Patriotic Ice Cream Freezer * Front Porch Decor

When I think of the 4th of July, many words come to mind....

Freedom

Patriotic

Brave

Independance

And when I think about celebrating our independence, any one of the following might come to mind...

family and friends

red, white, blue

picnics * cookouts

homemade ice cream

fireworks

My Year in Review

I always enjoy reflecting on my year.  It always amazes me at how much I've done in a year. 

2017 brought many fun outings and trips with family and friends! 

A Gift NOT Under My Tree

Every year, there are lots of presents under the Christmas tree...wrapped up in pretty paper... tied with ribbons and bows.  As Christmas approaches, I miss my Mom and Dad even more.  I'm reminded of two precious gifts that you can't place under the tree.  One is the gift of the Baby Jesus and what He offers to each of us...if we will just reach out and take the gift. 

Another gift was one that I received just days before my sweet Mother passed. 

Love Came Down at Christmastime

Love did, indeed, come down at Christmastime.  The CHRISTmas story brings tears to my eyes every time!  I think of Mary in her "predicament" and how hard it was for her...engaged to be married , still a virgin but "with child"  and I think of her trust in God through it all!  Then I think of Joseph and his "predicament" and truly see him  as a Hero with very little credit.  He could have bowed out but he didn't!  Thank goodness for his faithfulness.  Then comes baby Jesus...King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the Prince of Peace...Emmanuel...

Glory to God in the Highest!

Tom and Jerry

I adore Tom and Jerry!

No...I'm not talking about the cartoon characters, Tom and Jerry...although I have to admit they are pretty cute too!

I mean the 19th century Tom and Jerry Christmas drink.

Christmas Dessert Table

source

Traditions have always been important to me...we had many traditions when I was a young child, especially at Christmas, that I hold dear to my heart today!  When I had a family, I started Christmas traditions of my own.  However, when your children grow up and have families of their own, those traditions can change.  And now at this season in my life, I am starting new traditions once again...and that's ok.

This year, my kids will arrive Christmas night.  We will have our "Christmas" on the 26th.  We will all gather at my oldest son's home for an early dinner and gift exchange.  That evening we will gather at my new home for dessert, light hors d'oeuvres and drinks.  So, my quest for inspiration began.  In my previous post, I shared Christmas goodies that are a must for my dessert/hors d'oeuvre table.  I wanted to share some new ideas that I have found that have inspired me.  I hope something will jump out and grab you for a little Christmas inspiration!

So let's get started...

Spring Break: Week One

I love having TWO weeks for Spring Break!  This year, my first week coincided with my grangirl's spring break.  So, I rented a cabin in Pigeon Forge.  After riding up curvy, swervy roads, we found our wonderful cabin complete with game room, loft, and hot tub.  With just being minutes from town, we would travel into Pigeon Forge each morning, and spend the day eating, shopping, going to shows, and super fun attractions!  At night, we played dress up, dolls, etc.  It was the best time together!  If you ever find yourself in East Tennessee, you need to spend sometime in the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area!

The Most Magical Time of The Year

December was chockful of the most wonderful time with my kids!  For my grangirl's October birthday, I gave her a ticket to ride The Polar Express along with Gramma, her momma and daddy.

Pretend It's November

Ok, I really don't want to go back in time, but in November, Emmy and I welcomed a new member to our little family.  Meet Lucy Lou!  She was also a rescue, so we were excited to have found this little cutie!  She was about 5 months when we met her on Veteran's Day night, which was a Friday.  She arrived with the lady that she had been with.  She was spunky and very curious.  She was also very loving!

Dreams Really Do Come True

This past Friday night, I got to witness a Dream Come True for my oldest son....when he played on the stage at the Grand Ole Opry.  As a mom, I have to tell you, this was AMAZING to see!!!!  Both of my sons are incredibly talented musicians!  I know I'm probably biased, but the opportunities both of my boys have had is incredible!