Trimming the Tree

For as many years as I can remember, my Mom has always attended The Gatewood's Ornament Exchange. And, every year since I've been married and had a home of my own I've been vowing to host a Holiday Ornament Exchange of my own. Then as Christmas after Christmas comes and goes I find myself saying, "Okay, next year will be the year..."

Well friends, this was the year! I finally hosted my first Ornament Exchange. Twenty good friends braved the inclement weather (40 degrees with torrential rain) to spend the first evening of December at our house for some holiday revelry. Between the food, wine, and laughter the hours passed quickly and before I knew it, I was closing the door behind my last guest around 10 o'clock. With Mom and Bret's help, cleanup was a snap and the rest of the night was spent reflecting on the success of my first hostessing gig and making notes for next year's soiree.

What holiday parties are you attending or hosting this year?

Front row from left to right: Laurie, Heather, Lynn, Susan, Caroline, Christina, Me, Katrina, Kathy

Back row from left to right: Amanda, Kim, Mom, Elizabeth, Kathryn, Debi, Joan, and Lonnie.

Ready for bed, Gillian Grace gives hugs to Ms. Liza.

Mom and Me

Score! Here's the ornament I was lucky enough to end up with during the exchange game. After having another ornament stolen from me not once but twice, I repaid the favor by swiping this ornament from my neighbor. I knew it would look great on our dining room tree of reds, greens, and golds.