Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
Monday Musings: Christmas with a Capital C
On Sunday night, after the boys were in bed, DH and I decided to watch a Christmas movie. On Netflix we found Christmas with a Capital C. Although we weren’t necessarily looking for a deeply spiritual movie, this one(which includes Ted McGinley & Baldwin brother, Daniel) surprised me with its message. Set in Alaska, though it could have been anywhere in the United States, the theme on the surface appears to deal with the legal issues of Christian Christmas displays on public property (I believe the place in question was City Hall?) We have all heard about legal issues arising around the country about this very thing which led credence to the plot. Of course, the story line played up the stereo typical hard lined Christian view point verses an “evil” opposition to the display, but it also balances the issues with some pretty thought provoking twists. On the surface the plot seems to focus on the legal issues, but I think the true plot lies with a little girl who decides to act on her faith rather than look for a legal way to keep Christ in Christmas. She enlists her Mom and others to put feet to their faith through attitude and deeds to spread love and care through the community.
Now, I am not downplaying the need for Christians to work hard to defend their faith and rights one iota, but one line that really caught my attention (I am paraphrasing) was when a minister suggested that although the Nativity is a wonderful symbol, we as Christians, must be careful not to make an idol of it. Wow….have I been guilty of that? Have I been so hard lined to defend symbols and wording that I have lost the spirit and intent of those very words and symbols? I didn’t expect to be challenged by Christmas with a Capital C (and I am not sure my challenge is exactly what the writers were going for)… either way, I know I need to put more feet to my faith and make sure my heart is about sharing Christ’s love rather than making a point.
It is a great movie, especially if you look for the true message and past the stereo typical us versus them mentality!
Friday, November 25, 2011
Frugal BLACK Friday!
After yesterday's cooking fest, I was not heading out to do any shopping early this morning. Surely a few of you joined me in sleeping in? No worries, though, because you can still go shopping with me through the links below and get some great deals!
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Thursday, November 24, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving, dear friends!
What a wonderful day to celebrate all our many blessings.
I pray that your day is filled with thankfulness and abundant joy.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Southern Christmas Show in Charlotte, NC Part 2
Here are some quick photos I snapped while at the show. Please excuse the quality as I was using my phone rather than a real camera!
So, are you all ready to get your decorating done???
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Southern Christmas Show in Charlotte, NC Part 1
Last Saturday, at the crack of dawn, a friend and I headed towards Charlotte for our Annual trek to the 44th Southern Christmas Show in Charlotte at The Park Expo & Conference Center. Why so early? Mostly because we literally stay all day! With over 500 vendors from around the country, there is so much to do and see. We spent about 9 hours Christmas shopping, eating and getting lots and lots of great decorating and craft ideas. There are certain vendors that we look for every year such as Southern Supreme Fruitcakes (hey, no fruitcake jokes...these are delicious!) and always some new ones to tickle our fancy. It is a great place to find unique gift items and I was lucky enough to get quite a few names checked off my list.
This year's show had a retro theme which I especially love, since in the last couple of years I have realize just how much I love Americana and things that take me back to when life just seemed simpler. (This is why I am totally over the moon with the old glass Christmas ornaments I have from my Grandmother). When we entered the Expo Center we were greeted with a full sized, mid-century modern ranch house complete with an Aluminum Christmas tree and the familiar color wheel. I was captivated from the first peek...and especially with the 1963 Ford Fairlane in the carport!
Also, at the show there are some beautiful designer Christmas trees like this retro inspired one!
This year's show had a retro theme which I especially love, since in the last couple of years I have realize just how much I love Americana and things that take me back to when life just seemed simpler. (This is why I am totally over the moon with the old glass Christmas ornaments I have from my Grandmother). When we entered the Expo Center we were greeted with a full sized, mid-century modern ranch house complete with an Aluminum Christmas tree and the familiar color wheel. I was captivated from the first peek...and especially with the 1963 Ford Fairlane in the carport!
Notice the gift wrapped front door, my Grandmother used to do that!
Christmas wonderland!
Lite Brite and Raggedy Andy, anyone?
When I was a child I played with a doll similar to this
that had belonged to my Mother.
Oh, I had a Mrs. Beasley doll and she was one of my favorites!
Check back tomorrow for more photos of the designer show rooms and decorations!
Check back tomorrow for more photos of the designer show rooms and decorations!
