Southern Lady and Victoria 2019 Events!

Phyllis Lifestyle 3 Comments

I am excited to announce two amazing events that our company is hosting! First, let me tell you that I love it when those of us get together who love the same things in life. When you have a thread that binds you, it makes events so enriching. Second, who doesn’t love a good trip? Southern Lady Celebration is back! …

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Reading the Christmas Story Brings a Fresh Revelation Each Year

Phyllis Inspiration 28 Comments

I have read the Christmas story many times over the years, and each time, God reveals something new. Throughout the Bible, there are two references to Mary pondering something in her heart. I imagine she was in quite a quandary over the news that she was expecting. When our “normal” is interrupted, whether good or bad, that causes us to …

notecards

Five Memorable Christmas Gifts to Give

Phyllis Inspiration 1 Comment

It’s no announcement that I absolutely love finding the right gift for someone. It’s part of what makes Christmas so special! There are those moments when a gift idea comes to us with ease, and we happily make our purchase knowing that it’s “just the thing!” However, there are those years that we are simply stumped. Indecisiveness and an excess …

vintage Christmas tea party

Are You Steeping Your Tea the Right Way?

Phyllis Inspiration 13 Comments

Holiday tea parties are nothing short of magical! Tea parties are near and dear to me because they feel like such an elegant occasion, but they are fairly simple to prepare. The china, place settings, and sweet and savory finger foods are all key elements, but a tea party is only as good as the quality of tea served! And …

fruitcake

The Most Controversial Christmas Dessert: Fruitcake

Phyllis Lifestyle 21 Comments

OK, let’s talk about the one thing that gets the most criticism during the holidays—fruitcake! Just the mention of it makes some people crazy, and others hear it and can’t wait! And I just wonder how many recipes are out there for this trivial treat.   My most favorite fruitcake of all is an Icebox Fruitcake my Grandmother Norton made …

Chocolate pie and trifle

Two Chocolate Desserts That Kids and Adults Will Love

Phyllis Lifestyle 8 Comments

When planning a holiday menu at my house, it is important that I have plenty of kid-friendly dishes. Especially in the dessert area. And what child doesn’t just love chocolate? Actually, what adult doesn’t love chocolate? Simply put, chocolate is a crowd-pleaser. Time and time again I’ve seen rows of nut-studded pies, spiced cakes or cookies, and cheesecakes galore. But …