Sure Cures for the "Day After Christmas Blues"

It's December 26th. Santa Claus is back at the North Pole. Christmas is over and won't be back for another year.

The day after Christmas is a real downer for grown ups and children alike. But there are ways to feel better and brighten up this dismal day.

One fun activity for the entire family is creating a "Christmas Collage" out of Christmas wrapping paper, Christmas cards you've received, Christmas morning photos you've printed out from your digital camera and other memorabilia of the holiday. It keeps the family busy and creates a unique and creative remembrance of each Christmas season.

All you need is a few pair of scissors, some glue, perhaps a little glitter or left over tinsel, and a piece of illustration board or ordinary cardboard from a box. Simply cut and paste and have some fun. Try making it a 3 dimensional collage by adding holly, garland a small wooden or plastic ornament or anything else you like.

Once the masterpiece is complete, date it, have everyone sign it, and then frame it. Making a "Christmas Collage" can become a day after Christmas tradition that will provide cherished family memories for years to come. It's also a great indoor activity in case the weather forces your family to spend the entire day indoors

Another creative project children will enjoy is making New Year's Eve Hats and center pieces out of left over gift boxes and wrapping paper. Just make sure you have several pair of scissors, glue, tape, a stapler and a couple of colored marking pens.

The day after Christmas is also a great day to make a family holiday video that captures what makes this particular Christmas so special. Include shots of your home inside and out, along with close-ups of your decorations. Interview each member of your family and have them talk about what made this past Christmas special for them, show their favorite gift, or even sing a Christmas carol. The possibilities are endless.