Merry Christmas and a Bonus Freebie

Ho, Ho, Ho...

As a little Christmas bonus it is LISA here today to present to you a special freebie that Naomi created for all of you simply to say thank you for being the wonderful friends, followers and readers that you are.

Roudy

This little guy is in training for the next set of Reindeer Games to be held sometime in February.  We have the Winter Olympics and the North Pole has their Reindeer Games.  I think that Roudy needs to work on his flight path a little bit, but then he'll be all set.

Oh and if you are interested, I too have a little gift for you guys on my personal blog.  You can click HERE to go and pick it up.

From both Naomi and I, thank you so much for your patronage in the past year!  We truly hope that you will continue to join us in 2014.  The fun has only just begun!!!!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Bit By the Bug Tuesday -- Winter Bug

Hello and welcome to the final week of our 'Tis the Season collection of images.  Throughout the past few weeks we have been looking at the celebrations taking place around the world.  There are just a few more left to share with you, but some of them happen to be pretty important ones.  Whether they are religious or spiritual in nature, in celebration with the winter solstice, or just plain goofy and out there, someone in this world will be celebrating them.

From now until the end of December, the following occasions will be observed:

December 18

Bake Cookies Day

Yum! Yum! And, just in time for getting all those Christmas cookies baked and out of the way. People, young and old alike, celebrate this day by baking their favorite cookies. Some even make a party of it, and bake cookies in groups with family, friends, kids and grandkids. Think of all the different batches of cookies you could get made with that many people around. Of course, I'm guessing you'll lose a couple dozen in the process, what with all the sampling that will be taking place. Don't forget, if you bake more than you need, you can always wrap up gift trays filled with cookies for friends and neighbours or even the local Homeless Shelter. Everyone should get the chance have to a Christmas cookie or two!

December 19

Look for an Evergreen Day

For many people, only a fresh cut tree will do for Christmas time. Real trees have the benefit of actually looking like a real tree and of course, the scent of fresh pine helps to capture the feeling of the holidays. So, if you are one of those people, where only a real tree will do, if you haven't already, today would be the perfect day to purchase that tree. Your running out of time before the big day and where will Santa put the presents if there is no tree?!

 

December 20

Go Caroling Day

Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree...On the back of "Look for an Evergreen Day", Oh Christmas Tree would be the perfect song to start your caroling off since today happens to be Go Caroling Day. While the art of going caroling was much more prevalent in the past, Christmas caroling still remains popular in many area and among many different groups. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the holiday and appreciate its meaning. So warm up those vocal chords and take your family around the neighbourhood or book some time and go to your local nursing homes and senior citizen centres. Afterwards, some hot chocolate and some of those cookies you baked a few days ago are the perfect way to end the day.  

December 21

First Day of Winter/Winter Solstice

Winter is the coldest season of the year and it is caused by the axis of the Earth in the respective hemisphere being oriented away from the Sun. Different cultures define different dates as the start of winter, and some use a definition based on weather, but when it is winter in the Northern Hemisphere it is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, and vice versa. In many regions including my own, winter often brings with it snow and freezing temperatures. December 21st marks the first day of winter this year in my neck of the woods anyways. This date will mark the shortest day and longest night of the year. From here on, the daylight we experience each day will progressively get a little bit longer. Good thing, as 4:00 p.m. in the afternoon is much too earlier for darkness to fall.

December 22

Mother's Day

On this day each year in Indonesia, Mother's Day is celebrated.

December 23

Festivus Day

If you don't celebrate any of the big three--Christmas, Chanukah. or Kwanzaa then this is the perfect day for you. Festivus is a non-denominational day that can be celebrated by everyone. It became popular after an episode of the TV comedy Seinfeld aired an episode celebrating the obscure holiday. Festivus was conceived by editor and author Daniel O'Keefe and was celebrated by his family as early as 1966. In the original O'Keefe tradition, the holiday would take place in response to family tension, that took place any time between December and May. His son, also named Daniel, who was a scriptwriter for Seinfeld, created the episode that brought the occasion to the mainstream. After the episode aired, the occasion started to be celebrated annually on December 23rd. Festivus traditions include a Festivus dinner with meatloaf being suggested as the main course, and an unadorned aluminum "Festivus pole. After dinner traditions include practices such as the "Airing of Grievances" and "Feats of Strength," and the labeling of easily explainable events as "Festivus miracles."

I used to think that when I saw sentiments such as, "It's beginning to look a lot like Festivus", that it was just a play on the idea of this being a festive season. Now I know better!

The Emperor's Birthday

In Japan, everyone gets this day off to celebrate. The date is determined by the reigning Emperor's birthdate. Currently, it is in honour of Emperor Akihito, who was born on December 23, 1933.

December 24

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is the day before Christmas Day and is celebrated annually on December 24th for anyone affiliated with the Christian Church in the Western world. It is considered one of the most culturally significant celebrations in Christendom and the Western world, where it is widely observed as a full or partial holiday in anticipation of Christmas Day.

Navidad

Nochebuena and Navidad are Spanish words that refer to the night of Christmas Eve. In Spain, Puerto Rico, Latin America, and the Philippines, the evening includes a traditional dinner with family. In Spain, Nochebuena it consists of a dinner with family and friends after coming home from Christmas Mass. Traditionally, it is common to begin the meal with a seafood dish followed by a bowl of hot, homemade soup. It is also common to have desserts such as turrón.

 

December 25

Christmas Day

Christmas is the annual commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ and is a widely observed holiday, celebrated generally on December 25th by millions of people around the world although it is celebrated at alternate times by those who abide by the Eastern traditions of Christianity. Christmas is a civil holiday in many of the world's nations and is celebrated by many non-Christians as well. It is an important event during the holiday season.

Christmas has both strong religious and traditional meaning. This time of year brings with it, a feeling like no other. It creates within us, a sense of kindness and concern for our fellow human beings and at no other time during the year are we more generous and giving. It is a time that creates a sense of family and belonging.

December 26

Boxing Day

Boxing Day traditionally follows Christmas Day and is observed in Canada, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and some other Commonwealth nations. Traditionally it was the day when servants and tradesmen would receive gifts from their employers, known as a "Christmas box". 

St. Stephen's Day

If you are from Austria, Balearic Islands, Catalonia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Ireland, Wales, England, Italy, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Montenegro, Norway, Denmark, Estonia, Sweden, Finland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia and Poland, happy St. Stephen's Day. The true tradition on this holiday is to give gifts to the poor and needy in honour of St. Stephen. 

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is a week long cultural celebration observed from December 26 to January 1 each year by people of African heritage. The traditional greetings during this time are spoken in Swahili in order to reflect committment to the African culture as a whole. A different principle and a different symbol are celebrated during each day of the festivity. Each day the question is asked--Habari gani? Each day the answer is different based on the seven principles which are founded on a set of ideals created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in the mid 1960's which is when this cultural celebration began.

The seven principles are:

Unity: Umoja (oo–MO–jah)
Self-determination: Kujichagulia (koo–gee–cha–goo–LEE–yah)
Collective Work and Responsibility: Ujima (oo–GEE–mah)
Cooperative Economics: Ujamaa (oo–JAH–mah)
Purpose: Nia (nee–YAH)
Creativity: Kuumba (koo–OOM–bah)
Faith: Imani (ee–MAH–nee)

The seven basic symbols are:

Mazao (Crops)
Mkeka (Place Mat)
Kinara (Candle holder)
Vibunzi (Ear of Corn)
Muhindi (Gifts)
Kikombe cha Umoja (Unity cup)
Mishumaa SAba ( Seven Candles)

December 27

Make Cut Out Snowflakes Day

Here's a day to show off all those crafty skills, as you make paper snowflakes. For children and adults alike, making paper snowflakes is a skill practiced by many.  Given that there are no two snowflakes alike, it is fitting that many kinds of templates abound, from fast and easy patterns, to intricate time consuming designs to challenge the most practiced "snowflaker".  So, if you happen to like snow...bring it on! Bring out the paper and scissors, and cut out some paper snowflakes on this very special Make Cut Out Snowflake Day.  Hey--and no cheating using die-cut snowflakes today!

December 31

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve, a time to reflect on the old and ring in the new.  New Year's Eve is celebrated at evening social gatherings whether in people's homes or elsewhere giving people the opportunity to eat, drink, dance and watch or light fireworks to mark the new year.  To many Americans, and to others as well, the ball dropping at Times Square in New York City signals the start of the new year.  Celebrations generally go on past midnight into January 1 to allow people the opportunity to usher in the new year in grand style.

Well that takes care of all the holiday celebrations for the remainder of this year, so how about we take a look at our last planned freebie for 2013.  Let me introduce you to... 

 

Winter Bug

 Click HERE to get "Winter Bug".  Available from December 17th until January 14th. After that it will be replaced with another freebie.

Due to some bugs (and not the cute kind) taking place in the store, Creative Bug Digi's is having a complete makeover.  There will be lots of new features and even a catchy new name!  This process will take approx. 3 weeks.  So given that situation, you can grab the freebie here for now.

Be sure to left click it to bring it up fullsize in the lightbox where you can then right click and choose to save the image.

What a cutie pie she is.  When Naomi revamped the other bugs in the collection earlier this year, she also took the time to polish up this one too.  Winter Bug is all set to bring a sweet gift to anyone she meets.  Many of you weren't following the first time she was offered as a freebie, so now is your opportunity to add her to your collection.

Let us check and see what a couple of our DT came up with to showcase Naomi's adorable Winter Bug...

Now how freaking cool is that?!!  Vicky has created a little winter scene right inside of a jar.  I've never seen anything like this.  Of course, Vicky tends to show me a lot of firsts in her work!   Winter Bug looks perfect nestled in next to the tree.  It is like she grabbed the present from underneath it and is just waiting to give it to you.  You can check out the details of this project over on Vicky's blog Crafting Vicky.

Next up is...

What a great idea for a winter birthday card!  Monica shows us the versatility of digi stamps.  Not only is Winter Bug a great digi to use on your holiday related cards but it is also great for a birthday card or any kind of winter related gift giving celebration.  Great layering, framework and a sweet sentiment to go along with it.  You can check out all the details of Monica's card by visiting her blog, TaylorMade 4U.

Sneak peek guesses...

In the spirit of the season where gifts abound, so to shall anyone who attempted a guess, receive a small gift from me.  That means that Julie, Ike, KT Fit Kitty, Edwina, D~, Sarah and Kimberly are all entitled to a paper I created.  No one actually got it right but Edwina came close thinking it was a winter jacket.  So, ladies, if you'd like a copy, send me an email by clicking HERE with the subject heading 'CBD Sneak Peek: Winter Bug' and I'll send you off the digital paper displayed below.  Please note that it might take me a few days to get back to you though, so I appreciate your patience.

New Release Image...

Traditionally, we would wait and give out the image to the person(s) who won it, when we revealed our next new release.  However, since we won't have a new release until January 9th when we come back from our brief break over here on Creative Bug on the Loose, I felt that we should also announce the winner of North Pole Ambassador today.

To be eligible to have your name entered into the draw to win North Pole Ambassador I wanted to know, "what is your favourite holiday tradition?" Thank you to everyone who responded.  It was so interesting learning about the different traditions that people have or grew up with--from family get-togethers and huge buffets, to yearly cookie making, and tree decorating; and then there was the tradition of a 1980's cabbage patch kid set up to look like it was ransacking a child's stocking--I loved hearing them all! This week, the winner of the last new release for 2013, is... 

Everyone who submitted an answer to the question!!!

So  Ike, KT Fit Kitty, Edwina, D~ and Kimberly, please contact me by clicking HERE with the subject heading 'North Pole Ambassador' to get your copy.  Like I mentioned above, it might take me a few days to get back to you, so I appreciate your patience.

Now you can't go without one final joke to send you off this holiday season...

 Q: How much difference is there between the North Pole and the South Pole?
  A: All the difference in the world!

(source:  http://emailsanta.com/jokes_Christmas2.htm)

 

Well that is it for me and the DT crew over here on Creative Bug on the Loose for the remainder of 2013---well maybe, there might just be one extra special treat for you, so you'll have to come and check on us next week, just in case.

On behalf of everyone, I wish you a wonderful holiday season filled with love and laughter and of course lots of crafty goodness.  We'll be back to see you all on January 9th to begin a whole new year of fun and inspiration.  It is sure to be a blessed year so I hope you will all come back and see us then.  Until that time, stay safe and have fun!

  

Please note:  I apologize if any of these dates or information are incorrect.  It is not meant to be a slight on your particular faith or observances.  I am simply going by the research that I uncovered.  
References: 

Author Unknown. (2000-2013). 2013 Absolutely Christmas Holiday. Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/xmas/index.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Bake Cookies Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/other/bakecookiesday.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Boxing Day. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing_Day. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Christmas. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Christmas Eve. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_Eve. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). December. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/December. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Festivus. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Festivus. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Festivus - It's for the Rest of Us! . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/festivus.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2013). First Day of Winter 2013: The Winter Solstice. Available: http://www.almanac.com/content/first-day-winter-winter-solstice. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Go Caroling Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/gocarolingday.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Look for an Evergreen Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/evergreenday.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Make Cut Out Snowflake Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/snowflakeday.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Navidad. Available: http://www.cute-calendar.com/event/navidad/17114.html. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). New Year's Eve. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Eve. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). New Years Eve, 2013 and Day 2014 . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/other/newyears.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). St. Stephen's Day. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Stephen%27s_Day. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). The Emperor's Birthday. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Emperor%27s_Birthday. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Winter. Available: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winter. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
L. Decosse. (2012). Holiday Handout: Day 18. Available: http://decossesdynamitedoodles.blogspot.ca/2012/12/holiday-handout-day-18.html. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.

Saturday Sneak Peek--'Tis the Season Collection Week Four

Hello everyone!  Can you believe that there are just 12 more sleeps until Christmas?!  I can't.  I don't know about you, but I am nowhere near ready for Christmas.  However, to help us continue to get into the spirit, it is time to unveil this week's sneak peek as we are about to embark on final week of our 'Tis the Season collection.  Here is a snippet of this Tuesday's freebie...

Hmmm...what could that possible be?  Well, if you have an idea, I'd love to hear it.  Offer up your guesses by Monday at 12:00 noon EST in a comment on this post to be eligible to win a possible goody.

 

DON'T FORGET...

 there is still time to sign up for your chance to win Naomi's latest new release:  North Pole Ambassador!  Click HERE to find out how.

Enjoy the remainder of your weekend everyone!  I'll see you on Tuesday when it is time for the latest freebie.

 

Bit By the Bug: Another Bug is Born

Hello and welcome to the third week of our 'Tis the Season collection of images.  Over the course of the last two weeks, we have taken a look at some of the celebrations taking place around the world during the holiday season.  We are going to continue on that trend as we make our way through December learning about the different kinds of occasions.  Whether they are religious or spiritual in nature, in celebration with the winter solstice, or just plain goofy and out there, someone in this world will be celebrating them.

Over the course of this next five days, the following occasions will be observed:

December 12

Jamhuri Day

Each year on this day, Kenya celebrates Jamhuri Day.  This is a national holiday in Kenya,  that officially marks the date that Kenya established itself as a republic in 1964. Jamhuri is the Swahili word for "republic".

Poinsettia Day

The beautiful poinsettia plant, often referred to as the Christmas plant, has had its own day created in the United States.  In honour of  Joel Roberts Poinsett, who died on December 12, 1851, the Act of Congress officially declared Poinsettia Day.  Poinsett was the first Ambassador to Mexico and when he returned home to his plantation in Greeville, South Carolina, he brought this colorful plant back with him.  He proceeded to grow the plants and gave them out as gifts to friends.

According to Mexican folklore, there is a story of a young girl who was poor and had nothing to bring to church for Christmas. On her way to the church, she picked some plants by the side of the road.  It is said that when she entered the church, the leaves at the tips of the branches turned into bright, brilliant red flowers. You guessed it... Poinsettias. It is nice that that beautiful plant has a day of recognition.

 

December 13

St. Lucia Day

For people of Italian and Scandinavian heritage, today is St. Lucia Day, also referred to as St. Lucy's Day. This day is celebrated in honour of the patron of light and each region emphasizes a different part of the story.  In traditional celebrations, Saint Lucy comes as a young woman with lights and sweets. In some forms, a procession is headed by one girl wearing a crown of candles (or lights), while others in the procession hold only a single candle each.  Traditionally, St. Lucia Day marks the beginning of the Christmas celebration in Sweden.

December 14

Monkey Day

Now here is a day, we definitely had to mention, especially since we are so found of sock monkeys.  Well, this day is dedicated to their brethren--real monkeys.  Hallmark refers to it as "the one day when monkey business is actually encouraged".   Monkey Day is an unofficial holiday that is celebrated internationally each year on December 14^.  While the focus of the holiday is mainly about monkeys, it does also celebrate other non-human primates including apes, tarsiers, maliks and lemurs. So, go ape today, it is completely sanctioned!

 

December 15

National Chocolate Covered Anything Day

Seriously?  The States seem to have all the best kind of national days.  I need to lobby our Canadian government to incorporate this one into our own yearly calendar!  Come on, what chocoholic anywhere wouldn't want a day where it is sanctioned to indulge, binge, and eat as much chocolate as your little heart desires. So get busy people--pour, spread, or drizzle chocolate over anything your little heart desires.  However, since this is a G-rated blog, we better keep that drizzling to food items only.   Ahhh, chocolate...can there ever be too much?!  That question is rhetorical you know.  Rejoice chocoholics everywhere!

Well now that we have all the different special holidays and occurrences taking place between now and the next 'Tis the Season' post, how about we take a look at what is new in the store this week.  Let me introduce you to....

 

North Pole Ambassador

 

North Pole Ambassador should be available in the store for purchase shortly.  However, if you are wanting to purchase it right away, please contact me (links below) and we'll make arrangements for you to get it sooner rather than later.

Just look at that smile--that is an expression that could bring joy to anyone who sees it.  If you ever happen to make it to the north pole, this little guy will be the one to greet you!  Just imagine all the stories he'll be able to share with you as he guides you in to Santa's Village!

Now let's check out what one of our DT came up with to showcase Naomi's wonderful ambassador...

Wow! Not only is there a flurry going on in the image, but there is also one going on in the paper too!  The lace adds a nice breezy feel to the card as well.  You can check out the details of this creation over on Suze's blog, Craftysuze.

Great textures, a beautiful die and some sparkly goodness help to showcase our little ambassador in this card.  Wonderful layout too!  You can check out all the details of Monica's card by visiting her blog, TaylorMade 4U.

Sneak peek guesses...

Apparently, my meannie pants weren't quite as mean as I thought they were since KT Fit Kitty, Edwina, Sarah and Kimberly all guessed that it was a snowman.  So, ladies, if you'd like a copy of the paper I created, send me an email by clicking HERE with the subject heading 'CBD Sneak Peek: North Pole Ambassador' and I'll send you off the digital paper displayed below.  Please note that it might take me a few days to get back to you though, so I appreciate your patience.

Now, it is your chance to win a copy of the latest new release...

It is time once again to try and give away a copy or two of Naomi's newest release.  In order to have your name in the running to win a copy of the North Pole Ambassador, I want to know, what is your favourite holiday tradition?   Holiday traditions are unique to both countries and families so I'm interested to hear what yours are.  Leave a comment ON THIS POST by noon on December 16th, in order to have your chance at winning this image.  Since there won't be a new release until January, the period open for entering into the draw will be much shorter than the typical two weeks.

Winners will be announced on December 17th just before the team goes on a holiday break!

Which brings me to the winner of the last new release.  I had wanted to know, what is your favourite holiday decoration?   Four of you shared with me and I loved hearing all about your favourite decorations.  This week, the winner of the last new release, Christmas Tree, is... 

Desíre

Desíre, please contact me by clicking HERE with the subject heading 'Christmas Tree' to get your copy.  Like I mentioned above, it might take me a few days to get back to you, so I appreciate your patience.

Now you can't go without this week's joke for the kid in all of us:

 Q:  What kind of money do they use at the North Pole?
  A: Cold cash!

(source:  http://emailsanta.com/jokes_Christmas2.htm)

 

Just one more image to go in our 'Tis the Season collection.  I hope that you will all join me on Saturday when it is time to show a snippet of it.  Until then, have a fantastic couple days and good luck everyone!  

Please note:  I apologize if any of these dates or information are incorrect.  It is not meant to be a slight on your particular faith or observances.  I am simply going by the research that I uncovered.  

References:
Author Unknown. (N.D.). December. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/December. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Jamhuri Day. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamhuri_Day. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Monkey Day. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monkey_Day. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). National Chocolate Covered Anything Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/chocolatecovered.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Poinsettia Day. Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/other/poinsettia.htm. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Saint Lucy's Day. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Lucia_Day. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.
L. Decosse. (2012). Holiday Handout: Day 4. Available: http://decossesdynamitedoodles.blogspot.ca/2012/12/holiday-handout-day-4.html. Last accessed 11th Dec 2013.

Saturday Sneak Peek--'Tis the Season Collection Week Three

Hello everyone!  December is well under way.  I hope it slows down soon though or Christmas is going to be here before I know it and my to do list will still be 90 kilometres long.

It is time for this week's sneak peek as we are about to embark on week three of our 'Tis the Season collection.  Here is a sample of this Thursday's new release...

 Hee, hee, hee.  I think I had my meannie pants on again when creating this sneak peek.  Although you guys are pretty good at guessing things I never think you will, so we'll see just how good you are.  Offer up your guesses by Wednesday at 5:00 pm EST in a comment on this post to be eligible to win a possible goody.

 

DON'T FORGET...

 there is still time to sign up for your chance to win Naomi's latest new release:  Christmas Tree!  Click HERE to find out how.

Enjoy the remainder of your weekend everyone!  I'll see you on Thursday when it is time for the latest release.

Christmas Reindeer Freebie Take Two

Okay so apparently there are some issues with downloading the freebie in the store.  So until that is resolved you can grab it here.  Once it is up for grabs in the store, this post will disappear. 

Like magic...it will be as though it never existed...

Bit By the Bug Tuesday -- Christmas Reindeer

Hello and welcome to the second week of our 'Tis the Season collection of images.  Last Thursday I shared with you some of the celebrations around the world.  This week we are going to continue to learn about the different kinds of occasions.  Whether they are religious or spiritual in nature, in celebration with the winter solstice, or just plain goofy and out there, someone in this world will be celebrating them.

Over the course of this next week and a half, the following occasions will be observed:

 

December 3

National Roof Over Your Head Day

Today is a day of appreciation for the things we are blessed to have in our lives, starting with the roof over our heads.  Many of us are lucky enough to have a home in which we can feel safe and be protected from the elements, keeping us warm, dry, and comfortable. Unfortunately, there are many people out there who are not as lucky as you and I.  

Today, spend a few moments being thankful if you fall under the category of being lucky enough to have a roof over your head and keep in mind the many people living on the streets in your town or country, who do not.  If you are financially able to, consider making a contribution to a homeless shelter, so others can come in out of the rain and snow.

 

December 4

Santa's List Day

Will you be on the naughty list or the nice one?  Santa knows whether you have been good or bad you know.  Those spies elves of his are everywhere!!!  They are busy checking their lists and getting the final one together to present to Santa for tomorrow so you still have a few hours left to redeem yourself if you've been a bit more naughty the nice. 

 

December 5

Father's Day (King's Birthday)

King Bhumipol Adulyadej was born on December 5, and this day is celebrated as his birthday, as Fathers' Day, and as National Day across all of Thailand.  It is a Thai tradition for people to give their fathers and grandfathers a dok Buddha ruksa, which is a canna flower, on this day.  The king of Thailand is held in esteem reverence by the majority of the country's people and so many people wear the colour yellow in his honour, as yellow is the king's colour.

Sinterklaas

For many children in The Netherlands, Sinterklaas (or St. Nicolaas) is one of the main events of the year that they look forward to, second only to their birthday.  Sinterklaas is a traditional winter holiday figure that is still celebrated in the countries of the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, as well as some parts of Germany, French Flanders, Lorraine and Artois.  He is also still well known in territories of the former Dutch Empire, including Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Indonesia, and Suriname. 

He is celebrated annually on Dec. 5th which is Saint Nicholas' eve in the Netherlands and on the morning of December 6th,  in the other countries. Originally, the feast celebrates the name day of Saint Nicholas – patron saint of children, sailors, philatelists, and the city of Amsterdam, among others. 

The custom of hanging up stockings started with Saint Nicholas. As the ancient tale goes, Saint Nicholas was known to throw small bags of gold coins into the open windows of poor homes. After one bag of gold fell into the stocking of a child, the news spread like wildfire. Children soon began hanging their stocking by their chimneys "in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there".   The north American tradition of Santa Claus evolved from the tale of St. Nicholas sometime in the 1800's.

December 6

Saint Nicholas Day

Following on the above, Saint Nicholas is honoured today in Greece, France and other countries around the world.     

 Mitten Tree Day 

It is believed that Mitten Tree Day, which is held annually world wide, started as a result of the book of the same name written by Candace Christiansen.  It is about a woman who misses her grown children and so, she watches the children who wait for the school bus near a big evergreen tree.  Apparently, even though she smiles at the children, she remains unobserved.  From her post by the tree she notices than some of the children can't play in the snow because they don’t have mittens or they have mismatched mittens.  So, the heroine of the story knits up a basket full of mittens and hangs them all over the tree for all the children.  The story goes that when she runs out of yarn, a new full basket of it appears on her front porch and she doesn’t know who it is from.  So, in kind, she anonymously knits mittens for all the children in town. 

What a wonderful heart-warming story and Dec. 6 is the perfect day to share it with someone.  Or, better still, give some mittens to someone less fortunate than yourself!

Independence Day

Today marks Independence Day in Finland.   It is a national public holiday held on every year on this date to celebrate Finland's declaration of independence from Russian Republic.  It is a Finnish tradition for many of its families to light two candles in each window of their home in the evening. This custom dates to the 1920s.  There is a popular legend that states that two candles were used as a sign to inform young men on their way to Sweden and Germany to become Jägers (volunteers in the Jäger movement)  that the house was ready to offer shelter and keep them hidden from the Russians.

 

December 7

 Pearl Harbor Day

A day of remembrance observed in the U.S. annually, to remember and honour all the people who died in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

Letter Writing Day

While the fine art of letter writing seems to have been lost to emails and texting, this day honours the idea of writing a good old fashioned letter by hand.  When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone?  Take a few minutes, and send someone a hand written letter.   Letter writing still seemss to be strong in Japan where there is a Letter Writing Week, and a Letter Writing Day held on the 23rd of each month.  It is a bit ironic when you think of how prevalent technology is in Japan, yet they haven't abandoned this dying art.

 

December 8

Día de la Madre en Panamá

While Mother's Day is celebrated in many countries in May, in Panamá it is held on Dec. 8th.

 

December 9

Christmas Card Day

Christmas Card Day honours Sir Henry Cole.  Cole is from England and is the creator of the first commercial Christmas Card in 1843.   Unfortunately, the cost and time for writing and sending cards has caused many people to stop sending them although there are still a few people who do, myself included as I'm sure many of you guys do as well.   If you have yet to do so, today is a good day to to get a start on sending out your holiday greetings. 

 

December 10

Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day was created by the United Nations, in order to promote awareness of the importance of Human Rights issues around the world. On December 10th, 1948, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Each year, the United Nations, establishes a new theme for the year. Many of us are lucky enough to live in countries where freedom and basic human rights are supposed to be a given.  There are many people around the world who aren't so lucky.

Well now that we have all the different special holidays and occurrences taking place between now and the next 'Tis the Season' post, how about we take a look at our new freebie this week.  Let me introduce you to...  

ChristmasReindeer

 Click HERE to get "Christmas Reindeer".  Available from December 3rd until December 17th. After that it will be replaced with another freebie. 

EDIT:
There is a glitch on the freebie page in the store so I've posted the freebie HERE until it resolved.

Isn't this reindeer a sweetie?  He's all decked out for Christmas with boughs of holly intertwined among his antlers.  He is sure to draw the heads of some of the local lady reindeer.  Many of you weren't following the first time he was offered as a freebie, so now is your opportunity to add him to your collection.

Let us check and see what a couple of our DT came up with to showcase Naomi's handsome Christmas Reindeer...

 

Wow!  Look at all those layers?!    Great colours and textures too!  Christmas Reindeer looks great nestled in amongst it all.  You can check out the details of this project over on Vicky's blog Crafting Vicky.

Next up is...

Monica has gone clean and simple with her project this week.  I love the simplicity of this sweet card as Christmas Reindeer makes his way to the North Pole for a visit with Santa.  The addition of the snow is just the right touch.  You can check out all the details of Monica's card by visiting her blog, TaylorMade 4U.

Sneak peek guesses...

Now I knew most of you would be able to figure out that the area I was showing you was holly and berries, that was the obvious part.  The real question was whether you'd figure out what the overall image was.  Someone came close by figuring out it was a holly wreath of sorts around the head of an animal but did not guess what the animal was.  So, looks like I outwitted you guys once again.  I know it won't last so I'll enjoy this week's break while I can.

DON'T FORGET...

 there is still time to sign up for your chance to win Naomi's latest new release:  Christmas Tree!  Click HERE to find out how.

Before I go how about a reindeer joke...

 Q:  What reindeer can jump higher than a house?

A:    They all can!  Houses can't jump!

(source: http://sleepingopossum.homestead.com/Christmas/1j.html)

Enjoy the rest of your week everyone.  I'll be back on Saturday with the next sneak peek. 

Until we meet again, stay well and stay crafty!

References:
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Christmas Card Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/christmascardday.htm. Last accessed 1st Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). December. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/December. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Independence Day (Finland). Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_of_Finland. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (2012). King of Thailand Birthday and Fathers Day. Available: http://chiangmaibest.com/kings-birthday/. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Letter Writing Day. Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/letterwritingday.htm. Last accessed 1st Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Mitten Tree Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/mittentreeday.htm. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (2008). Mitten Tree Day. Available: http://www.nationalwhateverday.com/whatever-days/december/mitten-tree-day/. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl_Harbor_Day. Last accessed 1st Dec 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). National Roof Over Your Head Day . Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/rooofoveryourhead.htm. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Saint Nicholas Day. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Nicholas_Day. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (2000-2013). Santa's List Day. Available: http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/December/santaslistday.htm. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.
Author Unknown. (N.D.). Sinterklaas. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinterklaas. Last accessed 29th Nov 2013.

Saturday Sneak Peek--'Tis the Season Collection Week Two

Hey guys!  I hope that this last Saturday of November finds you all well.  For those of you living in the States, I hope that you are enjoying your Thanksgiving weekend.  That your bellies are full, your wallets aren't empty and that you have lots of things to be thankful for.  Mind you that is a wish I can wish for everyone, isn't it?  

It is time for this week's sneak peek as we are about to embark on week two of our 'Tis the Season collection.  Here is a snippet of Tuesday's offering...

Fa, la, la, la, la...la, la, la, la.  And no that is not a hint, I'm just getting into the festive mood.  Now most of you will be able to figure out what this part of the image is BUT can you figure out what the overall image will be?  Put your thinking caps on and let me know.  Offer up your guesses by Monday at 5:00 pm EST in a comment on this post to be eligible.  Once again, I think that I am going to get a start on making that goody now.  You guys are just too good to get away with fooling more than one week a month.

DON'T FORGET...

 there is still time to sign up for your chance to win Naomi's latest new release:  Christmas Tree!  Click HERE to find out how.

Enjoy the remainder of your weekend everyone!  I'll see you on Tuesday when it is time for the newest freebie.