The True Meaning of Christmas

I just had to post a picture of this beautiful ornament we purchased on Saturday at the Parable. It is so lovely and is already my favorite Christmas decoration in our home. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year everyone!

Christmas Wedding Cake

I baked this cake for a co-worker's wedding reception this past weekend. The top and bottom layers were red velvet and the middle layer was french vanilla. The golf themed groom's cake was chocolate. I love the brown orchids the bride provided. The reception was just lovely - although this is a busy time for everyone, a holiday wedding is a beautiful time to celebrate.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I know the next few days are going to be very busy for everyone (whoo hoo, my birthday is Saturday!) so we are wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Parties and Such

This is my "Longhorn" friends at our Christmas party. We had a great time...as always!


Here's some of my co-workers and my Sweetie and me at our Gala - What a rockin' good time that was! Thanks Nicky for the inspiration! Who knew???




More co-workers at our office party.


Last but not least...a group of us at a dinner downtown. Nice looking crowd, if I do say so myself!

Just when you think...

...you have the market cornered on a great presentation you find out you are not the queen! Lee, a colleague's wife made this for my birthday. How about that!? Bet you wish I would share...but...sadly for you...no way (but still love y'all)! This makes turning 39 not so bad! (don't say it, don't even think it!)

Catching up on my blablablogging!

...and here's some Christmas cakes I baked. I also gave homemade marshmallows a shot (seriously, I know I'm sick...don't hate me for it!). I loved them...especially after I dipped the luscious little pink squares in white chocolate. My goal is to make my own Easter Peeps! Now that's "Good Eats"!

Christmas Outfits

Look at these two cuties in their Christmas outfits and Christmas Pajamas! I'm crazy about them!

How cute is this???

On the left is my son, Matt, 1979 and on the right is my grandson, Braden, 2008. Notice they are wearing the same shirt. So glad I saved a lot of my children's clothes!

Let's All Remember

During this busy time it is easy for me to forget what it's really all about. I get caught up in the "I need to", "I have to", "Just one more gift", etc. None of that is really important as long as you have love, a healthy family, food, clothing and a roof over your head. Santa and gifts for our little ones are so much fun, but our children should be aware of the real reason we celebrate. Sometimes the true meaning of Christmas gets lost in the hubbub of holiday activities. The only truly important gift is the one God gave to us on that day...His Son and everlasting life if we ask for it. Let's all take a moment (or a few) to thank God daily for our blessings. All that being said...most of you who read this are my dearest friends and I'm very thankful for each of you and your unwavering support. What a special gift each of you are to me! Have a blessed Christmas!

Family Traditions

Two years ago we started our first holiday tradition when we selected our Christmas tree from a farm in Elk Park, NC during Thanksgiving weekend. After choosing the "perfect" tree a staff member cuts it down, wraps it up and puts it in your truck. This has become an anticipated event for us, as well as, my grandchildren. Braden especially likes to think he's cut the tree down himself with his trusty (plastic) hatchet. We look forward to it every year now and hope you enjoy these pictures. Oh...and of course...black Friday Shopping. Now that's really a tradition!