A group of ladies from our church went on a special Christmas shopping trip Saturday. We loaded up the church van (your's truly was the driver) and headed to a town about an hour and a half away. We made our first stop at a huge pottery/floral/home decor wholesale store. You would not believe the wonderful prices! I purchased a fresh-cut wreath adorned with berries for less than $10. I think I could have spent the whole day at that store; it was the size of a small mall! We went to Cracker Barrell for lunch, and who doesn't like shop at Cracker Barrell during the holidays? I purchased a few items there and enjoyed a yummy Fried Chicken Salad. We finally made it to the outlet mall after lunch. It was very crowded, but not enough to make it miserable. We had planned to head home around 3 p.m., but we decided to stay and shop a ittle longer because we were having such a good time. We arrived back home around 8 p.m. I told the ladies that if any of them were late for church the next day, Pastor would never let us have another shopping trip! I don't usually plan long, busy Saturdays because I like to be rested and ready for church on Sunday; however, we made a special exception for this trip. I was still able to get out the door on time for church the next morning, but I was very ready for a nap that afternoon. Tonight we had our monthly ladies' fellowship at church. Each month we all prepare some of our favorite recipes to share, and one of the ladies gives a devotion. Tonight the ladies chose to bless one of our missionary families with a special Christmas offering. Our December fellowship includes a Christmas gift exchange. I came home with a lovely vase and candle...and a very full stomach! Mr. C enjoys the ladies' fellowships, too, because I always bring a big plate of yummy goodies home for him to enjoy as a reward for babysitting the kids while I'm gone.