“Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened.” – Dr. Seuss Can you believe we are bidding another year farewell? Each year seems to go by faster than the last! When I was a teenager, I could not wait to turn sixteen. My uncle warned me that once I reached my sixteenth year, the rest of my years would fly by – and he was so right! Maybe it is because time seems to go by so much faster now, but cherishing the moments I have with loved ones is more important to me than it has ever been. As a child, life appeared endless. Everything was ahead of me. Nowadays, there is a lot ahead … [Read more...]

How much do you hate taking down the Christmas tree? Most of us enjoy Christmas-time, but it is so sad when it all ends! I can remember sobbing uncontrollably after Eric and I said goodbye to my parents one year. He even kicked me out of the driver’s seat on our way back for safety reasons. ~smile~ Christmas does not have to end so suddenly. We can make the season last a bit longer if we put our minds to it! Think of some ways you and your sweetie can hold onto the Christmas cheer a little bit longer this year. Below are a few post-Christmas tradition ideas to get you started! Visit an … [Read more...]

What are your favorite Christmas Eve memories? For me, Christmas Eve was almost as awesome as Christmas morning. In fact, I think I looked forward to the day just as much. It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Every Christmas Eve at around 5pm, my Mom, Dad, and I would make our way through town, over the Neuse River Bridge, and down the street to Granny and Granddaddy’s house. I knew when we arrived there would be collards cooking, many beautiful aromas in the air, my cousins playing football in the quiet street, my uncles watching TV, and my aunts laughing in the kitchen as they put the … [Read more...]

“Christmastime is here! Happiness and cheer! Fun for all that children call their favorite time of year!” Merry Christmas! It’s almost here! Just a few more days before you will be tearing into those gifts, sipping hot chocolate, and making special memories. And, hopefully, you are already making memories! Did your sweetie get to come home with you for Christmas this year? Are you with his or her family? Are you both from the same town? However you are spending Christmas, I hope you are together – whether in person, or by some form of technology. Try to connect no matter how far apart you … [Read more...]