It's that time of year. You cannot turn on the tube without perusing through an endless array of Christmas films from yesteryear and those that our children call their favorites today. I am in awe at the options. Will it be "The Grinch" (1966), "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York", "Christmas from Rockefeller Center", "It's a Wonderful Life"? Oh my..decisions, decisions. It really is the most wonderful time of the year. I want to make it a point to soak it all in and enjoy this time with my wonderful husband and children.
I was tipped off to this website earlier today. Check it out. It has a listing of all the movies that will be shown between now and Christmas. They are arranged in chronological order by date and also have the network and time listed to make for easy navigation. Merry Christmas and enjoy every minute of the light side of the holiday!!
http://www.chiff.com/home_life/holiday/christmas/whats-on-tv.htm
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Styles Family Update
It has been far too long. We are super busy most days and loving every minute of it. Since I last posted in July, our little family continues to be so blessed. Lauren has been in pre-k since August. She is learning more than I would have ever imagined and is growing into a beautiful young lady. Alyssa is 15 months old and crawling everywhere, getting into everything. She is not yet walking, but she gets around just fine in her own way. She is also "talking" a lot these days. I love those girls.
Thanksgiving came and went with such gust. We didn't really have much time to rest, as we were on the move most of the time. However, as a family, we are counting our blessings day in and day out. This year has been a challenging one for us, but God has sustained us through it all. Chris lost his job with the Huntsville City school system in May due to budget cuts. This economy has made finding a teaching job anything but easy. He has spent the last few months working for various friends. This is not exactly how he envisioned his year going, but as a family and couple, God continues teaching us patience, perseverance, and faith. We are growing stronger and believing in Jesus through all of our trials. He has never left us, and we are grateful for all that he does for us. His blessing have been immense!!
Christmas is just around the corner. Alyssa is at that stage of exploration and awe. She is fascinated with the beautiful lights, ornaments, and all this time of year has to offer. Last year was fun, but this year is shaping up to be a blast. I cannot wait to see the looks on my girls' faces as we continue enjoying the festivities and all that is in store throughout the season. Check back soon for additional updates. God bless and remember to always give thanks!
Did I mention I love to climb??
Thanksgiving came and went with such gust. We didn't really have much time to rest, as we were on the move most of the time. However, as a family, we are counting our blessings day in and day out. This year has been a challenging one for us, but God has sustained us through it all. Chris lost his job with the Huntsville City school system in May due to budget cuts. This economy has made finding a teaching job anything but easy. He has spent the last few months working for various friends. This is not exactly how he envisioned his year going, but as a family and couple, God continues teaching us patience, perseverance, and faith. We are growing stronger and believing in Jesus through all of our trials. He has never left us, and we are grateful for all that he does for us. His blessing have been immense!!
Christmas is just around the corner. Alyssa is at that stage of exploration and awe. She is fascinated with the beautiful lights, ornaments, and all this time of year has to offer. Last year was fun, but this year is shaping up to be a blast. I cannot wait to see the looks on my girls' faces as we continue enjoying the festivities and all that is in store throughout the season. Check back soon for additional updates. God bless and remember to always give thanks!
Did I mention I love to climb??
Saturday, January 30, 2010
This Life of Ours
I believe I set a record for the longest duration between posts. Life has a way of getting hectic beyond hectic, and updating the blog gets shelved. Having said that, we are well. Alyssa turned 5 months old a couple of days ago. Lauren will be 4 in just a few weeks. I cannot believe how my girls are growing up right before our eyes. It makes me weepy to dwell on that for too long.
We had a very nice Christmas holiday. It was filled with way too much food and an abundance of presents. We are running out of room in this house!!! Honestly, I think we're going to need a bigger house in a few years. The girls accumulate so much in such a short amount of time. I guess that's my fault. I hate getting rid of perfectly good things. Maybe I need to be on the show "Hoarders". lol.....I'm not even close to that bad!!
We've enjoyed the deep South snow that has blown our way this winter. It's been nice seeing more of the white stuff. That doesn't happen in our neck of the woods very often. But, it's been a crazy season.
Enjoy a few pictures of my girls. I have more recent pictures of the baby but just haven't loaded them to the computer. More to come. Toodles!
Brandi
We had a very nice Christmas holiday. It was filled with way too much food and an abundance of presents. We are running out of room in this house!!! Honestly, I think we're going to need a bigger house in a few years. The girls accumulate so much in such a short amount of time. I guess that's my fault. I hate getting rid of perfectly good things. Maybe I need to be on the show "Hoarders". lol.....I'm not even close to that bad!!
We've enjoyed the deep South snow that has blown our way this winter. It's been nice seeing more of the white stuff. That doesn't happen in our neck of the woods very often. But, it's been a crazy season.
Enjoy a few pictures of my girls. I have more recent pictures of the baby but just haven't loaded them to the computer. More to come. Toodles!
Brandi
Monday, December 29, 2008
Christmas 2008
This quite possibly goes down as one of the busiest holiday seasons we've had in recent memory. We had five different stops...would have been six, but we were under the weather the day of one of them. I must say, we have experienced a lot this year and have so much to be thankful for. God continues to show his love for us everyday. Enjoy a few of the pictures from some of our festivities.
God Bless!
Brandi
BTW-I am believing in great things for the new year. May you experience health, happiness, and peace of mind in 2009.
God Bless!
Brandi
BTW-I am believing in great things for the new year. May you experience health, happiness, and peace of mind in 2009.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
One Year Ago
I have been very slow about getting my holiday pictures uploaded. That is just one of the many tasks I am slacking at this season! Christmas break should be a time to rest, but we have had a function to go to everyday. I will try to get them up in the next couple of days. Until then, we wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR, from our home to yours!!
God Bless!
Brandi
Enjoy these pictures of Lauren from one year ago. They were all taken in December 2007. I cannot believe how she has changed. Much of the baby pudge is gone, she is a head taller, but she still loves sweets as much as she did then!! Wow, how a year changes everything!
God Bless!
Brandi
Enjoy these pictures of Lauren from one year ago. They were all taken in December 2007. I cannot believe how she has changed. Much of the baby pudge is gone, she is a head taller, but she still loves sweets as much as she did then!! Wow, how a year changes everything!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
2 Down..3 More to Go
The Styles household is crazy busy this week. We only have 3 more school days before Christmas break. That is exciting, but I have so much left to do. Grades are due by Friday afternoon. That is a never-ending mound of paperwork. Thursday and Friday will be spent having Christmas parties and AR celebrations. Wow...I dread it...sad but true. I'll update as life slows a little. Until then, Merry Christmas from our home to yours!!
God Bless,
Brandi
God Bless,
Brandi
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Reflection, Loss, and Moving On
I got up early this morning, attempting to beat the Christmas rush to town. Much to my dismay, every other shopper in North Alabama had the same idea. At least I should have my list complete well before the Christmas Eve madness.
Of the many items I purchased this morning, one bears great sentimental value to me. I'll explain more as you read. Most of you are aware that Chris and I suffered a personal loss in July. We were pregnant with our second child, only to miscarry at 6 or so weeks along. This was/is a devastating loss to us, as it was a planned pregnancy and something we never thought we would face. For those of you that have been down this road before, you can relate and know the struggles that accompany this type of death. Yes, death! It is heart breaking and so misunderstood. I in no way equate an early miscarriage to a late-term miscarriage or infant/child death. However, it is extremely heart breaking and is not something I have very easily moved passed.
My heart aches everyday to some degree. It is now five months later, and I still have days that sadness completely consumes me. I still go through periods of various emotions; anger, despair, frustration, and sadly bitterness at times. Having said that, I must emphasize that Chris and I are coping and have done remarkably well considering the magnitude of our personal tragedy, not to mention the other difficult circumstances this year (moved into a new home, sick family members, death of a grandparent). Chris often tells me that I missed my calling. I could be an award winning actress for the "show" I can put on. By this, he simply means I am the queen of putting on a happy face and covering up my feelings. I do not like to show emotions in public. If I do, things must be completely falling apart because that is just not how I am. I say this to explain that while I am striving daily to move on and get beyond my loss, I do still ache for my child that I never got to hold. We never got an ultrasound picture; we never heard the first heartbeat; we don't know the gender of the baby; but, we love him/her/them very much.
As I stated earlier, if you have walked in our shoes, you know how I feel. I never understood miscarriage and it's impacts before July 27, 2008. Now, it is a haunting reminder of how fragile life can be. I realize that people don't know what to say, and they often say things that are not the most appropriate. I have had to bite my tongue over the past few months at some of the comments I've received. When it comes right down to it, I realize that friends and family mean well, and they don't understand; thus, sometimes sarcastic comments or jokes are said with the best of intentions. But, to someone dealing with a loss it becomes alcohol to a wound. It was real to us and nothing can change that. I do not hold anger toward anyone that has made a "silly" comment. I have most likely been in the same boat before, not knowing how to act or what to say. Having said that, we have also received much encouragement, prayers, and understanding from so many. If you see us, it is okay for you to ask us how we are doing. Yes, I still hurt, but I would rather my baby be remembered, than never talked about at all. Technically we are a family of 3, but in my heart, we are truly a family of 4. Our youngest is playing, dancing, singing, and growing up in the most Holy of Holies. It is so hard for me to even fathom that my little angel is being raised by Jesus. I cannot begin to express the peace I feel as I write those words. Tears are pouring from my eyes, but I am blessed having known the child of my womb for the short time that was given. For that, I am truly grateful!!
Earlier in the post, I mentioned that we have very few tangible reminders of the baby. Chris and I have discussed what we could do to commemorate the little one. Since it is Christmas time, I can think of no better way than to add an ornament to our tree that honors and celebrates the memory. I stopped at Lifeway Christian Store this morning and selected a beautiful silver angel. It is a mother holding a heart in her hands. It reminds me that even though I cannot hold this precious child in my arms, I will always hold him/her in my heart. Life will go on, and by the grace of God we will be given another child or children; but, our baby that would have been due in March 2009 will forever be with us. We will NEVER forget you!!
Thanks for bearing with me as I reflect. It is my hope and prayer that the next time I post about the baby, it will be that Lauren and our Little Angel are having a new brother or sister. God Bless and Merry Christmas!
Brandi
BTW...feel free to comment. I would love to hear from some readers!!!
Of the many items I purchased this morning, one bears great sentimental value to me. I'll explain more as you read. Most of you are aware that Chris and I suffered a personal loss in July. We were pregnant with our second child, only to miscarry at 6 or so weeks along. This was/is a devastating loss to us, as it was a planned pregnancy and something we never thought we would face. For those of you that have been down this road before, you can relate and know the struggles that accompany this type of death. Yes, death! It is heart breaking and so misunderstood. I in no way equate an early miscarriage to a late-term miscarriage or infant/child death. However, it is extremely heart breaking and is not something I have very easily moved passed.
My heart aches everyday to some degree. It is now five months later, and I still have days that sadness completely consumes me. I still go through periods of various emotions; anger, despair, frustration, and sadly bitterness at times. Having said that, I must emphasize that Chris and I are coping and have done remarkably well considering the magnitude of our personal tragedy, not to mention the other difficult circumstances this year (moved into a new home, sick family members, death of a grandparent). Chris often tells me that I missed my calling. I could be an award winning actress for the "show" I can put on. By this, he simply means I am the queen of putting on a happy face and covering up my feelings. I do not like to show emotions in public. If I do, things must be completely falling apart because that is just not how I am. I say this to explain that while I am striving daily to move on and get beyond my loss, I do still ache for my child that I never got to hold. We never got an ultrasound picture; we never heard the first heartbeat; we don't know the gender of the baby; but, we love him/her/them very much.
As I stated earlier, if you have walked in our shoes, you know how I feel. I never understood miscarriage and it's impacts before July 27, 2008. Now, it is a haunting reminder of how fragile life can be. I realize that people don't know what to say, and they often say things that are not the most appropriate. I have had to bite my tongue over the past few months at some of the comments I've received. When it comes right down to it, I realize that friends and family mean well, and they don't understand; thus, sometimes sarcastic comments or jokes are said with the best of intentions. But, to someone dealing with a loss it becomes alcohol to a wound. It was real to us and nothing can change that. I do not hold anger toward anyone that has made a "silly" comment. I have most likely been in the same boat before, not knowing how to act or what to say. Having said that, we have also received much encouragement, prayers, and understanding from so many. If you see us, it is okay for you to ask us how we are doing. Yes, I still hurt, but I would rather my baby be remembered, than never talked about at all. Technically we are a family of 3, but in my heart, we are truly a family of 4. Our youngest is playing, dancing, singing, and growing up in the most Holy of Holies. It is so hard for me to even fathom that my little angel is being raised by Jesus. I cannot begin to express the peace I feel as I write those words. Tears are pouring from my eyes, but I am blessed having known the child of my womb for the short time that was given. For that, I am truly grateful!!
Earlier in the post, I mentioned that we have very few tangible reminders of the baby. Chris and I have discussed what we could do to commemorate the little one. Since it is Christmas time, I can think of no better way than to add an ornament to our tree that honors and celebrates the memory. I stopped at Lifeway Christian Store this morning and selected a beautiful silver angel. It is a mother holding a heart in her hands. It reminds me that even though I cannot hold this precious child in my arms, I will always hold him/her in my heart. Life will go on, and by the grace of God we will be given another child or children; but, our baby that would have been due in March 2009 will forever be with us. We will NEVER forget you!!
Thanks for bearing with me as I reflect. It is my hope and prayer that the next time I post about the baby, it will be that Lauren and our Little Angel are having a new brother or sister. God Bless and Merry Christmas!
Brandi
BTW...feel free to comment. I would love to hear from some readers!!!
Monday, December 8, 2008
Tis the Season
....to be busy!! Between finishing up the first semester of school, Chris preparing for his school Christmas concert, parties, and shopping, we are a little on the overworked side. I will update soon! There is so much to talk about, but until then, I leave you with a MERRY CHRISTMAS.
God Bless!
Brandi
God Bless!
Brandi
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Thanksgiving and More
We attended the Bridge Street Christmas tree lighting on November 21st. It was a breath taking view and an unbelievably festive way to enter into the holiday season. The tree itself was enormous and so perfectly lit and decorated. The crowds of adoring onlookers helped to "make the season bright!" As the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra serenaded us with Christmas classics, it was impossible not to get that child-like feeling that is oh-so consuming. BUT, it was COLD!! As a matter of fact, it was the coldest day of the year to date. Lauren was bundled up in her fir rimmed leather coat, and I, being the big dummy I am, had every hair on her little head perfectly in place; with bow on top. "My, Oh My," 25 degrees with the wind blowing is not the time to worry about "cuteness"!! We, along with half of the 2000+ others made a quick run into the shop(s) to snatch up the last of the boggins and scarfs. Thankfully, Gymboree had the sweetest little matching set that was on sale. After waiting in line behind the other silly Mommies, I made my purchase, yanked off that Christmas bow, and bundled my child up; like I should have done before leaving the house. All-in-all, it was a great evening that will probably become a Styles family tradition.
Sunday was the Woosley family Thanksgiving get-together at our house. We had a delicious lunch of snack-type foods...being that not a one of us wanted to dive into the big Thanksgiving meal yet; you know..turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce....NO...enough of that was to come in the days ahead. Instead, we opted for deli sandwiches, stuffed mushrooms, cocktail shrimp, and other holiday/party favorites. It was tasty, and we had a wonderful time. The kids had so much fun and wore themselves out! In fact, Mom just informed me of a rather humorous event that I didn't even know happened....sorry Katie!!! :) Evidently, Emma (L's cousin) and Lauren got into our garden tub with their clothes on. As I've heard it, one of them turned the water on, soaking Little E. I can imagine that "someone" was L!!! She has a terrible habit of turning knobs, handles, or whatever else that produces water, lights and/or noise. I gave katie a shirt to change E into, but I thought she had just gotten sweaty; I had no idea what really happened. When you get an almost three year old, and a child just entering into the "infamous 2's" together, be sure to keep the fire dept., poison control, and 911 on speed dial. It might get dangerous!! :) They can make you want to pinch their heads off and laugh at the same time! Besides that, it was a great day and a fun way to start the holiday.
Thursday was the Grider (Mom's family) family Thanksgiving lunch. It was the usual wonderful day of eats, hanging out with the family/rednecks...just kidding guys.....remember, I am a Grider too....so I guess I am the biggest redneck of all!!! They are a great family and we have the best time of laughs, jokes, and most of all memories. I love you all! That afternoon, we made a quick run to Chris's Aunt Mary's house. We were too stuffed to eat again, but we visited for a while. The evening ended with the Havoc hockey game. We don't go to as many as we would like because of our hectic schedule. Lauren loves to go, so we figured that would be as good a time as any to fit it in. She did amazingly well and cheered on the team. Her "that's not nice" comments during the fights were funny too!! The teacher in me looks for everyday '"teachable" moments in the little things life has to offer! As I digress, the night ended very late for us; we crashed at the house around 11:00 or so, ending a very eventful and blessed day. We are truly THANKFUL and gracious to our Heavenly Father for his many blessings!
The Styles family Thanksgiving celebration was on Friday. We dined on those Thanksgiving favorites yet again...YES...we are officially "turkied and dressing'd" OUT!! Once again, it was a perfect time with the people we love and are so thankful to have in our lives. The night ended with a trip to town for a a large purchase of Chris's new toy (47" LCD LG Flat Panel TV) for our living room. Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday, Happy Easter, Happy 4th of July, Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday....get the picture!! :) Yes, we made the plunge. Chris has wanted this for several years now, and he has been extremely gracious in waiting. It definitely has great picture quality and is oh-so theateresque . I am praying that it will outlast the extended warranty. Let's have a moment of silence...hmmmmm....I feel better!!
My prayer is that you all experienced a truly blessed week. Happy Holidays!!
Brandi
Sunday was the Woosley family Thanksgiving get-together at our house. We had a delicious lunch of snack-type foods...being that not a one of us wanted to dive into the big Thanksgiving meal yet; you know..turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce....NO...enough of that was to come in the days ahead. Instead, we opted for deli sandwiches, stuffed mushrooms, cocktail shrimp, and other holiday/party favorites. It was tasty, and we had a wonderful time. The kids had so much fun and wore themselves out! In fact, Mom just informed me of a rather humorous event that I didn't even know happened....sorry Katie!!! :) Evidently, Emma (L's cousin) and Lauren got into our garden tub with their clothes on. As I've heard it, one of them turned the water on, soaking Little E. I can imagine that "someone" was L!!! She has a terrible habit of turning knobs, handles, or whatever else that produces water, lights and/or noise. I gave katie a shirt to change E into, but I thought she had just gotten sweaty; I had no idea what really happened. When you get an almost three year old, and a child just entering into the "infamous 2's" together, be sure to keep the fire dept., poison control, and 911 on speed dial. It might get dangerous!! :) They can make you want to pinch their heads off and laugh at the same time! Besides that, it was a great day and a fun way to start the holiday.
Thursday was the Grider (Mom's family) family Thanksgiving lunch. It was the usual wonderful day of eats, hanging out with the family/rednecks...just kidding guys.....remember, I am a Grider too....so I guess I am the biggest redneck of all!!! They are a great family and we have the best time of laughs, jokes, and most of all memories. I love you all! That afternoon, we made a quick run to Chris's Aunt Mary's house. We were too stuffed to eat again, but we visited for a while. The evening ended with the Havoc hockey game. We don't go to as many as we would like because of our hectic schedule. Lauren loves to go, so we figured that would be as good a time as any to fit it in. She did amazingly well and cheered on the team. Her "that's not nice" comments during the fights were funny too!! The teacher in me looks for everyday '"teachable" moments in the little things life has to offer! As I digress, the night ended very late for us; we crashed at the house around 11:00 or so, ending a very eventful and blessed day. We are truly THANKFUL and gracious to our Heavenly Father for his many blessings!
The Styles family Thanksgiving celebration was on Friday. We dined on those Thanksgiving favorites yet again...YES...we are officially "turkied and dressing'd" OUT!! Once again, it was a perfect time with the people we love and are so thankful to have in our lives. The night ended with a trip to town for a a large purchase of Chris's new toy (47" LCD LG Flat Panel TV) for our living room. Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday, Happy Easter, Happy 4th of July, Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday....get the picture!! :) Yes, we made the plunge. Chris has wanted this for several years now, and he has been extremely gracious in waiting. It definitely has great picture quality and is oh-so theateresque . I am praying that it will outlast the extended warranty. Let's have a moment of silence...hmmmmm....I feel better!!
My prayer is that you all experienced a truly blessed week. Happy Holidays!!
Brandi
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Updates and Pictures
I hope to update and post some new pictures soon. We have a busy weekend lined up! On Friday, we are going to the Christmas tree lighting and festivities at Bridge Street. I can't wait!! Then, my immediate family is having a get-together at our house on Sunday for lunch. The menu sounds absolutely delicious. Needless to say, not a one of us will slim down in the days to come. Oh well, it is worth it!! And all of God's children will be frantically busy next week! I'll fill you in soon..I promise.
BTW, I have gotten a lot of hits...but few comments. Please show some love and leave your comments. It makes this "project" feel worth my time!!
Until next time. Brandi
BTW, I have gotten a lot of hits...but few comments. Please show some love and leave your comments. It makes this "project" feel worth my time!!
Until next time. Brandi
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