cleaning it up

Life is messy and holidays can get pretty dirty.

You're going to need some of this:
And possibly some of these to go with that detergent:

wrap it up baby

So I have been pretty good about getting a jump start on my Christmas shopping... My shopping acumen goes in fits and stages-- Last year I was super behind, doing things at the last minute. The year before, Christmas 2007 I was SO on my game-- I think I started shopping in September.

So I'm hoping 2009 will look a lil' more like 2007 than 2008.

But it's not going to if I don't get on it and start wrapping up the presents I have. Luckily we have a very comprehensive gift wrap aisle, complete with the secret delight of lazy people such as myself-- GIFT BAGS! Toss the present in there with some tissue paper... No tape or scissors required!

giving thanks...

As Thanksgiving approaches, I start to think about the things I am thankful for... good health, De Loach wine, Most Wanted vodka, an understanding boyfriend, comfortable recliners, and this man, who I've mentioned before:Sales Rep Extraordinaire-- Franklin's own, John Beard! Now, before I go any further, let me say the female sales associates, customer service ladies and myself got together and voted-- He was a mite more attractive before he cut his hair... He promised to grow it out for us if we bought these recliners:
You want to know a secret? we would have bought the recliners anyway... Because they are AWESOME! They come in three, beautiful holiday chenilles and in one arm is a cup holder, storage (for your remote, tv guide, etc.) and buttons to activate heat and massage in the seat and in the back. In the other arm is a lil' frosty fridge cooler!.
Did I mention it's only $399? And that Franklin has a lifetime warranty? I think I might have... ;)

it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

...particularly on the shelves of our main building!

Everywhere I turn there are Christmas trees, Santas, snowmen, and other various holiday sundries. My big brother promptly bought one of these Holiday Penguin Family (he is a big softie for penguins).

the UFS gallery

We put the loveliest slat wall up in our main store to display some terrific shipments of art. Webmaster Dan got me the above picture, which does NOT do it justice. Come see for yourself and get it for less at UFS!

drinking for a cause

UFS is partnering with Feed the Children and the Peoria Dream Center to fight child hunger in the Peoria area.
Every bottle of De Loach wine goes to pay for three, count'em! THREE meals for local children. And while that is probably the best part-- the next best part is that it is DELICIOUS! You have your choice of Merlot, Cabernet, chardonnay, or zinfandel.
If you are buying a bottle, it is $7.99 a pop. I vote for mixing and matching your favorites in a case for only $6.99 a bottle. I sampled one of each, not for myself but for YOU, my loyal blog followers and it is delicious!

Wine Tasting

As a prelude to our world famous (oh it is! I have friends in Canada who always come down for it...) Days after Thanksgiving wine tasting, we are having a fall wine tasting two weeks before the chaos commences.

The $5 per person entrance fee goes to Neighborhood House.

Put it on your calendar! And if you are feeling adventurous, come down on the 27th and the 28th for the FUN!