Christmas Countdown - 2008

[Crown 84]

....HAH! High Karate......
"Be careful how you use it!"
Remember that old ad? You're dating yourself (as am I!)

Good Morning, Christmas friends!
Rise, shine and smell that delicious tea!
Time to check in on our count:

Days to the Season: 113
Days to Christmas Day: 155
Oh, look! Inside 2 weeks now to the 100-day window.
Then, double-digit territory!

Overcast here in Raleigh at this hour with our temp standing at 75.
Rain predicted.

OK, it's time for the Crowns' annual trip to Florida to visit the relatives.
We will be leaving this Saturday morning (early) for the week.
I will post the count this Friday but will need a volunteer(s?) to post for 9 mornings (Saturday, July 26 through Sunday, August 3).
A big challenge! Who would like to step to the plate?
Your chance for fame and fortune!!
<< OK, Crown. Can the hyperbole! >>
Sorry.

Have a Wonderful Wednesday, folks.
That view from the peak of the week looks fantastic, doesn't it, Holiday?
(Especially THIS weekend!)

[Maureen]

I'm thinking there will be a rather strong plaid underlying theme throughout the next 48 hours - what is a Rudolph carving knife without plaid trim??? Indeed, everybody needs a plaid fur-lined Big Slipper (the Today's Special Value offered for the first time on Eazy-Pay)

[Crown 84]

Oh, Cedar.
We are tied again.

(Pssst! I think Bing is on to our double-identity)

[Maureen]

Identity or Indemnity???!!

[Holiday]

Happy Hump Day!!! Oh what a view!!! Just look at that weekend ahead! :-D I got to hold little Hailey Jo last night...she is just beautiful & sweet & tiny & & &... Lol!!!
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/bucks_fanatic/HaileyJoStough2-1-1.jpg
Hailey being spoiled by Great Grandma

I was so bummed to hear about Estelle Getty! I just loved her...my idol! Lol! What a funny cute little lady! They must have done a really good job on her make-up b/c she looked like she was 84 when she played in the Golden Girls!! I thought she was older than that!

Tonight is the night we get to decorate for CHRISTMAS IN JULY!!! YAY!!! I made peanut brittle & egg nog last night! I have to dig out some decorations & Christmas music after work & we'll be on our way! Can't hardly wait! Lol!!

You all have a great day!!!

[Cedarfarm]

Awwwww!!! She's beautiful!!

I bet you make a wonderful Aunt Holiday!

:tree:

[SparkleNana]

Holiday - the eggnog and peanut brittle sound great!!!!! You are having a wonderful week!

And I envy the trip to Florida! I like the "tropical" feeling it has in summer - exotic and fun!

[Cedarfarm]

OK, it's time for the Crowns' annual trip to Florida to visit the relatives.
We will be leaving this Saturday morning (early) for the week.
I will post the count this Friday but will need a volunteer(s?) to post for 9 mornings (Saturday, July 26 through Sunday, August 3).
A big challenge! Who would like to step to the plate?
Your chance for fame and fortune!!


Hey Crownster! I hope you have a marvelous time, you must be taking the super Fox I'm sure.

I would volunteer but I will be gone too! I am going to see "the girls" ~my sister in-law and 3 of my nieces. We are going to the beautiful "Sleeping Bear Dunes"...a national treasure. And some good shopping in Traverse City. ~So, I'll see all of yous later! cheesy

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b300/chicks_/empirebluff715.jpg

[Undrtakr]

I have my desk at work decorated with Christmas items :P Everyone doesnt think Im crazy, they EXPECT me to do it :P yay!

[Crown 84]

Well, that lets you out, Cedar.
I hope you have a great trip, too!

[Binger]

I Binger.. of sound mind and fabulous body.. do volunteer to post the count......

but only until Thrursday.. as I have to go to Florida myself..... one must do these things.... CUBAN COFFEE...

YABBA....boogie on down.. to Key West

[Binger]

Hey Plaid gal.. look.... the special of the day.... plaid Catholic School Jumpers....

retro.. boogie.. yabba....

[Holiday]

Hey Crownster! I hope you have a marvelous time, you must be taking the super Fox I'm sure.

I would volunteer but I will be gone too! I am going to see "the girls" ~my sister in-law and 3 of my nieces. We are going to the beautiful "Sleeping Bear Dunes"...a national treasure. And some good shopping in Traverse City. ~So, I'll see all of yous later!

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b300/chicks_/empirebluff715.jpg

What is up with everyone going on vacation???? NO FAIR!?!?! :eek: Lol!!! You all have a great time!!

[DoubleA]

QVC is a night away from kick off, cant wait!

[Binger]

Hey dom.. if you beat me here in the AM ( maybe I OD'dd from too much java.. snicker.. as if one can ever have too much.. in fact wait a minute while I get my 9th cup this AM........... ok I am back..) can you go ahead and post it?

YABBA.. boogie on down...

[Binger]

Yep... tget those credit cards ready folks...... special of the day... the RAT PACK ornament set.... Dean, Jerry, Sammy.... just in time for the holidays....

YABBA.. Boogie on down....

[Crown 84]

I Binger.. of sound mind and fabulous body.. do volunteer to post the count......but only until Thrursday.. as I have to go to Florida myself.....to Key West....
Thanks, my coffee-soaked friend.
Heading to Florida too, fellow mystery twin?? What will people say?
Anyway, you have a great trip.

And thanks, Dom, for your usual friendly volunteer to help out Der Binger.
You two are the greatest, coffee or no coffee!
(Oops, sorry Bing - didn't mean to scare you!)

Days to the Season: 112
Days to Christmas Day: 154
Moving in on single digits to double digits (if that makes any sense).

After my encounter with all the hummingbirds at Wintergreen earlier this month, my father and I decided to install a feeder in his back yard. Right away, we have attracted a hummer! He (she?) is a bit skittish so I can't get close enough for a photo yet. At some point, I will try to take one and post it.

Have a Thrilling Thursday, fellow Christmas travelers.
"Holiday Rooooaaaaad!"

[Holiday]

MERRY CHRISTMAS IN JULY EVE!!!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...at Holidays lake "home".... :D We had a ball decorating last night!! I think it looks pretty darn good if I do say so myself! We have lights around all the windows & doors & the shed. We have a couple little trees up & Santa is out there. Lighted garland is around the cupboards & entertainment center. You should have seen the looks on the faces of the little couple who rode by on their bicycles! Lol! "What the heck?!?!?" :o After we finished decorating we watched a Christmas episode of Happy Days. So fun!!!

Well, you all have a great day!!!

[sweetmisery]

Exactly 5 more months baby! WOOOOOOOOO!!!

[Crown 84]

Same to you, Dom.
Twenty hours is indeed a long time to go with no posts.
(And speaking of vacation, we are leaving for ours early tomorrow morning!)

As such, I shall post the count one last time before my long break!
Days to the Season: 111
Days to Christmas Day: 153

Wow! When I return here Monday, August 4, we will be down to 101 until the Season. Incredible!

A sunny, calm 70 degrees outside in Raleigh at this hour.
Hopefully, we will have good weather for the trip.

And Bing, if I see you down in Florida late next week, I will lift my glass of iced tea in salute.

Have a Fabulous Friday, a Wonderful Weekend and an incredible next week!
Keep that Christmas song in your heart and the Spirit of the Season with you, friends.

[Holiday]

MERRY CHRISTMAS IN JULY!!!
Can you believe it? Can you believe it's Chirstmas in July?!? Man this year is FLYING!!! Not only is it Christmas in July, but it's FRIDAY!!!!! :D

Tomorrow is our Christmas in July party at the lake...I baked Christmas cookies last night & might I ad while I was baking them, I was watching Lifetime tv & guess what came on? A Reba Christmas episode!! It felt so Christmassy at our house! :smile: I also made sponge candy, I am making whiskey slush tonight, I still have to ice the cookies & then I'll be ready for the party!!!

You all have a great FRIDAY & a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS IN JULY!!!!

[Binger]

help.. I cannot stop watching QVC.. I just ordered the ho ho ho holiday cheeseball.....

YABBA... boogie on down to QVC...

[Binger]

and then there is the Ernest Borgnine Fleece Holiday Throw Pillow set...

YABBA.. shop shop shop

[Binger]

and the CROWN... Holiday Pillow and Blanket set.. complete with sound machine that plays " O Holy Night" on the conch shells and tamberine...



YABBA.. boogie oggie oggie.... get down.... HEY JAY>.................

[JayIsh]

Binger-baby I have the same Borgnine set!!! Signed!!!

[Holiday]

Here's our Christmas In July decs at our trailer at the lake:

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/bucks_fanatic/ChristmasInJuly035-.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/bucks_fanatic/ChristmasInJuly019-.jpg

[Holiday]

It’s beginning to look a lot like CHRISTMAS!!

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/bucks_fanatic/ChristmasInJuly015-.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/bucks_fanatic/ChristmasInJuly036-.jpg

[Annette1990]

Good evening all...Been another busy day for me. Had to do some last minute shopping for my daughters birthday. I am having her 7th B-day party tomorrow. Should be a fun time for all! Hope everyone had a great Friday.

[SparkleNana]

Good morning and Happy Countdown! Today, I went to a used book store and found a great old book on Christmas for not very much money! It has recipes and photos and decorations and all the stuff I love to think about! So I am happy. I hope you are too!

[Binger]

ok..here goes..

days to the season.. 110
minutes till I get another cup of java.... 2.. no wait.. 1
days till Jay paus du luxes.... 4
days tll Cedareturns.. 2

YABBA......

[Binger]

Jay.. I am so envious of those pillows.... are there scenes from McHale's Navy on the back?

YABBA....

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

cheesy Greetings from Dudley-town, home of Auntie Mistletoe. Been a busy week. Can't believe I haven't swung back this way since Monday. I'm all caught up on the Countdown action now though.

Safe and fun travels Crown, Cedar, Binger, et al!

Nice to see Iron Eagle passing by again.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/ElfXmasGreeting.gif In July.

Holiday - great pics. Can't believe you went to so much trouble for a few days. You're my Christmas in July inspiration. All I did was tidy up my little Christmas corner, read How the Grinch Stole Christmas to a group of 3 year olds, sent a letter on behalf of Santa that someone else shared with a group of children, helped my friend herd twenty 4-5 year olds down at the Carousel and Mini Train where Santa was spending the afternoon (yesterday) and had Christmas music playing in my speakers at work from AccuHolidays Radio North Pole. (Sorry, can't access Live365 at work.)

Santa delivered a new toy for O'Malley, but he already broke it.

Tonight we're having turkey breasts with dressing and corn niblets.

Want to see something funny?

Claymation - Carol of the Bells
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5m9_LXNOYM&feature=related

[Maureen]

Good morning. Cooler here after some storms over night. Should be a decent enough day but the chance of more showers later.

Single digits now till we hit the big 100 marker me thinks. Good job with the count Bing and you were right about how it flies when we hit the "1"s cause it seems like you said that yesterday and it's almost 100 days ago.

Hope everyone has a great day.

Sorry, I'm not trying to be difficult but I don't understand.....???:? The countdown at the top of my screen shows more than single digits until the 100 marker...???? Maybe I've inhaled too much plaid:cry:

[Binger]

hey... stop trying to get us on "plaid time.."

Days till the seasn.... 109.....

( hmmm let me check.. Ms. Plaid...)

YABBA.... YABBA.. Boogie on down.....

[Maureen]

Ahhh, season - gotcha!!! I'll go back to weaving!!

[Binger]

hmmm very confused... we are at 109..... August 5 is the 100 day marker.... I just looked back at day 1.... just incredible that we are still here... hmmmm I miss Crown.. and Cedar........

OHHHH YABBA....

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

Plaidi-aches at the Shispering Pines Playhouse - next on Springer.

(Oh, I'm starting to sound like Jay, not that there's anything wrong with that.)

:hello:

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

As promised, here are a few pics of my friend's Christmas in July tree.

The Tree Topper - haha


http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/Summer%20Fun/JulyTreeTopper.jpg

Full view

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/Summer%20Fun/JulyTree2.jpg

I have two more, but you get the idea. When I saw the sand and water toys amidst a few ornies and Christmas lights, I smiled HUGE!

Enjoy your Sunday - tomorrow (for some of us) the work week begins.

[Holiday]

Very awesome Christmas in July tree Auntie! I love it!!! :D You know, putting up those lights didn't seem like "work" at all. We had a ball doing it! I ended up putting a 6' tree up under the awning (between the 2 sets of stairs) & that set it off! BUT I took it all down last night. :( I did leave the garland up around the cupboards & entertainment center...it's just garland w/ clear lights & I think it looks nice up there! I also left Santa out there & my 1 1/2 ft. tree...I just couldn't totally take down Christmas! We had a good turn out for the party. There were over 60 people there. We had turkey, bourbon pork loin, dressing, christmas cookies & all the fixings! (there was tons of food & lots of variety!) We all think we should make this a yearly tradition! It was very fun!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend & are off to a Marvelous Monday!!!

[Annette1990]

Good Morning! Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend. It's been getting hot here now...in the 90's-100's. Makes it hard to sleep at night that's for sure. I had "little ones" Birthday party on Saturday. Everyone had a great time. We got a pinata' and the kids just loved it. I hope everyone has a good day.

[Annette1990]

As promised, here are a few pics of my friend's Christmas in July tree.

The Tree Topper - haha


http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/Summer%20Fun/JulyTreeTopper.jpg

Full view

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/Summer%20Fun/JulyTree2.jpg

I have two more, but you get the idea. When I saw the sand and water toys amidst a few ornies and Christmas lights, I smiled HUGE!

Enjoy your Sunday - tomorrow (for some of us) the work week begins.
AMD!! That is such a cute tree! What neat decorating ideas. Tell your friend great job! I loved it!

[SparkleNana]

Mistleto - the food at your Christmas in July party sounds wonderful!

There was a 2 for the price of one book sale at our library on Saturday, and I got some wonderful Christmas books from the 80's and early 90's. I love to find them. I think I will share some with friends this year. Keep passing good things around. Maybe that is one of the ideas of fung shia. Fung shay. Fung ......

[Binger]

days till the season...108......

YABBA>>>>>

[Binger]

Garden Ridge... in full tilt Christmas mode....... if you have one.. get over and enjkoy it....YABBA....

108.. till the season hits.....everyone plan now- that night- the last hour- is total mayhem here....

[Binger]

107 till the season.. and all is well....

YABBA.... boy is this place quiet...... you can hear the shispering pines....

[Binger]

Hey dancing boy.. time to check in......... Radio dude.. make an announcement...

YABBA>. boogie on down..

[RadioJonD]

......... Radio dude.. make an announcement...

YABBA>. boogie on down..

~No trains will be sold after the magazines leave the depot!~

[Annette1990]

Good Morning...Hope everyone is enjoying their day. I agree...RadioJonD make an announcement...heck you can even sing for us if you'd like! =)

[Holiday]

Good morning! (almost afternoon!) It has been pretty quiet around here! What is up with that??? :? I hope you are all having a great day!! Almost lunch time here! YAY!!!! We are having supper at the lake tonight w/ my sister, bil, my niece & nephew. I made a smoked sausage dish w/ taters & carrots. I'm going to stick it in the oven at lunch. Should be fun!!!! :smile: I'm also bringing a meal over tonight to my niece who just had the baby (they live by the lake too) ~ round steak in the crock pot w/ taters, carrots, celery & golden mushroom soup, chees-y (have to put the hyphen in that word or it try's to make it a smiley...lol) noodles, homemade hawaiian bread, & an ice cream cake (made w/ ice cream sandwiches) for dessert!! I am getting hungry! Lol!!! Our house smells so good after cooking all that stuff...

Have a good one.....

[SparkleNana]

Yum! That cooking sounds delicious, Holiday! Happy almost end of July to everyone! Did I mention that I saw lots of adorable Halloween fabrics in Wal-Mart yesterday? They were just mixed in with the regular fabrics! And some of them looked like they were almost all gone! The great holidays are getting closer!

[RadioJonD]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5-1oNCyRNg

[Binger]

106 till the season and Crown is now deeply sleeping in the Florida Keys.... where Binger will be in 48 hours.........

YABBA...

[Binger]

I am seeing more signs of the season beginning to take shape.. Tuesday Morning... Garden Ridge.... JayIsh........

YABBA.... Hi ya Radio dude....

[Annette1990]

Good Morning to you all!!

[Holiday]

Good morning Christmas nuts!! :hi: It's been a dreary day here so far. Looks like it could rain, but none so far. We could use some!! Our supper was really good last night, got the food delivered to my niece & I got to hold that sweet little Hailey! :) Have a great day!!

[sugarplum fairy]

Good morning Christmas friends!

It looks like today is going to be another scorcher. I will be glad when Fall weather is here.

I go back to work Monday and school starts next Thursday. This is the first year I will be at a different elementary school than one of my children. I am having a hard time dealing with letting him go. The school system started a new Pre-K program and I was chosen to be the assistant teacher for it. There will be 18 students and 2 teachers. It was an opportunity I couldn't turn down. The only draw back is that it is at a different school than where my son goes. I have always worked at the same elementary school my kids attended, so this is a huge adjustment for me. I know to most people this sounds so trivial, but I am having a hard time with it. He is fine with it, though. He will be in first grade. They grow up so fast. :(

I hope you all are having a great time and are safe and healthy.
Before you know it, Christmas time will be here. I can't wait!
TTYL!

[yolie8174]

Good morning everyone Christmas is getting closer. Some stores are already bringing out the fall decorations. Yesterday we had an earthquake here in California, I was at work and freaked, I was trying to leave out the door while it was still moving. No one was hurt so that was good, I guess an earthquake once in a while is normal here. Not something you can get used to. Well at least Christmas is on the way. cheesy

[SparkleNana]

Good morning, everyone! Almost August. AND -- the holiday cleaning and organizing plans begin August 31st! That is an incentive to enjoy the summery summer days of not-so-much cleaning and organizing!

[Annette1990]

Good Morning...A beautiful day here this morning. I was sitting out earlier on my deck...enjoying my morning coffee as I watched a few little birds in the yard eating up the worms. The weekends right around the corner. I think we may do some camping then. Plan to go to a place we have never been before. Should be a good time. We were invited to join my s/o co-workers. The co-worker who invited us along won a catered pig roast. Once a month the guys at work think of a safety slogan. They jot it down and turn it in. Well...if your slogan is chosen you win various things. For example s/o cousin won a few months back. He won like a 2-3 hundred dollar Cabela's gift certificate. I told s/o he needs to think of something that will grab the bosses attention....*L* Win or lose thou it's a pretty darn good company these guys work for. Hope everyone has a great day!

[Binger]

105... and we're ohh so close to double digits..

[Holiday]

Good afternoon gang!! It's a hot one out there today! Glad to be inside in the AC! Hope you are all having a good day!!! :)

[Binger]

Thursday morning...a nice start here after some rain last night. Crown is relaxing hopefully where he is (who wouldn't think he is). Bing this the last day you can do the count? I will do it Fri-Sun if you are leaving today. Crown should be back Monday to do it.

Count rolling down the last few days to the big next marker. Bing you like iced coffee or only hot? I could drink iced coffee in the winter...not a fan of hot coffee much.

Have a great Thursday.

careful dam... Crown..like the binger.. is gender neutral....

[Maureen]

He's just not picking up the hint, is he??!!!!!!

Have a good break Bing!!!:snowball:

[MerrySilver]

Hello everyone...I'm new to the forum but already full of such spirit in my first few posts! :D I can't believe the holidays are so close! It's the beginning of August already, and here I am already making decorations and planning on gifts. :)

[Holiday]

Goood morning!!! Can you believe it's AUGUST?!?! Where is the summer going? And not only is it August, but it is
F-F-F-FRIDAY!!! :???: Hope you all have a GREAT weekend!!!

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

I'm officially on vacation (again).

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/XmasPicAlbum/BathTime.gif

I plan on getting out and taking more photos. Wed. we're heading to Ottawa for a belated Christmas in July visit at a five-bedroom cottage in the mountains by the lake. I'll bet I'll get some nice shots there too. Haven't seen the grandchildren since early June.

Hope the weather cooperates, I don't want to be stuck indoors, looks good though.

I might not be around as much in the next while, but I'll stop by when I can. I hear there's a computer at the cottage, but with eleven of us there, I might not get a turn.

I'll be thinking Christmas thoughts - don't you worry.

Alastair Sim’s Ebenezer - The Conclusion
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8gOU8XJc7Y&feature=related

[clarebear]

Hello everyone :D I hope your all doing well, and have a great weekend :dance:

[sugarplum fairy]

Good Saturday morning everyone!

Well, yesterday I bought my first Christmas present. One down, bunches to go. LOL

I have to get ready to go to my niece's baby shower. I hope you all have a great day!

[SparkleNana]

Good morning and Happy Saturday to everyone! It is fun to hear about the nice summer activities -- vacations at the lake and baby showers and bar-b-ques.
I went to the farmers market this morning and got some heirloom tomatoes called "Mortgage Boosters" that are very tasty! And some mint plants that smell so good!

[SparkleNana]

It is fun to read about all the nice, summery plans.

I went to the farmers market this morning and got some heirloom tomatoes named "Mortgage Boosters" that are very tasty.

[SparkleNana]

I went to the farmers market and got some heirloom tomatoes. Very tasty!
:hello:

[Maureen]

Did you go 3 times, you were that impressed???!!!!!!! I'm thinking they were tasty...........!!!!!

:snowball:

Just hit me, it's okay!!!

[greeenjellybean]

I've been annoying everyone by singing Christmas Carols cheesy
And playing the Merry Christmas Radio as loud as possible on my computer

...and looking at the Christmas trees in Target...

Bring on my summer Christmas!

[MerrySilver]

Target has their trees up already, Greeen? Wow, I think that's the earliest yet! COOL!

I've been singing and humming a few Christmas songs to myself since yesterday, heheh :) Summer is slowly fading...bring on the holidays!

[SparkleNana]

Wait - Target has Christmas trees up? I'll keep that in mind as a nice reward - to go see their trees. Maybe I can get myself to do a lot of work for that reward! :tree:

[Crown 84]

......And what makes it even more super is that after today hopefully you won't have to read the count from me or Bing.....

Awww, Dom!
You did a fantastic job and are countdown heir apparent.
Thanks also to Binger, for their help at the start.
What a great group to "count" on!

As you might have guessed, Crown is back from Florida, for better or worse.
Great visit with the family (there were a total of 13 of us - and what's really great is how well everyone gets along. Makes these visits a real pleasure!)

Hmmm..... Let's see..... What do I usually do about now?.... Hmmm.....
Oh, Yeah! The countdown.
WOW! Look!!
Days to the Season: 101
Days to Christmas Day: 143
Can it be?? We are only one day away from the 100 day window and a mere 2 away from DOUBLE-DIGITS to the Season?? Not possible!
And yet....there it is.

Have a Marvelous Monday, wonderful friends!
It's great to be back home.

[Annette1990]

Good Morning Friends...
A cloudy day here with temps being in the lower 80's. Looks as if we may get some thunderstorms this morning and afternoon. I went camping over the weekend. We had planned to stay 2 nights but only stayed 1. We had never been to this lake before. Although it was beautiful...the temps. were hot...and unfortunately no shade in the campground areas. So we stayed one night and went up the following evening for a catered pig roast. The food was great and we had a nice time. Stayed for awhile to visit and then headed home. Have a great week!

[Annette1990]

I went to the farmers market and got some heirloom tomatoes. Very tasty!
:hello:
Nice SparkleNana...we also have a farmers market here on Saturdays. I have been pretty busy so I haven't had a chance to go yet. I plan to soon. The Hutterites usually have a booth selling veggies, homemade breads and whole chickens. These woman also make the most beautiful quilts I have ever seen.

[Crown 84]

Most of my Florida photos were of family but I did take this one on a day trip to Daytona Beach.

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/5536/daytonabeachrb9.jpg

(That looks like fun, but I'm not quite that adventurous!)

[Holiday]

Good morning!!! :hi: Welcome back Crown!! Beautiful pic!! Thanks for sharing!! Auntie...I hope you are having a GREAT time!! ENJOY!!! It was a beautiful weekend at the lake with plenty of sunshine! Hopefully that helped turn our tomatoes red, b/c I have been craving one of those juicy maters from the garden! Normally I have been canning tomatoes for a week by this time of year. They are slow to start this year! I sometimes grow Mortgage Lifters...I wonder if they are the same as Mortgage Boosters? They are big & juicy & YUMMY!!! Mmmmm, mmmm! Have a great Monday everybody!!!

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

:hello: Thanks, Holiday! I'm sure it will be excellent. Wish we could take O'Malley with us, but I'd be too nervous and he wouldn't care for the long drive both ways.

Nice to have you back from your travels, Crown. :)) The thing I'd like to try is hang-gliding. (I'd pack a parachute for extra safety though.)

Glad everyone gets along, I find some of my older cousins are getting a little crabby these days and sometimes forget their manners and gratitudes. Visiting with the grandkids is always wonderful. The two boys don't see as much of their three cousins, the odd visit between our visits so there's lots of fun, catching up, etc. to keep us looking forward to the next visit.

Kind of like coming here, eh?

Did I just say, Eh? Uggh!

I made a video of O'Malley the cat and set it to music. Whenever I get around to uploading it on YouTube, I'll let you know. He's going to be more famous than he is now.

We're off early in the morning so if I don't make it back later today, have a great week and I'll catch up with you next Sunday.

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

cheesy Today is a special day, tomorrow even better. May I suggest a little bit of Christmas cheer - to go with your coffee, tea, iced-tea, etc.


It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas (Perry Como) ~ with clips from A Christmas Story
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PP9dKEXBOf4&feature=related

[Crown 84]

Good Morning, Christmas friends!

Let's get straight to the count since we have reached an important milestone!
Days to the Season: 100
Days to Christmas Day: 142
That's right - the 100-Day Season window!
Seems like a long time coming.....er.....well, actually it didn't.
And tomorrow - double-digits. Incredible!

A nice 78 degrees outside in Raleigh at this hour.
Some chance of rain this afternoon.

Have a Terrific Tuesday, one and all!

[Annette1990]

Yes it's hard to believe we will be in the double digits tomorrow. I continue to get more and more excited as the Season draws near. Hope everyone has a good day!cheesy

[ArkansasChristmas]

Ah heck on such a momentous occasion as the 100 day marker I guess I can post a little.

For me, it is actually a whole lot shorter a wait, once I hit Oct. 1 I am usually pretty good. By that time fall is starting to really take hold, we decorate for Halloween and you know it is just a short bit away from "The Season".

Anyway, anybody know why the posts end like 15 pages before the thread ends. It is really messing with my computer because it tries to go to page 304 and we are only on 287.

[Holiday]

Howdy gang! I had a crazy day today at work, so I didn't even get a chance to log on & check on my Christmas friends! :( I hope you all had a great day! In only 25 minutes we will be down into double digits until the season!?!? Holy Moley!!!!!! :-D

[Crown 84]

What?? After 8:45 and no posts yet?
Wake up and smell the sweet, sweet tea!

And look! Just LOOK!
Days to the Season: 99
Days to Christmas Day: 141
DOUBLE-DIGITS!! WOW!!
Can it be? Can it really be?
Yes!
And this miracle is brought to you by the Christmas Season and all its wonder.

A nice 76 here in Raleigh at this hour with the "possibility" of rain today and tomorrow.

Well, I hate to dash off again so soon but there is the other half of the family to visit (in SC).
We will be leaving Friday morning and I will be back here Monday.
Thus another volunteer is needed for 3 mornings, this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Thanks in advance!!

Have a Wonderful Wednesday, fellow friends of Christmas.
Can you see that weekend from the week's peak, Holiday?

[Crown 84]

Thanks, Dom!
As usual, I know I can always "count" on you.

[SparkleNana]

Hello to everyone! It is amazing to be at the 99 day marker. It is very hot here -- but I saw the first fire-flies of the summer tonight! So there are magical moments all through the year! (Even if the mosquitoes were biting my ankles while I was admiring the fireflies.)

[Sweet_Pea1992]

Suppose to have storms here in TN, but nothing as of yet. Been working dilligently on Plastic Canvas Coasters to take to the Nursing home, for Christmas. Haven't really bought a whole lot. I usually try to make as much as possible, and of course, my favorite......bake, for the goodie boxes and baskets!!

SlarkleNana.....Just now seeing your first fire-flies?? My, My!! Where are you? I can try to let them know to come your way for a festive "snowfall"!! LOL

[Crown 84]

Right you are, Dom.
Our next milestone, coming up in a mere 7 days, is the 3/4 (that's right, THREE QUARTER!) Season mark, followed in 9 days by the 2/3 Christmas Day mark.
Wow! Those milestones are falling like a Christmas snow!

Days to the Season: 98
Days to Christmas Day: 140

Very overcast here in Raleigh this morning with the temp standing at 77.
Good chance of rain today but it should be clear for our trip to South Carolina starting tomorrow morning.

Have a Thrilling Thursday, everybody.
You will be in good hands with Dom.

See you here bright and early Monday morning
(well......maybe not TOO early. I have a reputation to maintain.)

[Binger]

Of course it won't be early morning.. more like early evening..... shesshhhh everyone call Crown.. wake them up..... summer days are fleeting.....

YABBA.. Cedar???

[Binger]

JAY??? Plaid Gal? What's up.. everyone is" Jimmy Hoffa" around here....
yab..

[Holiday]

Good afternoon!! I tried to post this earlier, but after I hit send I got a "page cannot be displayed" message. Then when I hit the back button, everything I typed was gone! :( I'm hoping to have a chance this afternoon to read all the new posts I've been missing out on this week...been a busy week! I went to the coffee shop yesterday after work & guess what??? They were CLOSED!!! What a bummer!! If I have time, I'm going back after work tonight. They are open til 6 on Thursdays! Can't wait to try some of their different flavors! I'm sending some in a care package to a friend who just lost her Mom. I got a new Christmas cd from a friend last week...it's Sawyer Brown's Christmas cd! I really like it! Been listening to it in my car! :-D I hope you are all having a great week!!!

Have a great trip Crown!!!

[JayIsh]

Hello Everyone!!! Sorry for my absence...I've been on the board but not on the beloved countdown...I've been reading but not writing so I thought I'd change that...Hope everyone is doing well as we skate closer and closer the magic season...Can't believe it is less than 100 days...That has me almost speechless...That's it...I'm speechless...that's why I haven't posted...But I am here for the moment and happy to be saying hi!

I sort of count the weeks by Thursdays cause it's pay day and for some reason as I sit in the bank drive up line I always seem to say or think "another week..." And I can't believe how quickly I seem to say that...

Where oh where has our Cedar gone? Oh where, oh where has she gone???

Jay

[RavenHardt]

hello my beloved family.....I too have been mia. I have finished all my christmas shopping though...which makes me mighty happy. Things are all wrapped, and put away for that very special day. I have been buying christmas dvd's everytime I see a new one to add to my growing collection, and have been listening to christmas cd's as well....I am really in the spirit this year.....so watch out !!!!!

[JayIsh]

Shopping done??? Presents wrapped??? DVD's bought??? CD's listened???

Folks, I think we have a new champion!!!

Way to go Raven!!!

You'll actually get to watch those DVD's while the rest of us scurry about buying and wrapping...I like your style!!!

jay

[Holiday]

No Way!!!! DONE??????? What oh what will you do with yourself in December???? :lol:

[Annette1990]

Hi friends...Hope everyone had a good day! I worked this morning got home made some dinner and I am off to work another job in about an hour. Wanted to pop in to say hey to everyone. Weather here has been hot but it looks as if the clouds are moving in. So it looks as if we might get some much needed rain.

[SparkleNana]

Hello to everyone -- as August rolls on... (sung to the tune of Old Man River! SweetPea1992= yes, insects become the entire focus of attention here in August -- (in the Washington, DC - Northern Virginia area. The lovely fireflies. Also joined by evidence of the August cicadas. So far the evidence consists of the dry outer shells - left on trees and brick walls and everywhere. The cicadas live most of their life underground. Then they climb up high somewhere and their shell splits and they climb out. But NOW - they have wings. So they fly slowly around (resting most of the time). And they make high-pitched buzzing sounds - sort of like a factory at tree level. (I am not making this up. It is their "mating song". Well, that is August for some of us.

[SparkleNana]

August is rolling along... (sung to the tune of "Old Man River".)

Our entertainment in August is mostly watching insects here in the Northern Virginia/Washington, DC area. Beautiful fireflies. Little Tiger Mosquitoes that bite all day (and really hurt). Old fashioned mosquitoes that bite from dusk to dawn. And cicadas.

[RadioJonD]

The cicadas live most of their life underground. Then they climb up high somewhere and their shell splits and they climb out. But NOW - they have wings. So they fly slowly around (resting most of the time). And they make high-pitched buzzing sounds - sort of like a factory at tree level. (I am not making this up. It is their "mating song". Well, that is August for some of us.

I've got this one and it's good!- http://tinyurl.com/6ra5nv Wonder if they will ever record another album?

[ReineV]

I feel like I haven't been on the boards in forever, but life is rather busy on my end! T-minus 4 months till the wedding and only about a month until the big move into our house! Life is BUSY! But anyways...I have a day off tomorrow and a friend of ours is getting married Saturday so we're taking a little road trip! Christmas is almost heeeeeeeere!

[MerrySilver]

SparkleNana - I lived in the Roanoke area of VA for almost 12 years...cicadas are definitely a marker of August for much of the country :D They're even up here in Toronto but only on hot days. And since we're in a really abnormal cool streak this summer, I don't hear them that often :(

[Holiday]

Good morning gang!!! Happy FRIDAY!!! :D Where oh where did our Cedar go? Decide to stay on vacation with the girls???? I hope everything is alright!!

You all have a great weekend!!!

[Binger]

fall leads to the leaving of Daylight Savings Time, which means we approach Crown's fave nightof the year- where they get an extra hour of sleep.. then their second fave night- Dec 21st.. longest night of the year...... ( longer sleep..)

YABBA....

[Binger]

Michigan Gal.. Time To Check In.....

[SparkleNana]

Binger -- Michigan girl is not here. I don't know where she went! She doesn't call! She doesn't..... I'd better gethold of myelf!

However -- it was lovely reading the posts this morning!! It makes me feel better to know that we ARE getting closer to wonderful things like Labor Day, Daylight Savings Time ending or beginning or whatever....

Does anyone have more coffee? I think I need some.

Happy Day To All!!

[SparkleNana]

Binger -- I don't know where Michigan gal is. She isn't here. She doesn't call... She doesn't write....... I'd better get hold of myself. Does anyone have more coffee?

It's great to think about Labor Day coming AND only 3 weekends left in August AND fall coming...

Happy Day To ALL!

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

And the Crownster is on the road again. :)) Nice of you to pick up the countdown reins again, Dom!

Howdy y'all. We're back. Returned late lastnight. Missed the cat, missed home, missed thinking out loud on the computer about Christmas.

Missed the 99 day count - read up though so I can pretend I was here.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/DogNews.gif Read all about it ...

Ravenhardt is the first member at MMC to finish Christmas shopping for 2008!

Amazing. Come December, you won't feel any pressure at all.

I've barely scratched the surface of my shopping list, but I'm about where I was the same time last year only with an extra roll of Scotch Tape.

I'll shop a bit in early September and finish most of it in Novemeber leaving my husband and my father until about a week before Christmas in case they change their minds or buy what they want themselves before I can get it.

Keep a festive thought in your head!

Christmas Time is Here ~ A Charlie Brown Christmas
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRm5qofw5vs&feature=related

[kelly ann]

:elf:

Well, well well, I cant believe I'd forgotten about this thread!!! What a lot of posts so far!

:tree:

[MerrySilver]

Good afternoon, Christmas lovers! It's chilly and grey and rainy here in Toronto at the moment...not like a typical August at all from where I'm from (Virginia). It feels like autumn already, which is making me even more excited :)

[SparkleNana]

GOOD MORNING.

My husband has already left or a day of golf?

Should I spend the day doing Christmas things? :treeguy:

[Maureen]

9 holes or 18?? If it's 18 you've got a good 4 hours clear so I'd go for the Christmas angle. 9 holes and you'll just be getting into something and will be interrupted!

[SparkleNana]

I would like to apologize for making duplicate and triplicate copies of my posts sometimes. I'm old.... I forget...... Send chocolate!

[Maureen]

:lol:

[Annette1990]

Argh! Still having troubles accessing the last page of this thread. Anyhow...I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. I had a nice relaxing day yesterday. Layed around and read my book...so I am almost finished with it. Cloudy and Cooler this morning. Looks as if the hi will be in the 90's thou. We did get some much needed rain last night. And it likes like we may be in for some more this evening. I am so looking forward to the Fall Season. Enjoy your day!

[Binger]

The coffee is going into me.. at full tilt.. I have an IV of Mountain Green Supreme atthe moment- going into me..

YABBA....

[Binger]

Hey merry- where in Virginia? Norfolk here.....

YABBA.. I Miss Michigan....

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

:cry: Oh where or where is our Michigan girl, oh where oh where can she be?

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/Holidays/chocolates.jpg Here's some chocolates for you, Nana.

Hurry, Maureen and others might beat you to it, I think there's already one missing and I haven't even clicked the submit button yet.

[Rennabelle]

I am going to post on the next to last page hoping it gets me to last page. For some reason I cant seem to get to the last page of this post. Get an error page.
Auntie, I tried to beat everyone to those chocolates, they looked so good but by time I got to them someone had taken a bite out of each one. I bet they were good.

[SparkleNana]

Thank you for the delicious chocolates, Auntie!!!! Green Mountain Supreme coffee sounds perfect, too....

Doesn't it finally feel as if summer is slipping away? (Or is that because of the repeated kicks I have been giving it?) Now, finally, I can appreciate summer!!! Now that the days are obviously shorter! Now that September is near enough to be real!

I am not watching much of the Olympics -- but the little bits I see are fun! Are you having fun? Lets have fun! Lets put SOME fun into today!!! Fun is good.

[SparkleNana]

I can't get to the last page directly either. It seems to be only us persistent, sneaky ones who find a way to post here. See? I TOLD you those were good qualities!

[kelly ann]

This happens to me too!! When I click on Last Post im automatically cut off the net??!!! ...Weird!!

Anyway, not much of a summer here. The weather is wet wet wet! So myself and my daughter are stuck indoors again watching High school musical.

[Crown 84]

THREE DAYS.

<<What, Crown?>>>

Three days until the 3/4 Season mark!
Not possible, you say? Well, just check out our handy-dandy milestone marker chart located at the top of page one of this thread.

Our full count:
Days to the Season: 94
Days to Christmas Day: 136

We had a good trip to SC.
It is usually quite hot down there this time of the year but it was not quite so bad this year.
We stay at a state park (Hickory Knob) located on Thurmond Lake, part of the Savannah River system.

Many thanks to Dom who once again, at great risk to life and limb, stepped forward to man the count, masterfully.
<<Oh, Crown! There you go with the hyperbole again.>>
Sorry.

A pleasant, sunny 72 outside here in Raleigh at this hour.
No rain predicted for the next day or 2.

Have a Marvelous Monday, my friends!

[Crown 84]

No post by Cedar since July 23.
I know she was going visiting but it's been 19 days now.
If you can, please check in to let us know you are OK, my friend!

[Binger]

Thanx Crown.. has anyone heard from her?

[Binger]

Think I willg o and have another cup of java and re-watch that olympic swim meet from last night ( I was up sipping some brew at 2:10 AM when it aired.. couldn't sleep at all- not sure why.. but I couldn't..)

YABBA... CEDAR WHERE ARE YOU?

[Holly11]

Hi! Hope it is ok to join your Very Merry Band of Christmas Countdowners?! I love that you count down to the season, not just the day. The whole season is so magical. The hustle and bustle, the music, the decorations, the COOKIES! I mean cookies, got a little excited there.

[SparkleNana]

I am with Holly -- the countdown to the SEASON is great!

I went to my favorite Dollar Store today and they had lots of adorable fall scarecrows and lady scarecrows. Some cute Halloween things. Just Christmas cards - but very cute ones.

This weekend -- I organized Christmas things. I wrapped one present. I put other presents into gift boxes. I am happy!

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

Greetings, Renna - good to see you stopping by to check in.

About the countdown thread ... if you click on page one, let it load and then click on the last post it will take you where you want to go. You can go backwards if you want to check back on days you've missed.

The countdown thread and others that have grown so lengthy (due to popularity) are hard to reach without a trick or two.

Anyone ever read through the countdown posts just for fun? I have. Seems like a few folks are still reading the 2007 countdown for old times sake.

We started that countdown in June last year so it won't be long before we double the replies in our journey to the 2008 Christmas season.

Welcome, Holly! Jump right in and countdown with us.

Glad you liked the chocolates. Now it's time for an RC Cola and Eggnog Float.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/XmasPicAlbum/RCeggnogFloat.gif


My holidays are over. Tomorrow it's back to work. I have Labor Day off and then work steady until the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend when I've booked more vacation time.

[Holiday]

I am going to say "good morning" since it is after midnight but I'm actually just getting ready to call it a night! :smile: I am waiting on my canner to be done...I'm canning my 1st batch of maters! YUMMO!! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend & a marvelous Monday! We are heading to Cumberland this week, so I'm running around crazy trying to get everything ready!! You all have a terriffic Tuesday if I don't get to check in again!!

[Rennabelle]

Thanks Auntie I will try that.
Holiday, I hope your maters all turn out just dandy. I have to do something with some of mine also, They are coming on fast now.
Boy this place seems awful quiet without Cedar, even the good ole cup of joe seems pretty plain and drab without her.
The days are going by faster and faster and getting shorter. Pretty soon the snow will be falling and the Christmas Season will be upon up. heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

[scoobie]

Well helloooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo ooo there my christmas chums. I'm baaaack! After being away from these parts for what seems like forever, I am back!

I hope you have all been behaving yourself while I've been away!

Looks like I have a lot of reading to catch up on :-)

Scoobie

[kelly ann]

Hi everyone, its 2.00 in the afternoon here. The weather is miserable but a good xmas film will do the trick and lift my mood.
The months are flying by aren't they!!?? It will soon be xmas 2009!!lol

[Crown 84]

I am gratified, as always, to see support for the Season count!
Not only is the wait time shorter, the Season has "depth". We can enjoy being in it for longer than just 24 hours.

Which leads into.....
Days to the Season: 93
Days to Christmas Day: 135
And, of course, we are now but a mere 2 days short of the 3/4 Season milestone, to be followed almost immediately by the 2/3 Christmas Day marker. WOW!

An unusually cool (for mid August) 63 here in Raleigh at this hour.
Rain predicted for tomorrow only, then back to dry weather.
(We could use the rain - the grass has gotten....well....a bit crisp)

Have a Terrific Tuesday, my friends!

[Crown 84]

Welcome back, Scoobie!
Long time no hear from.

[Binger]

cool here- which I am digging...... Good morning for a ninth cup of coffee...

Coffee- you can sleep when you're dead!

[Binger]

Time for a Paus Du Lux......

[Holly11]

Thanks for the welcomes! You're right counting to the season makes the wait to get there shorter and the time to celebrate longer. I would start "decorating" on the 16th of Nov. (my birthday - a little gift from me to me) with my great grandmother's ceramic Christmas Tree. Now I can start three days earlier (I am able to pull the "it's my birthday" card with my husband, so not too much complaining).

[caseydbell]

hows everybody doing? Its been a while. I'm in the Christmas mood today, so thought I'd stop by and say hey.

[Undrtakr]

Yeah same here. Ive been in a Christmas mood for a while now :P Saw a Christmas eppisode of Family Guy too :P

[Holiday]

Good evening gang! Welcome back Scoobie!! Long time no see!! Hope you all had a teriffic tuesday! We went out to eat tonight with my Goddaughter for her birthday & then to Walmart to get a few last minute things for our Cumberland trip! Can't hardly wait!! :-D Have a good night!!!

[Binger]

Hey Carolina Non Gendered Person.. Wake Up And Post The Count!!

Yabba....

[Binger]

Anyone needing a tree fix.. head over to Garden Ridge.. they are in full tilt season display.... aisles of ornamenets.. trees.. inflatable Crowns.. etc...

YABBA....

[Crown 84]

Here, my coffee-logged fellow gender-neutral!

Days to the Season: 92
Days to Christmas Day: 134
And tomorrow, that's right, tomorrow, we will reach our next milestone, the 3/4 Season mark. Can you believe it?? The time's slipping away so fast.

Very overcast here in Raleigh at this hour with the temp standing at 73.
The weather service still says rain for today only, then back to clear skies.

Well, have a Wonderful Wednesday, everyone.
The view to the weekend from the peak of the week looks great!
(Do you agree, Holiday?)

[misjordi]

Can you believe the year is going so fast?? The kids go back to school in a few weeks and before we know it we'll be on here wishing everyone a "Merry Christmas"!! WOW!! Can't believe it, I want to decorate the house and put up the tree, but I think my hubby would think I was crazy!!

[ksrjreed]

Can't wait, I have 33 days until my tree goes up to mark the 100 days til mark, everyone in my house is getting excited for it. I can't wait for the season to get here, it always makes things seem so much better in life. :tree:

[Binger]

My tree doesn't go up until Thanksgiving week- quite a change from when I was a kid and we put a real tree up only the week before... hmmm think I will go and get a cup of coffee and think about that!

Coffee.. you can sleep when you're dead!

[Binger]

HEY CAROLINA NON GENDERED PERSON... UP AND AT EM..... UP UP UP...
"The birdie with the yellow bill jumped up upon my window sill.. cocked his head and then he said........" GET OUT OF BED CROWN... THE WORLD IS CRUMBLING..."

YABBA....

[Crown 84]

Well, wait no longer, my friends.

Good Morning!
A Thrilling Thursday morning.

And especially thrilling today as we have.......
REACHED THE 3/4 SEASON MILESTONE! And that's the same as 75% (with apologies to Yogi Berra).

Days to the Season: 91
Days to Christmas Day: 133

A very comfortable 68 degrees outside at this hour here in Raleigh, with lots of sun. We only got a light rain yesterday.

OK - On to the 2/3 Christmas Day marker, just ahead!

Have a Fantastic Friday Eve, guys!

[Holly11]

Really?! We are that close to the season? Yipee!!! I should get started on things. We are having Christmas at our house this year! The kids will be 5 and 2 by Christmas. What fun ages! I love seeing Christmas through their eyes. The time of year is already so magical, but even more so when you take time to see the season the way they see it.

[misjordi]

I can't wait to decorate everything up!!!! I am worse than the kids, or so my hubby says! I always get the lights up in October cause it's always cold here and a few years ago I waited and froze my butt off trying to decorate, didn't make that mistake again. Already doing my fall cleaning and getting ready for the season!! After all it's only around the corner!!!!!!!!!!

[SparkleNana]

:)& Wow -- the 3/4 mark! Woo Hoo!!!

[scoobie]

Afternoon all :-)

Hoep you're all having a groovy Friday! I'm only a couple of hours away from starting my weekend so I'm happy happy happy!!

Think I might start with my plans this weekend for how I'm going to wire up the lights outside in my new house.... have a nice size cherry tree right outside my front door which is going to be covered in fairy lights, and icicle lights around the eaves of the house... should be good... just got to work out where to take the power to, and how many lights I need :-)

Have a good weekend everyone!

Scoobie.

[Binger]

ohhhh Crown... I see you here.....

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[Binger]

Dom.. I agree... look back at the first posts on this thread and it is remarkable.. we were all rejoicing at the " under 300 days" mark in January.... now - the year is just flying by and in 90 days.. we all start decorating and getting up at 2;00AM ( not Crown.. more like 2:00PM) to hit the " black friday" specials..... ( did I tell anyone how I got a Wii last year in October.. at Toys r Us? Walked right in and bought it with no crowd.. no line. etc...)-

[Crown 84]

.....I bet this board starts to get more people back consistently after Labor Day. Woohoo
Right you are, Dom! Things should really start hopping about then.

Continuing on.....
Days to the Season: 90
Days to Christmas Day: 132

Sunny and 73 here in Raleigh with clear skies.
Possible showers in the next few days.

Well, folks, another Friday is here!
I hope it is a Fabulous one for all.
And may your weekend be the greatest!

Keep that Christmas song in your heart and may the spirit of the Season be with you.

[Crown 84]

....getting up at 2;00AM ( not Crown.. more like 2:00PM) to hit the " black friday" specials.....
Well, for the sake of the Season, I might get up a tad earlier.
Who knows, I may even toast it's arrival with a cup of Carl's coffee.
Well.....er.....no, let's make that tea!

[SparkleNana]

:give: Happy Friday to everyone!!!

We are on the downward slope to our favorite season now -- I think we are picking up speed!!

[misjordi]

Exciting!! Exciting!! I can't wait till November so I can decorate the whole house and it look so pretty!!!

[miller4plusmore]

CAN'T HARDLY WAIT!

:hello:

[Crown 84]

Well, you can knock another day off the wait:
Days to the Season: 89
Days to Christmas Day: 131

I know. You're thinking "What's Crown doing up so early??"
Well, I have a busy morning ahead so I thought I'd better get the count posted while I have the chance!

An overcast, 70 degrees here in Raleigh at this hour. Chance of rain today.

Well, I best get started out to have the car inspected. If I get there early, the wait won't be so long.

Have a Stupendous Saturday, friends!
And I hope your weekend is off to a wonderous start.

[Annette1990]

Good Morning! beautiful sunny day here this morning. I am off to hit a few garage sales and then off to the farmers market for a few things! I hope everyone has a terrific weekend!

[Crown 84]

Well, here's another fellow-poster, however late.
And I just happen to have the count on me:

Days to the Season: 88
Days to Christmas Day: 130
Onward we move through our count - ever onward. Milestone after milestone falls, and then......... Well, you know!

A nice walk-friendly 72 here in Raleigh with overcast skies.
No rain at the moment but a 30% chance is shown for today.

Have a Super Sunday, everyone!
And get rested up to start moving another week closer!

[Binger]

hey- I'm here.. I was out shopping for the new super java aqua marine blend that I saw advertised on the olympics... one sip and you swim like Michael Phelps!

[Binger]

hey dancing boy....................

[Annette1990]

Good Morning. A beautiful day here with blue skies and lot's of sunshine. Today we are going to s/o company party. Will be a nice day for the event. I went to the Farmer's Market yesterday and bought a few things from the Hutterite's. They make the best homemade breads. The loaves are huge...by far not your standard sized loaf. I also got some of their brown eggs...and rhubarb wine. I hope everyone has enjoyed their weekend!

[misjordi]

With each passing day, it's getting closer!!!!!!! And I'm getting even more excited!!!!!

[cheryl65]

All of your enthusiasm is infectious :)

[dvdguy]

cloudy here & bracing for fay to make landfall tomorrow

[Crown 84]

.. I was out shopping for the new super java aqua marine blend that I saw advertised on the olympics... one sip and you swim like Michael Phelps!
Yeah! I heard about that. Two sips and you can pole vault without the pole.

Good morning, guys!
A bright, calm and sunny 71 outside here in Raleigh at this hour.
Two days of nice, dry weather predicted.

Days to the Season: 87
Days to Christmas Day: 129
Onward we move towards our next milestone, the 2/3 Christmas Day marker coming up on August 25, a mere 1 week from today!
Those markers are passing at a dizzying rate!

Have a Marvelous Monday, everybody.
Don't drink too much coffee (unless you are Binger, that is. It would be dangerous for all of us if they didn't!).

[Holiday]

Good morning Christmas nuts! :hi: It's good to be home, but yet it stinks that vacation is over....know what I mean??? Lol!!! Back to work...UGH! We had a super trip, went so fast, weather was beautiful...it was so good we left our boat there & we are going back in a few weeks, for just a day! Lol! I'm already dreading the drive!! Ah well.....

Hope you all had a great weekend & now that vacation is over I can start thinking about fall (autumn) things, & the football season is upon us & then you know what's next....:???:

[Faithmom6]

I am so excited about the Christmas countdown I just don't know what to do!! This site is just too cool!!! This is definitely the place for me!! My 16 yr. old daughter registered for this site yesterday...just wait till she sees the Christmas countdown!!

[misjordi]

Another day down and another day closer!!!!

[Undrtakr]

Its a comin! I cant wait. Im like a big (29 year old) kid at Christmas :P hehe. Its realy starting to move down to the big day! My Wife still thinks Im crazy to think about Christmas at this time, little does she know I listen to this websites radio station when she is out of the room :P haha.

[dvdguy]

well its rather lovely out here, what with the tropical storm & all.

AND I'M AT WORK!

Why?

[Crown 84]

I am so excited about the Christmas countdown I just don't know what to do!! This site is just too cool!!! This is definitely the place for me!! My 16 yr. old daughter registered for this site yesterday...just wait till she sees the Christmas countdown!!
Sounds like you have exactly the spirit we are looking for.
And welcome!

On with the count:
Days to the Season: 86
Days to Christmas Day: 128
Inside a week now to the 2/3 Christmas Day mark.

A nice, outside-friendly 71 degrees here in Raleigh at this hour.
No rain predicted for the next several days. A good chance to get some outside work done.

Have a Terrific Tuesday, one and all!

Ah, Cedar, Cedar, Cedar!
Wherefore art thou, my friend.
Sniff! Will we see you again? Sniff!

[Holiday]

Good morning! It is another beautiful day out there! Today was the 1st day of school here...I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!! How depressing!! Where did summer go?!?!?!! It's a really good thing we have Christmas to look forward too! :wiggy:

You all have a great day!!

[Holly11]

Everytime I look at this countdown I feel like I'm floating! I can't believe I found this. Is it really getting that close? I'm afraid I'm going to wake up and it is only March and I've been trying to hibernate again.

[MsChristmas]

Yay we are getting close! I've been rushing to get rid of summer. 91 degrees and sunny here outside of Baltimore, MD. Looking forward to some nice fall weather! Then of course my favorite time of the year..Christmas

:pumpkin: :rudolph:

[SparkleNana]

:hello::nice: I saw a beautiful maple tree today -- the top half of the tree had changed color. It was pretty golds and browns! There always seem to be a few trees that change color early -- just to make us happy!!

[Binger]

yeah.. it just isn't the same Crown........ I

[Binger]

Have a good rest of the week everyone.....

[Crown 84]

Wake up, Holiday!
It's the peak of the week and that weekend view is the greatest!

Good Morning, fellow Christmas travelers.

Let's check on our count this morning:
Days to the Season: 85
Days to Christmas Day: 127
Wow! Another thing we can see from the peak of the week is the 2/3 Christmas Day milestone, now a mere 5 days away. My, My!

We stand at 74 degrees here in Raleigh at this hour with lots of sun.

Just finished cleaning off my car before going on the board. In the morning, when there is light dew on the car, it's easy to wash - just get a good clean sponge and wipe it down. Do it regularly and there is rarely any need to use soap. Can't get more "eco-friendly" than that!

Have a Wonderful Wednesday, everyone!

(Um, Carl just reminded me that I haven't been saying "Happy Hump Day" lately. OK, Carl, now I have.)
<< Sheesh! That camel! >>

[Annette1990]

Good Morning Friends! A lovely day here today with hi's in the 90's. I am sitting outside enjoying the sunshine, listening to the birds chirp and watching the road construction going on out front too. They are redoing the roads in front of my place as well as putting in gutters. It's all a mess right now...considering we also have our renovations going on in the back of my yard. We also have a huge dirt pile out front from the hole we had dug for our basement out back. Will be a huge relief when all this is done and over with and everything looks great again! I head to work in awhile myself. I hope everyone enjoys their day!

[Holiday]

Thanks for waking me to see the view to the weekend Crown!! Boy does it look good!! :D And just for Carl....HAPPY HUMP DAY!!!!

Hope you are all having a great day! It's another beautiful one here! Last night I got 6 qt. of tomato juice canned & I have another 2 gallon sitting there ready to be made into spaghetti sauce! Mmmm, mmmmm! The tomatoes are coming by the bucketful now! :)

Have a great day!!

[MsChristmas]

It was 59 degrees when I first woke up early this morning. Suppose to be 81 and Sunny here outside of Baltimore, MD..beautiful day! Felt like Fall this morning, thats for sure. Even got myself a cup of hot chocolate on the way into work!

Bring on the Fall!!!!!!

[clarebear]

Hello all, hope your all well :D

[SparkleNana]

Hooray for you for having hot chocolate this morning, MsChristmas! I will have some this afternoon!!!

Fall chrysanthums are appearing in front of the grocery stores now! Do your return in the following years. I have only had the yellow ones return.

[Yuletide Junkie]

The general population, in my daily wanderings, without prompting, is talking about their Christmas preparations getting in gear shortly after Labor Day. If this isn't just a regional current, Christmas 2008 will be one of the more warmly embraced seasons we've seen in awhile.

[Yuletide Junkie]

71 degrees this morning...Currently 85 degrees...Temps will be in the low-mid 80's Friday through Tuesday...Very seasonal & typical for the beginning of The Great Minnesota Get Together...That's the State Fair...A place where several vendors sell their homemade ornaments every year.

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

You're not going to believe this :hello: I was abducted by elves.

Really. They blindfolded me, took me to a cabin (uknown location, but it was prettty chilly) where I was forced to sit in front of a fire listening to Christmas music while they forced me to look through the Sears Wish Book.

It made me wonder if CedarFarm was also abducted by elves. I guess I talk too much and ask too many questions or demanded too much eggnog because they released me and Cedar hasn't returned yet.

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/ElfBlowKiss.gif We miss you Cedar!

[Crown 84]

Cedar, come BAAAAAAK!

A good Morning to all, including Cedarfarm, wherever she may be.

Days to the Season: 84
Days to Christmas Day: 126

Another calm, sunny morning. The temp stands at a nice 74.
We were not supposed to get rain yesterday, but had a short, heavy downfall during the afternoon.
Now, they again predict clear skies. Should I trust them?

Have a Thrilling Thursday/Fantastic Friday Eve, everyone!

[Crown 84]

Well said, my friend!
Another Fabulous Friday is upon us!

And it is indeed Fabulous here, with another beautiful, sunny, calm morning here in Raleigh. We stand at a wonderfully walkable 71 degrees at this hour.

Days to the Season: 83
Days to Christmas Day: 125

And on we rush towards the 2/3 Christmas Day milestone, now barely 3 days away. Can you believe it?


Well, I hope everyone has a Wonderous Weekend.
And to our friends in Florida, I hope you can finally bid a not-so-fond farewell to Fay!

[MerrySilver]

Another Friday closer to Christmas, everyone!! It's pretty warm here today but the past week has been very cool and autumn-like, just wonderful!

[misjordi]

Another day closer! It's just been horribly hot here, the air conditioner only cools off the living room and hallway and bathroom. So needless to say I'm sitting here sweating! (computer is in my bedroom) I hate this time of year, can't wait for fall!! Then after fall we have my favorite time of year, and many others, CHRISTMAS!!

[SparkleNana]

:nice: Good morning, everyone! Now that summer is ending -- it seems like a wonderfukl season. (Especially since it feels like fall here). Have a nice weekend everyone!

[Crown 84]

....August has been so beautiful and almost early fall like. The heat really stopped as it hit August. It's just been nice warm days and nice cool almost even chilly nights a few times....
Similar here, Dom.
August seemed cooler than usual.
We are currently at 76 with alternating sun and clouds.
Should be a nice weekend with a bit lower humidity.

Days to the Season: 82
Days to Christmas Day: 124

OK, class, altogether now....... What happens the day after tomorrow?
THAT'S RIGHT! The 2/3 Christmas Day milestone!

Have a Stupendous Saturday, everybody!
I hope your weekend is off to a great start.

[Holiday]

Hi everybody!! :hi: Hope you are all having a great weekend! It's a hot one here! We are getting ready for an outdoor wedding...wew!!! I told my hubby he was excused from wearing a suit jacket! Lol!!

Enjoy your day!!! :-D

[Crown 84]

Good Morning, folks.

Our run of good weather luck contiues, as it is a very pleasant 72 outside at this hour. Calm, with lots of sun.
The weather service predicts highs below 90 each day for the next week. Very nice for August here in Raleigh.

Ah! The count:
Days to the Season: 81
Days to Christmas Day: 123
(And by now, we all know what tomorrrow is!)

Have a Super Sunday, friends!
Keep that Christmas song in your heart and may the spirit of the Season be with you in your activites and travels today.

[Holiday]

Good afternoon! It's another hot one here...makes me want to stay in the AC!! Before the wedding yesterday, we were all in our seats, (sweating) waiting for the bride to walk out, there was music playing in the background & all the sudden someone says "hey, that is Christmas music they are playing!" I had been singing along (to myself) not even realizing I was singing "Angels We Have Heard On High" Thought that was pretty cool! :)

Hope you are all having a super Sunday. It's a pretty quiet & relaxing one here. I thought we would be at the lake by now, but neither one of us has much ambition. Kinda nice to hang out at home for once!!

Have a good one!!

[AuntieMistletoeDear]

:hello: You must sing far better than I, Holiday - 'cause I don't think anyone would recognize what I'm singing until I'm into the third line and they wouldn't confuse it with good music.

Nice to bring a little merry on the marry day.


One of our team is still missing. I'm guessing computer problems at this point.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/peanutsSkating.jpg
Sharpen those skates and come and join us on the ice, Cedar!

[Annette1990]

Good Morning...Hope everyone had a nice weekend. It's another beautiful day here with the hi being almost 100...Today is d/d first day back to school. Have a great day!

[Crown 84]

Well, wait no longer my friend.
The 2/3 Christmas Day milestone has arrived!
Wow! Time is really moving right along, isn't it?
Will have to check my chart for the next one.

Days to the Season: 80
Days to Christmas Day: 122

Our good weather continues.
It is another bright, calm, sunny one outside with the temp standing at 74.
(Hmmm....Maybe I'll mow my father's lawn. Or perhaps take a stroll on down to the Shispering Pines to pay Carl a visit and have a fired twinkie)

Have a Marvelous Monday, my friends!

[Holiday]

2/3 milestone???? :???: YAY!!!!!!!!!! 4 months till Christmas day!!! :merry:

Good morning everyone!! Hope you are having a good Monday!!!

[pinkini]

The days are flying by! How exciting!

[Holiday]

I just lit my "fresh mistletoe" candle to celebrate the 2/3 milestone, 4 months til Christmas, & Rudolph day!!! :sparkle:

[Maureen]

One of our team is still missing. I'm guessing computer problems at this point.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y273/AuntieMistletoe/peanutsSkating.jpg
Sharpen those skates and come and join us on the ice, Cedar!

I'm wondering if another intrepid stalwart has gone out in search of our Cedar. Binger has been conspicuous by their absence since last Wednesday and the forum's coffee ration is full to overflowing - strange happenings here on MMC :?

[Binger]

Still no word from Cedar... bummer.....

[Binger]

I however went to my class reunion. Man do those people look old.....

[trackrebel]

121 days to the big dance.....:D, 120 to me in Germany....since the 24th is the big day....looking forward to it already, thinking bout what to cook.....great things are coming before Christmas tho....I´ll be an Aunty for the second time late October...it will be a boy...probably....so I´m happy and exited about that....makes Christmas Time even better with a newborn around!!!

[kelly ann]

Good Morning people from wet and windy Wales!!
Hope your day goes well!!

[reindeerelf]

Good morning everyone. Less than four months to go! The Season will be here before we know it. It feels like fall here. When I stepped out with the dogs early this AM it was 50 degrees F. I hope we get lots of snow for Christmas.

[Crown 84]

....Next milestone...100 day xmas marker? I think....

Right you are. A mere 3 weeks from today we will reach that auspicious marker. Can you believe it? Nearly down to double-digits to Christmas Day?
And get THIS - once we hit the 100-day Christmas milestone, we will be only 3 weeks shy of the 90% Season home stretch mark. Incredible, guys!

Days to the Season: 79
Days to Christmas Day: 121

Got some rain overnight but nothing is falling now, despite the cloud cover. Our temp stands at 74.

Have a Terrific Tuesday, everybody!

[pinkini]

Cooler in Chicago - high temps in the mid-70s and absolutely gorgeous sunshine outside.

I cannot wait for fall!

[Holiday]

Good, Chilly (fall feeling) morning!!! It is a gorgeous day out there!! Hope you all have a good one!!!

[Holiday]

I however went to my class reunion. Man do those people look old.....

:lol: :lol:
And yet, somehow us Christmas nuts never age...

[Crown 84]

Christmas is ageless.

[snowytree]

Fall, Thanksgiving, and then Christmas! Man, can the next few months get any better?:wiggy:

[Undrtakr]

Plus its nice a cool out! in the 70's all week here in Jolly ol' london...ontario lol hehe. I also saw Halloween stuff in Shoppers Drug Mart yesterday!

[Binger]

Christmas is ageless.

coffee is timeless.....

YABBA!

[Binger]

Hey Auntie... check you email....

[MerrySilver]

A chilly evening up here near Toronto...hope you all are having a good night (or day, depending on where you are). I'm in the Christmas spirit for sure!

[Crown 84]

coffee is timeless.....
And a good nap is priceless.

Good morning.
Well, that's a little relative. It's a Wet Wednesday here in Raleigh.
Actually, a VERY Wet Wednesday, as the rain has been pouring down for quite some time now.

Days to the Season: 78
Days to Christmas Day: 120
Under 2 weeks now to the 100-day Christmas Day window.
Time just keeps moving on - ever moving on.

Well, whether your weather is wet or not have a Wonderful Wednesday.
And despite the clouds and rain, the view to the weekend from the peak of the week is still great! Right, Holiday?

[Binger]

Then you must be very rich............

YABBA

[Binger]

No rain here.. cloudy though.. good day to sit around and sip a gallon or two of coffee...

[trackrebel]

119 days till christmas...81degrees over here in Germany...but the days are running by...Crazy since I´m a mother (March 2006)...time really seems to be running...My moms always told me when I was a child....and I never believed her...but it´s true...having a child myself I see how time is racing by.....tick tick tick....Christmas!!!

[dvdguy]

Good morning, sunny day here.

I am about to brew myself a fresh pot, & flavor it with my new favorite creamer. Sweet italian cream. YUM YUM

[Crown 84]

Then you must be very rich............
Oh, I'm just rolling in dough.
(Wait!.....a dough-filled mattress. What an idea! Sounds so restful.)

OK. On with the count!
Days to the Season: 77
Days to Christmas Day: 119

RAIN yesterday! Most ALL day, in fact.
Take that, drought!
Still cloudy this morning but nothing is falling (except for gas prices, fortunately).

Have a Thrilling Thursday/Fantastic Friday Eve, everyone!

[Silverbells]

Whats up everybody,

Today is Aug. 28th that means only 119 days till that glorious holiday we all know and love CHRISTMAS! I can almost hear the sleighbells can you?:sparkle:

[SparkleNana]

Oh my gosh, DVDguy -- where do you get that "Sweet Italian Cream" creamer? It sounds heavenly!!!

[SparkleNana]

Is it too early to worry about hurricane Gustav hitting the gulf coast? It was almost three years ago exactly that hurricane Katrina hit -- and they still haven't finished recovering! I just read that the population of New Orleans is still only 2/3 of what it was before Katrina.

Anyway -- it's almost Labor Day Weekend! Yay!

[snowytree]

Has anyone seen a Christmas commercial? I have, but I just can't remember from who....actually I believe I have seen two now that I think about it.:?

[dvdguy]

Oh my gosh, DVDguy -- where do you get that "Sweet Italian Cream" creamer? It sounds heavenly!!!


Our local publix carries it, i imagine most food stores should.

put out by coffee mate

[Undrtakr]

Has anyone seen a Christmas commercial? I have, but I just can't remember from who....actually I believe I have seen two now that I think about it.:?


Nope no Christmas commercials YET. But Im sure there will be some coming into September :P and then I will go nuts ;) hehe (in a good WAY!) But wow Its coming closer!

[SparkleNana]

Thank you, dvdguy! I am putting that at the top of my grocery list!!! Why the outside temperature is down to 80 degrees today -- practically freezing! That "Sweet Italian Cream" flavor will be so comforting in hot (decaf) coffee in the late afternoon. Although, I bet it would be sensational in strong iced coffee too!


I love hot drinks on cold days. But hot chocolate seems to disappear - I take the first sip - and then the whole mug is gone! And how many cups a day until I look just like Santa Claus?

I wish I liked hot tea. Tea is so classy. So refined. People seem so thoughtful and wise sipping tea. I just don't really like it. Well, I did like "Constant Comment" (which is tea jazzed up with orange peel and spices.) Oh well.

[Holiday]

Good afternoon!! :hi: It's ALMOST FRIDAY!!! Just check out that view!!! :-D

I havent seen any Christmas commercials yet, other than that back to school commercial w/ Santa & the Elves in the work shop...that was around Christmas In July. Now there is another commercial that has a Christmas theme song, but it's not actually a Christmas commercial...I can't remember what that is a commercial for!! I will have to pay attention & maybe they'll show it this afternoon!!

You all have a great day!!!

Still no Cedar????? : (

[Annette1990]

Good evening! Been a busy day here today. We finally poured cement for the footings for our basement. Next week it will be the walls. I will be more than thrilled once the basement is done we can finally start with the rest of our home renovations. We got a late start unfortunately so we will do what we can do until the snow flies. I hope you all had a nice week. Only one more day to go and the 3 day weekend will be here for those of us who don't have to work that is.

[SparkleNana]

Good morning! HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL!

[SparkleNana]

Isn't it treat when you discover some Christmas stuff put out early in the stores? Then, you can take your time and look at everything! And most people take one look - and veer away from the Christmas aisles this early. So you don't get crowded or rushed! I really have zero room to store and/or display any more decorations. (Unless there is something iresistable!( But that doesn't stop the joy of looking and picking up and admiring! Free fun!

[Holiday]

Good morning!!!! :hello: HAPPY LONG WEEKEND FRIDAY!!! :D

[Crown 84]

Good Morning Fellow Friends of Friday!

Again overcast here in Raleigh with our temp standing at 75.
The possibility of more rain is present but not to the extent of yesterday.

Days to the Season: 76
Days to Christmas Day: 118
We just keep moving on toward double, double-digits!

Have not seen any Christmas merchandise in this area yet but our Crabtree Valley Mall always decorates by the 2nd half of October, which is less than 2 months away. That ALWAYS starts me getting into the Christmas spirit.

Have a Fabulous Friday, comrades!

[Binger]

Go to Garden Ridge.. it is full of Christmas.. and people are buying!

[Binger]

Think I will head out there now...... there's a Starbucks near there....

yabba

[MerrySilver]

Good evening, Christmas friends! The leaves are changing and falling here already, and autumn is on its way! I'm sitting here listening to some Christmas music :)

[trackrebel]

117 days to go....It´s Saturday morning 12,20am over here in Germany....Friday has been cloudy but warm.....will be getting hot today....around 86to 90....still cool....because my City´s Volksfest "Backfischfest" starts today.....and usually I started to think bout Christmas a lot when that was over.....well...:D I started a lill earlier this year :D

[Cedarfarm]

Auntie-Mae, I finally made a run for it when those D@#!!*XM Elves went out for another coffee break!! YES!! I'm free! I can't possibly explain the trauma I've been through with those naughty midgets. They chained me to a Hegner Scroll Saw for days on end and forced me to make wooden jigsaw puzzles for Christmas!!! No food, no fun, no forum, only work. :-?

My dear friends, I want to wish you a WONDERFUL 3-day glorious week-end !!!!!! I've missed you and hope to be back as soon as these elves find someone else to torment! I did sorta like wearing green tights every day, it makes the clothing decision alot easier!

Where did our summer go? WHERE??? How are all of you? Bing!

YABBA BABY, YABBA!!!!!!!

[Cedarfarm]

OMG!!!!

They picked Tina Fey for Vice President! Now that's someone I might be interested in!! LOL!



YABBA!!!! OH Yeah....YABBA Babe!

Ok, Ok, these elves are pulling my pant leg...time to go...see you later!!!

:snowball: