Christmas Fun and Shopping : Jesus, family, friends, gift giving, food, toys.
C
hristmas is coming - Lots of fun and shopping for everyone. What a wonderful time of the year. I just love Christmas.
There is the visiting. We get to see family and visit old friends. There is the fun and shopping. There is the gift giving, not to mention the music, caroling and Christmas plays. Oh, yes, there is the food. But most important is the joy of knowing our Lord. We have so much to be thankful for.
The little girl with Santa is my granddaughter, Marissa, in 2007. She will be two years old in February and I believe this Christmas will be a fun time for her. What a delightful time of the year for a child.
I have also asked my guests to take a poll regarding their best Christmas. If the selections at the poll doesn't fit your best Christmas, I hope you will tell me about it at the guest book.
I thought it would be fun to visit some of those joys here at my lens. We will look at the meaning of Christmas, the joys of the season, gift giving, some decorations, games, music, videos, traditions, shopping, and more.
There are many wonderful stores to shop at on-line and I have provided a variety for you. Many are taking Pay Pal this year, which is very convenient. Also, be sure to stop at my UNIQUE GIFT GIVING lens and check it out. I believe this is one of the most convenient ways to buy a gift from your home, on-line, and the recepient has it easy in selecting what they want. It is a win-win solution!
I have also added instructions to making paper snowflakes and tissue Christmas Wreaths. This is something we did as kids. One of my favorite Christmas ornaments to make are egg shell ornaments. I am sure many of my readers remember making their own ornaments. There are the cones and the candy canes (made from pipe cleaners).
Christmas just would not be the same if we didn't visit some of our favorite Christmas videos. You must see CRAZY FROG. He is a gas and a half (by saying).
So, grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and relax with me as we step into CHRISTMAS Shopping 2008.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
A WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR.

M
erry Christmas everyone. I just love the Christmas plays, the story of baby Jesus, the tree, the decorations, music and the gift giving. If I am not able to give the gifts I would like, I give cards, cookies and home made candy. It is the spirt that counts and remembering the love of our Lord! I hope you will enjoy the story below.
THE CHRISTMAS STORY
The Promise of a Saviour

T
he Promise of a Saviour
Mankind had offended God to the point of needing to be rescued from eternal punishment for their sins. It all started with Adam and Eve our first parents, who first offended God but who received the promise of Salvation.
In the book of Genesis [Genesis 3:15], the proto evangelium tells us that God threatened the serpent [the devil] to be crushed by the Woman [The Blessed Virgin] whose heel would be bruised [Our Lord Jesus by his death].
God foretold the enmity between the Woman and her offspring that is Mary, her son Jesus and all her new children [the children of God] and the serpent and his offspring, that is the devil and all those who reject God and become his children. See [Revelation 12:17]
In simple words God promised to send a woman whose son would be Our Saviour because by his death he would overcome the devil. [Genesis 3:15]
The Lord said to Moses, I will raise a prophet like you , one from your own people. He will speak in my name all that I command Him, I will put my own words in his mouth. If anyone does not listen to Him, that person will be cut off from his people. [Deuteronomy 18:15-19]
Other prophets received the message of the coming of the Messiah, He would be the one to liberate the people of God from slavery to other nations.
Through the prophet Micah, it was revealed that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, and that He would be a powerful king and also a shepherd, He would bring peace to the nations. [Micah 5:2-5]
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign. 1 Behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel [Isaiah 7:14]
For a CHILD IS BORN to us, and a son is given to us, and the government is upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counsellor, God the Mighty, the Father of the world to come, the Prince of Peace. [Isaiah 9:6]
Credit: The Work of God
CANDY CANES

T
he ingredients for candy canes are sugar and corn syrup, which are stored in stainless steel tanks. These two ingredients are monitored and stored under strict environmental conditions, and are regularly tested in our laboratory to ensure a high quality product.
The sugar and corn syrup are pumped from storage tanks to the candy cane kitchens. The high temperature in the kitchens keep the candy from cooling too fast. The liquid sugar and corn syrup are mixed in pre-cookers and heated to boiling temperature.
Continue the story of the candy cane, go to this web site and click on watch videos - select candy canes
UNIQUE GIFT GIVING FOR CHRISTMAS
For The "Hard to Find" Gift Recipient!
U
nique Gift Giving
HOW GIFT COLLECTIONS WORK
Everyone wants to give the perfect gift.
The gift giver chooses the Gift Collection to give. The recipient chooses the gift he or she wants online and redeems it. The selected gift is delivered directly to the recipient.
Birthdays, weddings, new baby, hostess/thank you, holidays, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day/Father's Day. And many, many more personal occasions are perfect for Ribbon Gift Collections!
Popular brand names like adidas®, Sony®, Ghirardelli®, Cuisinart®, and more. Huge selection of home décor, gourmet foods, electronics, educational toys, jewelry, and more. Fast and easy ordering and redemption. Gift Collections are a joy to give, a pleasure to receive.
Click on my site below and view HOW RIBBON WORKS CUSTOMER VIDEO:
Unique Gift Giving
HISTORY OF THE WREATH
From Wikipedia

W
reath
A wreath is a ring made of flowers, leaves and sometimes fruits that can be used as an ornament, hanging on a wall or door, or resting on a table. A small wreath can be also worn on the head as a form of headdress.
Symbolism:
Wreaths are commonly made from evergreens as a symbol for the strength of life, with these plants overcoming even the harshest winters. Such wreaths often use Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) and can be categorized as laurel wreaths. Other components of a wreath can be pine, holly or yew, symbolizing immortality, and cedar, symbolizing strength and healing. The Greek god Apollo is often associated with wreaths, and was a god of life and health. This inspired the Greek to use the symbol as crowns of victory at the Pythian Games, a forerunner to today's Olympic Games. The circularity of wreaths can be used to symbolize eternity or immortality (see Crown of Immortality).
In Northern Europe, wreaths made of branches of conifer trees (especially firs) are commonly used as a symbol of remembrance of the dead. For that purpose, such wreaths are often left at graves at burial (and sometimes, significant anniversaries thereof), or in cases of burial-at-sea, left to float at the sea.
Use by culture:
These wreaths are festive crowns worn by many Romans. Wreaths were usually for women, and men usually wore crowns. They were a symbol of pride, and they were usually handmade. Most were made of flowers and branches, twigs, thread, and laurels. Wreaths were often used on special occasions such as weddings. They are also used on Remembrance Day (Canada), as a respect to those who fought and died in the Great war.
A laurel wreath decorating a memorial at the Folketing, the national parliament of Denmark
Christianity:
A wreath made of mostly evergreen tree twigs, sometimes with pine cones and/or a bow made of red ribbon is a common Christmas decoration. Christian households and churches often use an advent wreath made with four (or five) candles in preparation for Christmas.It is used to hang on a door as a symbol for the never-ending love of Christ.
While they are common today, their use was actually condemned as idolatry by the theological writer Tertullian in the early third century:
But "let your works shine," saith He; but now all our shops and gates shine! You will now-a-days find more doors of heathens without lamps and laurel-wreaths than of Christians...Idolatry is condemned, not on account of the persons which are set up for worship, but on account of those its observances, which pertain to demons (Tertullian. On Idolatry, Chapter XV. Translated by S. Thelwall. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 3. Edited by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Online Edition Copyright © 2004 by K. Knight).
Irrespective of Tertullian's complaints, wreaths have remained popular, especially during the Christmas season.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
TISSUE PAPER WREATHS
Home Made

T
issue-Paper Wreaths
To make each wreath, you'll need a package of green tissue paper, a few sheets of red tissue paper, a strip of red crepe paper, a wire hanger, scissors, and glue.
First, bend the hanger into a circle. Then cut the green and red tissue paper into 4-by-10-inch pieces. Fold a green piece of tissue in half over the bottom of the wire, twisting it two or three times. (Be careful not to tear tissue.) Slide the paper up to the top. Repeat this step with the rest of the green tissue paper, packing the pieces tightly together, until the hanger is completely covered. Occasionally weave in a piece of red tissue paper to form holly berries. Finally, fold a piece of green tissue paper into a narrow strip and wrap it around the bent hook at the top of the wreath. Secure ends with glue. Add a narrow strip of red tissue for a candy-cane effect. Finish with a big, red crepe-paper bow.
By Norma Jean Byrkett (http://teacher.scholastic.com)
Back to Fun Holiday Crafts
T's From CafePress
FUDGE, FUDGE, AND MORE FUDGE

10 MINUTE FUDGE RECIPE
3 oz Chocolate, unsweetened; 3 sq 4 tb Margarine 4 1/2 c Sugar, powdered 1/3 c Milk, instant nonfat dry 1/2 c Syrup, light corn 1 tb Water 1 ts Vanilla extract 1/2 c Nuts; chopped (opt.)
Melt chocolate and margarine in top of 2 quart double boiler. Sift together powdered sugar and dry milk. Stir corn syrup, water, and vanilla into chocolate mixture. Stir in sugar and dry milk in two additions. Continue stirring until mixture is well blended and smooth. Remove from heat; stir in nuts. Turn into greased 8-inch square pan. Cool. Cut into squares.
"VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES, ADD TO IT. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
"
FAVORITE CHRISTMAS VIDEOS
V
OTE YOUR FAVORITE, ADD TO IT! MERRY CHRISTMAS.
Featured Lenses
SHARE SOMEONE ELSES CREATION.-
Christmas Video Showcase
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Christmas is a time of giving, a time of loving and time for great music. Nearly every band and solo artist worth their salt has created or been part of a great Christmas song. Many artists have made their own Christmas albums, great artists like Elv...
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Snowman
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Do you have a thing you just love and you collect all the things that have to do with that love.Well mine is snowman i love them . They are so cute with there little carrot nose and there sweet loveing eyes. It brings you back to being a kid and an...
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Christmas Trivia Questions And Answers
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1. Which Christmas tree fact is NOT true? A. Artificial Christmas trees have outsold real ones every year since 1991. B. Nova Scotia leads the world in exporting Christmas trees. c. Franklin Pierce was the first president to decorate an official Whit...
H0, H0, H0!
HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS, HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS
Right down Santa Claus Lane. Vixen, Blitzen, all his reindeer
Pulling on the reins.
Bells are ringing, children singing,
All is merry and bright.
Hang your stockings and say a prayer,
'Cause Santa Claus comes tonight.
Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus,
Riding down Santa Claus Lane.
He's got a bag that's filled with toys
For boys and girls again.
Hear those sleigh bells jingle jangle,
What a beautiful sight.
Jump in bed and cover up your head,
Because Santa Claus comes tonight.
Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus,
Riding down Santa Claus Lane.
He doesn't care if you're a rich or poor boy,
He loves you just the same.
Santa knows that we're God's children,
That makes everything right.
Fill your hears with Christmas cheer,
'Cause Santa Claus comes tonight.
Well, here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus,
Riding down Santa Claus Lane.
He'll come around when the chimes ring out
It's Christmas morn again.
Peace on Earth will come to all
If we just follow the light
Let's give thanks to the Lord above,
'Cause Santa Claus comes tonight.
'Cause Santa Claus comes tonight.
DOLLY & RON STEWART SINGING "BABY IT'S COLD OUTSIDE.
Rod Stewart-Baby It's Cold Outside
A Duet by Rod Stewart and Dolly Parton "Baby It's Cold Outside"
Runtime: 4:06
231637 views
10 Comments:
"I SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS - By Jimmy Boyd"
I SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS
Jimmy Boyd
Runtime:
views
Comments:
ELVIS PRESLEY
BLUE CHRISTMAS WITHOUT YOU!
John Lennon - War is Over
John Lennon Happy Xmas (War is Over)
John Lennon Happy Xmas (War is Over)
Runtime: 3:31
267602 views
10 Comments:
CRAZY FROG - LAST CHRISTMAS
Last Christmas - Crazy Frog
The annoying animated frog with a funny video - Last Christmas - - Gideon Productions Inc. -
Runtime: 3:33
3351448 views
10 Comments:
JARS OF CLAY
Jars Of Clay "Love Came Down @ Xmas" VS Basement Jaxx+Photek
Jars Of Clay "Love Came Down At Christmas - The dj moon Remixes" (I like writing it as "♥ Came ↓ @ Xmas"...;) 3 mixes in 1 video: 2 House mixes (one vocal, one dub) 1 Drum & Bass/Jungle mix 01 "Sunshine In A Jar remix" My last (I promise this time;) usage/ABUSAGE of the Basement Jaxx "Red Alert". The "Jars" said in the (jamglue) contest that they "wanted to dance"... 02 "Canopic Jars remix" Mixed with Photek "Smoke Rings". What can I say? I love Drum & Bass. And Photek is my one of my favorite artists of ALL time, even outside of the world of D'n'B. "Canopic Jars" because I used some of the original Jars Of Clay music, slightly effected, and it sounded like/reminded me of sort of an Egyptian Pharoah's music. And, IMnsHO, Photek IS a Pharaoh in music! 03 "Stars & Angels Dub" Second verse, same as the fir... Erm, I mean, SIMILAR to the first mix, but snippets of vocals, hence the "dub" moniker. I think it would make a great dancey track, if I had the opportunity to do an original from scratch. GREAT song to remix! The video is mildly effected, some color changes, and light editing, but for the most part intact. I love animation, and this video is just awesome, so I didn't want to make a mockery of it, nor offend any of the fans.
Runtime: 11:00
818 views
0 Comments:
TOYS, TOYS FOR CHILDREN - KIDS OF ALL AGES.
WE ALL HAVE OUR FAVORITE.

W
HAT'S YOUR FAVORITE? IS IT MENTIONED BELOW.
I HOPE YOU WILL ENJOY THIS SECTION BECAUSE IT IS TIME TO SHOP!
Barbie Doll, doll house, bike, tea set, baseball glove, ball, bat, toy gun, army men, wooden puzzles, top, jump rope, baby carriage, airplane, hola hoope, Magic Chef stove, Daisy rifle, rocking horse, music box, jeef, Spiderman, Batman, Story Book Dolls, money, Monoply, jacks, telescope, fire engine, dump truck, rocking horse, sailboat, trains, stuffed tiger, teddy bear, marbles, wistle, puppy, kitten, pony, etc, etc, etc.
FIREBOX
Great Gifts - Reasonable Prices -ACCEPTING PAL PAL.

M
AKERS OF ETCH-A-SKETCH HAVE SOME OTHER EXCITING TOYS AS WELL. READ BELOW OR CLICK ON TO THE LOGO.
REMEBER THE ETCH-A-SKETCH. Great toy to have around. Take in the car on trips; great when your child is sick in bed.....even amuses adults as well.
Before computers took over the world, Etch-A-Sketch featured the most looked at screen in gaming. And that's pretty impressive for a relatively primitive device used for drawing blocky houses with smoky chimneys and outlines of skyscrapers. (Well that's all we could manage).
But people just couldn't stop twiddling those satisfyingly chunky knobs and Etch-A-Sketch is now an all-time classic. And classics of this quality most definitely deserve a place in your collection. Whether you're new to Etch-A-Sketch or a veteran knob twister in need of a fix, this magical, take-anywhere rectangle is guaranteed to keep you occupied for hours on end.
Yes, it's notoriously difficult to create a diagonal line or a smooth curve but that's what makes Etch-A-Sketch completely unputdownable. Besides, if you mess things up you only have to give the whole shebang a shake and start again. It really is ingenious when you think about it.
Note: They accept PayPal as well.
BOOSTERLINC - PLUG-IN X10 SIGNAL BOOSTER
B
oosterLinc (trademark) Plug-In X10 Signal Booster
PRICE $99.99
Now large X10 installations are possible!
Easy to install - just plug it into any 110V outlet
Great for apartments, condos or houses
LED shows when signals are being amplified or when noise is detected
PATENT PENDING technology developed by Smarthome Design
Does not interfere with INSTEON signals
Essential Info
For error-free automation of your entire home, install several Boosters by simply plugging them into any 110V outlets.
Make your X10 Installation work right!
Are you frustrated because some of the X10 receivers in your home automation system are having trouble detecting powerline commands? Now you can give your powerline signals a huge boost with BoosterLinc Plug-In Signal Booster, an advanced plug-in module that detects all powerline signals on the line and amplifies them in real time. Unlike signal boosts that use 200V repeater amplifiers, using this BoosterLinc module allows for an immediate, absolutely delay-free boost, and dim and bright commands that work flawlessly.
Now accepting PayPal.
BABY MONITORS FROM SMART HOME


It may look like an ordinary toy at first glance, but don't be fooled; the TeddyCam is smarter than the average bear. Despite his cuddly appearance, this bear is outfitted with an advanced baby monitoring system that lets you watch your child on your own TV, without running wires throughout your home. AC adapters are included.
SMART HOME
HANDANGO!
Handango is the leading provider of mobile downloads, and was created for the need for a company to exclusively serve mobile device owners like you. Today, we connect the mobile community with the best content, carrier grade infrastructure and 9 years of market experience. Our goal is to provide you with as many resources as are available, and to help you turn your mobile device into a power-packed machine.
HEARTH SONG
C
hildrens games, toys, decorations for their rooms, family toys and much more.
At HearthSong, we appreciate and value your business. From our beginning over 20 years ago, these ideals have led us to two basic principles:
First, the products and information we offer will fit with the spirit of creativity and fun, "Toys You'll Feel Good about Giving" drives everything we do at HearthSong.
Second, your satisfaction, with both the products you buy and our service and commitment, must be complete. Nothing less is acceptable. We offer only products we use or would use ourselves. We offer them at fair prices, and we guarantee them without condition.
Whether you are a first-time customer or you have been with us since the beginning, we cannot stress our commitment to quality products, superior service, and your complete satisfaction enough. Our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee has no conditions and no time limits.
If, for any reason, at any time, you are less than 100% satisfied with a product you have purchased from us, you may return it for exchange or full refund.
CHRISTMAS FUN - LINK UP!
- Santa Lady
- Various types of Games to play at Christmas.
- Family Fun Go
- Many wonderful Christmas goodies to bake and eat as well as games, arts and crafts, ideas for parties.
- All Types of Recipes
- xmas bread pic here
- All Things Christmas
- Traditions, gifts, cards, lights, carols, things for kids, things to do.....more!
- Snow Flakes
- Your online guide to snowflakes, snow crystals, and other ice phenomena
LOGO, LOGO, LOGO
WORLD'S GREATEST TOYS!

FREE STANDARD SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $99.00.
L
ogo, logo, logo
Find high quality toys at The World's Biggest LEGO Shop!
Did You Know
There are over 10,000 cut-your-own farms for Christmas trees in the United States alone.
COOKIES, COOKIES, AND MORE COOKIES

Polish Thumbprint Cookies
The Poles are well known for creating excellent baked goods. Like many of their cookies, this one is made with almonds and honey. It also has a sweet filling of apricot or other fruit preserves. RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup honey
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 tsp. almond extract
1 cup finely chopped blanched almonds
1/2 cup apricot or other fruit preserves
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Lightly butter several baking sheets. In a medium-size bowl, stir the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer set at medium-high speed, beat the butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and then the almond extract. In 3 additions, beat in the flour mixture, mixing well after each addition.
3. Shape the dough into balls that are about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in the chopped almonds until coated and place on a prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 1/2 inches between the cookies. Using your knuckle or thumb, press a deep indentation into the center of each cookie (a fun project for kids). Fill each indentation with 1/2 teaspoon of preserves.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cookies turn golden. Transfer the baking sheet to a wire rack and cool for 2 to 4 minutes. Using a metal spatula, move the cookies to the wire rack and cool completely. When cool, store the cookies in an airtight container with waxed paper between the layers. These cookies freeze well.
5. Makes about 40 cookies.
Christmas Bonbons
Ingredients for the Cookie Base
3/4 cup butter, softened and divided (no substitutions)
3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 7- or 8-oz. package almond paste
2 eggs, room temperature
48 red candied cherries
Ingredients for the Glaze
1 square unsweetened baking chocolate
1 tbsp. softened butter
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 tbsp. milk
1/2 tsp. vanilla
Directions
Preheat oven to 350° F.
Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream 1/2 cup of the butter and 1/2 cup of the sugar.
Add vanilla. Add flour gradually, mixing well.
Spread in lightly greased 9- by 13- by 2-inch baking pan.
Bake at 350° F for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookie base is golden.
Remove from oven.
Using the mixer set to medium speed, mix almond paste, the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and butter, and the eggs.
Spread over base ingredients.
Arrange cherries on batter six across until there are 8 even rows of 6 cherries each. Do not press cherries into batter.
Bake at 350° for 20 - 25 minutes, or until done.
The cookie should feel firm when pressed lightly with fingers. Remove to rack and let cool.
Meanwhile, combine all glaze ingredients. (See "Tester's Tips".) Blend until smooth.
Drizzle chocolate over cooled bonbon mixture. When glaze is set, cut into 48 pieces.
TESTER'S TIPS:
Add an extra tablespoon or so of butter to cookie base before pressing it into the baking pan. It may be too stiff to spread.
Before combining glaze ingredients, melt chocolate by heating it in the microwave on high for one minute; then remove, stir, and heat it for one minute more. Add water as necessary to chocolate glaze so that it is runny enough to drizzle.
From:
Laura in Ipswich, Massachusetts
Why She Loves This Cookie:
Any cookie made with almond paste somehow always reminds me of Christmas.
They are very rich, but the holidays were meant for indulging and forgetting about the waistline!
Candy Cane Cookies
With peppermint extract and red food coloring, your kids can turn this simple dough into edible ornaments for the tree. RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp. peppermint extract
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Red food coloring
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg and beat well. Stir in the peppermint and vanilla extracts. Gradually mix in the flour.
2. Divide the dough in half. Color one half with red food coloring and leave the other half plain. Roll out a tablespoon of red dough and a tablespoon of plain until they are each 6 to 8 inches long. Twist them into a candy cane, pinching the ends. Repeat.
3. Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for 8 to 10 minutes, or until set but not brown.
Makes about 25.
Credit: jas.familyfun.go.com
GAMES
O
ne Minute of Words
In this game, being excessively wordy is a virtue.
WHAT YOU NEED:
Pencil
Paper
Watch with second hand
HOW TO PLAY:
1. Everybody gets a pencil and paper. Someone has to be the timekeeper (a good job for a grown-up). The timekeeper picks a letter, tells it to everyone else and shouts "Go!"
2. Players write as many words as possible that start with that letter. When a minute is up, the timekeeper says "Stop!" and all the players put down their pencils.
3. Whoever has the most legitimate words wins. Decide in advance whether you can finish writing a word you've already started when the game ends.
4. Now, give everyone one more minute to write a sentence with as many of the words as they can.
Spoons Card Game
Few cards serve up the kind of excitement that are part of every game of Spoons.
WHAT YOU NEED:
Deck of cards
Spoons (one less than # of players)
HOW TO PLAY:
1. The object is to collect four cards of one kind (four twos, four kings and so on) and not to be the person left without a spoon. To begin, place the spoons (one fewer than the number of players) in the center of the table within grabbing reach of all players. Each player is dealt four cards. The dealer keeps the deck.
2. The dealer picks a card from the deck and then discards one card from his hand, sliding it facedown to the player to his left. That player takes it, then picks one card from his hand and passes it to his left.
3. Each player in turn does the same, as quickly as possible. Each person should have four cards in his hand at all times. The player to the right of the dealer places discarded cards in a pile to his left to be used by the dealer when the original deck is used up.
4. Play continues until one player has four of a kind, at which time he takes a spoon from the pile. He may steal the spoon surreptitiously, continuing to pass cards until someone else notices. Or he may grab his spoon, creating a mad rush for spoons at the table.
5. The player left without a spoon has lost the round. If you like to keep score, that player is given an S. As players spell S-P-O-O-N-S, they are out. The player left at the end is the winner.
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"Grinch" Christmas Gift Swap.
Have each guest bring a wrapped Christmas gift to exchange. Players will then each draw a number out of a hat. Whoever goes first gets to choose and open one of the gifts. Player number 2 will then have the option of "stealing" that gift or selecting and opening another gift. As the play goes on, players who have the higher numbers will be able to select from any of the opened gifts or a new gift.
Get Myspace Christmas Countdown
An Amazon of Books
KB TOYS
AGES: 0 - 17+ YEARS
JAMAN - WATCH MOVIES ON-LINE OR RENT DOWNLOADS
PREVIEW MOVIES, ACTORS, ETC.
PERSONALIZED CHILDREN'S MUSIC
Y
our Child's Name
If your child loves music, they will love hearing their name professionally sung throughout our choice of several personalized Children's Music. Child tested ... the personalized children's music is so contagious you'll find yourself singing along with it in no time! We have several Personalized Children's Music CD's and gifts to choose from.
Personalized Children's Music CD's contain original songs that your child will want to hear over and over again. Personalized Children's Music lyrics feature your child in different adventures, occupations, parties, learning, with a personalized message from santa, or a personalize birthday song. In addition to being entertaining personalized children's music cd's are wonderful imagination and self-esteem builders for toddlers and preschoolers. Discover the musical gifts your children will love and enjoy with these special keepsake Personalized Children's Music CD's for years to come.
CHECK THESE OUT!
DOLL HOUSES - GREAT IDEA.
Fisher-Price My First Dollhouse
My First Dollhouse features 5 rooms; Kitchen, Living Room, Bathroom, Parents' Bedroom and Nursery
Item model number: L9502
Our Recommended Age: 24 months - 5 years
Manufacturer Recommended Age: 24 months - 5 years
Batteries: 2 AA batteries required.Also included are 3 chunky articulated figures designed just right for little hands; a mom, dad and baby
Ding-dong Ring Fun sounds add realistic touches
Removable accessories include a kitchen set fridge, stove, sink, table with 2 chairs and toilet
Imaginative play for preschoolers who love to play house
RADIO CONTROLLED HELICOPTER
GIVE SANTA THE GIFT HE WANTS!

C
************************
The 47G-4A is a fully functional electric radio control 2-CH helicopter. It goes up, down, left and right and can fly up to 100 feet high. It utilizes twin electric motors to produce speeds up to 12 MPH. Altitude and rotor speed control make for smoother and more stable flights. It comes fully assembled, all you have to do is charge it up, put in the batteries and the fun begins!
Features:
47G-4A R/C Helicopter
2 Channel Radio Control Helicopter
360 Degree Spin
Factory Assembled Helicopter
Includes:
1 7.2v Rechargeable Battery
2-CH Radio Transmitter (8 AA Batteries are not included)
AC adapter Charger (110 V)
Specifications:
Length:17 in.
Width: 14 in.
Height: 6 in.
Flight Range: 100 ft.
Flight Time: 10 - 15 min.
A PAY PAL retailer
MAKE TRAVEL FUN FOR YOUR CHILD!
IDENTITY DIRECT
A
ctivity Organizer - From $39.95 to $59.95
Identity Direct is one of the world's largest personalized children's products website. Our customers place more than 600,000 orders every year. We provide a unique range of over 500 personalized gifts for children and the family and have been in business for more than 15 years. At Identity Direct we offer the hugely successful My Adventure Book series where children are featured in their own personalized adventure stories. Over 400,000 personalized books are sold every year with My Special Christmas Adventure, Disney Princess and Disney Cars being the most popular.
YOUR CHILD CAN BE A STAR!
IDENTITY DIRECT - CLOTHING LABELS, PERSONALIZED BOOKS
Get a personalized book for your child or grandchild with their name and even their own picture. Great encouragement for reading.

1001 Ways to Personalize your Vinyl Labels
Stretchable Clothing Labels
Extra-stretchy clothing labels actually bond to clothing as you iron-on. Unique material makes labels perfect for clothing items that under go stretching or serious wear and tear. Perfect for swimming costumes and caps, spandex, bike shorts, sports wear, tights, goggles, hats and much more!
LABELS $14.95

DON'T FORGET THE BATTERIES - FREE SHIPPING.
FRANKLIN MINT COLLECTION
BIG CRUMBS - ONE STOP SHOPPING
FROSTY THE SNOWMAN

F
rosty the Snowman
Was a jolly happy soul
With a corncob pipe and a button nose
And two eyes made out of coal
Frosty the Snowman
Is a fairytale they say
He was made of snow
But the children know
How he came to life one day
There must have been some magic
In that old silk hat they found
For when they placed it on his head
He began to dance around
Frosty the Snowman
Was alive as he could be
And the children say
He could laugh and play
Just the same as you and me
Frosty the Snowman
Knew the sun was hot that day
So he said let's run
And we'll have some fun
Now before I melt away
Down to the village
With a broomstick in his hand
Running here and there
All around the square
Saying catch me if you can
He led them down the streets of town
Right to the traffic cop
And he only paused a moment when
He heard him holler stop
Frosty the Snowman
Had to hurry on his way
But he waved goodbye
Saying don't you cry
I'll be back again some day
Thumpety thump thump
Thumpety thump thump
Look at Frosty go
Thumpety thump thump
Thumpety thump thump
Over the hills of snow
HISTORY OF THE CHRISTMAS STOCKING
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Christmas Stocking
A Christmas stocking is an empty sock or sock-shaped bag that children hang on Christmas Eve so that Santa Claus can fill it with small toys, candy, fruit, coins, or other small gifts when he arrives. These small items are often referred to as stocking stuffers or stocking fillers.
In some Christmas stories, the contents of the Christmas stocking are the only toys the child receives at Christmas from Santa Claus. Other presents are wrapped up in wrapping paper and placed under the Christmas tree. Tradition in Western culture dictates that a child who behaves badly during the year will receive only a piece of coal.
By tradition, the stocking is hung on the fireplace mantel, but, since many contemporary homes do not have fireplaces, stockings may be hung in almost any location.
The true story of Santa Claus and Christmas Stockings begins with Nicholas, who was born during the third century in the village of Patara. At the time the area was Greek. His wealthy parents died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young. Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to the those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.
Through the centuries many stories and legends have been told of Saint Nicholas' life and deeds. These accounts help us understand his extraordinary character and why he is so beloved and revered as protector and helper of those in need.
One story tells of a poor man with three daughters. In those days a young woman's father had to offer prospective husbands something of value-a dowry. Without a dowry, this poor man's daughters were unlikely to marry.
One night after the daughters had washed out their clothing, they hung their stockings over the fireplace to dry. That night Saint Nicholas, knowing the despair of the father, stopped by the man's house after the family had gone to bed. He peeked in the window and saw the daughters' stockings hanging by the fire.
Inspiration struck Saint Nicholas, and he took three small bags of gold from his pouch and threw them carefully, one by one, into the stockings. The next morning when the daughters awoke, they found their stockings contained enough gold for them to get married.
The bags of gold, tossed through an open window, are said to have landed in stockings or shoes left before the fire to dry.
This led to the custom of children hanging stockings or putting out shoes, eagerly awaiting gifts from Saint Nicholas. Sometimes the story is told with gold balls instead of bags of gold. That is why three gold balls, sometimes represented as oranges, are one of the symbols for St. Nicholas. And so St. Nicholas is a gift-giver.
The tradition began in many European countries. Originally, children simply used one of their everyday socks, but eventually special Christmas stockings were created for this purpose. Today, stores carry a tremendous variety of styles and sizes of Christmas stockings, and Christmas stockings are also a popular homemade craft.
Many families create their own Christmas stockings with each family member's name applied to the stocking so that Santa will know which stocking belongs to which family member.
FROM: WIKIPEDIA
(Stockings hand made for Son, Daughter-in-Law and Doggie, Buddy.)
Credit: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
REMEMBER BUBBLE LIGHTS?

A
s a kid I just loved bubble lights. We kids could hardly wait for the tree to be put up so that we could sit around and enjoy the bubble lights. So share with me the fun of bubble light. Come on over to my lens:
Bubble Lights
LOVE THOSE CHRISTMAS SONGS!
ENJOY....VOTE YOUR FAVORITE.
Featured Christmas Lenses
More great Christmas lenses to share!-
Things I Love The Most!
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Loved by me...hummingbirds, music, player pianos, carousels, nature, music boxes, my digital camera, people, vintage...these are some of my favorite things. I love the United States of American, our freedoms, our Constitution. I love blogs, and writi...
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Christmas Candy
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Halloween is done and soon your candy supply will be gone. So, time for Christmas candy soon. Here you'll find the traditional candy canes and a whole lot more. I've also included Christmas candy dishes, too!
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Merry Christmas
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More to come! I'll add more items as I come across them. In the meantime, check out the lights, apparel, pictures, puzzles, party supplies, jewelry and more.
TOP 10 USES FOR HOLIDAY FRUIT CAKES
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR


Top 10 Uses For Holiday Fruitcakes
10. Use slices to balance that wobbly kitchen table.
9. Use instead of sand bags during El Nino.
8. Send to U.S. Air Force, let troops drop them.
7. Use as railroad ties.
6. Use as speed bumps to foil the neighborhood drag racers.
5. Collect ten and use them as bowling pins.
4. Use instead of cement shoes.
3. Save for next summer's garage sale.
2. Use slices in next skeet-shooting competition.
1. Two words: pin cushion.
PAPER SNOWFLAKES

P
aper Snowflakes - REMEMBER WHEN, AS A KID, YOU MADE PAPER SNOWFLAKES. MAYBE IT IS TIME TO MAKE SOME THIS YEAR. NEW CHILD IN THE FAMILY, GRANDCHILD???
Make Paper Snowflakes
YOUR FAVORITE CHRISTMAS YEAR
Your Favorite Christma Gift
Everyone has a favorite Christmas, what's yours? Take a moment to vote your favorite Christmas or leave a note at the Guest Book. Thanks.
Merry Christmas Guests
Hope you will sign in and give me some feedback.

Thank you for stopping by. Please sign in and leave your comments.
lisadh wrote...
Love the picture with Santa and your granddaughter. She's a cutie!
grandma_deal wrote...
Fun and intertaining. Some good games to play with the grandchildren. 5*
Aquavel wrote...
Colorful & fun lens! Lots of great info here too! 5 stars!!!!
jpetals wrote...
To make a very long story short, all of our Christmas decorations are currently 5000km away. So we need some cheap ideas for decorations this year and your lens helped. Great lens!! Thank you!
jpetals wrote...
To make a very long story short, all of our Christmas decorations are currently 5000km away. So we need some cheap ideas for decorations this year and your lens helped. Great lens!! Thank you!

CHRISTMAS TIME
TOP TEN ELF PICKUP LINES

T
he Top 10 Elf Pickup Lines
10. I'm down here
9. Just because I've got bells on my shoes doesn't mean I'm a sissy
8. I was once a lwan ornament for Bon Jovi
7. I can get you off the "naughy" list
6. I have certain needs that can't be satisfied by working on toys
5. I'm a magical being. Take off your bra.
4. No, no. I didn't bake those cookies. You're thinking of those dorks
over at Keebler
3. I get a thimbleful of tequila in me and I turn into a wild man
2. You'd look great in a Raggedy Ann wig
1. I can eat my weight in cocktail wieners
(The Late Show)
REMEMBER HIM ON HIS BIRTHDAY.
IN MY FATHER'S HOUSE
Let us give thanks to our Lord, Jesus, for all the blessings He gives us.
(CHRISTMAS is December 25, 2009)

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