Saturday, December 4, 2010

" THE HOLIDAYS..and a...GIVE A WAY "

It was our kids turn to be at their in-laws this Thanksgiving,
so Ron and I took off for St. George for a couple of days. We
took our two little dogs with us...this is Zak and this is his
favorite place to ride!


And this is Bo Jangles and this is his favorite place to ride.


As you can see...we dined with a lot of other people...
it was fun and we ate til we "gobbled when we wobbled!"

See the lady with long dark hair, well, we stood right in
front of her and I have never seen any one's chin quiver
so much or so long in my life! These poor St. George people
are so used to really nice warn weather that they thing 50
degrees is cold!


We also spent a bit of time with a couple of our children that
lived close by. I loved reading to Sophia, she is just 31/2 months
old but she loves to be read to.

She is an amazing little baby for sure and I just loved her.

Oh so sweet... all tucked in for the night.



Welcome to Christmas at our home. When we got home, we
started putting up our tree and then a few more things....


Pretty soon it was all up and we are so enjoying it.
Is there anything more beautiful than a Christmas
tree in the home at night?

Or a fire going in the fireplace...

Christmas lights spread out over the mantel...
Wonderful smells warming the home and heart.


I gave away a lot of my Christmas decorations
this year but here are a few I kept....


Sweet things kept and treasured over the years...

I am loving the JOY that fills my home...

We bought this in Israel a few years ago, it's made of olive wood.

My darling nut crackers...got to have them out.

I love these two sweethearts sitting by the fire place.

Friends gave this to us years ago, it still plays
music and the lanterns light up as it plays.

I LOVE snowmen and have several around for Christmas.

And I LOVE Santa's too!

We have our Christmas stockings hung, I love
the little surprises that are found in them!

I painted this about 38 years ago and I still love it!
The grand kids love it too as it is always filled with
sweets just for them!

Why are snowmen so cute?!

The elves are hanging around...
keeping an eye and ear out for Santa!

I love this hand carved Santa and reindeer.

And this Santa greets everyone at the door...

I love the sparkle of wreaths hanging on the doors...

So much JOY to spread around to everyone!

I also love lots of bells...on the doors and on the tree!

I LOVE this little snowman family...they are made out
of an old chenille bedspread. I love their faces and hats!

A sleigh we have had around for 30 years,
greets out guests at the front door.

My dinning room table, with a hand made sleigh...
the man and friend who built our home made it
for us. The Santa in the sleigh so reminds me of
my childhood. Love the beehive cake dome from
Nauvoo with it all too.


Just a little loved Santa that my mom gave to me.

The beautiful angel atop our tree. I love
angels on top of Christmas trees so much!

Just some of the things I love in my home at Christmas time...
many are things I have loved since I was a child and still love!

~~~

AND....A GIVE A WAY JUST FOR YOU!
This give a way has lots of sweet things in it, as you can see...
So through your name into Santa's hat and lets see who wins!


Oh, and plus... a darling red and white vintage
apron that has the sweetest hand work on it,
this kind of smocking is getting rare to find too.


And as usual...All you need to do is leave me a comment!

~And~

I love followers too, so if you have not yet, I would love it
if you wanted to follow my blog. Good luck to everyone...

***I will pick the winner on Saturday December 4th.***


I hope each of you will enjoy this month...it is so full of
happiness...I think it's the best time of the year!

106 comments:

Ann said...

That is just too funny that the dog rides behind your husband like that. Totally cracked me up. Your decorations are all so nice. I haven't even pulled mine out yet. Still trying to finish up the painting around here first. I've got a ton of snowmen, I can't resist them, they are cute.

Tina G said...

I started reading to my children and grandchildren early on also. Now they all have a love for books! And they are so smart! (I'd like to take some credit for that too! LOL)
I'm a big fan of snowmen too! They are all over my house at Christmas! Your Christmas decorations are beautiful. My favorite would be the carolers and Mary and Joseph with baby Jesus. I think it's awesome that you were able to purchase that great piece in Israel!

Amanda said...

Still haven't gotten my stuff out yet this year, I'm late, I alway's do it the day after Thanksgiving... Maybe tonight. Love that apron!

Mildred said...

Your home and decorations are very pretty. Christmas lights make a home look so warm and lovely. Sophia is so sweet and truly appears to enjoy the storybook you are reading - that is a great photo to cherish. Hope you enjoy your week.

A blog by the "Farmer" said...

The dogs are so sweet!

I loved seeing all of the decorations and their special place in your heart (and home).

Please enter me in your contest!

Thanks,

Farmer

Marydon said...

Definitely a chuckle where poochie loves to ride ... they are such delights in our lives, aren't they.

What beautiful treasures, Julie. Our decorations, tree, etc. are all up & being enjoyed. It sure does make a home more beautiful ... the spirit just swells within the home.

Glad you had a lovely holiday celebration.

Have a beautiful week.
TTFN ~ Marydon

NanaDiana said...

Love the dog riding behind the hubby. We had a cat that loved to ride and she would stretch out on the dash...sure got some weird looks from people...as I'm sure you do!

I am giving away a bunch of my stuff too this year. Every year I am paring down more and more. I am putting our tree up tonight- (I think-if I can get a little help)...and I have been sorting and organizing all day long.

Your house looks lovely..homey and warm...you are blessed indeed...and that grandbaby? OH SO CUTE! Hugs- Diana

Pam said...

Your house looks beautiful all decked out for Christmas! Love the fireplace, it looks so cozy and nice!

NanaDiana said...

Oh dear! I think I clicked out before I word verified. just checking to see if I need to do that here.

Happy@Home said...

Zak sure does look cute and comfy curled up behind your husband's neck.
Glad to hear that you had a nice Thanksgiving. Your Christmas decorations all look so pretty. I have the same snowman holding the wreath.
You are so sweet to host another generous giveaway. The apron is adorable and will be make someone very happy as they are doing their Christmas baking and cooking.

Valerie said...

Everything looks so pretty! Thanks for sharing your Christmas favorites.

Scrappy Girl said...

Your furbabies are adorable!

I love all your decorations too. That sled with the skates is fantastic!

Happy Monday!

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Your decorations are so pretty! I love your tree. I think bringing out Christmas decorations always brings so many memories with them...what I like best about decorating. I'm working on mine. Should have a tree up soon. Love your puppys fav place to ride. Love your blog and you are so sweet to offer such a nice giveaway! hugs, Linda

Deb said...

I really enjoyed this post and have been anxious to see your decorations. They are gorgeous, love the wreaths especially and the little home made sleigh. And the greeting Santa is so special. I'm having a great time too getting the house ready and seeing all my cat-clients homes at this time of year. Everyone decorates so personally. Little Sophia is so cute and she sure is growing. I love your give-away so please throw my name into the hat. Hugs, Deb=^..^=x5

BECCA said...

Pick me! I'm family :)

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

Oh, I love your beautiful decorations! I've been putting out Santa...snowmen...and a few elves today! Would love to win ...especially the apron! I LOVE aprons! Thanks and happy holidays! ♥

Elizabeth (blue clear sky) said...

You are such a wonderful Grandmother! I'm sure all your little ones will love visiting your home, especially decorated so joyously for Christmas.

Cora said...

Beautiful holidays! Snowmen, elves, and anything vintage are my favorites!! I too have some ceramic things that I painted years ago...and they still come out of the attic each Christmas. Love it!
A beautiful give away too! Thanks for the visit!

Nora said...

I love Christmas, and love the beautiful decorations you have around your home..... christmas memories are the best !!

Linda www.mykindofcooking.com said...

I haven't started decorating for Christmas yet. Hopefully your beautiful pictures will inspire me to get busy!

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

Your little Sophia is a darling. I love the picture of her snuggled in her bed. Adorable!
Taking out our most cherished Christmas decorations is like revisiting old friends. I am thrilled to take out the decor that I love and the ones that bring back such sweet memories. YOu decorations are so warm and inviting. I love snowmen too!
Yvonne

Jenny S said...

My siberian husky loves to snuggle up behind me when we are sitting on the couch. Kinda hard for a 60 lb dog to snuggle, but LOL!! I love stars on top of trees, but your angel is beautiful! We just got a snowman tree topper at my antique shop today that you would love! Nice to be back visiting with you! Jenny

Jill said...

Your dogs are sooo adorable!! Your home looks beautiful with all the Christmas decorations. :-) Hope you have a lovely week!
I am also a follower and would love the chance for your giveaway :-)
Many blessings,
Jill

natalyK said...

Thanks for sharing your holiday decorations. Everything looks beautiful. I would love to be entered in your giveaway! That apron is darling.

Garden of Egan said...

Looks like the perfect getaway to St. George!

Love your decorations. I especially love the glass snowwoman. That is darling.

Your home looks so cozy and inviting!

Tanya said...

Oh I just loved that post! You look like you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and have gotten so much Christmas decorating done! I'm so impressed! I love love love that big Santa! I'll bet the grandkids love it too!
Please share even more pics!! Gets me in the spirit! ;0)
Tanya

Cindy said...

Julie..it is so neat to see what others have in their homes during the holidays. It makes it seem more real with ya'll as friends.

The grand baby is really growing. so cool she will sit and listen to you read.

Love..I mean I so love the red gingham apron.Someone will be so lucky!!

Hugs and squeezes..Cindy from Rick-Rack and Gingham

Lissa said...

your home looks so festive and cozy. Enjoy the season!

Lissa said...

your home looks so festive and cozy. Enjoy the season!

Laraine Eddington said...

You almost make me want to decorate before Christmas is over!

carolina nana said...

Love your decorations,I have a collection of snowmen and santas also.I am in the process of decorating now,I transform my entire house during this season. I love Christmas !!
Have a blessed tomorrow

happeningswithLana said...

Julie, Sophia is really growing. Love seeing the kids changing in your pictures. You have some very pretty decorations. The red apron is very pretty.

Cherie said...

The dogs look so snug and cute in the car! And baby Sophia, the beautiful child, looks snug and sweet too.
You are fast with the Christmas decor - I am just starting the get mine up. Your house looks fab. I love the warmth and happiness and the light from all the Christmas decor :-D
Glad you had a Happy Thanksgiving.

Grandma Yellow Hair said...

Wow your really ready for Christmas! I can not believe how much you have done to your lovely home. Boy am I behind as usual. lol
You always put a smile on my face when I come by here. You have so many special pieces. It would be hard to choose a favorite.
Your giveaway is awesome so I have to throw my name in to the Santas hat.
Love
Maggie

Debby said...

Thanks for sharing your beautiful decorations and collections. I am loving seeing how others decorate for the holidays. What a sweet grandbaby. She really looks like she enjoys being read to.
I'd love a chance to win your giveaway. How sweet of you.
I am returning home tomorrow and will start the decorating where I left off. I will be flying the entire day but it will be good to be back home.
Happy Holidays.

Connie said...

Love your decorations. I just got my tree up tonight and I love it! Is that the same delicious looking cake in your darling beehive cake saver that was in it a few weeks ago? If not, you really know how to make some pretty cakes.

The giveaway looks wonderful. I LOVE the apron!
Have a wonderful week!

Blessedmom's Simple Home said...

You have some very sweet decorations. I love that chenille snow family :-) We went out to eat this year too. My kids weren't so sure about it at first, but all said they had a good time. My mom and I both loved it! My dad and hubby didn't mind either. Of course we won't do it every year, but it was a nice change :-)
Blessings,
Marcia

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Hi Julie,
I just totally loved the house tour!
You have some amazing decorations, they are so charming and so perfect!
And that little Sophia is so pretty. She is growing so quickly.
Babies are so much fun!
Hugs,
Cindy

Sydney said...

Looks like you have a little reader on your hands-ha! Love that Sophia. Your holiday home decor is so cheerful and peaceful. I can feel a lot of joy from just looking at your pictures. Such a beautiful season. Thanks for sharing such "good things" with everyone.
And, please throw my name into Santa's hat. Thanks. Such a sweet giveaway...adore that apron.

Tanna at The Brick Street Bungalow said...

Julie, your home looks so festive and welcoming. You have a knack for making a house a home. Glad you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your loved ones... there's just nothing to be more thankful for than that!

Marla @ Always Nesting said...

Cozy and inviting. You have a beautiful home to display all your Christmas treasures. Isn't it fun to revisit our decorations from year to year - and all the memories they bring with them? Your fireplace is amazing. Is that a wood burning stove?

Mama Rodz said...

I sure do love your Christmas decorations! We are just starting to collect decorations for our home this Christmas. It is so fun to get everything decorated and see the big smile on our little guys face (He is just 14 months). That apron is just adorable!

Blaire

Deborah said...

Hi Julie..your decorations are so cute and I love that there are memories with every one of them..that makes them all the more special!
Its almost December...let the celebrations begin!!!! (Some of us already have lol !!!! )

Deborah xoxo

Farmgirl Paints said...

Wow girl...lovin' all that holiday cheer. Those grandbabies are pretty special too:)

Julia said...

Oh that sleeping baby.... *sigh* How lovely is that?

You definitely have the edge on the decorating spirit Julie!! I am so behind. This weekend a tree!

Looks like you are thriving this season. :)

Gloria said...

Hi Julie,
Your home is so inspiring and beautiful! I love viewing all of your wonderful decorations. Your mantle is so gorgeous!! Loved it!
The wood carving from Israel is VERY beautiful! Your Santa with his sack that you painted turned out so adorable!! I have a plaster Santa that I painted, before Richard and I even got married, that I still display every year (because if I don't the kids would be very upset). I will have to post a picture of it to share with everyone...:) Whenever I finally get my decorating done?! :}

That restaraunt in St. George looks familiar to me. I am wondering if that is the same place we dined at when I visited my family? :) Although, it may not be? St. George has grown so much!!! It is amazing how many stores and dining places they have now!
Your grandbaby is precious! Babies are never to young to be read to. What a wonderful Grandma you are. You can just see the love you have in your heart for all of your grandchildren in your pretty photos. Thanks for sharing a bit of your life with your readers.
Have a great day!
xoxo Gloria

Grace on the Narrow Path said...

My goodness your home is lovely. Snowmen are my favorite too. I also am a new grandmom my little angel will be 3 months old Dec.14th. Your little grandbaby is so bright and very beautiful. I will be following along now with you. Please stop by Grace and follow along with me too.
Blessings,
Bren
LOVE the give a way please enter me in!!!

Cheryl said...

Your little granddaughter looks so sweet sleeping. Children are so precious. Love all of your Christmas decorations. Our grandsons came over Sunday after church and decorated our tree. We all had so much fun.
The apron is beautiful, I just love red and white. Aprons have to be one of my favorite things.

Cheyenne said...

Oh, such a generous giveaway! I LOVE that photo of the precious babe all tucked in to sleep. It warms my heart!

gnee @ Singing With Birds said...

Hi Julie,

It's such fun to see all of your Christmas decorations. We must be near in age, because I recognize the eras from your collections! My kids like to remind me they will be taking my things to Antique Roadshow!

Thanks for sharing your trip and merry home with me...hugs from Idaho!

pollydove said...

Oh those cute little dogs and their favorite riding places!!! I had a very quiet Thanksgiving too! My kids were gone to Washington with their dad so I was all alone all week long. I went to a friend's house for dinner, but it just isn't the same without family, is it?

Count me in on your giveaway! I LOVE that apron!!! :)

bellaboo said...

Hi Julie!
Thanks for showing us all your lovely Christmas decorations.I love the way every one has a little story attached to it,and the memories that each one holds for you.
What a great giveaway! I adore that pinny,I love anything red and white. :0)

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Julie, your home is one of the coziest places on earth! All these sweet, happy little christmas treasures are ADORABLE! And beautiful Sophia is the cherry on the pie, very a d o r a b l e !
Have a wonderful day and keep warm. xxxx

Vickie said...

I have a chihuahua, too, and her name is Bug. That's where she likes to sit in the car or at home behind my husband's neck. Must be a nice warm spot!

Your Christmas decorations are lovely! I love that painting over your fireplace... and yes, it IS so cozy when it's cold out and there's a fire, and you can snuggle down and get droopy-eyed and doze off to sleep....zzzzzzzzzzz

Betsy said...

I love that first picture! It took me a moment to realize he was snuggled behind your hubs! How in the world can he breathe like that? LOL! So cute.

Sophia sure looks like her mom, doesn't she? Sweet.

love the apron!

Kerin said...

Such warm and cozy pictures of your home and Christmas decor. Thanks for sharing! I LOVE the beehive cake pedestal! I was at Deseret Book and fell in love with it... in the butter yellow color.
Hope you have a wonderful and cheerful week!

Rebecca said...

I have really enjoyed getting to know your family through your blog. I have read it for quite a while now, but have never made any comments. Thank you for sharing your pictures, your stories, your recipes -- your life with everyone!

Red Couch Recipes said...

Julie -- your house is all decked out. I have it about half way done. I love that Nauvoo beehive cake dome. What a treasure! Joni

pippirose said...

I love your decorations.
I especially love the first photo!
How cute!
I'm a new follower.
:o)
pippirose59 at gmail dot com

Simply Me said...

You have so many pretty decorations and the most greatful blogger I follow. Always thinking of others and giving away great gifts. You love your family through and through and adore you grand babies! Sure hope I finally win one of those vintage aprons you keep giving away. My 16 year old daughter just loves them and we have not been able to locate any where we live. Your house is beautiful.

Maria said...

Hi Julie!
Oh look at Zak and Bo Jangles!
So adorable... and the way Zak sleeps... really funny!
Your little granddaughter is so so sweet. When babies sleep, it just makes me feel so peaceful...just to look at them.

Your home is so wonderfully decorated, Julie! I feel like I just took a tour of a Holiday Home!
My favorite photo is of your fireplace and mantle ... very very Christmasy ~
Thank you for the giveaway ~ it makes blogging even more fun than it already is!
*Have a Merry Week*
~Maria

Tammy@beatrice banks said...

What a sweet giveaway! Count me in! Love all the Christmas decor. You're right. There's not a sweeter sight than a Christmas tree lit up at night, especially with a fire going. I could curl up and just stare at both.
Happy Holidays!

nanny said...

Isn't it wonderful that babies that young love to be read to? I love reading to Lila so much.
The picture of Sophia tucked in for the night is so sweet. My favorite!

Suzanne said...

Your house looks lovely and festive. Sophia is just adorable!

Creative Mish said...

We went to a buffet once for Thanksgiving. We had a great time and it was nice not having to cook. My Handyman and I cooked this year. My kids went to their in-laws early, then had a late dinner with us. Your Christmas deco looks so fun! I really need to get my stuff out.. maybe Saturday..

Mystica said...

Thanks for a heart warming post. Please definitely throw my name for that apron specially! that smocking work is hardly seen around anymore.

Natasha said...

You have the most beautiful Christmas decorations Julie! I just loved looking at them all and I love how so many of them have their own special story that goes with it.

Your Christmas giveaway is so pretty. Please don't include me,though, as I have already been a very lucky winner of one of your gorgeous giveaways. I just wanted to pop in and say hi!

Best wishes always,
Natasha.
xo

A Vintage Chic said...

Hello, dear Julie! I feel like I haven't stopped by for a visit forever! Life's been pretty crazy over here! Sounds like you've had a wonderful holiday, too--love all your photos!

Your Christmas house is just radiant and filled with love--I can just feel it...one of my favorite paintings over the mantel, too...all lit up by the glowing little lights...perfect!

As for the giveaway---how fun!

Hope you're having a wonderful night, my friend! Stay warm!

Julie

Sharri said...

Lovely decorations...the dogs made me smile! And what a fun giveaway! :)

Maryjane-The Beehive Cottage said...

Hi Julie! Looks like you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Sweet grandbabes to love! We have family in St. George to. Your home is all decked out and looking beautiful! I have to get myself into gear here! LOVE the darling apron! What a sweet giveaway!

Hugs,
Maryjane

Tracy said...

Your house is almost as darling as your little Sophia!! Notice, I said almost!! ;-)

Really, I love it all! :-)

Carrie @ Cottage Cozy said...

What a fun time you had with family...especially that sweet little baby! How lucky! Your home looks beautiful all dressed up for the holidays! Warm and inviting.

I would love for you to add my name to your giveaway "jar"! Maybe I will be lucky to win all your wonderful goodies! Thanks for the chance!

Stay Cozy!

Kat said...

Julie Zack is just adorable my husband and I love to take our dogs on trips with us. Bo Jangles is so cute! looks like you're all ready for the holidays! I have not even started!!! I am already following you. enjoy the first day of December. Big hugs

Cori said...

Love your holiday decorations. I love your mantle. A beautiful piece of wood! The picture over your mantle is one of my favorites. The true reason for the holiday. I look forward to your blog every time. Have a very Merry Christmas!

gigi said...

I just love that your posts are always filled with such wonderful pictures! I love your tree and and all your Christmas treasures. It makes me smile.

Karen Deborah said...

Julie your joy is so infectious. I can't help but to just love you. Merry Christmas sweet friend.

Susan B said...

Hi Julie,
Glad you had a nice Thanksgiving! We ate our delicious Thanksgiving meal at a local restaurant too. I love the photos of the dogs...so sweet! :)

Love all your Christmas decorations too...your tree is beautiful. Snowmen are my favorite Christmas decoration...I have quite a few of them. We'll be decorating our tree this weekend. I put out some Christmas candles this morning. Looking forward to putting up the rest of them!

Please enter me into your giveaway. Thank you for having it, and for the lovely items you are sharing!

Have a fabulous day! :)

Sharon said...

The dogs are so sweet.
I love all of your decorations.
I am going to try and get mine up this weekend.
Our kids will all be at the other side of the family this year, so I don't plan on to much decorations this year.
If she thinks 50 is cold she should have been here where it was 22.LOL
Have a great day

ourlifeinaclick.blogspot.com said...

Wow Julie, your home is so beautifully decorated! I love how all of your decorations have a story attached! Your tree is just lovely! Your home looks so warm and inviting. I can't wait to get mine all decorated and have time to enjoy it.

Brenda said...

Hi Julie!

Your Christmas Decor is wonderful! Thank for sharing! I LOVE your FIREPLACE!

I have to laugh about the lady freezing in 50 degrees, that would be me! I freeze with temperatures below 70 degrees. I LOVE my Arizona Sunshine!

Your Giveaway is delightful as usual, I love the apron!

Have a great week!
Love, Brenda

Shelia said...

Hi Julie!! Oh, your little fuzzy faces are so cute! How funny that little one rides behind your hubby's back! :)
Little Sophie is so cute and she is really growing! I know you enjoyed your time with her.
Glad you had a nice Thanksgiving and look at you - Christmas all up! Everything looks wonderful.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

French Kissed said...

Your fireplace is so beautiful...I could sit there for hours! Wishing you a Christmas season overflowing with blessings.

~jermaine

Leslie said...

everything looks wonderful here julie, Have a fantastic december!!!!!!!!

Tyla said...

Thanks for sharing the pictures. Looks like you are all ready for the holidays. I still love that beehive dome. Oh, and I spotted something familiar...in the picture of you reading to Sophia you are sitting on a couch just like mine (or I think it looks just like mine). lol

Cathy ~ Tadpoles and Teacups said...

What fun decorations!! And what a lovely giveaway.

;)

Cathy

Rocky Mountain Woman said...

Hi Julie,

Your house looks so festive!

I am heading to St. George for a few days myself here at the end of the month. Had enough cold, need a little warm weather and a round or two of golf!

Jewls said...

Oh I just LOVE Christmas!! So so fun, your decorations are adorable!!

Lee said...

I loved looking at all the decorations! How fun - it has me motivated to get mine out and up! have a lovely holiday!

Karen Deborah said...

Everything is so beautiful! That little baby girl is growing up so fast! All these little newborns are just taking off, she is adorable. How do you put her in the crib? I love to let them sleep on me and just smell them and relax. Babies sigh. Your home looks wonderful and fun! I knew it would.

Jules said...

50 degrees is cold? I would LOVE 50 degrees about now. We have been in the single digits with wind chills below zero! Yikes. I am not ready for this yet....

Bonnie said...

The apron is just adorable. We have 50 degrees here, too, in Florida and 30 at night. It is very cold!

sarah-jane down the lane said...

My goodness Juilie~ SO MANY DECORATIONS! I thought I had a lot! I am definately not in your league! It is so nice to unpack them all after a year in boxes!
Thank you as always for visiting the Lane,

Sarah x

Paula said...

Christmas at the Harwards is looking so festive! What a cute apron...good luck to all!

Junebug said...

Oh, how fun to find your blog. This year I am going through my Christmas decorations and giving away many. Like you I am keep some special ones. What a sweet grand baby!! I have a red smocked apron almost identical. I don't know what year my mother made it but I still cherish it.

Frenchy said...

Such a lovely post of your Grand daughter and Christmas spirit ! Beautiful giveaway ! Count me in !
Hugs

Bonnie said...

Just beautiful, Julie. The house looks so warm and cozy. I love it! Can you order some nice weather around the holidays, I am petrified of driving in the snow! Enjoy everything! It is all looking great!

Anita@Theycallmejammi said...

Hi Julie...looks like you had a fun time. There are a couple of your decorations that I have as well...I smiled when I saw them. I don't know why it is so fun when you spot something that you have and find that someone else has the same thing. Watch my upcoming posts and see if you can find the items...it will be like Where's Waldo. Love all your decor.

Down On The Farm said...

I LOVE your decorations! And your giveaway!

Diane at Crafty Passions said...

Thanks for coming by to lift my spirit
Diane

janis said...

Holy COw! You already have 91 comments so I will probaly get lost in the crow! I found you through Anne Fannie.. I love your blog. I usually dont follow bloggers with so many followers but I gotta follow you! Pretty darn awesome! I look forward to reading more.
Your Pups are adorable! I am an animal lover too. Having 3 dogs & 3 cats.
I hope one day, to be Blessed & just have a piece of Heaven for Hubby & I to relax and enjoy grandbabies. BUT, my girls are busy working on degrees currently, plenty of time to get married & start families LATER♥
What you wrote on the sidebar about Sisters we are... that really touched me. I have to agree 100%. I am a Catholic, although I appreciate & love women of all our Christian faith. Mormons, Baptist, Methodist, I have learned much and am grateful to learn more of Faith.
Blogging has extended my Christian sisterhood friendships. I have also learn to understand women of Skik, Hindu, and women that live without faith. I try to Live Gods Words, not just preach them. Teach by example. It is amazing how my blogging friends strengthen my own faith.
A give-away? hmm. Very nice. Particularly the apron! LOVE LOVE LOVE it! I just started collected them. I have my old faithful, a semi new one, and an oldie that belonged to my Aunt. I get teased as I use them all. I always appreciated wearing an apron when cooking big meals♥
sorry to ramble... I am a bit wordy sometimes.
Love In Christ~
Janis

Kathleen said...

Hey there I just became a follower. I actually thought I already was one. LOL. Love your blog, all your cute Christmas decorations, and that unbelievably adorable apron!!!!

Abramyan Avenue said...

Your tree is gorgeous! I love all your decorations..especially the carollers! (Is that how you spell it?) I would LOVE to be entered into your giveaway! I am a sucker for aprons!!
Have a wonderful weekend!
-April

Abramyan Avenue said...

I forgot to mention I'm a follower and I think Bo Jangles is too, too sweet!
-April

janis said...

Hi again Julie~ Thank you for visiting me & I apologize for not asking first about mentioning you at my Blog. (I really meant to as I general do first). I just wanted to share some blogs I recently found and enjoy.
Have a Blessed Day♥

Jill said...

Very, very festive!

mommyx12 said...

Beautiful decorations. I've decided I am decorating challenged and therefore my home is quite plain and simple!! Perhaps someday when all the children leave I will change things. Maybe!!