As a mother, I’m always mindful to teach my children that Jesus is the reason for the season. That’s a tall order, however, when the season is full of hustle and bustle! That’s why I love attending Christmas Eve Service with my family. Singing carols, lighting candles, getting teary-eyed as little sheet-wrapped children portray the Nativity, and listening to the Christmas Story read from the Gospel of Like – I leave feeling grounded and grateful.

Here are a few of the churches in Blount County that are holding Christmas Eve Services. I would love to see you at Shelter!

Friendsville First Baptist Church: 4:30pm 403 N Farnum Street, Friendsville

First United Methodist, Alcoa: 11am, 5pm, 11pm 617 Gilbert Street, Alcoa

Shelter Church of Maryville: 4pm 3964 Montvale Road, Maryville

Partnership Christian Church: 6pm 323 Partnership Pkwy, Maryville

It’s been a hectic day – what day isn’t?? The kids have argued since they rolled out of bed, Jeremy’s been helping clean the house (cue breathing exercises) and I’ve got work calling my name. But the kitchen is cleaned up from lunch, the kids are settled for naps and quiet afternoon activities, and I pack up my bag, which is actually an old diaper bag 🤣, and head to Southern Grace Coffee Co. in Maryville, Tennessee.

The moment I open the door, the beautifully caffeinated scent of roasting coffee beans enfolds me like a warm hug. I take a deep breath, feel my blood pressure lower, and step up to the counter to order my favorite: Southern Gent iced, a gluten-free oatmeal cream pie, and a pineapple jalapeno Frog Juice (locally brewed kombucha) for later.

While my coffee is prepped, I search for a cozy spot to work. My favorite spot at Southern Grace changes according to the season. If the weather is nice, I’ll definitely choose a wicker chair on the wide, wrap-around porch. In the summer, I love the little room behind the kitchen with it’s tall windows and cushioned seats. It reminds me of the sleeping porches on old houses! When the weather is cold, I head upstairs and pull out a seat at one of the many tables.

“Grace” isn’t just a name here. It’s infused into every sound, smell, chair, couch, and corner. It’s sacred. I would even say….holy. Every breathe here is an easy one. Every conversation rich and deep.

Not only do I come here to work, but it’s my kids’ favorite place to have one-on-one time with Mama! Aren’t they adorable?

If you haven’t given Southern Grace a try, this is me saying, GOOOOOO! You won’t regret it. If coffee isn’t your thing, order a Smoky Mountain Sunset. It’s my kids’ go-to order. 🥰

You cannot even imagine how excited I am about this blog post. I have been waiting to dig into these trends for weeks! The time is finally here. Let’s go!

COVID changed everything. How we do work, how we do fun, how we do family, even how we do school! As many families found themselves spending more time at home, the demand began to shift from modern farmhouse, white kitchens, and everything shiplap —– to warm colors, cozy textiles, and intimate spaces. Before we look at some examples of the new trend let’s remember the old.

Who’s ready to check out some trending colors? Me!!! I’m ready!

BONUS TIP: want to join the trend without repainting everything? Grab a few throw pillow, cushions, and decor in these dreamy shades!

If you’re wondering how to dip your toes – and paintbrushes – into these trending colors, here are some palettes to get you started.

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Do you have a clutter corner in your house? That spot where things pile up and you get so used to seeing the mess that after a while, you don’t even see it anymore?

For me, it’s a corner of the kitchen where mail, crafts, homework, ponytail holders, and pens get piled up. Even when I clean the rest of the kitchen, I tend to overlook that spot. Until we are expecting company. And then I see it. Cue panicked cleaning mode!

Here’s how you can use your phone to spy all the things you haven’t seen in a while: open up your camera app and take a little walk through your house. You’ll be amazed at all of the little spots of clutter that appear! Make a goal to unclutter one room a day and before you know it, the camera will reveal clear, open spaces.

Everyone knows that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. But what if you aren’t in a place where you can throw down the money for a complete redo? Here’s an easy, affordable upgrade that will leave buyers impressed.

Upgrade your SHOWERHEAD! You’ll find something for every budget on the market. From $20-200, a “fancy” showerhead will wow the young and the old. Here are a few options I found on Amazon.

This one has multiple settings and at less than $30 it’s a steal! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089B449X9/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_C2V4MQMRB83QC6FPQTRN

Who doesn’t love a rainfall shower? This one comes with a bonus handheld. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JLTB7GN/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_2R1R3EYV7F28SFS95P19

Go all out with this docking hand held! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087CSF442/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_C5S49JVEQB5GYRW325HW

BONUS TIP: Don’t bother with a showerhead that doesn’t have a hand-held option. Most buyers will be looking for that feature, whether it be for pets, children, or themselves.

What I love about this simple upgrade is that it can be done anytime! Don’t wait until you’re putting your house on the market. You spend a lot of time in your shower and you deserve a “fancy” showerhead, too. 🥰

Ever since moving to Alcoa in 2007, I have been enthralled with this beautiful town. It’s unique history, beautiful parks, and Friday Night Lights community make Alcoa something truly special.

There are a great many reasons to stay in Alcoa! Whether you are coming to cheer on your college football team in the famous Neyland Stadium, stay near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg without all the tourist-y bustle, check out the area as a potential place to put down roots, or you just need a night or two away from home, here are a few beautiful places to check out.

THE DOLLY IN SPRINGBROOK

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The adorable cottage facing Springbrook Park with it’s walkways and playgrounds is minutes from Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport and restaurants. You can check availability here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/48017599

THE PEYTON IN SPRINGBROOK

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Though in the same neighborhood as The Dolly, The Peyton boasts a rich, masculine vibe. There’s plenty of space for both fun and work! You can check availability here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/49056358

THE TRAVELER by TYS Airport

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If you’re looking for a small, cozy, beautifully decorated cottage, this is it! The Traveler is also in the Springbrook community and you can check availability here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52547069

CHARMED AIR

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While not in the city limits of Alcoa, this “Hilltop Open-Air Industrial Cottage” is well-worth an honorable mention! Charmed Air is minutes from Alcoa and just down the street from the lake. You can check availability here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/50363690

Whether you visit Alcoa for work or play, you’re sure to enjoy the small town feel coupled with big city amenities. Come on down and stay a while!