Holiday Cards....A Look Back.

So if you're anything like me, starting in early December you start to get a steady stream of holiday cards from your friends. You know what I'm talking about. The JC Penney's portrait, with the family wearing matching sweaters. And one of the kids crying. Or not paying attention. Or staring at anything BUT the camera. And of course, with an adjoining heartfelt (aka cheesy) message. Actually, most of you probably sent one of these cards this year and I understand that this is what you have been trained to do. But I have always wondered what a single guy who has no kids (none proven anyway) is supposed to do to spread HIS holiday cheer? Well, a few years ago, I came up with a concept and an annual tradition began. Here is how it all got started, gotta love that Jay Leno-like chin........The next year was an instant classic.... wish I had the message that went along with this treasure. This one was my personal favorite (I WONDER WHY?!) - see message below. I can't believe how incredible handsome my wife is........ Message Friends, family, I hope this Christmas card reaches you all safely and soundly. This past year was a great year for the Andrews Family. As many of you know, I was recently promoted at the plant. I am now a Poultry Gender Identification Specialist. The work is challenging, but riveting. Michelle is still working at Wal-Mart part-time and enjoying her activities (knitting, gun club, etc). Michael Jr. started pre-school and is already showing some pretty good basketball skills. In his first game, he had 16 points and 12 rebounds. Not bad for a 4 year old! We were also blessed with the birth of our second child this year, Michaela. She is an absolute treasure. Everyone tells us how much she looks like her father! I hope you have a wonderful holiday season with you and yours. God Bless. And finally, one more 'unreleased' photo. My creativity was tapped, or so I thought. After finishing it, I decided it wasn't funny enough to release....... BUT, after a brief hiatus, the Andrews Family Christmas card is BACK in full effect. Enjoy the holidays y'all! Props to one Brianna James Taylor for help with the execution on this one. Message Season greetings, family and friends. I thought I'd drop a line to wish you all good tidings. While it has been a challenging year, what with the recession and all, the Andrews family continues to move forward with fortitude. After years as a blacksmith, I have decided to try my hand at a completely new trade. I opened a buggy repair shop on Walnut and Main. My wife Gertrude tells me that it is a risky proposition seeing as how everyone is shifting to motor cars, but I say horsefeathers! I think we all know these new fangled motor cars are just a fad and will go the way of the................what's that old saying again?* John Jr. continues his rise in the burgeoning railroad industry. He and his wife Ethel welcomed their 5th son into the world this year, little Pip. My son Walter got a job at a printing press and married young Mildred, of the McCormick clan. They are quite the handsome couple! Charlotte is at university studying home economics, and young Elmer continues to deliver ice for ole Mr. Henderson. We are truly blessed with a healthy, happy family. Enjoy the photo of the Andrews family included herewith, compliments of my friend Sir James Olan Mills. My sincere wishes for a fantastic next decade for you and yours. So long to the nots! John Michael Andrews * Actually I just remembered, the saying is go the way of the 'horse and buggy'... horsefeathers. ** For past Andrews Family holiday cards, check out www.bloggityblogblogblogblogblog.blogspot.com