Gifts Gifts Everywhere!

By: Deanna Jones, JSU Student (2011-2015)

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas;
Soon the bells will start,
And the thing that will make them ring
Is the carol that you sing
Right within your heart.”

--“It’s Beginning to look a lot like Christmas”

Gifts and presents everywhere!.. Okay so maybe not yet. Need to think of some new and creative Christmas gift ideas? Here’s a list of some unique ideas to give to someone special.

1) Spa!
 The holidays can be a stressful time. With Christmas being around the corner, a nice relaxing day at the spa would really show a loved one you care. Be sure to check out some of the amazing spas in the Calhoun County area. Click here for more info!

2) Dinner! 
If there’s one way of showing someone you care, it’s to fill their tummies up with delicious food! With Thanksgiving out of the way, and possibly a big Christmas dinner, taking someone out to eat, so they can rest, is a great Christmas gift! Did you know five Calhoun County restaurants has a dish featured in 100 Dishes to Eat Before You Die! Here they are!

Barbecue at Goal Post 

Bar-B-QRibs at Cooter Brown’s 

Chocolate molten cake a Victoria’s Restaurant 

Pecan encrusted grouper at Garfrerick’s Café 

Shrimp & Grits at Classic on Noble. 

3) Something with some local Flavor! 
One great gift idea is getting someone something that defines where you’re from. Maybe it’s someone who is far away and would love to see what the area has to offer. It could be someone who is away from home. Whatever the reason, getting someone something that is made, or grown locally is a fantastic gift idea! Check out some local shopping ideas here!

4) A show! 
Taking a loved one out for a wonderful show is another thoughtful and fun idea, especially around the Christmas season. Click here and here to check out some upcoming events!

5) A combination of them all! 
If you want to go all out for the season, why not make a day of it! Spas, food, shopping and entertainment! Sounds like a great day! Whatever you choose, make sure it’s from the heart!

Hope that gets the creative juices flowing! Enjoy the season!  

 

An Interview with Santa!

By: Deanna Jones, JSU Student (2011-2015)

On December 3, 2015, Santa Clause, took some time after the Jacksonville Christmas parade to sit and discuss some of his plans for the Christmas season. We also talked about Mrs. Clause, what he does in his free time, and the best Christmas present he ever gave.

Santa, How are you today? 

I’m doing very well, thank you! Having a jolly time! It’s a bit warmer down here than what I’m used to, but still it’s wonderful!

You sound as if you’re in good spirits. Aren’t you tired lately? 

Tired! Oh no, not tired. The seasons just begun. The elves, reindeer's and I prepare for this time of year months in advance. You would think we’d have it down to a science, but something new and exciting pops up every year. The reindeer’s are in their best form, the elves are coming up with better and more innovative gift ideas, and I’m looking forward to eating all those delicious cookies the good boys and girls have waiting for me. Mrs. Clause isn’t as excited about it, but I always try to soften her up by bringing her a few. She’s usually okay with it then. Ho Ho Ho!

Well, we all know you have a hundred things on your plate, so I’m going to ask you a few questions to help kick the season into full gear. Santa, have anything special planned this year? 

You see, if it was special, shouldn’t it be a surprise. Ho Ho Ho! I can tell you one thing that’s for sure. This Christmas will be filled with lots of fun!

Who’s your favorite reindeer? 

Oh no! I can’t answer that. I love them all dearly. They are wonderful creatures, and I have nothing but love and admiration for them all. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do my job. They are such magical animals. They sure do eat a lot, but that’s why we get along so well! Ho Ho Ho

Many readers would want to know, what do you do in your free time? 

Well, since I live in the North Pole, every time Mrs. Clause and I get a chance, we like to dress in disguise and go to the beach. Another one of my favorite things to do is read all the lovely Christmas wishes I receive. They are always so heartwarming. I have a notebook where I write all the wishes down so I can remember them around this time of year!

What’s the best Christmas present you have ever given? 

The best present I’ve ever given? Well the best present of all, of course, love! It’s the best present and is often forgotten. So everyone one reading this, go out and give love! Ho Ho Ho!

 Oh Santa, that’s lovely. Thank you for coming out us today.

I think I hear the reindeer’s on the roof! Oh! That means it’s time to go! See you soon!! Ho Ho Ho!!

I would like to thank Santa for taking the time from his busy schedule to talking to with me.  Make sure to check out the Chamber website for other Christmas events going on in the area.

Don't forget to send him your Christmas wishes & enjoy this wonderful season!!!