Christmas in July

I finally had my much anticipated Christmas in July party! Had a great time! Only regret is that apparently anything planned in July has to compete with everyone's vacations! Ok, I’ll stop with the exclamations. Didn't get to do everything I wanted to do (my Pintrest list) but I think it was nice. We put up a Christmas tree, of course, but I kept the ornaments limited to just colored lights, a red and white garland, blue balls and a pirate ship ornament from the OBX. We did add those little drink umbrellas for a more "July" feel. The boys helped with the balls and the umbrellas. It looked pretty cute! Mikey got the idea to do the same thing to the wreath I pulled out. Turn out great! The picture doesn't do it justice, though, because I took a picture when it was only half done. Sorry! On the table, I create a centerpiece with a cool silver tree my sister brought me from Italy and around the base we used blue glass balls and sea shells. Did the same in my living room sconces with the blue balls and shells. In the living room, we put up our traditional paper chain, which the kids love to see go up. I also pulled out some of my PartyLight Change-o-luminary collection winter stuff (my favorite!). Dinner was a potluck, but we started it out with BBQ chicken, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes and some homemade rolls. Guest brought meatballs and veggie bars (so good!) After dinner, the kids finger-painted their goody bags, the adults did a gift swap, and then I think everyone got involved in the decorating of little boy and girl sugar cookies. Like I said, I didn't get to do everything I dreamed about, but it was a pretty good foundation for an annual event and hopefully this will give some other people ideas. Next year I just need to get on everyone's calendars in May!