How often do we find that there are some people who are just really hard to buy for? At this time of the year, the shopping centres are packed with frantic shoppers looking for the perfect gift, and hoping to pick up a bargain as well.I know that I have always spent a great deal of time looking for the perfect gift, and very little time actually wrapping and organising Christmas as a whole. Christmas hampers have come to the rescue for me on more...more
Most of us have been gifted a basket from a discount shop, and inwardly groaned. They contain teeny jams, shortbread and various other condiments we never use. Of course, we appreciate the gesture, just not the gift. It won't be used, and will likely end up in a cupboard, or re-gifted! The trick with these baskets is to free them of the dated, tired contents and nudge them into the new millennium. Where a dry fruitcake once resided on the left...more
Of all the gifts I have received at Christmas time, some of the most heartfelt have been hampers, customised for me. My favourites have included items for my scrap booking, in colours that I adore. Also, an aromatherapy basket, resplendent with lavender oil, soaps, bath salts and sprigs of the aromatic herb, bound with purple ribbon. As a mum, with not a great deal of spare cash, a food hamper with the items I love is appreciated. I have put together a hamper for a friend who lost her mother, complete with a poem regarding grief, soothing music, and a prayer book. I know it shall mean a lot to her. There is nothing more charming at this time of year than to be given a basket brimming with the items that have a deep personal meaning. A friend of mine lost her baby boy recently, and to commemorate his sad passing, I wrote a children's story, featuring him and his wondrous adventures in a faraway land. I also included a memorial candle. They are incredibly easy to make. Simply take a large pillar candle, a picture of the beloved, and then pin it on with scrap booking brads. Finish by writing their name in permanent pen and add a smattering of glitter glue. A bow...more
As a way to thank fans for supporting them throughout the year, country duo Rascal Flatts recently released a Christmas song. The group's rendition of "Away in a Manger," which has become a country radio staple this holiday season, was made available for download on their official website the week before Christmas. Said one-third of the group, Jay...more
The holidays are about getting together with family and friends. After a long year, what could be better than having a fun time with loved ones? The only answer to that would be playing games with them. Outside the weather is cold and miserable, and if you can avoid going out of the house you should. In fact, you shouldn't be outside, you should...more
The joy and pleasure of Christmas spreads cheer equally among the young and not-so-young, and the magic associated with this holy day keeps growing year after year. One of the reasons why this festival time is so special is the exchange of gifts. Christmas gifts are special as they bring along with them all the love and affection from the giver's heart. People spend a lot of time and effort to find the perfect Christmas gift for the person whom they cherish. A handmade gift further enhances this bond in a relationship as it gives that special personal touch to the gift. Making one at home is a time-intensive activity. However, Christmas hampers are an option worth considering as excellent Christmas gifts.Hampers are more or less associated with food items. This is not necessarily so. You can make an ideal gift to people of a hamper consisting of items that they would genuinely love and treasure by appealing to their special interest or hobby. Themed Christmas hampers may be prepared keeping in mind the special interests of the recipient. Filling a wicker basket with a few items related to gardening, like a few bulbs of gladiola, a couple of packets of seeds, a magazine on gardening...more
The hot spot to bring in the New Year is aboard a luxury Christmas yacht on the San Francisco Bay, the world's most scenic waterway. If youre looking for a special place to celebrate the New Year's Eve...Welcome aboard the 90ft Christmas yacht...more
Celebrate the Christmas season with a scenic dinner cruise along the majestic San Francisco bay a perfect opportunity to get together for a celebration with family, friends or colleagues. The prospect of going out for a cruise is itself a delightful...more
Summer is the hottest season of the year. It is usually marked by temperate weathers so most people take a vacation to get away some place else because of the fine weather. People also flock to the beach and get a tan. 1. The first answer to the...more
December is the month of giving. Do you remember the kings who travelled far and wide to offer their gifts? If you are among the many people who make a big effort in your gift giving, then you probably prepare for the whole thing in advance. Before...more
Those who fancy a more interesting holiday than simply visiting one place should consider a cruise. They are great fun and are worth looking into as they offer a different holiday experience than the usual on offer from travel companies. Iberia is a...more
The sights and sounds of the United Kingdom attract millions of visitors from around the world. No one wants to miss out on a city like London, with Buckingham Palace, and the famous Changing of the Guard to witness some royal pageantry. West End...more