Be My Valentine and I’ll be Yours

We survived Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve and have just about reached the end of January.  That means the next ‘holiday’ is Valentine’s Day, February 14,2016.  I know I don’t have to remind the ladies out there, but sometimes men need a reminder or two!

While a large box of assorted chocolates might put a big smile on your significant other’s face, it won’t last long…I know it wouldn’t in my house!  A large bouquet of red roses might make a lady cry, but again, they won’t last long.  Besides, you want to make the day special, so do something different, let your Valentine know she has your love and devotion.

While you might not be able to give her a week at an exclusive resort, you can give her a lovely time of relaxation at a day spa.  Do a little research on what is available where you live.  When the spa time is finished and she is glowing, take her out for a romantic dinner.  You will score big points!

If you don’t have the big bucks it takes for the spa and dinner, why not give her a relaxing day at a home spa.  Send the kids to family for the day and set the romance in motion by drawing a bubble bath, complete with candles and romantic music. 

After such a bath a lady may be happy to have a home cooked meal that you shop for, prepare and clean up after!  I would vote for that myself!

While you can purchase a Hallmark card with a beautiful saying, why not use your own words.  Make a card, it doesn’t have to be professional quality, and it will mean much more to her knowing you created it. 

Some people think that Valentine’s Day is just another commercial event in order for card stores, candy stores and flower shops to make money.  But when you get right down to it, Valentine’s Day is a just another day on the calendar. You should love and respect your significant other every day of the year.

Photo:pixabay.com/en/love-heart-birds-freedom-together-1133157/

A New Year, a Fresh Start!

First off I would like to say Happy New Year and I hope it will be a good one for all of us. 

I have been reading a lot on social media sites where people say how bad 2015 was and that they can’t wait for it to end.  It seems people say the same thing around this time every year.  They complain about the health issues, or the money issues or family issues.  Just because the calendar turns from 2015 to 2016 doesn’t mean all those issues miraculously go away.

Health issues don’t clear up automatically on January 1, 2016, but you can take steps to have better health. 

• If you want to drop a few pounds, set an attainable goal.  Instead having a goal of 30 pounds, start with a goal of 5 pounds, which is more achievable.  Take baby steps and pat yourself on the back when you accomplish those baby steps.

• If you have been putting off visiting the doctor (or the dentist) and you know you should, make the appointment, just do it.  You will be glad you did once you take that first step.

• If you do have an illness, learn all you can about it.  But get your advice from professionals.  You have to be careful what you read on the internet.  Joe Smith the maintenance man wouldn’t be my first choice for medical advice.

When it comes to money you can’t pull it out of the ground or pluck it from a tree, unfortunately.  

• If you are in a position to save some money each month you should do that.  Even if it’s just $5 or $10, it will get you into the habit of saving.  A habit well worth starting.

• Teach your kids the value of money.  They all want every toy or gadget they see, that’s how kids are.  I was taught the value of money at a very young age and I am glad I was.

• Tax time is approaching and if you get money back in the form of a refund, pay down some of your debt instead of blowing it on things that aren’t necessary.

This is my last article for 2015.  I have enjoyed being part of “You’ve Been Reviewed”. I look forward to 2016 and all that it will bring.

I wish you a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Photos:

pixabay.com/en/environmental-protection-886679/

pixabay.com/en/tape-notices-pen-diet-fat-health-403593/

pixabay.com/en/paper-snakes-star-background-image-1043278/

Merry Christmas One and All!

Today is Wednesday, December 23^rd, which means Christmas is just two days away. I hope you have all your preparations in place and are truly ready for the festivities to begin! If you have little ones in your life then you know that their excitement is overflowing.  We don’t have any little ones, but my husband and I still enjoy the season thoroughly!

At this time of year don’t forget the elderly who are in nursing homes or living alone with no one to visit them.  If you know of someone like that take a few minutes of your time to spend with them.  Just a few cookies and a cheery card can lift the spirits!  Maybe even invite them to spend the day with you and your family.

What about the couple next door that is alone at holiday time because their family members are hundreds of miles away?  If you have room in your heart and at your table, maybe ask them to share a meal with you.  You will never know how much they will appreciate the invitation.

Do you get a small gift for your mail carrier or paper delivery person?  What about the girl at the dentist office who goes out of her way to get you in when you have an emergency?  Let them know you appreciate them with a small token. 

Is there a homeless shelter where you can volunteer a few hours to make the Christmas Season brighter for those who have very little joy?  For those of us who have a lot the best feeling is the world is to give to others who have very little. You can help out at a soup kitchen, make it a family affair.  Sometimes a cup of coffee and a smile can do wonders for the spirit.

 

Don’t forget the dogs and cats that are living in shelters.  At this time of year shelters are overflowing and there are never enough volunteers to visit and play with the dogs.  They need some extra love at this time of the year also.  Take some treats for them if you can.  If you don’t have time to volunteer your times perhaps make a donation, they can always use the money.

As you prepare for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day church services your thoughts are aimed toward the true meaning of the day, the birth of baby Jesus. 

Merry Christmas!!

Photos belong to AbbyG

What will be on your Christmas Dinner Table?

There are only a few more weeks until Christmas and that means besides gift shopping, we will all be food shopping.  While Turkey is the main dish at Thanksgiving, it is also served on Christmas in many homes.

Of course, no one has to serve turkey; there is no rule or law that says so.  The commercials on TV do lead us in that direction.  You don’t see many ads featuring Prime Rib on the Christmas dinner table but I know some people who have had that meat as their entrée.

For those of you who prefer Turkey have you done a Turkey Breast instead of the whole bird?  We prefer a breast since we don’t care for dark meat and for just the two of us the breast makes more sense.

Can you smell that Turkey Breast?

Because my husband and I have our holidays alone we have the ability to cook outside the box.  We have prepared Prime Rib for Christmas and we have also dined on South Carolina Shrimp served with Lemon Pasta. All of a sudden I'm craving shrimp, I wonder why?!

Let’s see what else could be a turkey replacement…Ham, Pork Roast, Stuffed Chicken, Lasagna and the list goes on and on.  If you are going with the basic roasted (or deep fried) Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy and … and what else?  What side dishes other than Green Bean Casserole or Baked Butternut Squash?  Succotash is our favorite side dish any time of the year.  I would serve Pickled Beets or Mashed Turnips, or both.

One item that I never consider part of a big Turkey dinner is a leafy green dinner salad.  We love salad but it seems to be out of place with holiday meals.  Maybe that is because when I was a kid the famous ‘Jello Salad’ was a big part of the celebrations!  There is always room for Jello.  

Don't forget the Dinner Rolls or Cornbread.

Who doesn't love Cornbread!

A fun way to have a Christmas dinner would be to divide up the work – the hostess provides the main entrée and the guests bring side dishes, bread/rolls, desserts.  That would just take a little coordination so that you don’t wind up with 10 of the same side dishes. 

Speaking of Christmas dinner….

you might know an elderly person who has no family and will be all alone.  If you can find room at your table and in your heart - invite that person to share Christmas dinner with you.  It could mean more to that person than you will ever 

know.

Photos belongs to AbbyG

Keeping Fido Safe at Holiday Time

With Thanksgiving around the corner and Christmas right behind that, it seems to be the perfect time for some safety tip reminders.  You may know of these already, so consider this a review.  If you question any of these reminders please feel free to check with your veterinarian.

 

What a cute Santa!

Bones: 

Bones, whether they are turkey or chicken, should not be given to your dog.  They will splinter and can cause damage to your dog’s throat or digestive system.  It is best to not give any type of bone to your dog. 

Gravy:

Gravies are rich as they are made from flour and some type of fat.  Fat is not good for dogs, they don’t need homemade turkey gravy to celebrate the holidays.

Alcohol:

That includes any and all booze.  I would assume that you are not giving your dog beer or Vodka any day of the year.

Chocolate:

Chocolate may be your favorite, but Fido could possibly die if he eats it.  When you put out a tray of fancy chocolates for your guest please place them out of the reach of your dog.  Also ask your guests to kindly refrain from giving food/candy of any kind to your dog.

Note:  For a complete list of foods not to give to your dog,  please click this link.

Our dog's first Christmas, tree out of the way just in case!

Tree Safety:

Your dog may be perfectly well behaved around your Christmas tree, but watch out for the wagging tail.  As a safety precaution I only use unbreakable ornaments at the height where our dog’s tail might hit and knock something off the tree.

Ornaments, Lights and Hooks:

Oh how we love the beautiful ornaments!  Your dog might also and those glass ornaments are very dangerous.  Don’t forget the metal hooks you use to hang those ornaments and treasures.  You never know what a dog or puppy will become fascinated with.

Company:

With Holiday company coming your front door will be opening and closing a lot.  Make sure you know where Princess is at all times.  An open door and lots of people coming and going might be an invitation for the dog to sneak out.  Make sure the dog has a color with tags.

Gifts: 

Shiny bows might attract your puppy so be aware.  It might be a good idea to keep your beautifully wrapped gifts where the little pup can’t reach them.  When our dog was a puppy I purposely left bows off the packages just in case.

This one loves her Wubba

Gifts for the Dog:

Don't forget to buy your dog appropriate toys and monitor play time

Down Time:

Make sure to give your dog some down time, alone time.  Dogs need to unwind and relax even during this festive time.  And a few pats on the head and kind words may be just the ticket.

Photos belong to AbbyG

Comcast Christmas at Chilhowee Park photos 2014

Touring Christmas lights in Knoxville is a time honored tradition in my household. These Comcast Christmas at Chilhowee Park photos were taken in mid-December.

Driving around the lake to see the Christmas lights always puts us in the holiday mood. It is open from 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm through January 1, 2015.  Chilhowee Park is located at 3301 Magnolia Avenue, Knoxville.


Hubby and I drove under the entrance sign at around 8:00 pm on a Saturday night. There were other cars but no real crowds. We had plenty of time to see the Christmas light display without feeling rushed. Click the "Read more" link under the picture at the left to see some cool photos.

As you can see, Knoxville is fortunate that Comcast sponsored it again this year. These photos are a mere taste of what you can enjoy at Chilhowee Park.

The photo on the right is of some of the lights that you after entering the grounds. You can see parts of the Jacob Building in the background.

Isn't the gazebo pretty? The stars are the perfect touch.

The light tree with the flag is next to the gazebo. This is on the other side of the lake from the entrance and adds a patriotic feel to the display of Christmas lights. 

Have you ever driven through a light tunnel? If  you aren't into the holiday spirit by now, you will be after you drive under the lighted arches.This enchanting portion of the display is about 2/3 of the way around the lake in Chilhowee Park.

If you are disabled with mobility issues, displays like this one in Knoxville may be the best way to enjoy displays of Christmas lights. I hope that you enjoy the photos and will be getting to other Christmas light displays in Knoxville. Look for more photos to come soon.

Christmas tree shops in Knoxville

The holidays are upon us. This means it's time to find Christmas tree shops in Knoxville and surrounding areas. We often think of Home Depot, Wal-Mart and other big box stores when we think of places to buy Christmas trees.

Mayo Garden Center will have Christmas Trees available after November 20, 2014. View the  website for locations and hours.

The Pool Place Knoxville is a seasonal shop where you can get all sorts of Christmas related items. They are at 8100 Kingston Pike. www.christmastimeatthepoolplace.com has directions and hours.

Don't overlook the Market Square Holiday Market for unique holiday items. The shopping is available on Saturdays in December before Christmas. www.marketsquarefarmersmarket.org/events.

Looking to support charity with your shopping dollars?

Purchase a Christmas Tree from the Fantasy of Trees in Knoxville and you will be helping the East Tennessee Children's Hospital. Christmas trees and decorations are for sale and there are lots of activities for children. Check online for this year's dates.

 KARM has a store that is designated for the holidays. Expect to find artificial Christmas trees, ornaments, decorations, dishes and more. The KARM Christmas store is at 314 Merchant Drive, Knoxville. www.KARM.org

A short drive from Knoxville...

The Incredible Christmas Place is just a short drive away in Pigeon Forge. When it comes to Christmas tree shops in the Knoxville area, this one certainly lives up to its reputation.

Speaking of Sevier County, don't forget the Apple Barn Cider Mill and General Store. They have a large selection of holiday items. Pick up some Apple fritters from the restaurant and then head to the Christtmas shop.

We will be updating the blog as information rolls in. Did we miss your favorite Christmas tree shop in Knoxville? Let us know in the comments section below.

Where to Find Restaurant Coupons in Knoxville, Tennessee

Use discounts and restaurant coupons to cut anywhere from 10% - 50% off of restaurant bills, events or other activites. In the Knoxville, Tennessee area there are several places that offer restaurant coupons. This article helps you find them.

Every year, school systems in Knox County Schools Coupons Books raise money and pass on savings. I always try to buy one or two each year. The book includes coupons for clothing, restaurants, events and more - plus, it helps the schools. At around $10, the popular coupon books are a bargain.

Daily deal sites like Groupon, Half-Off Depot and Restaurant.com that cover Knoxville sell vouchers for half off (or more) of the face value. They aren't limited to restaurant coupons or even to Knoxville. I've successfully purchased vouchers for Long's Drugstore, Petro's Chili and Chips and pizza places in Knoxville Vouchers can even be given as gifts.

Pick up free coupons books at Knoxville gas stations,
convenience and grocery stores. These little newsprint booklets are usually zip code specific and often have coupons and deals from newer eateries.

Another great source of restaurant coupons comes from restaurant websites. The deals aren't always on the front page. You may have to click a few links or sign up for an e-club. Promotions vary but I've received specials and Knoxville restaurant coupons from Bojangles Chicken and Biscuits, Ruby Tuesday, Chili's and others.

Your AAA membership can get you 10% at some restaurants like the Hard Rock Cafe in Sevierville, and Moe's and Denny's in Knoxville.

Did you know that coupons and deals for restaurants are often available on city, state or county tourism sites? Search online for the city of your choice. Look for a link that says "coupons" or "specials".  My family recently saved 10% off of the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant in Sevierville, Tennessee by checking the tourism website first.

Buy restaurant gift cards during promotional periods. Look for extra incentives around Christmas, Mother's Day and Father's Day. Murphy Gas Stations sometimes sell the gift cards for $5 off and buying at Sam's Club may save you a couple of bucks.


Panera Bread, the Orange Leaf, Starbucks, Zoes and others have loyalty programs that can save you big bucks. Instead of coupons, download an app or carry a loyalty card to get the discounts. .

Keep in mind that offers will change without notice and will vary among companies, sources etc. Users of restaurant coupons in Knoxville and elsewhere should always check the fine print on any offer for expiration dates or other information. 

This article first appeared on the Yahoo Contributor Network. 

Very last minute Mother's Day gift ideas

Sometimes life gets in the way and we need a very last minute Mother's Day gift ideas. Don't give up on getting something for Mom and don't panic. This article will help you with ideas for very last minute Mother's Day gift ideas.

Think outside the box
A discount retail store may be your best option. Wal-Mart and Target have lots of items that would make good gifts. Jewelry and candy may be picked over. Watches, a nice jewelry box or cabinet might be alternative ideas.

Other possibilities could be a memory card for the camera,

City of Knoxville website lists Christmas events

One of the best things about living in Knoxville is all of the great things that there are to do. Information about many events is in one handy place. The City of Knoxville website lists Christmas events that are happening all over town. It's the first place to look when deciding what part of town to visit first.

Each of these events is for this weekend. They're all listed on the City of Knoxville website:

WIVK Christmas Parade
Friday, December 6 at 7:00 pm. along Gay Street.

Knoxville Community Band free concert
Sunday, December 8 at 3:00 pm. at Northwest Middle School.

Ice skating at Knoxville Holidays on Ice
Through January 5 on Market Square Mall

Appalachian Ballet Nutcracker at Civic Auditorium
December 5-8

Santa Village at the Knoxville Zoo
December 5-8

First Friday in Downtown Knoxville
December 6, Downtown

Plus, there are lots more great events that are listed. The website url is http://www.cityofknoxville.org You may want to look at it before making weekend plans.

Santa photos on a fire truck benefit in Athens, Tennessee

The Claxton Community Fire Department in Riceville, Tennessee is an all volunteer organization. They do receive a modest amount of grant funding but most of the support comes from community members. To help, the members of Piney Grove United Methodist Church in Athens, Tennessee is sponsoring a fundraiser on Saturday, December 14, 2013.

The fire department is pulling out all the stops. Kids can have their photos made with Santa on the fire truck. Photos will be made from 3:00 - 4:30 pm. 

A Christmas carol sing-a-long begins at 4:00 pm inside the church sanctuary. Come gather round the piano as we sing your holiday favorites. 

Step over to the fellowship hall when you get thirsty. Refreshments will include cookies and apple cider.

All donations will go to benefit the Claxton Volunteer Fire Department in Riceville. Come out an join us. Piney Grove United Methodist Church is at 767 Hwy. 750, Athens, Tennessee. Email me at the address above for more information. 

See you on December 14!

New Years Eve in Knoxville, Tennessee; things to do for the family

New Years Eve in Knoxville, Tennessee always offers several things to do for the family. Although First Night is not an option for 2012, there are still several family friendly options for New Years Eve in Knoxville.

The Knoxville Holidays on Ice skating rink on Market Square Mall will open at 1 p.m. today. The season is drawing to a close so tonight and tomorrow may be the best time for a family to enjoy this outdoor ice skating rink. It's also a good spot to warm up with some hot chocolate. Adults pay $10 and kids pay $7. Skates are available for rent but every skater must sign a waiver. More information is available by calling 865-215-4423.

Move over NYC! Did you know that Knoxville has its own ball-drop? It happens at the Bill Lyons Pavilion on Market Square Mall. The countdown begins at 11:59 pm. Music and a slideshow of images from around Knoxville will be shown on the screen beginning at 11 p.m.

Shadracks Winter Wonderland is still lighting up the skies over the Smokies Baseball Stadium in Kodak. This is a drive-through Christmas light display that is fully set to music. After paying admission, you drive around a marked route and tune your car stereo to the designated radio station. Like the Knoxville Holidays on Ice, Shadracks is only going to be around until January 8. Prices vary but a family can expect to pay $20 for a mini-van on the weekend.

Valentine's Day gifts for women; an open letter to my husband

The thoughts of buying Valentine's Day gifts for women leaves some men quaking in their boots. They know that they have to come up with something and they also know that it better be something that we like. Life is happier for everyone when we receive Valentine's Day gifts for women that we like.  

Husband, I am putting you on notice. The list of things that I don't want includes appliances, an oil change, vacuum or camping gear. If I have to water it, feed it or pick up after it, then it probably doesn't need to be on the list.

Travel related items are great. Put a getaway at the top of my list. It's one of those Valentine's Day gifts for women that every lady will swoon over. I am always up for a trip to look at a Jewelry Store St. Louis, MO or for a trip to Walt Disney World.

Other gift ideas can include:

A gift card for a manicure or spa day
Department store gift card (The auto parts store is not a department store.)
Luggage
AAA membership
A special night out at the movie of my choice.
Dinner out to an elegant restaurant. (If the restaurant has peanuts and a free "Ladies Night" buffet, skip it).
Flowers that I'm not allergic to.
Romantic candlelight dinner (if I don't have to do the dishes.)

But, one of the most sought-after Valentine's Day gifts for women isn't complicated and fits every budget. How about a meaningful, handwritten, heartfelt note? When it comes to romance, a handwritten note never fails.

Love,
Me :-)

Gift ideas for men

The countdown clock is ticking away and holiday shopping is coming down to the wire. Christmas gift ideas for men are on the minds of many people. Ideas are also needed for birthdays, anniversaries and the all-important occasion of Father's Day.

Knowing what gift to buy leaves many of us wracking our brains in frustration. There are only so many neckties that a man can own (and some men don't wear them anyway.) Small screwdrivers and tool-kits are often well received but are problematic. Small multi-tools may be helpful for men who travel. However; like the items listed above they are often tools that many guys already own.

Changing weather patterns are making some men ( women) interested in purchasing a generator. It isn't the usual gift but why not? Generators range from small units to large ones that can provide back-up electricity for houses. If you are looking for gift ideas for men, then looking at the generators on this website may not be a bad idea.

Does your guy like to travel, camp or go backpacking? If so, then you are in luck. A whole world of ideas is literally at your fingertips. A few clicks can make it possible to find just the right vacation or gift.

Here are some gift ideas for men that travel that you will want to check out.

Sturdy backpack

These are a must for camping, backpacking or for getting around in the airport. Sturdy backpacks are made by several companies. Look for one with good seams, a well padded laptop area and pockets for small items and bottled water.

Camp supplies

Gift ideas for men who like to camp can include everything from sub-zero sleeping bags to a stocking stuffer sized first-aid kit. Take your guy for a casual stroll around a camping store. You will have plenty of ideas of what kind of gift to buy.

Other travel ideas

There are some travel gift ideas that are often overlooked. Small flashlights can come in handy for finding keys or small items in the bottom of the backpack. Gift cards toward the purchase of airline tickets, hotel nights or meals are often appreciated.

Blue Christmas services in McMinn County, Tennessee

There will be a Blue Christmas Service in McMinn County, Tennessee. The holiday season can be difficult for people who are undergoing stress, have experienced a loss or for anyone who is overwhelmed by the season.

A Blue Christmas service is a quiet time of renewal where those who are a little down, can be lifted up. The service is open to anyone who needs some encouragement this holiday season.

Whether it is from the death of a loved one, dealing with sickness or family trouble, work problems or whatever, we sometimes feel out of step or out of place when everyone else is celebrating.

The service schedule for 2012 is:

How to find a Christmas Eve service in Knoxville

The holiday season is here and with it comes a renewed interest in religion. Tradition holds that there are three times of year when church attendance is expected to be the highest. Those are Christmas, Easter and Mother's Day. Travelers and locals alike will sometimes look for Christmas eve services. In fact, during this time of year, I'm often asked how to find a Christmas Eve service in Knoxville.

There are as many opportunities for worship in Knoxville as there are churches. I recently attended an impressive Advent Recital Series at Church Street United Methodist Church. Several Christmas eve services are planned here.

The City of Knoxville website lists some of the area churches who are offering worship services on Christmas Eve. A multi-page brochure is available on the site. The brochure can be downloaded for free from the above link.

Generally, the best source of information comes from friends or family. They may attend a church that offers a Christmas Eve service in Knoxville. If not, they may know of someone who is planning to attend a service.

If you are traveling to the area (or if you are new here) then finding a service may take a little extra research.

An online search for the church of your choice may be a source of information. Keep in mind that unless a church has a large congregation they may not have a website. If they do have a site, it may not be updated regularly.

Looking for community events online or in the local paper may help you find a Christmas Eve service in Knoxville. If not, then you may want to make some phone calls. Not only might this help you locate a place to worship, but it may give you someone to look for at the church. Knowing that someone is looking for you may help you feel more comfortable about attending.

Christmas Eve services in Knoxville are usually casual affairs. Some may be geared specifically to children with families where kids are expected to be noisy. Generally the later the service is, quieter it is. Candlelight services are common and communion may be served.

There are several churches in Knoxville that will be holding worship on Christmas Eve. If you can't find one that you want to attend, then please leave a comment below. I'm sure that some of my readers will be glad to help.

Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland lights 2012 photos

Lots of people are asking about the new Shadrack's show for 2012. It is even more spectacular this year than it was last year. The Christmas light display is absolutely dazzling. I think that they outdid themselves with the sparkle and pizazz. Only Walt Disney World could have done a better job and even that is open to debate.

Here are some photos for you to enjoy. This blog post gives you the location and a few more details of the Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland light display.  Click read more to see more photos and get the link for rates and location.

Jazz for Tots concert in Knoxville

We got to the annual Jazz for Tots concert in Knoxville just in time to watch them set up. It starts at 7:00 p.m. tonight. December 2, 2012. If you got this as a tweet, bring a toy and come on out. The concert is by the School of Music of the College of Arts and Sciences at U.T. Unwrapped toys are collected by the U.S. Marine Corps. This is the only admission for the Jazz for Tots concert. There is plenty free of parking.

An impressive program is lined up. There are lots of old favorites. Jingle Bells, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen and Hark the Herald Angels Sing join relatively newer songs. Blue Christmas and I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus are also included in the program.

See the window decorating contest in Knoxville

The window decorating contest in Knoxville runs from November 21 - December 14, 2012. Participating businesses and restaurants throughout the downtown area are turning the City of Knoxville into a Christmas wonderland. Visitors have the chance to vote for their favorite window on the Facebook Page that is set up by the City of Knoxville Special Events.

The decorating contest gives people another reason to visit downtown.  Windows along Gay Street, Jackson Avenue, Central Avenue and other areas are ready for your visit.

Perusing the windows may make for the ideal holiday date. Stroll the streets, stop in and shop or get a bite to eat. Perhaps most importantly, bring your camera.

So far, the list of participants in the Knoxville window decorating contest includes:

Old-Fashioned Hanging of the Greens Christmas Service

Athens, Tennessee - A  Hanging of the Greens is a service to prepare a church for Christmas. Its actual origins have been lost to history. A few customs, such as the Crismon tree are relatively new and began as late as the 1960's. There are some indications that elements of the Hanging of the Greens may have originated in the 1700's or earlier.

Piney Grove United Methodist Church invites you to their annual old-fashioned Hanging of the Greens service. The church is located just outside of Athens, Tennessee on County Road 750. Times are below. Click on the church name for directions.

Piney Grove UMC
Saturday, December 15, 2012
6:30 p.m.

Hand cut pine boughs and other greenery will be used in the service.