10 Things I've Learned About Christmas

I've learned a few things over the years about preparations and celebrations for Christmas. You know, what makes things go more smoothly and give you that warm fuzzy and other things that, um, don't. Hopefully you won't have to learn all of the lessons the hard way like me!

1. Although gift certificates are not the most personal gifts, they are ALWAYS the right size! I'd much rather have someone only open a piece of plastic to use on something they choose later instead of having them open a size XL shirt only to find out they're a MEDIUM on Christmas! (Sadly, a true story...)

2. Stocking stuffers can come from surprising places - WD-40 pen from Lowe's, anyone?

3. No matter how hard you work on, or how excited you are about a new dish, if you don't try it out before the "big day", the results may leave much to be desired.

4. Just because you/your hubby like said dish, not everyone will. Don't get your feelings hurt, it just means there'll be more for you to enjoy after the celebration.

5. Don't waste your energy trying to make boy gifts look perfect - THEY DON'T CARE!

6. Even if he puts blue tissue paper in a purple and silver bag, don't complain if your husband is helping you wrap gifts. He really doesn't want to be doing it anyway and negative comments do not add to his happiness with the current situation. Just be quiet and make a mental note to make sure to change it later. :)

7. Make a list with specific items, down to size and style if you expect to get what you asked for for Christmas! (Who knew Victoria's Secret made so many different styles of underwear?)

8. Make a copy of said list and distribute to several trusted friends, IN ADDITION to your sweetie.

9. Less truly is more. Don't kill yourself making 3 dishes for each gathering you're going to attend. There is always enough (or too much) food. Bringing the drinks and ice is always helpful to the host! (I just learned this one this year!)

10. Don't hurry the day(s) away! Take time to enjoy your time with family/friends and reflecting on the reason you are gathering in the first place!

Down on the (Tree) Farm

Every year our ENTIRE family goes to a Christmas Tree Farm in search of the perfect tree for our houses. This year was no different! We had a total of three households present on this quest which consisted of seven adults (I guess Matthew counts as an adult now!), four dogs, three trees and two small boys. Spirits and energy were high as we tromped through the fields in search of our trees. This occasion took place a few weeks ago during our "heat wave" in December, so it was a bit tough to really get into the Christmasy spirit, but listening to Christmas music on the way helped! Although my parents were present, they were crafty enough to not get caught in ANY pictures... They're smarter and quicker than they look! I hope you enjoy the pictures below...

I know it's not the best picture of us, but Sam took it all by himself and it's the only one of the three of us from that day. As you can see, Michael was thrilled to be there! :)

Sam found a "Charlie Brown" tree at first.

Ah, this one's better, and even his size!


Joseph was just happy to be along for the ride!

The Tallie Boys expertly sawing down their tree.

The two smallest Tallie Boys assisting Michael with our tree. Joseph really got into it!

The wagon ride back to the entrance.
This is how our tree turned out. Not bad, huh?

This is our beautiful angel that has been on the top of each of our trees. She was the first Christmas decoration Michael and I bought together. Awww, sappy, I know, but sweet!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Good Times in Gatlinburg

Last week Michael and I returned from a long awaited trip to Gatlinburg! We left on a Saturday Morning and returned on the following Tuesday. This was our first trip with just the two of us since our honeymoon 6 1/2 years ago! We stayed in a great little condo on the TOP of the mountain that had a fantastic and awe inspiring view. We were 4 miles up, and there was only one small condo area after ours, then the road turned to gravel. On our way home Tuesday, we looked DOWN on the ski lodge where they were making snow. It was beautiful! There was so much to do, we had a pretty packed weekend, but we had a blast! We went shopping on our first day out, and did most of the Gatlinburg attractions, mainly shopping in The Village, getting to be fascinated with the taffy machine AGAIN (It's still my favorite thing there!) and the amazing view on the Sky Lift. Our favorite things were the shopping (ok, so that's mainly my favorite thing!), Fanny Farkle's arcade and the Ober dogs they serve there, the aquarium and, of course, Cade's Cove. I think that Cade's Cove topped both of our lists. The drive there was beautiful, and we listened to my new Celtic Women Christmas CD while we drove. It was almost as good as being at church! It still amazes me when I see all of the beautiful things God has made! My God is so wonderful, and is wonders truly do never cease! After the scenic drive up, we were treated to being able to see 34 deer (One 6 pt, one spike and a button buck included) and were able to get to within 50 ft. of the 6 pt. who was just laying on the ground in a field. Yes, we were crazy enough to get out of our cars and try to get a closer look! We also saw several turkeys, crows, woodpeckers (yellow bellied sap suckers) and squirrels. We really enjoyed ourselves and were able to get all of our last Christmas presents taken care of! I also picked out a lot of my Christmas there.... I'm so sad I have to wait to use my new purse and wallet!!! The aquarium was AWESOME!! The shark tunnel was amazing - we got some really close-up shots of nothing but shark teeth, which is enough to give anyone pause. Anyway, if anyone wants to go on a trip and doesn't want to go too far, Gatlinburg has my vote!