So I changed my plans, I rented a camera and a van

Last post I mentioned that I had more pictures to share with you, well here they are! Last week, Kyle and I, along with Lauren and Kevin took a trip to Rochester MI for the night (where I go to school) to check out the lights and get some yummy food at the Rochester brewing company. Kyle took most of the pics but I really liked how they turned out so here is some after-Christmas pretty lightness:

Song: "Clark Gable" by The Postal Service

Happy Christmas!

I still want a hoola-hoop

Sunday evening, Kyle and I were feeling a bit down so we decided that even though there's just a few days until Christmas, we'd break out the Christmas decor. The apartment looks so cozy and cute! For once I actually like everything all crammed together, it is quite homey and nice. We have a fake Christmas tree, lame I know but it was my parents from back in the day. What day you may ask? Around 1985 I believe, this tree is as old as me, if not older. Our decorations are kind-of hodge-podge too. Lots of clearance-rack items, and hand-me downs. We even managed to score a few cute things from the Salvation Army last week when everything was half-off (see? procrastinating works!). 

My favorite has to be the pickle ornament, it has it's prize place in the center of the tree. We have a few Detroit Tigers themed ornaments and of course Eeyore. I put a lot of lights on the tree as well, my family has always been really big into decorations. My parents house is covered, they have these little dolls that move around, they are actually a little creepy but with all the rest of the decorations, they kind of fit. My dad is big into the inflatables, they have this giant train with Santa poking out of it. Oh and their tree spins! AND it has Star Trek spaceships on it! My tree is looking a little lame right about now. Reminder: Next year, buy Star Trek spaceships for tree.

Some other decor around the apartment, and the view from outside. You can see Louie's little face peeping out the window. Poor dog thinks that all of the decor is for him.

I am finally done Christmas shopping as well. Man the stores are scary-busy right now.  I still have yet to wrap them all but I am excited to see if people liked what I picked out for them.

Details

Top & Tights-Target

Skirt-Lauren via Here to There

Boots-Payless

Bow-Detroit City Vintage

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day only days away. Christmas ornaments started to liven up the atmosphere of welcoming Birthday Baby Jesus (warning). Buildings and shops have started slicked up with Santa Claus dolls, Christmas presents, twinkling lights, ornaments and also unforgettable Christmas tree ranging in size from miniature to giant. Christmas trees began to adorn the streets, shopping malls, train stations and urban centers around the world. Every year is always hectic perched Christmas tree and decorations are beautiful without the presence of us know to be true meaning of Christmas tree on Christmas Day. For those of us that Christianity is sometimes too easy to say, Christmas came also means there are Christmas trees.

Symbolic Meaning of Christmas tree
Christmas tree growing from Europe. A tree in the ancient German culture refers to the meaning of life and holiness. Ancient German people believe that in a living tree spirits are good. The trees are inhabited by the spirit of good character. They are called by humans through a certain ritual to be present to assist and protect human life from the threat of evil that comes from evil spirits.

The meaning of life revealed in the belief that trees become a place to live the good spirits and these spirits to maintain, protect and help mankind. The meaning of purity represented in nature and deeds spirits who live in this tree that is a good example and also always invite people to remain living in the goodness and maintain life. Trees with a pointy twigs and remains green indicating that the tree was always inhabited by good spirits and is directly visible presence who always keep the man from any disaster, threat and disaster. Such beliefs are still believed to be human at that time even though they know the teachings of the Christian religion.

In subsequent developments ornaments on Christmas trees will be interpreted as fertility expectations and hopes of human prosperity. In many literature, information on preferential decorate the Christmas tree as a big party at Christmas time began to emerge in the period prior to the reform within the church. In those days the church experiencing renewal (reform) from Martin Luther, Christmas tree theologically interpreted in the sense parallel with the tree in the garden of Eden in Genesis. Trees that are in the middle of the garden of Eden is called the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

Theological Meaning
Baby savior (Jesus) and mother (Mary) than theologically in the corridor that contrasts with figures of Adam and Eve. Adam and Eve fell into sin after Eve seduced by the serpent that is by following the seduction of snakes and eat the forbidden fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. The first man's fall into sin is redeemed by the birth of baby Jesus, the Savior.

In relation to the Christmas tree, the events of salvation through Jesus' birth means the old sin of Adam and Eve because God has ignored the ban and eat the forbidden fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, have been redeemed.

Christmas tree with an ornament of apples and candied decorations appear to represent the first human sin of Adam and Eve and the salvation of man through Jesus Christ.

The tree that symbolizes mankind's fall into sin first began to grow and spread in 1570 came from Alsace and Switzerland and first flourished in the Protestant church. Catholic Church itself did not want to parallelize the theological significance of the extreme safety with Christmas trees, so explicit in recent literature. However, it is also possible that the identification Christmas tree with the tree of knowledge of good and bad no doubt.

Starting in 1730 the Catholic and Protestant churches accept the trappings of Christmas tree ornaments in the form of candles. Christmas tree ornaments filled with candles began to shine after the age of enlightenment that is in the XVIII century. Apple ornaments began also colored in red and gold colors.

Because the people of that age want to preserve the tree as a sign of major and typical of the period of Christmas and want to perpetuate the existence of the tree until the arrival of a party of three kings from the east who visit and worship the baby Jesus, Christians decorate with carefully so full of Christmas trees can survive long. Since this period also presents Christmas began to fill the gaps under the Christmas tree. More interestingly, children's dreams and desires of small Naka in writing and beautifully decorated, or even put in a special miniature began to hang on Christmas tree branch.

Only in the twentieth century, Christmas trees and Christmas cage combined presence at Christmas time in the church and its presence characterizes the Christmas period until now. Starting this twentieth century also has seen common people have a Christmas tree and cages in their homes.

Lively Christmas Eve
It is interesting that in Switzerland, France, Britain and Sweden have a unique tradition of blessing and burning of wood logs with a log of wood called Christmas. With the ashes from wood logs this Christmas the priest blesses the people, domestic animals and livestock, homes and city. There are also many people who then took a piece of charcoal or ashes from wood logs that have been burned to the natal homes and stores them until Christmas next year arrives. They believe salvation is obtained by grace to save it. Especially in England, during the Christmas log burning, people should throw away leftover food into the fire.

The tradition of burning wood logs this Christmas on Christmas Eve turned out to grow and spread until the U.S. especially among the black slave. They gathered on Christmas Eve in a special place and log burning Christmas tree. During combustion, the applicable rules of peace. The slave should not be punished on the eve of Christmas. They are free from work and may celebrate Christmas Eve.

In the Balkan tradition of burning wood logs this Christmas still survive until today. Before burning party on Christmas Eve, there is a special procession. Eik special log of wood, as long as three feet and was only 3 (three) years, kept in a house of a girl like Jesus who was conceived of a virgin. Wood logs are then wrapped with white cloth. Eik wooden spindle which is now a wooden spindle on crutches and paraded Christmas. Each person must apply ointment or special oils that smell good. Christmas wood logs were also punched for people to pour oil into it and other fragrances. In the procession to the center of the party, people sprinkled perfumes and spices. Christmas is the peak night of the burning wood logs accompanied Christmas prayers.

In India ceremonies Christmas trees are related with the Christian prayer. Decorated Christmas tree that has been planted in the yard and all family members gather to pray by holding a lit candle. In this family party, they listened to the reading of scripture story of Jesus' birth. Next they put a candle still burning on the tip of the branches of Christmas trees. Because it's become tradition that at this feast they also lit a bonfire, there is also a unique tradition. They jump over the embers while making wishes and dreams.

The presence of Christmas trees and Christmas Eve in the history and tradition was interpreted specifically and not just the obligatory rituals with no special meaning. Hopefully this paper is useful for those who will welcome and celebrate the Christmas feast, the feast of salvation.

Directly translated from: http://gendhotwukir.multiply.com/journal/item/218 (without editing, forgive me)

Christmas Greetings and Wishes 2010

Christmas Greetings and Wishes - Christmas is one of the most sacred and popular festivals of the Christian community celebrated in all over the world. It is only day for Jesus Christ, the son of God, was born to Mother Mary That aroused the Curiosity of devotees. More than two thousand years ago this Christmas celebration of an event of humanity, true soul and a path of honesty was originated. Previously it was celebrated Among the Christian community but with the passage of time the trends of Christmas celebrations gets changed, now the Occasion of Christmas is celebrated by all over the world with great fervor and excitement.

Without being felt now that we have going into the Christmas season in 2010. Not inconceivable how happy Christians who celebrate Christmas this December 25, 2010, but Christmas is not complete without saying good Christmas for friends, family and our closest relatives. Let us celebrate Christmas 2010 with each other to say Merry Christmas 2010 and Happy New Year 2010.

In order to welcome Christmas Day, December 25, 2010, here I want to share a collection of Christmas and New Year's greeting:

Christmas Greetings and Wishes

*****

May the spirit of Christmas bring you peace.

The gladness of Christmas give you hope.

AND The warmth of Christmas grant you love.

Happy Christmas.

*****

A song was heard at Christmas.

To wake the midnight sky.

A savior's birth, and peace on earth.

And praise to God on high.

*****

May your Christmas sparkle with moments of love, laughter and goodwill.

And may the year ahead be full of contentment and joy.

Have a Merry Christmas.

*****

To a joyful present

and a well remembered past.

Best wishes for Happy Holidays

and a magnificent New Year.

*****

May this Christmas be so special that

you never ever feel lonely again

and be surrounded by loved ones throughout!

*****

Chritmas ka yeh pyara tyohaar jeevan mein laye khushiyan apaar

santa clause aaye aapke dwar, subhkamna hamari kare sweekar.

Merry Christmas.

*****

You are special, you are unique

may your Christmas be also as special

and unique as you are! Merry Christmas!

*****

May Christ bless you with all the happiness and success you deserve! Merry Xmas!

*****

You are special, you are unique; may your Christmas be also as special and unique as you are! Merry Christmas!

*****

Wishing you and your loved ones peace, health,

happiness and prosperity in the coming New Year.

*****

My Christmas wish for you, my friend

Is not a simple one

For I wish you hope and joy and peace

Days filled with warmth and sun.

*****

Warmest thoughts and best wishes

for a wonderful Holiday

and a Happy New Year.

May peace, love and prosperity

follow you always.

*****

Praise God for a beautiful morning, it may not be an easy day but HIS,

guidance and love will enable us to push through despite all odds,

May you have a wonderful Christmas.

*****

Wish u all A Merry Christmas

May the Joys of the season

Fill ur heart with goodwill and cheer

May the chimes of Christmas glory

Add up more shine and spread

Smiles across the miles

Today & In the New Year.

*****

Wouldn't life be worth the living

Wouldn't dreams be coming true

If we kept the Christmas spirit

All the whole year through?

*****

I love the Christmas tide, and yet

I notice this, each year I live

I always like the gifts I get

But how I love the gifts I give!

*****

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet the words repeat

Of peace on Earth, good will to men!

*****

Good news from heaven the angels bring

Glad tidings to the earth they sing

To us this day a child is given

To crown us with the joy of heaven.

*****

Christmas, here again.

Let us raise a loving cup

Peace on earth, goodwill to men

And make them do the washing up

*****

Christmas Greeting's take from http://www.allbestmessages.com/christmas/Christmas-Wishes.php
Christmas Wallpaper take from http://www.christmascarnivals.com/wallpapers/

The Types of Christmas Tree

The Types of Christmas Tree - There can be a big difference between different types of Christmas trees. Some are not available in some areas and so where you live may be a factor in determining the types that you get to choose from. For example Noble or Douglas firs are most popular in the Pacific Northwest whereas in North Carolina and Fraser Fir are more common. However if you order by mail order then you can pretty much choose whatever you like.

Colorado Blue Spruce
This is one of the most popular trees among people who want living Christmas trees. The color can be blue but is more likely to be silver or gray. It grows in a conical shape naturally and so there is little need for pruning it. It tends to grow in Southern Canada and Northern USA but it can usually be found in most nurseries or retail tree lots.

Noble Fir
The Noble Fir has strong branches and stays fresh for a long time. The needles can look silvery although they are blue/green in color. It can be used to make wreaths and other decorations because the branches are so strong.

Douglas Fir
This is one of the most popular Christmas tree in the USA. It tends to be grown in the Pacific Northwest and is shipped all over the country and even to Asia. It has a pyramid shape and smells sweet.

Norway Spruce
This is a conical shaped tree which tends to drop needles easily so needs to be keep very well watered. It is dark green in color.

Virginia Pine
This tree has short soft needles and stout woody branches and is conical in shape. It is good for holding ornaments but the dark green needles can turn yellow in late fall which means it needs a tree colorant to keep it green. It is popular though and was originally the main tree for offer in the south east USA.

Eastern White Pine
This tree has a really nice cone shape and soft needles. It is blue or silvery green in color but the branches are not that strong so heavy ornaments do not work that well. The tree can turn yellow if it is old and so tree colorants may need to be used. It does not have much of a smell and therefore is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Arizona Cypress
This tree is commonly found along the east coast of south and south west areas of USA. It tends to be in cut-your-own places and has a lovely smell. It is tall and thin and and is pale green or gray green.

Scotch Pine
The color can vary quite a bit from bright green to dark green and even sometimes a blue green color. The branches are strong so great for hanging heavy decorations and the needles do not drop very much. It stays fresh for a long time. It also has a nice conical shape.

Eastern Red Cedar
This tree can dry out quickly which is why it tends to be sold at cut-your-own farms. It has a pretty cone shape and the colour varies from dark green to purple.

Fraser Fir
This is a strong tree which can hold heavy decorations and it grown in North Carolina. Its strength means that the branches are often used to make wreaths and other decorations. It keeps its needles well and they are dark green or even blueish on the top and silvery underneath. It has a nice smell and it is for this reason as well as the nice color which makes it one of the most popular trees.

Leyland Cypress
This tree is not fragrant and is often used as an ornamental landscape plant in England and South East USA. However, it has recently become more popular as a Christmas tree in this area of the USA. It is dark-green to gray in color and is a cone shape.

Balsam Fir
This tree is a pyramid shape and dark green. The needles tend to stay on the tree for a very long time and it has a nice smell. It is very popular in Canada as well as North USA.

Source : http://www.freechristmaswallpapers.net/blog/christmas-tree-types/