What's that? You say you've never heard of it? Oh my, well, I suppose you should be filled in then.
The week of Christ-anukah starts approximately 6 nights before Christmas. It spans each night up to Christmas Eve. The reason for it's name is because it falls between Christmas and Chanukah (DUH!).
Each night is something new.
Tonight, being the first night, is filled with lots of yummy goods. Hence, it's called the "Good Night"...clever, eh? Or some just call it the first night. Cookies galore and all that. I'm eating some right now! :-D.
The second night is for loved ones. Family, friends, spend it with whomever means the most to you. It is most commonly called the "Night of Love."
The third night, which is one of the more important ones, is a night when people sit down and read some good books with others, and even discuss what they've read! This is called the "Night of Knowledge."
Oh my, the fourth night and one of my favorite nights, is called the "Night of Lights." Many people go outside with warm cocoa or tea, and gaze up at the skies. If the skies aren't visible, then try sitting around a fire with someone, or just put up Christmas (or Christ-anukah ;-) ) lights.
The fifth night, just before Christmas Eve and the last night of Christ-anukah, is a night filled with presents. Not new store bought presents, though. Oh much more special. You take something of yours that you might not use/want anymore, and trade it with someone else. You'll end up getting something "new" that's just from them in the process! This is the "Gift-Pass Night."
And finally, the last, and best night of all...Christmas Eve, or the last night of Christ-anukah. This is a special night, where we read about the birth of Christ and we share stories with others about all the good things that have happened in our lives. Try sharing some stories from your life that might relate to the wise men. What was your guiding star in times of trouble? This last, and best night, is called (obviously) the "Holy Night."
Well, there you have it. The week of Christ-anukah...if you don't celebrate this, try it! Everyone can celebrate. I'm off to celebrate my first night! Hope I don't get a stomach ache, heh. Happy Holidays everyone, and have a Merry and Happy Christ-anukah, Christmas, and New Year!