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When Is the Best Time to Book Christmas Flights?

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🌲❤️🌲If you’re planning to travel for Christmas, timing is everything when it comes to booking your flight. The holidays are one of the busiest—and most expensive—times of year to fly. Here’s when to book for the best deals and availability:

1. Book Early—Really Early
The best window to book Christmas flights is typically September to early October. During this period, airlines begin releasing holiday fares, and prices are more reasonable before the holiday rush drives them up. Booking 70–100 days in advance tends to yield the best rates.

2. Avoid Last-Minute Price Hikes
By mid-November, prices begin to spike dramatically. If you wait until December, you’ll likely pay a premium and have fewer choices for seats and flight times. Booking too late can also mean layovers and longer travel days.

3. Be Flexible with Dates
Flying on less popular travel days (like December 18th–20th or Christmas Eve) can save you money compared to peak days (like December 22nd–23rd or the Sunday after Christmas). If you can adjust your departure and return dates slightly, you might score a better deal.

4. Use Fare Alerts
Set up price alerts with tools like Google Flights, Hopper, or Skyscanner. These apps notify you when prices drop and can help you decide the best time to buy.

5. Consider Alternate Airports
Flying in or out of smaller or secondary airports nearby can sometimes save you hundreds of dollars, especially during peak holiday travel.

🌲❤️🌲Bottom Line:
Aim to book your Christmas flights by early October to lock in the best fares and most convenient travel options. The earlier you plan, the better your holiday travel experience will be.

Leavenworth, Washington: The Christmas Village That Feels Straight Out of a Storybook

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🌲❤️🌲Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth, Washington, transforms into a captivating winter wonderland during the holiday season. This Bavarian-inspired village, adorned with over half a million twinkling lights, offers a festive experience reminiscent of a European alpine town.

🎄 A Bavarian Christmas Experience

Leavenworth’s commitment to its Bavarian theme is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and holiday celebrations. The town’s transformation in the 1960s into a German alpine village has made it a year-round tourist destination, with the Christmas season being particularly magical. 

✨ Holiday Highlights

Village of Lights: Christmastown

From Thanksgiving weekend through Valentine’s Day, Leavenworth illuminates its streets with over 500,000 lights, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for holiday festivities. 

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies

On the first three weekends of December, the town hosts tree lighting ceremonies featuring live music, sledding, and sleigh rides. At dusk, visitors gather to sing “Silent Night” as the lights transform the village into a winter wonderland. 

Unique Attractions

  • Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum: Home to over 9,000 nutcrackers from around the world, this museum showcases the art and history of these festive figures. 
  • Waterfront Park: A serene spot for a winter stroll along the Wenatchee River, offering picturesque views and a peaceful ambiance.

🍽️ Culinary Delights

Leavenworth’s dining scene offers a taste of Bavaria:

  • MĂźnchen Haus: An outdoor beer garden serving authentic German sausages, pretzels, and a variety of mustards, complemented by local craft beers. 
  • The Gingerbread Factory: A charming bakery known for its soft, heart-shaped gingerbread cookies adorned with frosting and sprinkles. 
  • The Cheesemonger’s Shop: Offering a selection of over 90 cheeses, along with salami, mustards, and crackers—perfect for assembling a festive picnic. 

🏨 Where to Stay

  • Icicle Village Resort: Ideal for families, featuring amenities like mini-golf and a movie theater.
  • Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort: A tranquil retreat offering a spa, hot tub, and a renowned restaurant, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful getaway. 

🎁 Tips for a Memorable Visit

  • Plan Ahead: Accommodations fill up quickly during the holiday season; booking early is essential.​
  • Dress Warmly: Temperatures can be chilly; layering is key to staying comfortable while exploring.​
  • Check Schedules: Many businesses close early on Christmas Eve and remain closed on Christmas Day. 
  • Embrace the Outdoors: From sledding to sleigh rides, Leavenworth offers a plethora of outdoor activities to enhance your holiday experience.​

🌲❤️🌲Leavenworth during Christmas is more than just a destination; it’s an immersive experience that captures the essence of holiday cheer. Whether you’re seeking festive lights, unique shopping, or culinary delights, this Bavarian village offers a magical escape into the heart of the holiday season.

For a visual glimpse into the festive charm of Leavenworth, check out the following video:

The Inn at Christmas Place: Experience Year-Round Holiday Magic in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

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🌲❤️🌲If you believe the magic of Christmas should be celebrated every day of the year, there’s a place where that dream comes true — The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee! This award-winning hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s an enchanting experience that captures the wonder, warmth, and joy of the holiday season no matter when you visit.

Step Into a Christmas Wonderland

The moment you arrive at The Inn at Christmas Place, you’re greeted by stunning Bavarian-inspired architecture and festive decor that sets the scene for an unforgettable stay. Twinkling lights, garlands, and the scent of fresh-baked cookies fill the air. Every corner is thoughtfully adorned with Christmas cheer — from the grand lobby’s giant tree to the cozy, themed guest rooms.

Whether it’s July or December, every day feels like Christmas morning.

Elegant and Festive Accommodations

The Inn offers a variety of beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each designed with luxury and holiday spirit in mind. Choose from standard guest rooms decorated with elegant Christmas touches, or upgrade to a Santa Suite, featuring a whirlpool tub, fireplace, and — of course — a fully decorated Christmas tree!

Each stay includes:

  • Complimentary hot breakfast with made-to-order omelets
  • Festive evening cookies served with milk
  • Seasonal music performances, storytime, and even visits from Santa himself (on select dates)

Unforgettable Amenities and Activities

The Inn at Christmas Place goes far beyond traditional hotel amenities:

  • Indoor Pool and Hot Tub: Swim year-round in the heated indoor pool or relax in the oversized hot tub.
  • Outdoor Pool with a 95-foot Waterslide: Splash into fun during the warmer months with the hotel’s exciting outdoor pool area.
  • Fitness Center and Gardens: Stay active or take a peaceful stroll through beautifully manicured grounds.
  • Bell Tower Carillon: Listen to the sweet sounds of Christmas music ringing from the bell tower each day.

Guests can also participate in a range of holiday-themed activities, including ornament decorating, Christmas craft workshops, and seasonal concerts.

Perfectly Located in Pigeon Forge

The Inn at Christmas Place is perfectly situated along the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, placing you close to some of the area’s best attractions:

  • The Incredible Christmas Place (directly across the street): The South’s largest Christmas shopping village!
  • Dollywood and Splash Country amusement parks
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park for hiking and scenic drives
  • Titanic Museum Attraction and WonderWorks for family fun

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat to recharge your Christmas spirit, you’ll find endless entertainment and wonder just steps away.

Why Visitors Keep Coming Back

It’s not just the decorations or the location — it’s the feeling. Guests rave about the exceptional service, attention to detail, and the genuine warmth of the staff who make every visitor feel like part of the family. It’s a nostalgic, magical escape that creates lasting memories for all ages.

In fact, The Inn at Christmas Place has won countless accolades, including TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, and consistently earns some of the highest guest ratings in Pigeon Forge.

Plan Your Stay

🌲❤️🌲Ready to experience Christmas joy year-round? Rooms at The Inn at Christmas Place fill up quickly, especially around the holidays and during popular events like Winterfest. Early booking is highly recommended!

Visit The Inn at Christmas Place website to check availability, explore special packages, and start planning your most magical vacation yet.

“Experience a Magical Montana Christmas: Homestead Holidays at The Ranch at Rock Creek”

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The Ranch at Rock Creek

🌲❤️🌲Experience the magic of a Montana winter wonderland at the Homestead Holidays celebration, held annually from December 21 to 27 at The Ranch at Rock Creek. Nestled in the scenic Philipsburg valley, this all-inclusive, Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star guest ranch offers a luxurious and festive retreat for families and couples alike.

❄️ A Week of Winter Festivities

Each day is thoughtfully curated with activities that blend Montana’s natural beauty with the warmth of holiday traditions:

  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding at Discovery Ski Area, with gear, transportation, and Ski Concierge services included. Additional winter activities encompass ice skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sleigh rides. 

  • Holiday Traditions: Participate in cookie decorating classes, ornament crafting, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony with caroling, and a festive Christmas Day parade.The Ranch at Rock Creek

  • Culinary Delights: Savor farm-to-table meals, including themed dinners like the “Fried Chicken & Cider Dinner” and “Flint’s Forest Ranger Dinner,” complemented by social hours in the Great Room.

  • Santa’s Visit: On Christmas Eve, children can write letters to Santa and enjoy photos with him during lunch at the Granite Lodge Dining Room. The Ranch at Rock Creek

🏡 Luxurious Accommodations

Choose from a variety of lodging options, including:​

  • Luxury Cabins: Rustic yet refined cabins equipped with modern amenities and cozy fireplaces.​
  • Glamping Cabins: Canvas-roofed accommodations that offer an immersive nature experience without sacrificing comfort.
  • Granite Lodge Rooms: Elegantly appointed rooms located in the main lodge, providing easy access to dining and activities.​

Each accommodation is adorned with ranch-harvested Christmas trees and festive decorations, enhancing the holiday ambiance. 

🎁 All-Inclusive Experience

The Homestead Holidays package includes:​

  • Luxury accommodations
  • All meals and beverages, including premium wine, beer, and spirits
  • Over 20 on-ranch activities with provided gear and guides
  • Round-trip transportation to and from Missoula and Butte airports upon request

🌟 Create Unforgettable Memories

Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or cozy indoor activities, the Homestead Holidays at The Ranch at Rock Creek offer a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Embrace the spirit of the season and create lasting memories in the heart of Montana’s breathtaking landscape.

For more information and to book your holiday experience, visit The Ranch at Rock Creek’s official website.

To get a glimpse of the Homestead Holidays experience, watch the following video:

Create The Ultimate Sunny Christmas With A Royal Caribbean Cruise

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🌲❤️🌲If you’re dreaming of trading snow for sunshine and stress for adventure this holiday season, there’s no better way to celebrate Christmas than aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise. Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to panoramic ocean views, gourmet dining, and festive activities that rival the magic of any winter wonderland—only you’re in flip-flops, not snow boots.

🌲❤️🌲Here’s why a Royal Caribbean Christmas cruise should be at the top of your holiday wish list:

1. A Floating Winter Wonderland (Without the Cold!)

Royal Caribbean goes all out for the holidays. Think dazzling decorations, twinkling lights, and larger-than-life Christmas trees throughout the ship. From the Royal Promenade to the Windjammer Café, every inch of the ship is transformed into a festive paradise. You’ll find carolers singing your favorite holiday tunes, holiday-themed shows, and even a visit from Santa himself (yes, he cruises too!).

2. Stress-Free Celebrations

Let’s face it—hosting, cooking, shopping, and cleaning can make the holidays more hectic than joyful. A Christmas cruise eliminates the chaos. All your meals are expertly prepared, your entertainment is built-in, and your only job is to relax and enjoy the magic with your loved ones. No crowded malls. No dishes to wash. Just pure holiday joy.

3. Unique Holiday Activities for All Ages

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or grandparents, Royal Caribbean offers a sleigh-full of activities:

  • Kids & Teens: Cookie decorating, holiday crafts, scavenger hunts, and themed parties keep young cruisers entertained.
  • Adults: Seasonal cocktails, festive shows like Holidays in the Air, and exclusive spa specials make it a luxurious getaway.
  • Families: Watch holiday movies under the stars, take photos with Santa, or enjoy a Christmas Day brunch as a family.

4. Exotic Destinations, Holiday-Style

Instead of shoveling snow, spend Christmas snorkeling in turquoise waters, ziplining through tropical forests, or exploring historic coastal towns. Royal Caribbean’s holiday itineraries often include dream destinations like:

  • The Bahamas (including a stop at the private island Perfect Day at CocoCay)
  • Caribbean hotspots like St. Maarten, Cozumel, and Aruba
  • Even Panama Canal or Mediterranean Christmas cruises for something truly unforgettable

5. Deck the Stateroom Halls

Bring a touch of home with you—many guests decorate their stateroom doors and balconies with garland, lights, and stockings. Royal Caribbean even offers special holiday stateroom packages so you can feel the Christmas cheer in your cabin every day of the cruise.

6. Festive Feasts Without Lifting a Finger

Christmas dinner onboard is a culinary event to remember. Think perfectly roasted turkey, prime rib, honey-glazed ham, and decadent desserts like Yule logs and Christmas puddings—served to you by attentive staff in elegant dining rooms. And yes, you can go back for seconds.

7. The Gift of Memories

Instead of giving another sweater or kitchen gadget, give the gift of unforgettable memories. Watching the sunset over the ocean on Christmas Eve, dancing under the stars on the pool deck, and waking up to new adventures every day—these are the moments that last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts:

🌲❤️🌲A Royal Caribbean Christmas cruise blends the enchantment of the holidays with the luxury of a tropical vacation. Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition or escape the usual holiday stress, it’s a truly magical way to celebrate the season.

Ready to set sail this Christmas? The most wonderful time of the year is even better at sea. Book your holiday cruise early—cabins fill up faster than Santa’s sleigh!

A Magical Christmas at C Lazy U Ranch: Your Ultimate Winter Wonderland Getaway

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C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, Colorado at Christmas.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a storybook Christmas—one filled with snow-dusted evergreens, cozy fireside evenings, and unforgettable adventures—look no further than C Lazy U Ranch in Colorado. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this luxury dude ranch transforms into a winter wonderland every December, offering a holiday experience that’s straight out of a Hallmark movie (but with way better food and real horses).

Welcome to a Winter Wonderland

From the moment you arrive, the C Lazy U Ranch feels like stepping into a snow globe. Blanketed in pristine snow, the 8,500-acre property glistens under the winter sun, and the scent of pine and woodsmoke fills the air. Guests are welcomed with warm drinks and genuine Western hospitality—the kind that makes you instantly feel like family.

Cowboy Christmas Traditions

Forget crowded malls and frantic gift-wrapping. At C Lazy U, Christmas is about creating memories. The ranch is decked out in festive decor, with twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and wreaths in every lodge. A highlight? Santa rides in on a horse-drawn sleigh, gifts in tow, to deliver presents to the kids (and kids at heart). It’s pure holiday magic.

Each night, the ranch hosts cozy fireside chats, caroling, and gourmet meals that blend rustic charm with five-star dining. Christmas Eve features a gourmet feast, complete with Colorado specialties, followed by candlelight traditions and plenty of holiday cheer.

C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, Colorado

Endless Winter Activities

Adventure is always on the agenda at C Lazy U. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or looking for laid-back fun, there’s something for everyone:

  • Horseback riding in the snow through pine forests and open meadows
  • Ice skating on the ranch pond, complete with hot cocoa breaks
  • Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing along scenic trails
  • Sledding and snow tubing for all ages
  • Horse-drawn sleigh rides that feel straight out of a fairy tale
  • Even a spa day in their award-winning Lazy You Spa if relaxation is more your style

There are kids’ programs organized by age groups. They consist of the â€œCowpoke Program” (for ages 3-5), the “Mustang Program” (for ages 6-12), and the “Teen Program” (for ages 13-17). The kids will participate in various activities, including learning horsemanship, arts and crafts, and even scavenger hunts, allowing parents to unwind or head out on their own adventures.

The Willow Cabin has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious floor plan.

Luxurious Lodging with Rustic Charm

Each guest cabin is its own slice of mountain heaven—think stone fireplaces, plush bedding, heated floors, and sweeping views of snow-capped peaks. It’s rustic elegance at its finest, perfect for curling up with a glass of wine and watching the snow fall outside.

Why C Lazy U for Christmas?

C Lazy U isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to make lifelong memories. The staff goes above and beyond to make every detail magical, from personalized experiences to heartfelt hospitality. Whether you’re bringing the whole family or planning a romantic winter escape, the ranch delivers a Christmas you’ll talk about for years to come.

Pro Tip: Book Early!

The Christmas season at C Lazy U is one of their most popular times of the year—and for good reason. Cabins fill up fast, so it’s wise to book well in advance. Click here to make your reservation now!

Ready to make your holiday sparkle? A Christmas at C Lazy U Ranch is more than just a vacation—it’s an experience that captures the true spirit of the season, wrapped in snowy peaks and warm smiles. Saddle up, and make this year’s holiday unforgettable.

Is Disneyland at Christmas Worth It? Let’s Break Down the Magic (and the Madness!)

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🌲❤️🌲Thinking about visiting Disneyland during the most wonderful time of the year? You’re not alone—and for good reason! The parks dazzle with holiday cheer, twinkling lights, festive treats, and once-a-year magic. But before you grab your Mickey ears and cocoa, let’s talk pros and cons—because not everything is jingle bells and pixie dust.

Main Street at Disneyland during the Christmas season.

PROS: Why Disneyland at Christmas Is Pure Holiday Magic

1. The Decorations Are Next-Level
Main Street, U.S.A. becomes a winter wonderland, complete with a towering Christmas tree, glowing garlands, and snow-capped rooftops. Sleeping Beauty’s Castle? A sparkling vision in icy lights.

2. Limited-Time Holiday Rides & Shows
Haunted Mansion Holiday (Nightmare Before Christmas takeover!) and It’s a Small World Holiday are absolute musts. Plus, seasonal parades, fireworks, and the magical snowfall make every moment feel enchanted.

3. Festive Food Galore
Gingerbread Mickeys, peppermint churros, holiday-themed Dole Whip, and cozy drinks that’ll warm your spirit faster than you can say “Hot Cocoa!” Foodies, this is your dream.

4. Unique Character Meet-and-Greets
Ever wanted a photo with Santa Goofy or Minnie in her holiday dress? Christmas brings out rare, themed costumes that make every photo extra special.

5. Holiday Spirit = Off the Charts
If you love Christmas, this is your North Pole. The music, the lights, the atmosphere—it’s like stepping into a holiday movie (with rides!).

Christmas tree in the parade at Disneyland.

CONS: The Realities Behind the Magic

1. Crowds… and More Crowds
Christmas is peak season, especially the week of Christmas and New Year’s. We know from personal experience that the week of Christmas is extremely crowded! Expect long wait times, elbow-to-elbow crowds, and packed walkways.

2. Higher Prices
From park tickets to hotels to churros, prices often go up during the holiday season. Budgeting is key if you want to avoid a not-so-jolly surprise.

3. Weather Isn’t Always “California Dreamin’”
Southern California can surprise you with chilly mornings, rainy afternoons, or sunburn weather—all in one day. Pack layers and stay flexible!

4. Holiday Overload for the Unenthused
If you’re not big on Christmas, this may be too much holly-jolly for your taste. The parks go all in on the festive vibes.

5. Planning Is a Must
Spontaneity won’t cut it during the holidays. Genie+, Lightning Lanes, dining reservations, and parade spots all need advance planning. Be prepared, or risk missing out.

Mrs. Claus in the Christmas parade at Disneyland.

Final Verdict?

Disneyland at Christmas is unforgettable—a magical mix of nostalgia, sparkle, and pure holiday joy. But it’s not for the faint of heart. Go in with a plan, a bit of patience, and a huge appetite for festive fun, and you’ll walk away with memories that’ll last a lifetime.

🌲❤️🌲Would you brave the Christmas crowds for a sprinkle of Disney holiday magic? Let the countdown to Christmas begin!

APRIL’S GOAL: MAKE TRAVEL PLANS

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“11 Months To An Organized Christmas” with the Christmas Connoisseur.

🌲❤️🌲Travel experts say the best time of year to make your Christmas travel plans is as early as possible. So be sure to follow my posts this month and start looking into where you want to be this Christmas season.

🌲❤️🌲There are many magical and exciting places to spend Christmas, but first you must determine whether you want a “White Christmas” or a “Sunny Christmas”.

DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS?

🌲❤️🌲There are many amazing destinations that will give you a magical and possibly “White Christmas”.

DREAMING OF A SUNNY CHRISTMAS?

🌲❤️🌲If snow and cold isn’t your ideal dream Christmas, then let’s explore some destinations that will shed some light on your Christmas plans.

Making your travel plans now will give you more time to relax and spend time with those you love when the Christmas season is here.

🌲❤️🌲Be sure to look out for posts all month long to help you make your Christmas plans for this upcoming holiday season. Do all the planning now so you can relax and enjoy more time with your loved ones when Christmas time is here.

MARCH’S GOAL: CHRISTMAS CARDS

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Christmas Connoisseur’s “11 Months To An Organized Christmas”

🌲❤️🌲This month’s goal is to make a plan for your Christmas cards.

🌲Are you going to make your Christmas cards? If so, starting now will make the whole experience of making Christmas cards so much more enjoyable and less stressful. I love turning on Christmas music or a Christmas movie at any time of the year while I make a few Christmas cards. I promise you it will bring a little Christmas cheer to your heart anytime of the year!

🌲Christmas card kits are a great way to quickly have almost all the items you need to make cards. Depending on the kit, the only additional items you may need is glue or more embellishments. One of my favorite Christmas Card kits is by Anna Griffin. The kits have everything you need and you can make beautiful cards in no time! Depending on the kit, you might just need some glue or glue dots.

Christmas Card Kits make it so easy to make your own cards. This is a kit from Anna Griffin. She has beautiful kits that have a lot of embellishments.

🌲If you plan on using ready made Christmas cards, then see if you can find cards now. Amazon has a great selection of Christmas cards all year round.

🌲If you plan on sending photo Christmas cards, then look through the designs now and save your favorites. There are so many beautiful designs offered by every company that you may experience decision fatigue when trying to quickly pick your favorites during the busy holiday season. Do yourself a favor and spend time looking through the photo card designs now so all you will have to do in a couple months is choose your pictures for your card. If you’re unfamiliar with companies that offer photo cards, then check out 2 of my favorites, Shutterfly.com and Walgreens.com.

How To Keep Memories With Christmas Ornaments

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How to keep memories with Christmas ornaments.

🌲❤️🌲One of my favorite ways to keep memories is with Christmas ornaments. We have a slim profile tree that is designated as our “Memory Tree”. Since our eldest was a baby, we would get an ornament each year where we would put a family picture in it. Now after our eldest is 19, our tree has 19 years of family picture ornaments plus other sentimental ornaments.

TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR OWN MEMORY TREE:

🌲 Find ornaments that have the year on it. This makes it easy to remember when that picture was taken.

🌲If you find a picture ornament you love that doesn’t have the year already on it, just write it on the front or back with a Sharpie.

🌲You can find a variety of picture ornaments in a wide range of prices. Of course there’s always the family Hallmark ornaments with the year on it, but you can also find picture ornaments at craft stores as well as many online retailers, like Amazon. The ornaments in the picture above are all from Amazon.

🌲Besides Christmas pictures, try to include other memories like yearly school pictures, family vacations, big milestones like 1st birthday, baptism, wedding, new home, new pets, etc.