Christmas Joys

How to Enjoy an Authentic Mexican Christmas by Annie Dubois

Ever culture has a different way of celebrating the Christmas season, and Mexico is no different. With the wonderful traditions, you will find an authentic Mexican Christmas is a thing of joy and wonder involving the whole family and lasting considerably longer than one or two days.

December 16th is the start of Posada. Posada celebrates and follows the journey of Joseph and Mary on their travels from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Two children after dark each night carry two small, pine cones that have been decorated to represent Joseph and Mary on the burro. There is a procession each night with the children knocking on a random door asking for lodgings for the family.

At this point, the residents threaten harm to the family if they do not move on, and obviously, this leaves the family pleading for a safe refuge. The house members will again threaten the traveling couple, but then the head of the house will realize who the couple is, and throwing open the doors, will greet and welcome the couple with open arms.

Everyone will kneel around the Nacimiento or the manager scene, and will sing glorious songs, Ave Marias, and of course, offer a prayer. Upon Christmas Eve, adding a new verse to the Ave Marias indicates that the birth is under way, and at midnight, fireworks announce the birth of Christ. There is a lot of wondrous celebration, and the whole family eats, drinks, and prays welcoming the Christ Child to the world.

Of course, if you are celebrating an authentic Mexican Christmas, you will want to have the best in costumes and foods. Delectable cuisine is a must at a celebration, and this is cuisine you will find absolutely delicious and wonderful. Filled with menudo, atole, rice, tamales, and other fine dishes, this is a holiday like no other.

Here are is a favorite from my own kitchen. What would you like to add?

Sweet Rice or Arroz Dulce

3/4 cup of rice
1/2 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of Mexican vanilla or real vanilla
4 cups of whole milk
1 cup of cream
1/4 teaspoon of salt

Briefly scald the whole milk. Place the rice into one of those deep baking dishes, pour the scalded milk over the rice making sure to cover thoroughly, and bake in a 275 degree oven for roughly 3 hours. You can adjust as needed for time and temperature. The rice at this point should be soft. You will want to stir about every 10 minutes for the first house to help in preventing sticking. Also, you can add more scalded milk if needed.

Take out of the oven about 30 minutes before it is completed. Add the sugar, vanilla, cream, and stir thoroughly. Continue baking to completion.

Celebrating a Mexican Christmas or Posada would not be complete without adding this delicious sweet rice to the table. Children as well as adults love this rice dish with a sweet kick. Celebrating the holiday season has never been so easy or so absolutely scrumptious. In fact, this recipe also makes a wonderful dessert for special occasions all year long. Feliz Navidad!

More about Annie Dubois and great Mexican food or gift boxes can be found at Mexican Food & Gifts To Go.

Article Source: KalingAR.com - Articles

How To Get The Perfect Christmas Prefect by Ruth Jarvis

Getting the perfect present for that somebody on our list is not as hard as it may seem but of course we should always take in to consideration that perfection takes on a different meaning in everybody’s mind. For instance there are those whose love for winter sports make them the perfect candidates to receive a lovely new pair of skis or poles however if I be the case then this would be the furthest thing from my desires as I do solemnly detest anything that may have the slightest connection with winter sports. This I say not with intension of offending those who ski or even winter sports as it maybe my foolishness that prevents me from enjoying them but with the aim of giving an example of how “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”. Naturally this philosophy may also be applied to the female gender not only the males because in short what is perfect for one will not by necessity be perfect for another.

Once we have accepted this simple truth it is then that we can proceed by taking another factor in to consideration when getting that specific someone the perfect gift and this being. that the present we are giving is not to ourselves but to another person. It is this fact rather then opinion that should allow us to understand that it is not important for us to like the present but for the future receiver. For instance the fact that we do not like or wear ties should not dissuade us from getting a tie for someone we know does like ties any more then the fact that some of us may like opera should not propel us to give opera CDs or DVDs to someone we know does not like opera. Naturally with some presents such as clothes we can not avoid using our own taste may it be good or may it be bad and then again there are those who tell us in so much detail (for instance a bottle of “Kenzo” “Jungle” 100 ml or “Star Wars 3” on DVD) that we need not fret.

Some people worry weather or not taking the direct approach is appropriate. The direct approach being the one in which we ask the person what is his or her heart’s desire. To this concern I reply that since the present is to be not for ourselves but for that person then we should ask if there is anything specific that person wants or perhaps needs. This makes shopping more efficient though some may say this rules out the element of surprise which is a lovely one but a risky one for we may end up buying some one who does not smoke a very exclusive pipe or a book in a language that person does not speak. I do not rule out surprises but we should go about it with caution when we attempt to pull one off for this may backfire on us if we end up spending a lot of money on a present that receiver will have no use or liking for.

When we ask there are those who may say that what ever we choose is fine or that they wish to get what their eyes see when they close them. It is these people who are the most difficult or perhaps the easiest because they by virtue of having held their peace when asked forfeited their right to complain if they do not get something that is to their liking. With concern to what to get these people then I suggest getting them anything but not for the sake of satisfying them but for the sake of satisfying the need in ourselves to be generous and to give. For if the present pleases not the receiver may the act of giving bring joy to the bearer after all “tis the season”.

We should always remember that a gift maybe practical but does not need to be fore if practicality were the sole issue then all would be made simpler as we could just get our loved ones some roles of toilet paper and have it done with. After all it is this kind of paper which is useful to all living human beings but who in truth wishes to get even 100 roles of toilet paper for Christmas. When I say a present need not be useful this should not to be interpreted that it can not be as a present might be both useful as well as decorative. For instance sweaters are both useful as most people wear them specially in cold countries and are not difficult to get in the right size as they mostly come in Small, medium or large. Of coarse a present has the right to be completely without practical use for instance a bottle of Champagne which in the event the receiver does not drink he or she may always serve to his friends who do or simply pass this present on to others. Let’s not forget that we give presents to others for them to do with them as they see fit.

As an additional word of advice I would like to add that if we are giving ornaments for the house such as paintings or other items of the sort we should be sure that they are to the person in question’s taste because if they are not then that person might be left in an awkward position of having to display in his or her home what that person does not like.

There are many strategies to follow when buying Christmas presents but mine (which is presented in part in my book “New York’s Opera Society”) is the following:
1) Make out a list of all those we wish to make happy with our presents.
This may not be necessary for those whose list only includes a very small number of people but for those who have more to give to it is a way of not forgetting not only those we have to get something for but even those we do not have but should get something for.
2) Next to each name put down two figures, one a minimum and the other a maximum of how much our budget or generosity will allow us to spend. This might be a good idea for those of us who shall we say only posses the kind spirit to give Ferraris, diamonds, Rolexes and such lovely presents but not the unlimited funds that being so generous requires.
3) Decide based on the amount of capital pledged weather to get that person one present or more. In some cases it may be nicer to give more then one present even if they be more humble for the physiological reason of allowing that special someone (effect might be greater on a child) to see more gift paper wrapped boxes under the tree. The sight of many bejeweled boxes is to my way of seeing things the true spirit of Christmas as it not only represents beauty but the spirit of giving and sharing with those who are dear to us.
4) Learn about the person whom we are trying to buy a present for if we are not already familiar with that person by this I mean find out what does the person on our list like. What hobbies if any does this person have so that we might get them something related. For instance if we know a person likes a certain kind of alcoholic beverage that would be an idea.
5) Of course asking perhaps eliminates the surprise factor but can also serve as a method that would avoid us getting somebody a present they may like but already have. For example what use would it be to anybody to have two copies of the same film on DVD, naturally there are those items where this would not matter like having two bottles of “Absolute” vodka for we could empty one first before starting on the second.
6) With children then the wise man’s or woman’s approach would be to ask the parents’ of the child if they are not us not only what would make content the child’s heart but what we can get them so the child will not get two of the same computer game or doll, making it seem as if Santa had committed an error.
7) A method a gentleman or lady might use to get a perfume or any other such item that requires knowledge of the person’s taste is by telling the person whom they intend to give to that they are looking for a perfume for another person. For instance a man could tell his girlfriend he is seeking to buy a perfume for his sister or a female cousin and needs advise on what perfume to get. Naturally his girlfriend will mention the name of the perfume she likes and by doing so tell what perfume she herself would like to get. This making it easy for her boyfriend to know what perfume to get her while still keeping the element of revelation.
Last but not least we should remember that the aim of giving presents is to let someone know they are special to us. This concept is simple in theory but is often forgotten as people in their attempt to impress a certain someone loose sight of the idea that it is the thought that counts.

As a final word I might add to those who feel guilty about receiving what they themselves would classify as overly expensive presents that if a person of his or her own free will is able to give something that is exclusive then why for any logical reason should the receiver hold feelings of culpability. The reason for my believe is that Christmas is a season for giving but for giving to take place somebody has to receive and if a person gives whose large funds should match his large heart then why should another be ashamed to let that person give. Should not being able to match the presents we receive dollar for dollar because our financial position does not allow us to do so prevent us from accepting costly presents? I claim for myself and those who care to heed my counsel that it should not for those who give should do so only with intension of pleasing the spirit of giving and nothing more.

However to those whose feelings of guilt go beyond all reason then I suggest to them not to return that Ferrari, Rolex watch, diamond necklace or those 2 million dollars worth of shares in Microsoft as this will surely offend the giver beyond measure. To them my recommendation is to pass on their feelings of guilt on to me for I by taking these items will relieve them of the ill feelings that taking them would have brought upon them.

My name is Gianni Truvianni, I am an author who writes with the simple aim of sharing his ideas, thoughts and so much more of what I am with those who are interested in perhaps reading something new. As for the details regarding my life I would say that there is nothing that lifts them above the ordinary. I was born in New York City in 1967 on May 21st and am presently living in Warsaw, Poland where I wrote my first book “New York’s Opera Society” now Available on Amazon.

Check out How To Get The Perfect Christmas Prefect

Article Source: KalingAR.com - Articles

Christmas Gifts For Ornithologists by Tony Maddison

So you know a bidwatcher but have no idea what one would want as a gift? Well here is a bit of a backgrounder to ornithology and what someone who is into this hobby would love for christmas or a birthday present!

Ornithology is a great hobby because you get to meet people, get close to nature and know the difference between each species. When you know a person who loves to do this, present him or her with something they can use which matches his area of interest. What would be most appreciated by someone interested in bird watching? To know this, you will have to learn what equipment they have when the go to watch the birds.

Probably a hat is one of the easiest and least expensive items to buy. This can be a good idea as it should improve their vision and act as a sun blocker too. Another very useful gift is a pair of cargo pants with multiple pockets which allow them top carry snacks and other necessary bits and pieces.

Something which has a greater number of pockets than this is a bird watching vest, which could be even more useful. Retrieving things from the back pack is sometimes difficult so instead, they could use these pockets for their water, map, insect repellent etc. In case you are aware that their old back pack needs replacement, this could be something you can easily purchase as a present. Backpacks are available in plenty of sizes so you only need to find one that will be just large enough for a day out as these people do not carry too many things.

The gift which costs most for a birdwatcher is a pair of decent binoculars. The distance and the field of view which the viewer can see depends on the lens of the binocular and this can make the binocular an expensive prospect. You can get plenty of features in binoculars; expensive versions allow lenses to be interchanged and some can be used to take pictures and videos even.

Ornithologists normally document what varieties of birds they have found, in what numbers and in particular where they were seen; so a good gift idea could be a bird watching journal.

A subscription to a bird watching periodical might also be welcomed. Published monthly (sometimes quarterly), they are able to see pictures of birds which frequent distant places around the world. Although costly, you could collect contributions form other friends and send your ornithologist friend on a bird watching vacation to Canada or South America for example. Of the many thousands of species of birds, only a fraction of these are indigenous to the US, many never visit the continent at all.

Unless you talk to the recipient first and understand their needs, you can never decide which gifts would be most appreciated however, if you have a small talk it can give you many options. Then you can buy the most affordable and meaningful gift for your friend. It might just be that while buying the gift, you might decide to try your hand at bird watching yourself. Rather than admiring such people, you would soon be joining their group.

If you want some more ideas on cheap Christmas gifts for bird watchers, or anyone else, check out NowGoDo Australian shopping guide. You will find a lot of Christmas supply ideas as well as gifts and decorations for the festive season.

Article Source: Happy Living Articles

Christmas Present Ideas: Top 5 Tips For Buying the Right Present for the Right Person by Alice Rose

‘Your expert opinion on choosing the Right Present for the Right Person.’ ‘An infallible guide to gift giving. ‘No problem,’ I reply, ‘And then I’ll sort out world peace, the meaning of life and the secret of eternal youth, all before teatime.’

The trouble is, I am an expert at buying the Wrong Present for the Wrong Person. (Worst disaster: giving a copy of ‘How to Eat’ to an Australian friend of my husband – how was I to know she had recently put on three stone, had never heard of Nigella Lawson, and thought I was giving her a diet book?).

Occasionally, I even manage to buy the Right Present for the Wrong Person. Like a tasteful Liberty print shopping bag for my new sister-in-law. My mother would have loved it. ‘Are you saying I’m a bag lady?’ said the future sis as she opened the package, wondering why I thought she’d turned into a librarian.

But sometimes I do get it right, and there is nothing to compare with that feeling of beneficent smugness: you love it, they love it – ergo, they love you. Hurray. So, for what they’re worth, here are my five top tips for buying the Right Present for the Right Person:

1) Never do the Spice Girl thing by asking, ‘Tell me what you want, what you really really want.’ Asking for present ideas a) is a cop-out, b) puts them in an impossible position - they will inevitably end up spluttering something about socks or hankies (yes, even the girls) because c) what they really really want, might seem a bit greedy. My husband wants Hereford United football club; my harassed sister-in-law wants an uninterrupted night’s sleep. And – thank you for asking – I would quite like George Clooney in his ER scrubs, but an expensive scented candle would do. Tricky, isn’t it?

2) Concentrate. Think inside the box: what do they like? What do they have? What might they need? The best present-buyer I know is my sister’s friend Jooney, who specializes in small, thoughtful Christmas present ideas like favourite childhood sweets – you can’t beat a year’s supply of Sherbet Dibdabs. My amazingly organized friend Bex keeps a present ideas page in her diary, and makes a note when she sees a brilliant present idea because, ‘You might think you’ll remember, but you won’t’.

3) Avoid present ideas which could possibly come under the ‘Novelty’ heading. Even if you think something is hilarious, it probably isn’t. (Just typing this makes me cringe about what we gave my father-in-law last Christmas. Just because he spends hours on his ride-on mower doesn’t mean he wants a bobble hat emblazoned with the words ‘The Lawn Ranger’).

4) Think about whether your present ideas fall under the category of Stuff. We all have too much Stuff. Stuff is bad; means of organizing stuff – beautiful albums, journals, storage boxes – are always good.

5) Start a present cupboard. I know, I know – this is totally unspontaneous and too grown-up for words, but having a small, gorgeous stash of emergency presents guarantees that even if you don’t have the Right Present, you’ll have something: instant smugness.

Aaaahhh. See, you’re feeling a bit smug already. That wasn’t so hard, was it? Now, where did I put George’s phone number?

Lifestyle journalist Alice Rose is a member of the expert panel of style journalists and trendsetters who vet and select gifts for The Handpicked Collection, a website and catalogue featuring a selection of unique Christmas present ideas.

Article Source: Life Is Cheerful

Tips For Sending Out Business Christmas Cards by Melanie Smith

Whether you are the sole proprietorship or are the Chief Executive Officer of a Fortune 500 corporation, sending business Christmas cards can serve to boost your customer relations and greatly improve your bottom line. About half of all businesses send holiday cards - sometimes with unintentional negative consequences. Here are some tips to ensure that your caring gesture will be interpreted in the best possible light.

Choosing the Appropriate Card

All business has an image it portrays, whether through its logo, its branding efforts, or its marketing strategy. The design of business Christmas cards you chose should emphasize that image. If, for instance, you are a stockbroker, a Wall Street winter scene might be fitting. On the other hand, if you are a pediatric dentist, more fanciful greeting cards are in order. For most businesses, elegant and tasteful card is always suitable. When it comes to selecting a greeting card company, there are many online sources available for business Christmas cards. Make sure to select one that is well recognized and has a track record of satisfying customers. The best online greeting card companies will send you sample cards upon request, and even offers personalization, free coordinating foil-lined envelopes, and printed envelopes.

When ordering business holiday cards, bear in mind that not everyone celebrates Christmas. A card expressing “season’s greetings” or “warm holiday wishes” will keep you from inadvertently offending those who aren’t of the Christian faith.

Sending Your Business Christmas Cards

In business, timing is crucial. Although you have established a leeway in sending out your business holiday cards, the rule of thumb is to send them between December 1 and December 15. If you’re a business-to-business company, bear in mind that many businesses close or have reduced working hours during the holiday season, so be certain that your card arrives in advance of the holidays. In order to send your holiday cards out in a timely manner, make sure to place an order early. Personalized business Christmas cards can take a few weeks to make, so make an effort and place your order by mid-October.

The Personalized Style

The principle of sending business greeting cards is to motivate warm feelings in the recipient. That won’t surely happen if your Christmas cards have address labels and are run through a postage meter. Burn up some extra effort and have someone on your staff with a nice handwriting address the envelopes by hand. In addition, be sure to use a postage stamp instead of a meter when applying postage. In the same vein, although it is necessary to have your cards printed with the company’s name, the cards should also be signed by hand. The best way is to have those who closely work with the recipient sign the card by hand. If you have a small enterprise, you may have a card signing party one afternoon, and have each person on your staff sign each card. This will go a long, long way, making a positive impression on the recipient.

Be a Courteous Recipient

There’s little doubt that your company will also receive business holiday cards from your vendors and business associates. Be a courteous recipient and display the cards in your workplace. It will not only bring a bit of holiday optimism to your office, but it will also delight those who have sent a card to you and see it displayed.

Read more Christmas talks at merry christmas 24. If you want to now more about Business Christmas Cards, then also visit Christmas Cards for some tips and guides..

Article Source: Life Is Cheerful