Light It Up! … There is something universally heart-warming about Christmas, no matter who you are. When December comes around, our everyday lives just become that extra bit sweeter because of the spirit in the air. The stores are decorated to the hilt with trees, Santa, snowmen, reindeer, ribbons, tinsel and bows—oh my! The Muzak stations in elevators and restaurants are set to Christmas carols and hymns. And, as Rudolph is run-run-running to get Santa to town, the weather begs for hot beverages to be drunk and sweaters to be worn.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Mantle … It is time to deck the halls and cozy up for some Christmas movies! The mantle is typically the focal point of a living area. Decorating accordingly will help put you in the mood for a little cheer! I’m sharing all the elements you need to make your space very merry this holiday season. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ambiance! … Start with the greenery! Select a piece that has the texture and color you desire. You can go with the classic green or modern flocked look.
As a professional in the housing industry, it probably comes as no surprise that Lynlee Harvey’s personal home is a standout. Nor is it a surprise that her attention to detail is abundant throughout the contemporary space. … The detail that is immediately noticeable upon entry is how the natural light saturates each room in a very inviting way. It is the use of large windows and a neutral palette that allow the outside light to highlight minimalistic details such as sleek trim, light toned wood floors and champagne gold metal accents.
Whoever said Christmas was the “most wonderful time of the year” has clearly never driven The Shuffle with their friends on a warm summer night with the speakers turned up and the windows down, because while a Christmas tree may be beautiful, a pool and the calming sound of a waterfall is a very close second in my opinion. … Don’t get me wrong, I’m the biggest party boy there is, and there’s no celebration like Jesus’ birthday, but I just wonder… why does it have to be so dang cold?! Why does the sun have to go down so early?! It makes me tired!
On my honor, I will never betray my integrity, my character or the public trust. I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always maintain the highest ethical standards and uphold the values of my community, and the office I serve. … The Law Enforcement Oath of Honor … Sworn officers play a vital role in maintaining safety and face many things every day that put them at great risk. The role they have stepped into is often a hard one and they do the dirty work to shield the rest of us from having to think about it.
Trials and turmoil across the globe, including a worldwide pandemic, have not been enough to dampen the spirits of our local community this year. We have continued to thrive, made improvements, broken down barriers and made big plans for our future.
Sing a Song of Christmas … My friend Randy has an app on his phone that counts down the days until Christmas. All year long, starting the day after Christmas, he keeps track. If you go to a baseball game with him in July, he’s likely to mention during the seventh inning stretch that Christmas will arrive in 157 days. He just loves Christmas. … I have to admit to not sharing his enthusiasm. I remember as a child feeling giddy delight as the holiday season loomed seductively around the corner.
Soprano Nancy Curtis enjoys a multifaceted career as a singer of opera, oratorio, symphonic repertoire and recitals. … She has been invited to sing for many of our nation’s leaders including former Presidents George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Ronald Reagan and Texas Governor Greg Abbott. … Curtis is also a member of the internationally acclaimed choral group, Conspirare.
Like a general going into battle, we are laser focused as we march toward the holiday season. We have decorating goals that would make Joanna Gaines dizzy, and the range of holiday dishes we have waiting in our Pinterest would make Betty Crocker curl up in defeat and eat straight from the jar. … Reconsidering my over-zealous ideas, I shake my head when I concede that my holiday dishes will probably be prepared and purchased from some of our local restaurant favorites that thankfully do the hard work to make holiday dinners easier.