Welcome to the Homestyle Christmas Blog

For YOUR traditional and homestyle Christmas!

When it comes to Christmas, there's no place like home. Enjoy yuletide hints and tips, history, old fashioned recipes, christmas shopping ideas, and more! All the best for you to make this holiday season a timeless and cherished memory.

Gift Jars, A Home-Made Christmas Gift Idea

December 19th, 2008

We’re coming down to the last few shopping days before Christmas, right?  I’ll bet you’re STILL not completely finished.  If you are, thumbs up!  Chance are, however, there’s still a special gift or last-minute gift that you haven’t decided upon, maybe even forgotten about.  Well here’s an old Yuletide tradition that will be sure to please!  Plus, you can quite easily make it yourself!  You could even make several, particularly  if you’re strapped for cash in these tough economic times this season.

Sure, its still easy to go out and just “pick something up,” but why don’t you personalize the gift?  Make a Christmas Gift Jar.  Its easy AND fun.  It might even get you in the holiday spirit!  CLICK HERE to read how to make a simple hand-made Christmas Gift Jar.

I’ve even tossed out a few other last-minute gift ideas.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee for a Traditional Homestyle Christmas

December 11th, 2008

If you haven’t made any special plans for celebrating the Christmas holiday season, Gatlinburg, Tennesseea is a fantastic family destination!  Its within a day’s drive of most of the U.S. The spectacular “Winter Magic” is on display throughout the town, situated near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  You’re also just a few short minutes away from popular Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, and more! Read all about this amazing Christmas spot HERE!

My Dog Ate My Christmas Present!

November 30th, 2008

In spite of my disappointment, this Christmas tale is kind of funny. Sad, but true! One year, my dog actually ATE my Christmas present, I kid you not.  It was one of those large summer sausages that are quite popular gift ideas this time of year.
Enjoy reading my original Christmas story HERE!

The Solider’s Night Before Christmas

November 3rd, 2007

Each year, I’ve been asked to narrate one of the later versions of this dramatic and patriot poem.  I have always been unable to do so, without tearing up. Odd for me, as a former professional broadcast journalist. This year, however, I made through, to honor ALL the men and women serving (or who have served) in our Armed Forces.

I bring you BOTH my narration and a text version at this link.

Please pass this along, particularly if you have an email list for your friends and family.