I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas

My favorite Christmas movie comes true this year!  It's been snowing here in the Piedmont of North Carolina since about 11 a.m.  At first just pretty, but not sticking.  Around 2, though, it really started coming down.  What a treat for a snow lover!  Now the streets are slushing up and by morning, it will be tricky travel. 

I certainly hope all of my blogger friends have had a wonderful Christmas!  Here's a look at my house right now......

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Last Days of Winners

What a great two weeks it has been.  I'm fully into the Christmas spirit now.  Our last two winners are (drrrruuummmmrrroooolllllll):

A Slice of Delight:  Jessica

Lady Paints A Lot:  Grace Matthews

Congratulations!!  Please email me at lauriemt@earthlink.net with your contact information and I will pass it along to the hostesses.

Merry Christmas Everyone!  I am sure I'll post again before the new year, but in case I don't....Happy New Year, too!

Another Christmas Giveaway Winner

And the winner is:  The Mrs!  Congratulations!  Please email me your complete contact information and I will put in touch with Eliza at The Pink Giraffe. lauriemt@earthlink.net

Just two more giveaways left...hurry and don't forget, to enter both you have to comment for both (at least the favorite item for each one).

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Giveaway Winners

At least the first few winners!  Here are the winners of our first few days of giveaways.  Please contact me via email with your contact information. 

J Bee Designs winner:

1. Hand-painted wine glass:  CT Cupcake

Preppy Decals winners:

1. Zebra Monogram Decal:  CT Cupcake (Yay, Lucky Girl!)
2. Houndstooth Monogram Decal:  Chris

Lulu and Daisy winners:

1. Paisley wine stopper:  Flip Flops and Pearls
2. Stripes wine stopper:  Oh Katie!
3. Christmas Lights wine stopper:  Suburban Prep
4. Only 4 entries...so everyone's a winner wine stopper:  CT Cupcake

Christmas Tree Bow winner:

1. Hillcrest Acres

Congratulations to all our winners!  Email me with your contact information and I will put you in touch with the sponsor of the prize (unless it's me).  Thank you for entering and Merry Christmas!

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

DAYS 11 & 12:  GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING/TWO GIVEAWAYS!!

Day 11:  The Gift of Sustenance

On of my favorite scenes from Christmas Vacation is when Clark receives his Christmas bonus.

Clark W. Griswold: "It's a one year membership in the Jelly of the Month Club."
Cousin Eddie: "Clark, that's the gift that keeps on giving the whole year."

As much of a disappointment as it was, especially since a cash bonus had been in the budget for as long as he could remember, Cousin Eddie was right....it's the gift that keeps on giving.

I've received a year subscription to magazines for Christmas since I was a child.  Highlights, Ranger Rick, Seventeen...the list goes on and on.  Those magazines gave me a gift every month.  Today, with magazines OUT of my budget, it's that much nicer to receive one.  And though magazines are not charitable contributions, there are plenty of ways to give that keep on giving.

I recently learned that $20 given to the Second Harvest Food Bank would feed 140 people.  That was shocking to me, especially since $20 in my house is good for a pizza and two side salads.  Possibly 2 meals counting left overs.  What a wonderful way to give a gift that keeps on giving to others.



Photo Courtesy of Second Harvest Food Bank of NW NC

  Every year at Christmas, the food drive begins from Boone to Burlington.  The mission of the SHFB is to keep perfectly good, edible food from ending up in a dump somewhere.  At my place of business, we have a canned food drive every year.  It is an amazing organization that provides meals to people who may find themselves hungry and even worse, homeless.  The SHFB does not supply food to individuals directly, but rather to hungry relief missions such as non-profit shelters, local food pantries, low-income day care centers.  The list goes on and on. 

To get involved:

• Donate Funds
• Donate Food
• Volunteer
• Be an ADVOCATE for hunger-free communities

I got so into posting about the food bank, that I forgot to mention the giveaway associated with the Gift of Giving.

My dear friend, Carmen, from Lady Paints A Lot has generously offered two placemats (winner's choice).  Carmen has the CUTEST things evah!  Yes, I said EVAH!  Here are just a few of her placemat designs. 
 

I know a little Princess Addie that could use this one!



In order to gain entry into the giveaway, you must be a follower of this blog, by Facebook or Gmail (listed to the right). Once you qualify, go on over to Lady Paints A Lot and select your favorite item (not pictured on the blog) and leave a message telling me you are qualified and what item is your favorite.Day 12:  Give the Gift of Soap--it makes the perfect Stocking Stuffer, too!

For more entries you may do the following (leave a comment with what you've done):
* Like Lulu and Daisy on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Like Lady Paints A Lot on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Add the Lulu and Daisy button to your blog (top right)--one add'l entry
* Share on Facebook--one add'l entry per day.
* Tweet about the giveaway--one add'l entry per day.
* Blog about our giveaway--two add'l entries
Giveaway ends on December 15th at midnight, so hurry!

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DAY 12: THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING: Oh I Wish I Was a Little Bar of Soap!
Anyone who reads my blog on a regular basis (or not so regular) knows I am a huge fan of soaps.  Handmade, sweet smelling, marvelous soaps!  I have found a tone of great soaps through Etsy and through all of the gifts shows I go to.  I'll admit it, I love Bath and Body works.  I love Philosophy.  I love any kind of yummy, sweet smelling bubbling concoction that makes me feel clean and fresh all day.

The other thing I love about soap, is some of the new friends I have made through their mutual love of soap.  Wow...that sounds a little kinky, huh?  What I mean, is that these soap makers have become my friends.  I shop with them when I'm looking for something yummy.  My dear friend, Hilary, from A Slice of Delight, has made some of the BEST holiday soaps out there.  Her Etsy shop is full of fabulous finds. 

Spearmint Bits and Pieces

Sugared Spruce Soap

I love these soaps.  I've already ordered and received some of the most fabulous treats.  I am not a good Christmas shopper.  I'm more of a one for you, one for me kind of shopper.  I bought several soaps for my nieces and then a few for me.  They are quite marvelous.  Hilary has been kind enough to offer a giveaway of one of her soaps.  A fabulous gingerbread man.  I have one and it's even cuter in person!

In order to gain entry into the giveaway, you must be a follower of this blog, by Facebook or Gmail (listed to the right). Once you qualify, go on over to A Slice of Delight and select your favorite item (not pictured on the blog) and leave a message telling me you are qualified and what item is your favorite.



For more entries you may do the following (leave a comment with what you've done):
* Like Lulu and Daisy on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Like A Slice of Delight on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Add the Lulu and Daisy button to your blog (top right)--one add'l entry
* Share on Facebook--one add'l entry per day.
* Tweet about the giveaway--one add'l entry per day.
* Blog about our giveaway--two add'l entries
Giveaway ends on December 15th at midnight, so hurry!

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

DAYS 7, 8 & 9:  I'M WORKING TOO MUCH TO HAVE TAKEN ON THIS DAILY POST

Fa La La La La, La La La La.  My days have been filled with 10 hour shifts, sleep and eating.  I have always enjoyed my job, but this is the first year that I have realized that it's a little overwhelming to expect someone to work 50 hour weeks from Thanksgiving to New Years.  It completely takes the joy out of the holiday.  Mostly because you don't have time to enJOY it.  Enough of my excuses for not being able to do a daily post.  Today, I'm consolidating so I can catch up! 

DAY 7:  The Gift of Music

I know a few of my fellow Bloggers who have Christmas music streaming through their blogs.  I love it.  I wanted to do it, but alas, I refer you back to paragraph #1.  My fave fave favorite Christmas CD is Johnny Mathis.  I could listen to him sing Christmas Carols ANYTIME. 

My next favorite (thanks mom) is The Carpenters.  I am a big fan of Karen's take on holiday favorites.  I am so "old school" when it comes to Christmas music.  If my mom didn't own the album, yes, vinyl (two turntables and microphone), then I probably don't associate it with MY Christmas.  Well, My Christmas at my parents house. 

I enjoy the rock and roll versions, too.  A Very Special Christmas (the first one) is always on deck for the holidays.  I love Bruce Springsteen singing "Merry Christmas Baby."  Annie Lennox version of "Winter Wonderland" is also a fave.  I'm going to have to put the CD in my car for my 15 minute commute this morning!

DAY 8:  The Gift of Friendship

There is nothing I enjoy more during the holidays (and all throughout the year) than gathering friends together for food and fun.  I've even had a few past posts about our gatherings.  During the holidays, I always make a point to plan time with my friends.  There is nothing more important than time spent with family and friends.

DAY 9:  The Gift of Forgiveness

This time of year is always a good time to review your past 12 months.  Take an inventory, if you will.  Did you fight with a friend and never mend the broken fence?  This is the perfect time of year to make amends.  Hello....haven't you seen Home Alone??  This first one?  Kevin makes friends with the 'scary' neighbor next door and convinces him to make amends with his son.  Give it a try.  You will be amazed.....

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

Day 6: The Pink Giraffe

Several years ago, when I was selling my line in Atlanta, I met Eliza.  Eliza owns the cutest on-line boutique out of Tennessee.  Eliza is like me, constantly creating.  We would brainstorm via email for new ideas. 

If I do say so myself, she has taken embroidery to a new level.  No where have I found such cute fonts, designs and letter arrangements.  There are so many things over at The Pink Giraffe that I want and LOVE, it was hard to pick a few of my favorites!  After much debating, here's what I've selected as my holiday picks:



I love a good baseball hat!



This lamp is divine!

This is my true favorite and this is what we're giving away!  Your choice of fabric and font, the 4x6 personalized photo album holds 100 photos.  It's fabulous!

In order to gain entry into the giveaway, you must be a follower of this blog, by Facebook or Gmail (listed to the right). Once you qualify, go on over to The Pink Giraffe and select your favorite item (not pictured on the blog) and leave a message telling me you are qualified and what item is your favorite.


For more entries you may do the following (leave a comment with what you've done):
* Like Lulu and Daisy on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Like The Pink Giraffe on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Add the Lulu and Daisy button to your blog (top right)--one add'l entry
* Share on Facebook--one add'l entry per day.
* Tweet about the giveaway--one add'l entry per day.
* Blog about our giveaway--two add'l entries

Whew, that's a lot of ways to win! Hurry...our giveaway ends on December 12 at midnight! Good luck!

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

Day 5:  Yes, that was really yesterday.....

For some reason, I never got around to posting yesterday.  I'm not sure why, but to make it up to you.  I'm giving away a Christmas Tree hair bow!  It's for the little girls.  All you have to do is leave a comment here on the blog and be a follower through Google or Facebook.  Drawing Ends December 10. 

Be on the lookout for my Day 6 gift:  A great item from The Pink Giraffe!

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

DAY 4:  THE GIFT OF GIVING

Remembering the reason for the season by lending a helping hand.  In one way or another, I hope you and your family are able to give back in your community and beyond.  Today, I'll highlight just one of my favorite, charitable organizations.

The Salvation Army

Did you know that you can go to The Salvation Army website and host your own online red kettle collection?  The national goal this year is $3 million dollars.  There is a greater need now for assistance than ever before.  We all have felt the pinch of the economy.  Some have survived it, but some are in need of help.   Last year, The Salvation Army helped 29 million people. They fed and sheltered millions.  With your donation, either the national chapter or your local Army, you will help provide meals and Christmas gifts to children in need and their families.

Next time you run out to the grocery store or really, almost anywhere, don't forget your cash for the red kettle and give a little hope to a stranger.

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

DAY 3:  FABULOUS HOMEMADE FINDS

Yes, I'm late.  Working hard and not having as much time as I think I have!  Better late than never is always my policy!

I love homemade.  I am creative and crafty and love making my own gifts whenever I can.  Today, let's look at some of my favorite homemade gifts!

First, there's food.  My favorite gift to receive is homemade candy.  My mother-in-law makes the best selection.  Turtles, haystacks and Martha Washingtons.  I'm not a huge fan of the Martha Washingtons.  They are almost TOO much sweet.  When I was in college, there was a company that made chocolate covered potato chips.  That is probably my favorite of all time.  Sweet and salty in a way that the pretzel just couldn't match.



Photo Courtesy of Figis

I also love making Russian Tea and Cocoa for neighbors (and for myself).  Some days, Russian Tea just hits the spot.  Let me know if you'd like my recipe!


Photo Courtesy of AllRecipes.com

Wine is one of the best gifts for your neighbors...whether an evening of holiday cheer or just wishing them a Merry Christmas.  The perfect item to go with that wine stopper is a fabulous had painted wine stopper.  Though I don't make them much anymore, I've got three to give away!

To enter to win one of the three wine stoppers shown above, you must be a follower of this blog via google or Facebook.  Leave a comment letting me know you are a follower!  Giveaway ends on Tuesday, December 7 at midnight!  Good luck!

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

DAY 2:  PREPPY DECALS--The Original Preppy Monogram!

A true preppy already has at least one of these fabulous vinyl decals.  I have already had two different ones on my jeep and, of course, one on my old blackberry.  It has just dawned on my that I never replaced the monogram on my new phone.  Hmm...can I enter my own giveaway?  Oh, of course not.

I met Electra through my business mentor, Monica Smith.  Y'all know I love to help people get the word out there, so I immediately wanted to buy buy buy and sell sell sell Preppy Decals.  This was WAY back when NO ONE ELSE was doing them. One of my favorite things about Preppy Decals is that she's a WAHM and a portion of her proceeds go to charity. To date she's proud to have contributed to nearly 150 Kiva loans to entrepreneurs in third world countries.  Mom owned and operated small business and she appreciates everyone who chooses to spend their hard earned dollars with us! Electra's business is still going strong and she's even got some fabulous new vinyls (and she sells those, too, in 6 ft. and 9 ft. rolls, if you've got your own machine).

I am IN LOVE with these Houndstooth Monograms.  On the red license plates, it just screams NC State (or Alabama).
 

And as if the Houndstooth isn't enough, she's also got fabulous zebra print, too!  I am a houndstooth fan, so I can already envision what my next monogram will be.

These truly are the most fabulous monograms I have seen to date.  They come in all sizes, too.  And guess what they BEST part is?  Electra has been kind enough to do a giveaway for not one, but two monograms!  One, standard size houndstooth monogram in your font choice and one, standard size zebra monogram in the font of your choice.  TWO CHANCES TO WIN!

In order to gain entry into the giveaway, you must be a follower of this blog, by Facebook or Gmail (listed to the right). Once you qualify, go on over to Preppy Decals and select your favorite item (not pictured on the blog) and leave a message telling me you are qualified and what item is your favorite.


For more entries you may do the following (leave a comment with what you've done):
* Like Lulu and Daisy on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Like Preppy Decals on Facebook--one add'l entry
* Follow Lulu and Daisy on Twitter--one add'l entry
* Add the Lulu and Daisy button to your blog (top right)--one add'l entry
* Share on Facebook--one add'l entry per day.
* Tweet about the giveaway--one add'l entry per day.
* Blog about our giveaway--two add'l entries

Whew, that's a lot of ways to win! Hurry...our giveaway ends on December 10 at midnight! Good luck!

I totally forgot to mention that Electra EXTENDED her Cyber Monday sale for us.  Use promo code cybercyber at checkout (don't forget to click apply) to save 35% off your order now until Friday!

12 Days of Christmas Gifts

I love Christmas.  It's the most wonderful time of the year.  I have met some great women this year through blogging and tweeting and friends of friends.  Not surprisingly, they are also quite creative and talented.  This year, I thought I would tell you about some of MY favorite gifts and some of them are even offering a little Christmas present to you, too!  Here goes:

DAY 1:  J BEE DESIGNS

I met Jennie when I won a blog makeover from Flip Flops and Pearls (thanks, again, Daphne!).  Jennie is owner and designer extraordinaire at Posh Palm.  She was so easy to work with and I could not believe my eyes when I saw how fabulous my blogs looks.  I was speechless (for about 5 seconds before I squealed). 

After emailing back and forth, and chatting a bit, I found out she did more than just design web sites and blogs.  She's also quite crafty (like me).  Her line includes some of her fabulous designs on a million different things, but she also has some of the most fabulous, hand-painted wine glasses.  I can't stop browsing her site.  She even made me this fabulous iPhone cover (now I've just got to save up for an iPhone).

Isn't is the most fabulous cover you've ever seen??  I can't wait until I have a phone for it!  Her hand-painted items are just as fabulous.  Here is a sampling:

And finally a few ornaments, too:

Just fabulous!  So, for the First day of Christmas Giveaway, Jennie has offered a personalized, hand-painted wine glass.  In order to gain entry into the giveaway, you must be a follower of this blog, by Facebook or Gmail (listed to the right).  Once you qualify, go on over to J. Bee Designs and select your favorite item (not pictured on the blog) and leave a message telling me you are qualified and what item is your favorite.

For more entries you may do the following and leave a message with what you've done and number of entries, please:
*  Like Lulu and Daisy on Facebook--one add'l entry
*  Like J Bee Designs on Facebook--one add'l entry
*  Follow Lulu and Daisy on Twitter--one add'l entry
*  Follow Posh Palm on Twitter--one add'l entry
*  Add the Lulu and Daisy button to your blog (top right)--one add'l entry
*  Add the Posh Palm button to your blog (top right)--one add'l entry
*  Share on Facebook--one add'l entry per day.
*  Tweet about the giveaway--one add'l entry per day.
*  Blog about our giveaway--two add'l entries

Whew, that's a lot of ways to win!  We have updated our deadline to Debember 10 at midnight!  My sweet friend over at the Gifting Gumshoe will get a Surcie from me for leaving her comment first!  Tell your friends!