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<title>Latest Holidays Articles</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Relaxing Beach Chairs come in a Variety of Styles</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/relaxing-beach-chairs-come-in-a-variety-of-styles.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/relaxing-beach-chairs-come-in-a-variety-of-styles.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:21:32 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <p>While growing up, I spent many years in Europe. During my last three years of High School we were in northern Italy and spent many summer days on the beaches of the Adriatic Sea. Relaxing beach chairs were a part of our family, we all had our own chair. They had a wooden frame and sling style fabric seat. These sling chairs were very popular on the beaches of Europe during the 1980&rsquo;s. They were low to the ground and quite comfortable. I discovered that sling chairs are still on the market today, though you can now get one that rocks. This is just one of the many great beach chairs on the market today, lets take a look at some of the others so that you can enjoy lazy days on the beach while staying off of the sand.</p>
<p>Personally, I like the wood framed chairs, and there are a lot of styles available. Besides the sling chairs, you can get full loungers made of quality oak. The wood is well protected with a marine spar finish to last through tough weather conditions. These loungers offer multiple positions, from sitting up, to recline, to totally vertical. On some of them the leg rests are detachable. There are also wood deck chairs, similar to a directors chair but regular height. Or similar to the deck chair, but really low to the ground are sand chairs. All of these have oak frames and canvas seats and backs. Some of these relaxing beach chairs also have wider wood arm rests with built in cup holders.  Any of these styles are handy because they fold up, are stylish and are comfortable.</p>
<p>The lounger really is the ultimate in relaxing beach chairs. Besides a wood framed lounger, the most popular chairs have an aluminum frame. But if you look around, you will discover that not all aluminum loungers are created equal. You do not have to settle for the cheap aluminum frames with the vinyl, multicolored straps. Better options include ergonomic chairs with fabric covers, special pillows for your face and neck, abdominals, and feet. These chairs boast being very comfortable and therapeutic. Many even have a face or ponytail hole, which is great for lying on your stomach. Most of these are lightweight  and fold up for easy transportation.</p>
<p>Another option, besides wood and aluminum, is recycled plastic. These make great <a href="http://www.relaxingbeachchairs.com">relaxing beach chairs</a> that come in a large variety of colors, are easy to clean, and come in styles that mimic classic styles, such as Adirondack and chaise lounges. Besides being able to get the chair in multiple colors, you can also get optional cushions in great colors and patterns.</p>
<p>Once you decide which of the many styles of relaxing beach chairs is best for you, don&rsquo;t forget the other accessories, such as a small table for your drink and book, or perhaps your laptop computer. An umbrella is great for when you need a bit of shade. Even if you do not live near a beach, one of these chairs may be perfect for you. They are great pool side, taking to the park, when you are camping, or for laying out on your deck at home. Relaxing beach chairs are definitely not for just the beach anymore!</p> ]]></description>
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<title>No one makes clocks quite like Bulova</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/no-one-makes-clocks-quite-like-bulova.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/no-one-makes-clocks-quite-like-bulova.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2009 02:55:13 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <p>No one makes clocks quite like Bulova. Whether you are looking for a unique miniature collectible clock, or an elegant mantel clock, Bulova has one that will suit your needs. Every Bulova Limited Edition Miniature Collectible Clock is individually numbered and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity attesting to its position in a single controlled production run. Whether you are interested in a rotating sail Windmill or the charm of a British phone booth with ringing phone, Bulova has the miniature for you. <br /><br />Holiday collectibles include a snowman, a holiday train or a gingerbread house. For the musically inclined, they have an award-winning piano clock, a gramophone or an enchanting jukebox. There is also an Alcatraz lighthouse, a weathervane or an antique globe miniature clock. The porch swing, the Coquetries furniture design, or the old-fashioned rocking chair miniature clock intrigues many people. For the nostalgic, there's also a delivery bike, a mailbox, a gas pump, a civil war cannon or an antique stove. Bulova adds and retires pieces in the collection each year.<br /><br />Inspired by classic late 19th and early 20th century designs, Bulova recently introduced the Streets of Time Collection. These are superbly crafted street clock replicas that recall a rich tradition of timekeeping artistry. Masterfully detailed on all sides, each clock features meticulous ornamentation, tapered spear hands, and a beautifully applied finish over solid metal. These are a treasure to give or receive. Mantel clocks have German movements and are available with Westminster chimes on the quarter or hour. Pendulum clocks have intrigued people since the beginning of time. Many mantel clocks have decorative carved accents, and screened glass fronts and side panels. Some are equipped with night shut off, and play a selection of chimes. <br /><br />Wood finishes are available in golden oak to deep rich mahogany. Engraving names or sentiments is always appreciated on these beautiful timepieces. Anniversary clocks are traditionally brass with a revolving pendulum. Genuine Swarovski crystal graces some of these models. Westminster or other chimes on the quarter or full hour are another feature. Tabletop clocks are usually in brass or silver tone with occasionally some wood accents. They grace any room or office. Many have a picture frame on one side. These are hinged in metal, wood or leather. They are perfect keepsakes for those special moments that mean so much.<br /><br />Every desk deserves a clock from the Bulova executive collection. Some have pens, letter openers, or business card holders attached. Many are available in elegant wood finishes and have international time for the convenience of the international businessman. Some also have thermometers or hygrometers to keep the office comfortable. Of course, there are Maritime clocks in the collection. <br /><br />Any boater or would-be boater would cherish one of these. Time and tide are displayed in many along with Fahrenheit and Celsius weather scales. Travelers always need a small travel alarm clock. You cannot depend on a wake-up call or the room-equipped clock. Whether you choose one with an ascending alarm, or world time, or am/fm radio, these clocks are a necessity for the traveler. Since many consumers have often used a Bulova bedside alarm clock, they are already acquainted with the quality and dependability.<br /><br />Wall clocks and wall chime clocks help with your decor. These clocks are a focal point that enhances a room along with pictures or a mirror. The wall collection is available in old world walnut finished, golden oak and an array of two-tones. The licensed collection of Pfaltzgraff patterns is the choice for dining rooms and kitchens. <br /><br />To commemorate an important milestone, acknowledge exceptional performance or provide incentive for continued achievement, nothing speaks as personally as a customized Bulova timepiece. Logos or designs can be custom imprinted or silk-screened on engraving plates. These are the ideal corporate gifts.<br /></p> ]]></description>
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<title>The Poinsettia, a Christmas Star</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/the-poinsettia-a-christmas-star.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/the-poinsettia-a-christmas-star.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2009 07:05:52 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <p>As the city nights unfold from warm evenings to the holiday breeze, the world slowly prepares for Christmas as early as November. The manifestations of Christmas begin with the insertion of random Christmas carols in commercial establishments or a delivery of Christmas trees that decorates the front entrance of malls. Other than the carols and trees, it is the lights from the many houses that slowly populate the cityscape and captivate the evening.<br /><br />It is tradition that families come and decorate their homes with trimmings and flowers. But these are no ordinary flora - it is a special Christmas flower, the Poinsettia (Euphorbia Pulcherrima), as it is best known around the world, that echoes to the household that Christmas is just around the corner. Though stereotyped as another tradition, the Poinsettia has its roots in Mexican legend. Based on its roots, it was brought over to the West by a Mexican Ambassador Joel Roberts Poinsett. But from tradition, the Poinsettia was said to be a bloom most beautiful coming directly from the heavenly skies.<br /><br />The traditional tale is passed down in history with a poor farm girl wanting to offer the very best gift to the Savior during Christmas day. Her plea was heard by the angels above and they instructed her to gather weeds and align the Church walkway with these. According to legend, after the little girl delivered this task the angels miraculously converted the weeds into a crimson red bloom. And thus was born the Poinsettia, a Christmas flower.<br /><br />Regardless of what it is called around the world, the Poinsettia - known also as the Noche Buena, the Winter Rose, the Christmas Star, the Flame Leaf, the Stelle di Natalle finds itself inside the homes of families around the world as a symbol of Jesus Christ&rsquo;s love for believers in the Christian Faith. The Christmas Flower is usually hung outside homes on the front doors to greet passersby or made to hang on the Christmas tree indoors to bring it to full bloom.<br /><br />Regardless of its many symbolisms, the Poinsettia points to the nativity of Jesus Christ, symbolic of the brightest star that led the wise men and shepherds to that little manger in Bethlehem. The Poinsettia is beautiful. It is a most wonderful centerpiece that decorates the dinner table when family and friends gather to celebrate the season of love. And isn&rsquo;t that what Christmas is all about?<br /></p> ]]></description>
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<title>Buying the perfect Christmas gift for a man</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/buying-the-perfect-christmas-gift-for-a-man.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/buying-the-perfect-christmas-gift-for-a-man.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:41:42 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ When Christmas is drawing ever nearer, the days are getting shorter and the snow is starting to fall, it is high time to start planning what Christmas presents to buy. For most, Christmas shopping is very stress related, but there are, however, ways of avoiding the whole Christmas rush hour and instead buying the Christmas presents online instead from the comfort of your home.<br /><br />In order to receive the Christmas presents you are planning on buying in due time, you will have to remember to order them well in advance. Be sure to double check the delivery time to make sure the Christmas presents do not end up getting delivered sometime in January. There are obviously as many good Christmas presents as there are wish lists, but if you are buying your presents online there are some that are better â€“ and less expensive â€“ than others.<br /><br />If you, like so many others, are having problems deciding on what presents to buy, do consider the general tips and ideas I will be writing about. Whether you are purchasing a Christmas gift for your wife, husband, grandmother or child, you are sure to find something that will fit. If not, well then it might be time to put your coat on and join all the other sweaty Christmas shoppers in the over-crowded shopping malls.<br /><br />When buying a Christmas gift for a man, any man, there are of course lots and lots of things to choose from, some better than others. The question is whether to buy something practical and/or useful, or simply to buy a toy or similar.<br /><br />Most men can be quite childish by nature so it is not written in stone that they will prefer a more serious Christmas gift over a less serious one. But there are many useful Christmas presents that even the most childish man will most likely enjoy.<br /><br />Clothes<br /><br />Most men, and especially the reach the middle aged ones, have problems finding the time and/or the inspiration to go out clothes shopping. Because of this, clothes are always a great idea for a Christmas gift for men of all ages and personal interests. The obstacle is more along the lines of finding the right clothes for the right man.<br /><br />Beauty care products<br /><br />Skin care, a manicure, a teeth whitening session or similar are all Christmas gift ideas that can be spot on â€“ or terribly off. Most men would do well to use more beauty care products, if only to make their wives, partners or girlfriends happy. As always, the gift depends on what type of man is in the receiving end.<br /><br />Jewelry<br /><br />Jewelry can, just like skin care products, be a sensitive subject for some men. Just the same, jewelry is at the same a good gift idea for most men. Today there is a vast supply of male jewelry to choose from, so the chances of finding the right kind of jewelry for the right man are quite high.<br /><br />Toys<br /><br />Toys are not only for kids at all! It is not a coincidence that fathers can more often than not be found fooling around with their children's Christmas presents instead of drinking eggnog with the rest of the adult part of the family. From a pure genetic viewpoint, men show no discernible differences from children when they unwrap the paper from their new, fancy radio car. ]]></description>
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<title>The â€œPersonalized Giftâ€  All Around Awesomeness</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/the-a%80cpersonalized-gifta%80%9D-all-around-awesomeness.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/the-a%80cpersonalized-gifta%80%9D-all-around-awesomeness.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2008 17:49:05 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Personalized gifts, an easy and affordable way to shock and awe the recipient. If your looking for a cool gift to get your friends this year. Might I say that personalized gifts are definitely on the rise. Nothing says, "You Rock" like a personalized sign that says â€œYou Rockâ€ :)  Whether it's a â€œPersonalized Signâ€ that they can hang in their game room or a â€œCustom Poker Jerseyâ€ they can wear on poker to the Friday night poker game. A personalized gift shows you put some thought into the occasion. It showcases the fact  you went out of your way to get them a gift that is actually labeled theirs.<br /><br />You might ask yourself, â€œI want to get them completely awesome yet affordableâ€ I will explain how you decide which products will be right for your occasion. If your budget is between $30-$60 I would suggest getting them a â€œPersonalized Wooden Signâ€ or a â€œPersonalized Metal Signâ€ After all it's something they can hang in just about every room and adds a little life to their space.  Everyone loves to have their name on things, it marks it as theirs. So help out a friends personal space by getting them a sign that says it is theirs.<br /><br />The options are pretty much limitless if your willing to drop a little extra coin on â€œCustom Bowling Shirtsâ€. You know, something they can wear with pride. Maybe even a â€œPoker Baseball Jerseyâ€with Pictures of Seven, Deuce on the back with â€œSucking Outâ€ Scripted on for the name. Really the options are endless. The personalized gift will continue being one of the best gift they have received for a long time. <br /><br />The facts are in this day in age with all the options out there finding quality gifts you can be proud of is quickly becoming one of the most difficult realities of the 21st century. Everything is affordable and we just don't know what will be a hit and what will be re gifted : / I say get em something that says â€œHey, It's yoursâ€ and now you are stuck with it. ]]></description>
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<title>Six Secrets You Need to Know About What Kind of Gift to Get Mom</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/six-secrets-you-need-to-know-about-what-kind-of-gift-to-get-mom.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/six-secrets-you-need-to-know-about-what-kind-of-gift-to-get-mom.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Now buying gifts for mom can be difficult, especially if you don't know what your mom likes or dislikes. More importantly you will need to know what your mom really needs. There are tons of gifts to choose from, but only a few gifts that will work best for her.  When shopping for jewelry for your Mother it is important to remember that not all gifts can be given to everyone. 

There are many things you will need to know in order to make a wise gift decision. The six secrets shared with you below can be used to make picking out special gifts for Mom easier and even a bit fun. Finding the perfect Mother's gift does not have to be a time consuming process and, thanks to these secrets, you will not have to worry about giving the wrong gift to your Mother.

Find out what types of jewelry your mom does not already have but has been dying to get.  Keep an eye out for what she usually wears and what catches her attention when she is window shopping. 

Do some online research to find out what types of mother's jewelry are available online. This will give you some perspective as to what is available online for fast purchase. 
Know what types of metal your mom can and cannot wear. Many women are allergic to artificial jewelry; in that case you will need to buy either gold or special silver or titanium made for those with allergies. 

A gold ring is one of the best mother's gift, because it is something that can be worn all of the time with any outfit. A gold ring can be customized with your mom's name engraved, or message engraved that communicates love for your mom making a good gift even better. 
When buying gold or silver jewelry, be sure to pickup jewelry from a store with a good reputation. You always want to be sure that you are getting the high quality jewelry you were promised. 

There are many online stores that specialize in providing jewelry specifically for moms. These stores make it easy to select the right gift for your mom. 

Purchasing jewelry for your mother does not have to be a difficult time consuming process.  By keeping these secrets in mind you will be taking the guess work out of jewelry buying.  Follow this advice and you will be sure to find great gifts for mom. ]]></description>
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<title>Seek the Help of a New York Casino Party Company - Don't Plan Everything All by Yourself</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/seek-the-help-of-a-new-york-casino-party-company-dont-plan-everything-all-by-yourself.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/seek-the-help-of-a-new-york-casino-party-company-dont-plan-everything-all-by-yourself.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 02 Nov 2008 00:41:05 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Planning to hold a party in New York? Why not try having a casino-themed party! These days, it is much easier to do so with the help of a New York casino party company. You no longer have to go on an endless search of casino rentals and people who would lend you the necessary accessories and equipments to duplicate the fun in a Las Vegas party. What's even better is that you can already take Las Vegas to New York by holding such a party and let every one of your guests get blown away with all the casino games they can play!
<br /><br />
New York city is one huge and terribly busy city. Some people may think that hosting a casino party somewhere in New York is better done alone. But this is not as easy as it seems. You may think that you get to spend less this way but if truth be told, what you save on money may go wasted with so many tasks at hand that needs to be taken care of. This is especially true if it's your first time to arrange a casino party at some place in New York.
<br /><br />
When planning a casino party to be held somewhere in New York, you need to consider a lot of things.
<br /><br />
Remember, New York is a highly established city, which means there are several companies that offer various services for different types of needs. However in the case of casino related businesses, there are not much casino equipment rentals available in the area unless of course they are a New York casino company. So, the task alone of finding these casino equipments will surely be a big challenge already.
<br /><br />
You should also note that the streets of New York tend to be small and crowded, which is why traffic can be such a pain. So imagine if you have to carry all these casino stuff and set it up on your place by yourself. But if you'll just get the help of the casino party experts, you no longer have to worry about these things. All you need to do is focus on your list of guests and how you will be inviting them to attend your casino party including all other important aspects that you just cannot afford to miss preparing before starting the party.
<br /><br />
Another thing is, although there are several venues available within New York that you can choose from when finding the perfect location to hold your party, you will definitely need to do your own researching in arranging the place for the party. Unlike when you hire a new york casino party company, these companies are so familiar already with New York city as a whole and that includes the different casino party venues within it. A professional New York casino party company would know exactly what to do and what exact kind of set-up will fit for every particular party venue inside of New York. So really, considering the value of your time, money, and effort - seeking the help of a casino party professional would be a better option rather than daring to plan everything on your own.
 ]]></description>
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<title>Whose Family Do We Visit, His or Hers?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/whose-family-do-we-visit-his-or-hers.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/whose-family-do-we-visit-his-or-hers.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 02 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Every year, millions of North American families go through the agony of deciding who to spend Christmas Day with; his family or her family.  Add children, divorce and remarriage into the mix and the logistics become even more of a nightmare.

Before my husband and I had children, it was rather easy.  Like a lot of us, we alternated.  One Christmas Day with his family, the following Christmas Day with my family.  However, when we had our first child, things became a bit more problematic.  To add to the predicament, my mother moved hundreds of miles away to an out of the way little town up north.

We decided to turn what some saw as a drawback into an adventure.  Instead of driving five hours in potentially dangerous winter conditions, we opted to take the train.  Our two and a half year old son was bursting with excitement about taking the train to visit his grandmother and surrounded himself with picture books of trains thinking that he could decide which one we would take.  He settled on an old fashioned steam engine. 
 
The trip ended up being well worth the time and effort.  The scenery was spectacular, the company was terrific and we had a great time.

The next few years we spent Christmas Day with my husband's family without issue.

Until the Christmas from hell.

Our children were now four and seven, and we had relocated about two hours away from my husband's family due to work related matters.  

The morning started out well enough.  The kids were up at 5 to open their stockings, a tradition we started that allowed my husband and I a few more hours of shut eye, though of course we overheard every tip toe and every whispery giggle.

We had our traditional Christmas breakfast followed by presents, followed by...WHINING!  AND MORE WHINING.  I detest whining, but in all honesty, I couldn't blame the kids for being cranky.  It was Christmas and all they wanted to do was stay home with their new treasures.  Instead, they had to get all dolled up to visit the family.

We went, reluctant kids in tow, to spend the afternoon at my sister-in-laws house.  Once we got there, the kids perked up (more presents will do that), and we had a good time.  

The drive home was another story.  A two hour drive turned into a five hour white knuckle adventure courtesy of a major winter storm that dumped twelve inches of snow over the entire area in less than twelve hours.   As we crawled homeward in whiteout conditions, grateful for the rear lights of the truck in front of us we decided right then and there, never again!

No more traveling on Christmas Day.  It was time to start our own traditions!  And we have.  We always have the same breakfast, followed by finger foods throughout the day, and a full course dinner late in the evening.  We watch movies, play board and video games and just have fun spending uninterrupted time together as a family. 

If I had to choose one word to describe our Christmas Day it would be "relaxed".  No one needs to be in a hurry because we're not going anywhere. ]]></description>
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<title>Six Basics For Buying Anniversary Gifts For Mothers</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/six-basics-for-buying-anniversary-gifts-for-mothers.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/six-basics-for-buying-anniversary-gifts-for-mothers.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 02 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Buying Anniversary gifts for moms has its fair share of problems for the inexperienced buyer. The mother's anniversary gift needs to send the right signal and there is no way you can learn this through a book or by reading an article. This can only come through experience and a fine attention to detail.

This article will provide you with some basic information that will help you make the right choices when shopping.  The below six points will help you and your gift send the right message to the special mother in your life.  With these basics you will not have to worry about spending money on the wrong gift again. 

Basic tip 1: Anniversary gifts for moms need to have lots of sentimental value. A perfect anniversary present for her would make her feel great about herself, her family and her time spent with her family.

Basic tip 2: Keep an eye out for what she would like to have - a piece of jewelry, a trip to a foreign land or simply a night out at a special place.  As with any other kind of mother's gift, it must be something that she can emotionally relate to and cherish.

Basic tip 3: A mother's jewelry is a very sentimental asset for her. But not every kind of jewelry will do the trick - the jewelry should somehow relate to her family, for example a locket with a family picture inside.

Basic tip 4: A special gift for mom - any mom, will always need to be unique to her and her family in someway. It's not a bad idea to have something tailor-made for her, like a piece of jewelry.

Basic tip 5: Sometimes a good mother's gift is not "something" but rather some action or attitude. Maybe the gift of time is all she wants or maybe she would just cherish it you could make a donation in her (or her family's) name.

Basic tip 6: The mother's anniversary gift needs to be presented on time - 12 midnight usually is the best time but if that is unsuitable then first ting next morning will do the trick as well. It's important to send the message that you have given the gift lots of thought and the act of showing up at midnight (or early morning) shows you were looking forward to the moment.

Gifts for moms require a lot of prior thought and planning to get everything right. The ideal gift should either bring back memories or create new ones by being unique and personal. Keep in mind that the goal of this present is to capture the memories of previous years while inspiring hope for the years to come. ]]></description>
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<title>Simple and Easy Halloween Tricks and Tips for Decorating</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/simple-and-easy-halloween-tricks-and-tips-for-decorating.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/simple-and-easy-halloween-tricks-and-tips-for-decorating.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 02 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ So Halloween is just a few days away and you want to make it extra special for your kids or maybe you just want to get in on the fun and do something different this year.

With only a few days away, there is not much time to really make anything extravagant and if your budget cannot afford costly props, then these simple little tricks and tips will help to make your Halloween a really frightening and festive eye catcher.

First thing first, and by all means leave all the leaves that have fallen from the trees all over the yard.  This is about the only decorative celebration that you actually want your yard to look messy!  A good thing, since we don't have much time and it's only a few days away!

Go to your local grocery store or farmer's market and pick up as many pumpkins as you can carry.  They generally get cheaper the closer you get to Halloween, especially the day of which is Ok because you won't need a lot of time to dress them up.

That also goes for Halloween Treats, stores always over stock and they are dirt-cheap on the day of Halloween.  This is true during the day once they first mark them down.  Don't wait until early evening, after work to expect to find any because they will be gone.  So if you can manage, go on the day of Halloween.

Once you have your pumpkins, find all the colored markers you can find and spruce up the pumpkins with any kind of image you like and don't limit yourself to faces!  You can draw a bat, a cat, a ghost, happy faces; scary faces; the choices are endless.  Let go, be creative and have some fun.

The next thing to do is to smear your front door, porch, bushes, and trees with cotton balls pulled apart to look like cobwebs.  You can actually buy "cobwebs" in a bag, also made out of cotton, but really it's just cotton and the cotton balls you have in your bathroom works just as well and more importantly you probably have them ready at hand.

Next put on some spooky music, you can download some really cool stuff for free, and don't be shy about turning up the volume. Remember to hit "replay" all night long.  Last year, I downloaded the theme from "The Addams Family", you remember how it goes.

"They're creepy and they're kooky,
Mysterious and spooky,
They're all together ooky,
The Addams Family"

Not necessarily scary, but the kids LOVED the snapping of the fingers and just giggled as they came near the house.  It was really fun watching them.

While you were buying your pumpkins, don't forget to buy a bale or two of hay.  This is another cheap prop that's easy and quick to use.  Use one bale of hay and stew it all over your porch and front door.  Use the second bale of hay to prop up your pumpkins. The messier the better.

Finally, don't forget your costume attire.  We ALL have black, so wear black from head to toe and if you have a big, floppy hat and can cackle like a witch, all the better!  

There you have it, a few simple props and no more than an hour of preparation and you're done.

Happy Halloween! ]]></description>
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