Seasons Greetings...

 Ok, so I got behind again! I often think about what I want to put on here, but actually doing it is another thing. Besides, there are probably only about 2 people that actually read it. Anyway the first Saturday of December, every year, at 12:00, my Granny's family gets together for the "Smith Reunion." I think they have been doing this for over 30 years. And this year, with 3 less family members it was very bittersweet. I was a little anxious about going because I really wasn't sure how happy of a time it would be. Not only were we without 3 people, it was 3 major people... the heads of the family. My Papa, My Granny's sister - Ethel, and my Granny's brother - Oscar. But of course the entire family had no doubt that we would still have the reunion. And so on Dec. 6th my Dad, Georgia, and I went to Matthews, NC for the reunion. I have to say that I could not have been more wrong about how it would be this year. Yes we talked about those we were missing and there were a few tears, but I think everyone was more determined than ever to make it a happy time. We had so much fun talking, catching up, and of course the music was great. It's always been a tradition for my uncles to play along with anyone else that wants to. My Dad has even been up there since he has taken guitar lessons. I have several cousins that play and of course we have a few singers. You can see in the pictures that the little ones love to use the microphone and my Uncle Arthur still amazes me. He is 87 years old and in a wheelchair, but he can still play "Guitar Boogie" just like when he was 20. I just love to hear him play, and it's special every year because I know he won't be with us forever. It's also special to see the other family members up there, especially my Dad. He sits at the back away from any microphones, but he really enjoys being up there. 

     On another note, I just LOVE Christmas decorations, the cuter the better. So, this weekend while Alex did his manly things outside working on stuff, I stayed inside and made decorations. I had seen a few things online and thought I would try it out. I made a peppermint wreath and then used styrofoam cone shapes to make 

two trees... one with gumdrops and one with berries and cinnamon candies. I'm not sure how they will be packed up for next year, but I will definitely use them well this year!! It's fun to go and buy decorations, but I really like to make things when I have the time. And I have to say, I only burned myself twice with the hot glue gun, which is pretty good for me :)