News for today's 2018

Spend Thanksgiving weekend 2013 in historic Staunton, Virginia

9:30 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF2CsT5ZntjeVfI2GyaJpw0EZvaTAmh2Y9sMWnAUNcov_ku8vrjc0LSev3sQ2d38NL3C6UQeNCg8Ilij19J_mJBeSHZkR90Twi-sgm3wNKvQcXk_Eef-z_Hr_vZV97wbQlP_Xz6uCEas/s1600/Thanksgiving+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF2CsT5ZntjeVfI2GyaJpw0EZvaTAmh2Y9sMWnAUNcov_ku8vrjc0LSev3sQ2d38NL3C6UQeNCg8Ilij19J_mJBeSHZkR90Twi-sgm3wNKvQcXk_Eef-z_Hr_vZV97wbQlP_Xz6uCEas/s400/Thanksgiving+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />There are few places as quaint and picturesque as the city of Staunton in the central Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains, this community-oriented small town celebrates holidays in style, and Thanksgiving is no exception. For a fun and exciting adventure, spend the long weekend enjoying all the area has to offer. The calendar of events is packed with activities to celebrate Thanksgiving and welcome the holiday season.<br /><br /><b>Wednesday, November 27:</b><br />- Playhouse Tour, 2:00 pm, Blackfriars Playhouse<br />- Trivia, 7:00 pm, Zabbs Beach Day Cafe<br />- "She Stoops to Conquer," 7:30 pm, Blackfriars Playhouse<br />- Live jazz, 7:30 pm, Mill Street Grill<br />- The Level, 8:00 pm, Clocktower Restaurant<br />- Brent Hull & Joe Tyree, 9:00 pm, Byers Street Bistro <br /><br /><b>Thanksgiving - Thursday, November 28:</b><br />Enjoy your Thanksgiving meal at one of the local restaurants that will be open:<br />- <a href="http://www.kathys-restaurant.com/thanksgiving-buffet/">Kathy's Restaurant</a>, 11:00 am - 3:30 pm, reservations available<br />- <a href="http://www.stonewalljacksonhotel.com/media/docs/ChristmasCalendar2013.pdf">Stonewall Jackson Hotel & Conference Center</a>, 11:00 am - 2:30 pm<br />- Rowe's Restaurant<br />- <a href="http://www.crackerbarrel.com/restaurant/thanksgiving#OpenForThanksgiving">Cracker Barrel</a>, 6:00 am - 10:00 pm<br /><br /><b>Friday, November 29:</b><br /><b>Black Friday"</b> offers the opportunity to check out the local stores and shops of  downtown Staunton and the surrounding vicinity. From unique gift items,  jewelry, clothing, handmade chocolates, and domestic goods in Staunton  to the shopping availabilities of Waynesboro's Target, Books-a-Million,  and Kohl's, there's plenty to keep everyone happy. Check out local restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as unique coffee shops throughout town.<br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.gvbookfair.com/">Green Valley Book Fair</a></b>  will open Friday, November 29, for its last two-week run of 2013. Open  daily, this Mt. Crawford book retailer is known  far and wide for its deeply discounted deals on books, audio tapes, and  more. It's a great spot to pick up gifts for everyone from children to  grandparents. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/"><b>The Frontier Culture Museum's gift shop</b></a> offers imported items from Ireland, Scotland, and Great Britain as well  as America -- nutcrackers, Christmas ornaments, glassware, historical  and cook books, and other just-right gift items for that special person.  Don't forget the Museum's famous fudge that comes in a variety of  flavors and is always a favorite with visitors.<br /><br />Staunton's world-known <b><a href="http://www.americanshakespearecenter.com/">American Shakespeare Theater</a></b> kicks off the holiday season on  Friday, November 29, with a variety of offerings<i></i> in the authentically recreated Blackfriars Playhouse as well as tours  of the theater. The playhouse can be found on Market Street beside the  Stonewall Jackson Hotel.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.oxeyevineyards.com/our-tasting-room/"><b>Ox-Eye Vineyard's tasting room</b></a> is located in a renovated 1910 building in the historic Wharf District of  downtown Staunton which offers an inviting location to taste  this local wines crafted by Susan and John Kiers.<br /><br />The <b><a href="http://www.stauntondowntown.org/">Staunton Christmas Parade</a> </b>will  add a magical touch on Monday, December 2 (always the first Monday  after Thanksgiving). The route  will begin at Frederick and Augusta Streets, turn down Market Street,  and then turn right onto Beverley Street. Thousands of tiny white  twinkly lights, Christmas decorations, and inviting window displays will  entice visitors to step into shops and dine in restaurants before and  after the parade. Bundle up for a fun evening in the brisk December air, followed up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Meeting friends downtown is a must for this annual tradition.<br /><br />Be sure to check the <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/stauntonontap.htm">Visit Staunton</a> website for more activities as well as lodging and dining opportunities. Come to the Shenandoah Valley for Thanksgiving and stick around to kick off your holiday season.

Spend Thanksgiving weekend 2013 in historic Staunton, Virginia

There are few places as quaint and picturesque as the city of Staunton in the central Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains, this community-oriented small town celebrates holidays in style, and Thanksgi…

RVA: Bethlehem Walk 2013

3:31 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR7KEqFOPuqS7ZNfKQZpIyf5M2pjPwnqM0flCk09FKYgAVkBe4F3wbScIs5L9Ptcz_wUpXXO4B4qdbM8xjKe9YmLrzt8boRV3evvnglm_xmtIV040GxdpFWMX9_KeQRo_LEJm0a35A7urR/s1600/Christmas+19.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR7KEqFOPuqS7ZNfKQZpIyf5M2pjPwnqM0flCk09FKYgAVkBe4F3wbScIs5L9Ptcz_wUpXXO4B4qdbM8xjKe9YmLrzt8boRV3evvnglm_xmtIV040GxdpFWMX9_KeQRo_LEJm0a35A7urR/s1600/Christmas+19.jpeg" /></a></div><br />Walk the streets of Bethlehem and experience the time when Christ was born. In its ninth year, Bethlehem Walk, located west of Richmond, will offer a Christmas encounter sure to confirm the meaning of the season. From their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bethlehem-Walk/195030986391?id=195030986391&sk=info" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>:<br /><blockquote>Since its inaugural season in 2003, Bethlehem Walk has thrilled and emotionally touched thousands of visitors from across the Commonwealth. Nearly 6,000 travelers toured Bethlehem the first year. Last December, host church Salem Baptist in Crozier, VA partnered with 11 area churches to reach 13,000 people with this interactive Gospel drama that takes visitors through scenes ranging from the entrance of the Savior into the world to an empty Jewish tomb.<br /><br />Your trip will take you on an adventure to first century Bethlehem on the night Jesus was born. As you enter the city allow the sights, sounds and smells to carry you to a period of time that changed the world. Expect to be met by Roman soldiers and counted in the census. Journey through the heart of the city to the marketplace that is bustling with activity from over a dozen authentic shops; enjoy samples from the baker’s shop, marvel at the potter’s crafts and listen for the rumor of a “king’s” birth from excited townspeople. Continue your journey to the Nativity where a very special baby was born in the stable. Here you can reflect on the blessed birth of Christ - the greatest gift that has ever been given.</blockquote>Bethlehem Walk, free to the public, is located on Broad Street (Rt. 250) six miles west of Short Pump between I-64's Exit 167 (Oilville/Goochland) and Exit 173 (Rockville/Manakin-Sabot).<br /><br /><b>Here is all the information to make it to Bethlehem Walk 2013...</b><br /><br />- The address for those in need of GPS assistance is 465 Broad Street Road, Manakin-Sabot, Va 23103.<br />- Parking is FREE onsite or FREE shuttles from the West End Church of  the Nazarene (591 Broad Street) or the Food Lion in Centerville (30  Broad Street).<br />- There will be Chick-fil-A sandwiches, snacks and sodas available in the welcome tent.<br />- Accepting canned goods for our local Food Bank. <br />- Free refreshments at the end of the Walk.<br />- Strollers are welcome but be prepared for some uneven ground in a few spots. <br />- There will be chariots (golf carts) for those who need assistance. <br />- There are fires throughout the Walk to keep everyone warm.<br />- Be prepared to have an awesome experience hearing the true Word and reason for the season.<br /><br /><b>Dates and Times:</b><br />Dec 4 - 5 - Wed/Thu: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm<br />Dec 6 - Fri: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm<br />Dec 7 - Sat: 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm<br />Dec 8 - Sun: 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Bethlehem Walk Christmas Jesus is the reason for the season Richmond Salem Baptist Church Short Pump RVA: Bethlehem Walk 2013

Walk the streets of Bethlehem and experience the time when Christ was born. In its ninth year, Bethlehem Walk, located west of Richmond, will offer a Christmas encounter sure to confirm the meaning of the season. From their Facebook page:Since its in…

2013 Yuletide Feast at Michie Tavern

9:30 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zgZbWpOV9Nmwc73s31Dobh_hOlEUuwamY6ohNhhKB2bz7gkv9O9DY149tfOxAToIPHtmRXOC5215B-QTB1OSBZTsOSibRnF-KX0KQiMCE0dixchj5gLYOGYOPb_bZ99KPqE-tu-2RmOy/s1600/Michie+Tavern+Christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zgZbWpOV9Nmwc73s31Dobh_hOlEUuwamY6ohNhhKB2bz7gkv9O9DY149tfOxAToIPHtmRXOC5215B-QTB1OSBZTsOSibRnF-KX0KQiMCE0dixchj5gLYOGYOPb_bZ99KPqE-tu-2RmOy/s400/Michie+Tavern+Christmas.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br /><h2 class="entry-title">2013 Yuletide Feast</h2><h3>Friday, December 13th and Saturday, December 14th</h3><b><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Tickets remain for Friday, December 13 at 8:00,<br />all other seatings have sold out.</span></b><br /><br />Each evening strolling Tavern musicians will entertain guests dining  by candlelight.  The Ordinary will be decorated in festive 18th-century  tradition, featuring fresh greens and fruits.   There will be <b>6:00 and 8:00 p.m. seatings each evening.  </b><b>Advance ticket purchase required. </b>The <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.michietavern.com/candlelit-tavern2/"><span style="color: blue;">Candlelit Tavern</span></a></span> will be open for our dinner guests.<br /><br /><b>The Bill of Fare</b> features a traditional Virginia  holiday banquet including such favorites as country ham with raisin  sauce, roasted turkey and giblet gravy, cornbread stuffing, candied  yams, mashed potatoes, green beans with carrots, squash casserole and  homemade biscuits.  For dessert we will offer our hot peach cobbler a la  mode and introduce other traditional favorites. To complement your  meal, assorted wines along with traditional lagers and ales are  available.<br /><ul><li>Advance ticket purchase is required (see ticket information)</li><li>Price includes full buffet, non-alcoholic beverages and dessert</li><li>9.3% sales tax, alcoholic beverages and gratuity are not included</li></ul><h4><b>Ticket Information</b></h4>Tickets are available by phone or in person on a first come, first serve basis. <b>(see below)</b><br /><ul><li><b>Date of ticket sales: Monday, November 4, 2013 beginning at 8:30 a.m. </b><b>Phone in</b>: please call (434) 977-1234 with your desired date and seating. <b>In person sales</b>: doors open at 7:30, sale will begin at 8:30 a.m.  Major credit cards accepted.</li></ul><ul><li><b>2013 Adult: $37.95 plus tax</b></li><li><b>2013 Youth (10 years of age and under): $18.95</b> <b>plus tax</b></li></ul><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.michietavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/YuletideFlyer_2013.pdf" target="_blank" title="Michie Tavern's 2013 Yuletide Feast"><span style="color: blue;"><b>To download or to print our Yuletide Feast flyer click here</b></span></a></span> Please e-mail us at <span style="color: blue;"><a href="mailto:info@michietavern.com"><span style="color: blue;">info@michietavern.com</span></a></span> if you would like to be on our Special Events mailing list which includes Yuletide information.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.michietavern.com/2013-yuletide-feast/">Michie Tavern</a> 683 Thomas Jefferson Parkway Charlottesville, Virginia 22902

Albemarle County Charlottesville Christmas Colonial Virginia Michie Tavern Monticello Yuletide 2013 Yuletide Feast at Michie Tavern

2013 Yuletide FeastFriday, December 13th and Saturday, December 14thTickets remain for Friday, December 13 at 8:00,all other seatings have sold out.Each evening strolling Tavern musicians will entertain guests dining by candlelight. The Ordinary wi…

merry vacation to all

6:22 PM Anonymous 0

I had grand plans to have a whole house tour and shovel out one last dose of Christmas cheer. However, the cheer of real life got in the way and I'm having too much fun to sit still long enough to put together a proper tour. So these pictures will have to do.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUttxhK0S5XjPmH0Jge7-o1GyRUDVUg04ZK-IZ7bwtB5kOAtZivtDxiV7xIPD-n_EvOHsbc22xDOKGIz2xrRX4Z557GYyS3UMK1UBNrCV2p75yUQDe2IDftX6sjeMVEY1owxliFT3azwmz/s1600/BlueandWhiteChristmas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUttxhK0S5XjPmH0Jge7-o1GyRUDVUg04ZK-IZ7bwtB5kOAtZivtDxiV7xIPD-n_EvOHsbc22xDOKGIz2xrRX4Z557GYyS3UMK1UBNrCV2p75yUQDe2IDftX6sjeMVEY1owxliFT3azwmz/s640/BlueandWhiteChristmas2.jpg" width="632" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzbqviwHk0OpuNYmA90rPH_P7lsPoIIkJlZvjHjkK2tMgTMFDmE7DfILIPQqgQGc-FIffyKykOVKZ_eAYTaq8ZXcuACGXe-J_-MDIV1Kzjv_qcEghHi6SaEqTIPlEASTB2HldCPkT5Xpz/s1600/ChristmasOrnaments.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzbqviwHk0OpuNYmA90rPH_P7lsPoIIkJlZvjHjkK2tMgTMFDmE7DfILIPQqgQGc-FIffyKykOVKZ_eAYTaq8ZXcuACGXe-J_-MDIV1Kzjv_qcEghHi6SaEqTIPlEASTB2HldCPkT5Xpz/s640/ChristmasOrnaments.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6q-XX8YoYYC_QT6naExlrv8F8sbpnY2EJNIc-f47OvA5OCAmtH8580RK3um4dqbpMd2Wk05BHL5HB5xwF7jClK5mBnlw5NwMS628LdpYlhP3fd6eB0IPDUHo5wZ5cWJJk6RObi8FOGo0C/s1600/christmastree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6q-XX8YoYYC_QT6naExlrv8F8sbpnY2EJNIc-f47OvA5OCAmtH8580RK3um4dqbpMd2Wk05BHL5HB5xwF7jClK5mBnlw5NwMS628LdpYlhP3fd6eB0IPDUHo5wZ5cWJJk6RObi8FOGo0C/s640/christmastree.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vH2_qUdz3mUYiAWwdyEStFv6QMAwBu0RleEEPBX5jE8HhtvRk5pjm6txCl7v18ATgCfKpKGjHl_HeVSMbB7PSoMG2hYKWmlhqirjqq0mj2pdakHa25THIViIQmmOnVLUiSW2zpa5bAnO/s1600/livingroomchristmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="590" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vH2_qUdz3mUYiAWwdyEStFv6QMAwBu0RleEEPBX5jE8HhtvRk5pjm6txCl7v18ATgCfKpKGjHl_HeVSMbB7PSoMG2hYKWmlhqirjqq0mj2pdakHa25THIViIQmmOnVLUiSW2zpa5bAnO/s640/livingroomchristmas.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span id="goog_1109339394"></span><span id="goog_1109339395"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsywf2Uc9b1J4u2ZRgfou56MxCf0ezqZ-DDhabHcWxFuiDjfXJUOiHwr1qsq38pMEDmc9ktX_66n1K784lGn5w5vywhOl2sZDGsc7AFNx3iuAooz1VslSdmgvgoH55C-SeMUJCn9TV_Ei/s1600/nativity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsywf2Uc9b1J4u2ZRgfou56MxCf0ezqZ-DDhabHcWxFuiDjfXJUOiHwr1qsq38pMEDmc9ktX_66n1K784lGn5w5vywhOl2sZDGsc7AFNx3iuAooz1VslSdmgvgoH55C-SeMUJCn9TV_Ei/s640/nativity.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ILUFqe1xh0OSgPssQhoBXjH2o3gSGwS0tJJQKfqU8Mv8i3VPxQWRxGgeJTjZ4idpE8_PftV18VpWEJskTth9SWvM086fM8r3OsX5sy0g7KvUh9agBFNis9tFbH9mO8jAnUU2fgSE5xJD/s1600/peppermintwreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ILUFqe1xh0OSgPssQhoBXjH2o3gSGwS0tJJQKfqU8Mv8i3VPxQWRxGgeJTjZ4idpE8_PftV18VpWEJskTth9SWvM086fM8r3OsX5sy0g7KvUh9agBFNis9tFbH9mO8jAnUU2fgSE5xJD/s640/peppermintwreath.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0vrZAV1Pa9RbRZco526-JvXYqAByWXfZ6dhs37U19PAKqwTVcTpb_Dhh-l4hVoXbe72lQIALWHjRCmPzPjeWqCgfL58vAEt3uiUA6wkpX1f8BjWk6JGNppm3NPyX_znG9B_cHlPX7mwe/s1600/peppermintwreath2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0vrZAV1Pa9RbRZco526-JvXYqAByWXfZ6dhs37U19PAKqwTVcTpb_Dhh-l4hVoXbe72lQIALWHjRCmPzPjeWqCgfL58vAEt3uiUA6wkpX1f8BjWk6JGNppm3NPyX_znG9B_cHlPX7mwe/s640/peppermintwreath2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Merry Christmas and see you in the new year!!

Christmas merry vacation to all

the sea of swirly twirly gum drops

5:10 AM Anonymous 0

I have sick babies today, but wanted to share the gingerbread house we made a few days ago. The pre-made kit we had didn't give us nearly enough candy, in our opinion, so we added many many gumdrops left over from <a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com/2012/02/very-first-birthday.html" target="_blank">Eve's birthday celebration.</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHSasQ5s2g-v2gkk0YqpW-PcZFMhQekBRT23inSRoxUI-kDJ8iirbYjqaMxGh1p91cYJCxpGjMXNNnfpAUtcOhGf3KEabD1j3t6EzaNC18crX71f3CYgx3_iato8Ew0Ct66D2I65a-TR_/s1600/GingerbreadHouse2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHSasQ5s2g-v2gkk0YqpW-PcZFMhQekBRT23inSRoxUI-kDJ8iirbYjqaMxGh1p91cYJCxpGjMXNNnfpAUtcOhGf3KEabD1j3t6EzaNC18crX71f3CYgx3_iato8Ew0Ct66D2I65a-TR_/s640/GingerbreadHouse2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Gumdrops can make anything look a bit better and the colors were a great tie-in to <a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com/2012/12/childs-play-christmas-mantel.html" target="_blank">the Christmas mantel </a>in the living room.<div><br /></div><div>Can you tell we were watching Elf when we made this?</div>

Christmas the sea of swirly twirly gum drops

advent calendar blues

3:30 AM Anonymous 0

I'm feeling a bit behind already and it's only December 5th.<br /><br />I've got lists made, presents half way complete, decorations underway and meals/parties planned but I'm slacking in one area. The advent calendar.<br /><br />We have a lovely felt calendar we pull out each year, and each year I feel under pressure to find stuff to fill each day. So I usually end up buying a bunch of crappy little things to hand out that break an hour later or I give the girls candy and treats when they already get enough of that at this time of year.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7pz6rfw7gGQB1SJScDqmkc-ycBnlKVUSOv-vyIlRaMjNlfqEBTxvIr4gdqWlKd9HlBzFSXsIi1lItaBt7UdObTtEom5SkBg6vH2GOU60offbYZsBtRAu39-qSgRiW7hTSnx2ofN2Aq1nj/s1600/img62o.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7pz6rfw7gGQB1SJScDqmkc-ycBnlKVUSOv-vyIlRaMjNlfqEBTxvIr4gdqWlKd9HlBzFSXsIi1lItaBt7UdObTtEom5SkBg6vH2GOU60offbYZsBtRAu39-qSgRiW7hTSnx2ofN2Aq1nj/s400/img62o.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/stocking-advent-calendar/?pkey=dchristmas-decor&cm_src=christmas-decor||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-" target="_blank">Pottery Barn Kids</a></td></tr></tbody></table>I tried going to Pinterest for some inspiration, but have you ever done a search for 'advent calendar' in Pinterest? It's like googling 'mysterious cough'. You are going to get way more information than you'll even need.<br /><br />I love the idea of filling each day with an activity or something, but it's hard to find an activity that works well for both a 5 year old and a 20 month old.<br /><br />So I'm all ears. Do you do an advent calendar? How do you do it? What do you fill it with? Want to come take care of mine?

Christmas advent calendar blues

I'm feeling a bit behind already and it's only December 5th.I've got lists made, presents half way complete, decorations underway and meals/parties planned but I'm slacking in one area. The advent calendar.We have a lovely felt calendar we pull out e…

Weigh In + Weekly Goals + More Christmas Celebrations

8:23 AM Tukiyooo 0

Well the verdict is in.... I am up 0.5 lbs and I'm okay with that.  After the serious eating challenges I've had almost the entire month of December, I'm not fretting about 0.5 lbs.  I know that things will start to move in the right direction this week!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrR2fz6ykPOlqqtwQS8_iJgypy3me7h40U-Z9dMOyf1FUR88WXLFQ0VN3q5CU93JWxXqvJyOmIitVRDFryAGVY34YmrK4x2TmqUiVfEv76UBvZ-dI59lLrBFPzveVnU8vob32OevtIYLE/s1600/christmas+gifts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrR2fz6ykPOlqqtwQS8_iJgypy3me7h40U-Z9dMOyf1FUR88WXLFQ0VN3q5CU93JWxXqvJyOmIitVRDFryAGVY34YmrK4x2TmqUiVfEv76UBvZ-dI59lLrBFPzveVnU8vob32OevtIYLE/s400/christmas+gifts.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sad that Christmas is over though</td></tr></tbody></table>As I stated <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/merry-christmas-week-recap.html">the other day</a>, this Christmas was awesome.  They seem to get better and better each year!  Despite my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/one-day-at-time.html">battles</a> with the baking, I am still glad I did it because the recipients seemed so grateful.  Plus, there is something about putting in some hard work and seeing the smiles it brings to people's faces that make it all worth it :).  <br /><br />Together, Joel and I made this red velvet cake that we took to his grandparents on Christmas day.  It was quite a hit!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTznu2aWyrAWhKEiZMLsIcCc80Fa1K2TJXwo453qxnfTjoK-NQuA-nS7aPJ0roH6CsDQ1AZvdqt2Q-OSDz9Y80pKjgszKRiZlNE7rYLIaMCOP31kSMn3WLycNXPieTTSbK82B6hDc1ShY/s1600/red+velvet+cake+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTznu2aWyrAWhKEiZMLsIcCc80Fa1K2TJXwo453qxnfTjoK-NQuA-nS7aPJ0roH6CsDQ1AZvdqt2Q-OSDz9Y80pKjgszKRiZlNE7rYLIaMCOP31kSMn3WLycNXPieTTSbK82B6hDc1ShY/s400/red+velvet+cake+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />I did the baking and the white icing, Joel hand drew & iced the reindeer and Noel.<br /> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3COfPJwlTX8EOZT5FXjJIXDmeKI7znMxnxQSo1VS1NUxc-_JEkSPJX0IiSyYEa_BJU2KMYyveTTdMdsWSy9SJS0_d5Y74cADWoPJUkIOlSvdc6CUMOhZ8CAqU_ekHiyjMisnyhVOlULw/s1600/bhg+red+velvet+cake+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3COfPJwlTX8EOZT5FXjJIXDmeKI7znMxnxQSo1VS1NUxc-_JEkSPJX0IiSyYEa_BJU2KMYyveTTdMdsWSy9SJS0_d5Y74cADWoPJUkIOlSvdc6CUMOhZ8CAqU_ekHiyjMisnyhVOlULw/s400/bhg+red+velvet+cake+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />The only thing I would do differently in regard to this cake was bake it for less time.  It was a little on the dry side, but overall, not bad for my first try at red velvet.<br /><br />Another rewarding part of Christmas is giving to my niece and nephew.  It's so cool watching them open their gifts and seeing their reactions.<br /> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_-S2AIUqj7O2a201lHUid2I5Np4nuLh-9bOVE5VKP3XBS_qTUUa2AoNqsgxxcAS-8Yk4vQBjsxCD3AhdjMvH6utxrE2afwIsDqg7boXChxo-BcJOhyphenhyphenp8CwrGmO4BfXnQlaedCB4gIbk/s1600/rexon+bumbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_-S2AIUqj7O2a201lHUid2I5Np4nuLh-9bOVE5VKP3XBS_qTUUa2AoNqsgxxcAS-8Yk4vQBjsxCD3AhdjMvH6utxrE2afwIsDqg7boXChxo-BcJOhyphenhyphenp8CwrGmO4BfXnQlaedCB4gIbk/s400/rexon+bumbo.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rexon in his new Bumbo with a book, of course :)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYFdtSf0HMUTrgCo9T_PPoDiAX-GaoGO3cQwUpStsNCWJcBRvvwSqmaAOWo8AZeL4WmkxcDW5BXRfmv5UYmRzsYHX9mfKUws_ZmDKqmmvzsSjJRB5G_ON4IKQcAa2r-1U07qcCy2K19g/s1600/christmas+2011+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYFdtSf0HMUTrgCo9T_PPoDiAX-GaoGO3cQwUpStsNCWJcBRvvwSqmaAOWo8AZeL4WmkxcDW5BXRfmv5UYmRzsYHX9mfKUws_ZmDKqmmvzsSjJRB5G_ON4IKQcAa2r-1U07qcCy2K19g/s400/christmas+2011+010.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, hey Merlin!</td></tr></tbody></table>Oh yeah, and then there was Dad and one of his new toys - the self-proclaimed Gift of the Year...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfeagDyI1-CFCM9rNaAKYWdpIdcj26x1Z67_F1zVZPIUAPVhiqrKCY9vVYaqBAqOIgVGuqbl9y6vyICyhTwtdxb7wHFtq3foSf-eyGmGvUxd5Uf8WLb4VAQc3TdOnKSLInW49LURkVok/s1600/dad+wii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfeagDyI1-CFCM9rNaAKYWdpIdcj26x1Z67_F1zVZPIUAPVhiqrKCY9vVYaqBAqOIgVGuqbl9y6vyICyhTwtdxb7wHFtq3foSf-eyGmGvUxd5Uf8WLb4VAQc3TdOnKSLInW49LURkVok/s400/dad+wii.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />Also, another decision that was made final this week was our wedding date:  <b>October 6, 2012</b>!  We made our deposit on Wednesday when I took my parents to see the wedding venue.  I'm so glad and relieved that the venue has been decided upon and we can begin to proceed with photographer and dj selections.<br /><br />On to the weekly goals! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPHHXZcGayhBxS9vC7YcoFq6_ZHzGYSWuOo-BlOdbMWpof09vHPM20Oa2UQfXqzy0bmBTUxveiaJW5X_APpzAfF_nB2GxclJGudMWazU-Mg7SUXmA6CUvvFRcVYsiloZLUl2ZEVaEQ0A/s1600/weight-watchers-diet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPHHXZcGayhBxS9vC7YcoFq6_ZHzGYSWuOo-BlOdbMWpof09vHPM20Oa2UQfXqzy0bmBTUxveiaJW5X_APpzAfF_nB2GxclJGudMWazU-Mg7SUXmA6CUvvFRcVYsiloZLUl2ZEVaEQ0A/s1600/weight-watchers-diet.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: blue;">Goals for the week:</span></b><br />Stay within daily Points+ allowance (39) for 5 of the 7 days. If I have to  delve in to the Weekly Points+ allowance, I want to use no more than 34  of them, leaving a balance of 15.   <br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><b style="color: blue;">Potential Challenges + Solutions:</b></div><ol><li><b>New Year's Eve:</b> I think I will be safe on the menu part since I am preparing the food, but the alcohol consumption will be a challenge.  </li><li><b>Going over daily Points+ allowance:</b>  Back to this again.  As I've stated before, I struggle with this every week.  I have a 4 day weekend coming up ahead of me and with that time I plan to construct a menu for the upcoming week to keep me well on track.     </li></ol><b style="color: blue;">Planned Activity: </b><br />I'm sticking to 2 days of activity this upcoming week again.  If I do more, then that's a bonus.  The activity of choice will most likely be the elliptical.<br /><br />Speaking of activity options, Joel and I had started the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/08/august-goals.html">New Rules of Lifting challenge</a> back in August.  I really enjoyed this because it shook up the dull cardio routine that I had been doing for almost 8 months straight.  We slacked off on the challenge big time in October and November, only completing Stage 1.  Last week, while on lunch at work, I read through Stage 2 and once again I'm intimidated.  Many of the moves seem like they will be difficult to learn, and I'm not too excited about re-acclimating myself to the meat-head side of the gym. It will be even worse this time of year, with all the New Year's resolution people.  Dang it.  We desperately need to get our butts back in gear with the weight lifting - it was really helpful and it broke up the same, dull routine of cardio.  I just can't find the motivation to do it.<br /><br /><b>What are your plans for New Year's Eve? </b> Almost every year since I've lived in the DC area, my parents come between Christmas and NYE and we end up doing nothing.  So lame we are. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixIOIH16mT__FflnxQcAsABWxOdraNmbzauLUwvyw2vLyFa5UENCGHGn_Wn1L3xymqzJpOZj5zM6bNYDB8mRiXMhx8EicqifK3E6HHThk2-5g_NoBSKz3kimNqHhK381zCDcO_LejLMWI/s1600/NYE+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixIOIH16mT__FflnxQcAsABWxOdraNmbzauLUwvyw2vLyFa5UENCGHGn_Wn1L3xymqzJpOZj5zM6bNYDB8mRiXMhx8EicqifK3E6HHThk2-5g_NoBSKz3kimNqHhK381zCDcO_LejLMWI/s400/NYE+2010.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYE two years ago... LAME</td></tr></tbody></table><br />This year, Joel doesn't have to work for once, and so we want to at least go out to a bar for a few drinks and then come back here to hang out.<br /><br />Happy New Year to you and your family!

Christmas Weekly Weight Watchers Goals Weigh In + Weekly Goals + More Christmas Celebrations

Merry Christmas + Week Recap!

12:18 PM Tukiyooo 0

I'll get the sad parts out of the way first.<br /><br />I've been doing a LOT of eating over the last several days, and I can feel the affects.  Next year I will have to come up with a better game plan if I'm going to do <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/giveaway-winner-weekend-recap.html">all that baking</a>.  Not only that, but I will have to institute a better strategy for all of the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/one-day-at-time.html">Christmas-related</a> <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/one-day-at-time.html">parties</a> I've attended.  I talked with my WW leader, Sharon, about it this last Wednesday.  She suggested that I only pick 1-2 holiday parties to "indulge" and the rest need to involve conscientious eating.  Let's just say I'm glad to be home the rest of this week so I can detox and get myself back to a better way of eating.<br /><br />How did you do with Christmas/Hanukkah/whatever you celebrate?  I'm already planning the NYE menu so there are no slip ups there.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: purple;">****** </span></b></div>On to better things...<br /><br />As usual, God blessed me in many ways this Christmas.  For one, I got to spend time with my own family (and my parents are arriving today from Pennsylvania for the rest of the week) AND Joel's family for Christmas.  We did a lot of driving between PA, MD and VA, but it was worth it.  Additionally, I received some awesome gifts and was able to give some pretty great gifts as well.  Each year I strive for the "gift of the year" (a phrase I started giving to what I thought was the best gift I was able to give someone each year), and this year is no different.  Let's just say I'm looking forward to seeing my father's reaction when he opens his brand new Wii :).<br /><br />For now, I'm only going to share one of my favorite Christmas gifts so far.<br /><br />I got this beauty from Joel...<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_wua8JzrwB_NSFWczKu36sXsdEb_wRRYqXZxW3JGYQJ8umGZQMFDH3NylyJqwqugyD9RwEmzt8p7owkFHlglvjOWp9mJXXyZebjDMyw2ezF6dazcN_oDNv02WW1zGg7PYseAjKl0ws8/s1600/nikon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_wua8JzrwB_NSFWczKu36sXsdEb_wRRYqXZxW3JGYQJ8umGZQMFDH3NylyJqwqugyD9RwEmzt8p7owkFHlglvjOWp9mJXXyZebjDMyw2ezF6dazcN_oDNv02WW1zGg7PYseAjKl0ws8/s400/nikon.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D3100</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Two years ago for Christmas, Joel got me the Nikon Coolpix L100 (below) as a transitional camera from the point and shoot to the DSLR.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.photoxels.com/images/Nikon/l100/nikon-l100-800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://www.photoxels.com/images/Nikon/l100/nikon-l100-800.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I loved that camera but there were limitations, and as one of my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/goals.html">goals</a>, I planned to buy the D3100 as a reward.  I was VERY surprised when I unwrapped this gem of a gift... I cannot wait to learn all about it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I'm going to leave you all with this picture of my work outfit from last Wednesday.  I call this my "<a href="http://fatfatalefashion.blogspot.com/">Ariana</a> outfit" :).  <a href="http://fatfatalefashion.blogspot.com/">Ariana</a> - if you're reading this, notice how I'm also utilizing the work restroom to snap the pic ;).  I will admit that I wasn't initially feeling the look of this outfit at all - I was slightly uncomfortable in the belt (not because it was too tight, I just felt like it didn't look right).  I must have been wrong though because all day long people complimented me on the "awesome outfit".  Thanks for the inspiration <a href="http://fatfatalefashion.blogspot.com/">Ariana</a>!  If you don't read <a href="http://fatfatalefashion.blogspot.com/">Fatale Fashion</a> already, go over there right away and see what fashion finds Ariana has on display - she's so cute and has such a great fashion sense for gals like us :).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxr5Q5RQjNfHvp__NtxeE6zHCr5surKiFIl_OdS8oVFgYbLtGdou-VNl2TD6NzRVPe0f7mcvI8oAJj8Xx_ZbyMZB6CfiVa1lrpNoUE4oL7XFRzRnDd37FsrB9nRNvgLFpCnDltctQMH7s/s1600/ariana+outfit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxr5Q5RQjNfHvp__NtxeE6zHCr5surKiFIl_OdS8oVFgYbLtGdou-VNl2TD6NzRVPe0f7mcvI8oAJj8Xx_ZbyMZB6CfiVa1lrpNoUE4oL7XFRzRnDd37FsrB9nRNvgLFpCnDltctQMH7s/s400/ariana+outfit.JPG" width="297" /></a></div><br />Just like Ariana does, I'll post where I got the items I'm wearing... though keep in mind I do not have current prices on any of the stuff because it was purchased so long ago.<br /><br /><ul><li>Sweater - White Stag - Walmart</li><li>Black and White Polka Dot Shirt - Lane Bryant Outlet</li><li>Belt - Walmart</li><li>Silver Necklace - Ten Thousand Villages</li><li>Black Dress Pants - Lane Bryant</li></ul>Are you still off from work this week, or are you back to the grind already?  I'm working at home 2 days this week and spending time with my parents the other 2.

Christmas Holidays Weekend Recap Merry Christmas + Week Recap!

I'll get the sad parts out of the way first.I've been doing a LOT of eating over the last several days, and I can feel the affects. Next year I will have to come up with a better game plan if I'm going to do all that baking. Not only that, but I wi…

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