


Traditional Christmas carols are also sung in the tropical islands in the same way these are sung in almost all countries. Yet to give it a Jamaican flair, a lot of the popular Christmas carols are re-recorded in reggae rhythm. Reggae versions of popular Christmas carols are now acquiring popularity the world over.


Holiday Wreath

Christmas in Jamaica



Perhaps the most important sign that marks the Christmas season in Jamaica would be the food. Bakers and homemakers start baking Christmas fruit cakes using mixed fruits marinated in wine months in advance, and rum made from locally grown sugar cane. Sorrel, Jamaica's Christmas drink, is also prepared using sorrel sepal, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, orange peel, and white rum. Served over ice, sorrel is served all over Jamaica during the Christmas season. Celebrating Christmas day in Jamaica is a whole-day feast starting with ackee, salted fish, breadfruit, fried and boiled bananas, fresh fruit juice, and tea. Because of the hearty breakfast which can go on until before lunch, Christmas dinners are served in the early afternoon. Roasted chicken or duck, stewed ox tail, goat curry, ham, rice, and peas are the usual offerings.



Christmas in Jamaica

Johnkano celebrations, a pagan ritual introduced by African slaves that highlight masked dancers and musicians are also celebrated in some of Jamaica's rural areas. A lot of houses are painted, and homeowners hang new curtains and western Christmas decorations such as wreaths, tinsel, and Christmas lights. Santa Claus, a western Christmas concept, also adorns houses and shop windows. This is despite the fact that Jamaican houses do not have chimneys where Santa usually descends! In some rural communities, Santa Claus delivers his gifts riding a cart pulled by donkeys.


Christmas in Jamaica









A video walkthrough of the Haunted Mansion Holiday in 2009. Jack Skellington has clasped Christmas into his claw like clutches once more within the Haunted Mansion at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim California.




Tags:


The wreath that was hung on the doors of the family homes during this time was actually a symbol of wealth and importance. Granted, the wreaths of the Persian Empire were smaller than the ones that hang on doors today. As a matter of fact, they were worn on the head and were encrusted with jewels. The Greeks made wreaths of laurel that were placed on the heads of winning athletes during the Olympic Games.


Holiday Wreath

The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath



This tradition was continued by the Romans and they were worn on the heads of leaders, such as Julius Caesar. Eventually they moved from headgear to wall and door decorations, possibly as a souvenir of the athlete's victory. It is believed that this is how the tradition of hanging them on the wall was born. From here the tradition of hanging a wreath made of evergreen was started and it moved into Eastern Europe. The wreath was decorated with candles and lit during the cold winter evening in order to help rush in spring and the good weather.



The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath

The Christmas wreath tradition moved from pagan traditions to a Christian tradition, typically used by the Catholics. The wreath was hung up during Advent and they usually had four candles in the middle of the evergreen circle. The wreath today is a circle, signifying that it had no beginning and no end and is considered in the Christian religion a symbol of God and eternity. The candles in the wreath were traditionally white or three violets and one rose. Each candle was lit everyday with the exception of the middle candle which was not lit until Christmas Eve. They were usually lit right before dinner.

The Christmas wreath is quite often made of evergreen boughs of holly and they can be real or artificial. While an artificial wreath will last considerably longer, they don't have the same smell as a fresh wreath when made of real pine and other items. It can be decorated today with traditional items, such as pine cones, fruits, berries, lace and ribbon or it can be made with more modern materials for a different look.

Whether you hand make a Christmas wreath or buy one from the store it is important to remember how the wreath got its start and to reflect upon what it means to you and your family. These holiday decorations are a joy to behold on every door and make your home look warm and inviting no matter how you decorate it.


The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath









budurl.com Ali's Recipes for Living include food for the body,mind and spirit. Enjoy life!!




Tags:


Start by preheating the oven at 250 degrees, do this before you start so the oven will be warm when you are ready to use it. I like to use both the red and green peppermint candies to add more color and design to my wreath ornament. First open about four of each color candies out of their individual wrappers so you will have four red and four green. The number will depend on the size pie pan you are using so you may need a couple more or less. I use the mini pie pans which makes the perfect size ornament. Take the mini sized tin pie pan and place it on a cookie sheet then put the candies in the pie pan about a half inch from the edge of the pie pan. Alternate the green and red candies in the pie pan to create a pattern.


Holiday Wreath

Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament



Now place them in the oven for about three to five minutes or until the candies have melted together creating a ring shape. Once melted together pull out of the oven and allow to cool for at least fifteen minutes. When the wreath has cooled if you plan to eat it use icing to make a bow at the top and it's ready to eat. For ornament use spray it with a clear cote hi-shine glaze on both sides then let dry. This will create a seal around your candy wreath. Take some ribbon and a bow and a loop then glue the bow on the top center of the wreath and the loop on the back of the top center of the wreath ornament. Now your ornament candy wreath is ready to be hung on your Christmas tree.



Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament

For a bigger wreath you can just use a full sized pie pan. Also if you want a quicker project just leave the wrappers on the candies and glue them together instead of melting them.

What you Need:
Mini pie pan
Cookie sheet
2 bags of peppermint candies one green and one red
Ribbon
Glue
Clear cote hi-shine glaze


Make a Peppermint Candy Wreath Ornament









Making a candy wreath is easy, and it's a great homemade gift that children can help make for friends, families, or offices. Having children help with cutting, tying, and arranging candy is a great way to teach them about how good it feels to create handmade gifts for loved ones.




Tags:


The wreath that was hung on the doors of the family homes during this time was actually a symbol of wealth and importance. Granted, the wreaths of the Persian Empire were smaller than the ones that hang on doors today. As a matter of fact, they were worn on the head and were encrusted with jewels. The Greeks made wreaths of laurel that were placed on the heads of winning athletes during the Olympic Games.


Holiday Wreath

The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath



This tradition was continued by the Romans and they were worn on the heads of leaders, such as Julius Caesar. Eventually they moved from headgear to wall and door decorations, possibly as a souvenir of the athlete's victory. It is believed that this is how the tradition of hanging them on the wall was born. From here the tradition of hanging a wreath made of evergreen was started and it moved into Eastern Europe. The wreath was decorated with candles and lit during the cold winter evening in order to help rush in spring and the good weather.



The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath

The Christmas wreath tradition moved from pagan traditions to a Christian tradition, typically used by the Catholics. The wreath was hung up during Advent and they usually had four candles in the middle of the evergreen circle. The wreath today is a circle, signifying that it had no beginning and no end and is considered in the Christian religion a symbol of God and eternity. The candles in the wreath were traditionally white or three violets and one rose. Each candle was lit everyday with the exception of the middle candle which was not lit until Christmas Eve. They were usually lit right before dinner.

The Christmas wreath is quite often made of evergreen boughs of holly and they can be real or artificial. While an artificial wreath will last considerably longer, they don't have the same smell as a fresh wreath when made of real pine and other items. It can be decorated today with traditional items, such as pine cones, fruits, berries, lace and ribbon or it can be made with more modern materials for a different look.

Whether you hand make a Christmas wreath or buy one from the store it is important to remember how the wreath got its start and to reflect upon what it means to you and your family. These holiday decorations are a joy to behold on every door and make your home look warm and inviting no matter how you decorate it.


The Story Behind the Christmas Wreath









Help your Christmas decorations last a little longer this year. In this video, Allen explains how to keep greenery fresh and fragrant throughout the holiday season.




Keywords:


Bring together your kids and make them feel the spirit of Christmas with these Christmas door decorating contest ideas. Let's start with your main door at home. Various Christmas decorations can be put in your door. You can ask your kids to come up with the best looking Christmas wreath. At the same time, you can ask them to come up with recycled materials to make it even more special. You can have them choose from a list of materials such as Popsicle sticks, toothpicks, newspaper, plastic cups, soda cans, or tissue boxes among others. Aside from Christmas wreaths, you can also ask them to make other Christmas decors for the door. Door rings for the door knob are easy to do for kids.


Holiday Wreath

Looking For Christmas Door Decorating Contest Ideas?



Decorating contests are also common in school and in the office. Another great idea for a contest would be to design a garland for the office or classroom. This can also be done at home if you plan to decorate a couple of doors or hallway such as your main door, back door, and even the garage door. You can assign different doors to your kids. As for the office or classroom, you can ask them to design a garland or any other Christmas door decor of your choice and the winner's creation will be featured in the classroom or office's main door for example.



Looking For Christmas Door Decorating Contest Ideas?


Looking For Christmas Door Decorating Contest Ideas?









One can never imagine what one will stumble upon when one embarks on a trek to make a holiday wreath.




Tags:


Traditional Christmas carols are also sung in the tropical islands in the same way these are sung in almost all countries. Yet to give it a Jamaican flair, a lot of the popular Christmas carols are re-recorded in reggae rhythm. Reggae versions of popular Christmas carols are now acquiring popularity the world over.


Holiday Wreath

Christmas in Jamaica



Perhaps the most important sign that marks the Christmas season in Jamaica would be the food. Bakers and homemakers start baking Christmas fruit cakes using mixed fruits marinated in wine months in advance, and rum made from locally grown sugar cane. Sorrel, Jamaica's Christmas drink, is also prepared using sorrel sepal, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, orange peel, and white rum. Served over ice, sorrel is served all over Jamaica during the Christmas season. Celebrating Christmas day in Jamaica is a whole-day feast starting with ackee, salted fish, breadfruit, fried and boiled bananas, fresh fruit juice, and tea. Because of the hearty breakfast which can go on until before lunch, Christmas dinners are served in the early afternoon. Roasted chicken or duck, stewed ox tail, goat curry, ham, rice, and peas are the usual offerings.



Christmas in Jamaica

Johnkano celebrations, a pagan ritual introduced by African slaves that highlight masked dancers and musicians are also celebrated in some of Jamaica's rural areas. A lot of houses are painted, and homeowners hang new curtains and western Christmas decorations such as wreaths, tinsel, and Christmas lights. Santa Claus, a western Christmas concept, also adorns houses and shop windows. This is despite the fact that Jamaican houses do not have chimneys where Santa usually descends! In some rural communities, Santa Claus delivers his gifts riding a cart pulled by donkeys.


Christmas in Jamaica









Make sure you and your family stay safe this holiday season with simple tips on the purchase and use of consumer products. Follow Health Canada's holiday safety advice on products and food safety to help your family enjoy the holidays at www.hc-sc.gc.ca




Tags:


Green comes from evergreens which have been used since ancient times to celebrate the winter solstice. In the early days of the Roman Catholic Church when the pagan rituals of the winter solstice were merged into the celebration of Christ's birth evergreens continued to be used. In winter solstice celebrations evergreens symbolized life that survived through the long, dark winters. The Christians thought of green as symbolizing the hope for eternal life that Jesus offers.


Holiday Wreath

How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?



A commonly accepted explanation for the use of red and green is based on a historical fact. Back in the 1300's Adam and Eve's day was celebrated on Christmas Eve. Churches in those days presented a lot of plays because most people were illiterate. The plays were focused on religious stories of importance to the church and were called miracle plays. On Adam and Eve's day the play was called the paradise play and portrayed what happened in the garden of eden. There wasn't an apple tree available in the winter so they made one by tying apples to a pine tree and it served as the tree that bore the forbidden fruit. This pine tree with the red apples eventually became a tradition in all churches and was used in their Christmas celebrations every year.



How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?

The tree became known as the Paradise Tree and soon people began erecting pine trees in their own homes during the holiday season decorated with red apples. This began the tradition of Christmas trees and the most popular explanation for the use of the colors of red and green for the holidays.

Another explanation is that green symbolizes the hope Jesus gave us through his sacrifice and is the color of evergreens which stay alive all year. Red is said to symbolize the blood of Christ in this explanation. The blood was shed by Jesus so that people could be saved and when combined with green it expresses the hope of our redemption through Christ sacrifice.

Holly is a popular Christmas decoration because it combines the color of green in its leaves with the red of its berries. Traditional Christmas wreaths have always been decorated with red bows and red berries. Santa Claus has always had a red costume and Rudolph the Reindeer has always had a red nose. These colors are here to stay and will always represent the holidays in most peoples minds.


How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?









Here is an easy and cool winter DIY geometric wreath how-to that takes no time at all and leaves a huge impact! These wreaths make great gifts and pack easily. *Keep your eyes peeled for a bonus mini DIY near the end. Happy holidays!




Keywords:


More so than being delicious, candy canes were also hung on the Christmas tree and eaten when the job of opening presents was done. Now this Christmas treat has become decorations for many other places, and are much more than just tasty snacks. Listed below are eight of the best ways we have seen to decorate with candy canes.


Holiday Wreath

Eight Ideas for Holiday Candy Cane Decorations



1) Design a wreath made of candy. If you're looking for a change from the usual green boughs and red ribbons, make a peppermint candy wreath for your front door of your home or office. Small peppermint canes are the best choice for this as they can be bunched and hooked together to form a circle. Our favorite peppermint treats are always a nice addition to a traditional wreath made with almost any material.



Eight Ideas for Holiday Candy Cane Decorations

2) Use them as a centerpiece! The vivid colors of candy canes make them fine decorations for any table or desk. A nice jar with a few treats sticking out would make a fine holiday centerpiece. You'll have a few disappear, so have some spares around.

3) Add decorations to the candy canes - they are the basis for many Christmas craft projects; turn them into reindeer with a pipe cleaner, some felt, some glue, and googly eyes and they'll fit in just about anywhere!

4) Create a holiday tree garland. Candy canes can go onto your tree in many ways, not just hanging from the branches. Several candy sticks and some ribbon will make a wonderful garland for your Christmas tree.

5) Candy canes are a great for "Santa's sleigh" made of gingerbread. They have the right shape to make great runners for St. Nick's sleigh

6) They can also make good aisle markers. Candy canes are available in different flavors and in various sizes. Purchase two in the largest size available, and they can become posts for an entranceway, a path, or a hallway.

7) Candy canes can be great parts of a gingerbread village. They have many uses when they are included in a gingerbread village. They are also ideal for making lamp posts, fences, trees, or even road borders.

8) Make a "Welcome Bowl". At the office, remember to have the welcoming bowl of small Christmas treats. Everyone loves the peppermint taste, and the sweets bowl helps remind people of the giving spirit of the season.

There are so many different ways to use candy canes throughout the season. This list barely covers the possibilities! Sweet delicacies like these are also a major part of any decorating plans for the holidays.


Eight Ideas for Holiday Candy Cane Decorations









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Green comes from evergreens which have been used since ancient times to celebrate the winter solstice. In the early days of the Roman Catholic Church when the pagan rituals of the winter solstice were merged into the celebration of Christ's birth evergreens continued to be used. In winter solstice celebrations evergreens symbolized life that survived through the long, dark winters. The Christians thought of green as symbolizing the hope for eternal life that Jesus offers.


Holiday Wreath

How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?



A commonly accepted explanation for the use of red and green is based on a historical fact. Back in the 1300's Adam and Eve's day was celebrated on Christmas Eve. Churches in those days presented a lot of plays because most people were illiterate. The plays were focused on religious stories of importance to the church and were called miracle plays. On Adam and Eve's day the play was called the paradise play and portrayed what happened in the garden of eden. There wasn't an apple tree available in the winter so they made one by tying apples to a pine tree and it served as the tree that bore the forbidden fruit. This pine tree with the red apples eventually became a tradition in all churches and was used in their Christmas celebrations every year.



How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?

The tree became known as the Paradise Tree and soon people began erecting pine trees in their own homes during the holiday season decorated with red apples. This began the tradition of Christmas trees and the most popular explanation for the use of the colors of red and green for the holidays.

Another explanation is that green symbolizes the hope Jesus gave us through his sacrifice and is the color of evergreens which stay alive all year. Red is said to symbolize the blood of Christ in this explanation. The blood was shed by Jesus so that people could be saved and when combined with green it expresses the hope of our redemption through Christ sacrifice.

Holly is a popular Christmas decoration because it combines the color of green in its leaves with the red of its berries. Traditional Christmas wreaths have always been decorated with red bows and red berries. Santa Claus has always had a red costume and Rudolph the Reindeer has always had a red nose. These colors are here to stay and will always represent the holidays in most peoples minds.


How Did Red and Green Become the Colors of Christmas?