Shalom everyone! During this holiday season, it seems that everyone is celebrating Christmas, however I come from a blended family, therefore we celebrate "Chrismukkah" (thank you Seth Cohen (from the OC) for coining the term -- I never knew what to call it). To some it is odd that we have a Menorah in the same room as Christmas decor, or Star of David ornaments hanging on our tree, but to me it is completely normal and I am so happy that I've had the opportunity to celebrate not just one, but two very important cultural celebrations. Hanukkah is commonly referred to as the Festival of Lights. It is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the re-dedication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem during a time of Maccabean revolt. I can't possibly elaborate on every Hanukkah tradition, but it's important to realize that Hanukkah is not just eight days of constant partying and gifts. There are meanings behind each prayer and ritual; it is a very spiritual holiday and one that I greatly respect.

For the sake of this article, I've tried to spice it up a little bit by theming each night of Hanukkah to inspire gifts and entertainment for your loved ones. Some of these items are definitely on my wish list, but I tried to think outside of the box a little bit for others, as well as the hosts/hostesses out there. Let's dive in!

1 | Book Night Gift the gift of education. It's not only perfect for family and friends, but to yourself. It's important to keep your brain constantly working, not only for the health benefits it will provide, but because it's important to focus on a task other than the stressful ones of everyday life. Books allow your mind to wander. So whether you are the creative type wanting delicious eye candy to feast on (we recommend the Pattern and Palette Sourcebook) or a technology buff (how about the newest reading sensation Amazon's Kindle, the wireless reading device), books are always fabulous gifts. Read a classic children's book with all the kids around the fire or pick a book for everyone to read and discuss it on the first night of Hanukkah. It can be a celebratory book club soiree!

2 | Travel Night Gift the gift of destinations. I was shopping at Z Gallerie the other day and spotted Eiffel Tower Stemware. I am a sucker for anything Parisian, but they have so many other unique gifts for the inspired traveler: umbrellas, travel mugs, luggage tags, and this Pack This! notepad, which is sure to keep you organized before and while on your trip. Cook a traditional Hanukkah meal, or concoct global creations to keep with the theme!

3 | Game Night Gift the gift of fun. My friends and I are obsessed with games. Sometimes it's just more fun to have a game night than a night out on the town! For this third night, we've themed it towards the gamer. There are so many out there, but I was totally tickled by Kosherland. Urban Outfitters carries this board game, which was specifically designed for Jewish children and inspired by the ever-popular Candyland. Don't forget to play the traditional Dreidel game. It is always a crowd pleaser while you munch on chocolate gelt!

4 | Foodie Night Gift the gift of yummy. Food is always the perfect present. For this fourth night of celebration, whip up traditional Hanukkah fare with a twist. It's important to stay true to what's typically eaten, but can be most fun to incorporate ingredients that you wouldn't typically have. Better Homes & Gardens outlined must-try recipes - they are all old favorites in a new way. The honey-rosemary angel food cake sounds like divinity, and whole-wheat challah makes being carbalicious a little healthier! Entertain guests with a how-to-make Latkes session or host a Hanukkah cookie contest. Signature cocktails can also compliment your dishes and can take your soiree to the next level! Make a recipe booklet of your entire meal, plus some classic family favorites, and gift each guest a favor to make your meal memorable.

5 | Creative Night Gift the gift of imagination. Make your holiday recession-proof. It is easy to get down this time of year when you might not have a lot of cash to spend, but DIY creative gifts are the best ones to give because they are handmade by you and tend to be more meaningful. If your recipient is the artsy type (and you are aesthetically challenged), Gifts.com has tons of gifts tailored toward creative and artistic people. My personal favorite is the Cityscape Stamp Set, which can be purchased on Uncommon Goods. Share your child's artwork this season with a Little Artist's card. We've chosen the navy blue Petite Picasso card which can be customized with Hanukkah wording. Set up an arts and crafts table the night of your party. It can keep the little ones occupied or allow guests to take something personal home.

6 | Spa Night Gift the gift of relaxation. Holiday season might be the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be the most hectic! Victoria's Secret has adorable Festive Slipper Booties, which take slippers to a whole new level. Commemorate the Festival of Lights with lots of candles set up around your party. Have meditative music for your family to listen to and simply enjoy each others company. Massage products are always wonderful gifts and spa gift certificates are sheer genius. If you really want to play up the theme, have a yoga professional teach a special in-home class to your family and friends. It's an interesting idea and will allow your loved ones to hone in on what's important to them.

7 | Movie Night Gift the gift of entertainment. The holiday season is movie season. I wait all year for the best of the best to come out in theaters or DVD. Two of my favorites are out soon: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and Julie & Julia. Pick a flick that is sure to please and it'll be a great gift for the movie buff. Watch Adam Sandler's 8 Crazy Nights for a Hanukkah movie perfect for a party.

8 | Family Night Gift the gift of love. I picked the eighth night of Hanukkah as family night, but we all know that every night should be devoted to family and the ones you hold dear. Set up a beautiful Hanukkah tablescape for everyone to enjoy and set up a Wii for after-dinner fun. Gather around the Menorah one last time and say special prayers; tell each person why you are thankful for them. The gift of recognition and thanks is truly the most special of all.