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It has been 35 years since we celebrated Christmas with my husbands side of the family, which is way too long.  So we decided this year would be different.  We began planning our Christmas Holiday early in the year.  Our goal was to find a place not far from Murray Kentucky where we all could stay- we wanted to be all together.  With a little research Kentucky Lake Lodge popped up.  Booked it and then jumped on Southwest’s web site to purchase our family airline tickets. We were all set.

Interesting tid bit:  Murray Kentucky has been voted many times as “Best Places to Live”, Best Places to Retire”.  Check it out here!

Time To Go!

December 22, we all take off for Nashville.  From there we have about an hour and a half to reach our destination.  The drive is relaxing and before we know it we are exiting off I24 towards Cadiz, Kentucky.  Passing up Lake Barley Lodge it’s time for the bridge that leads to the Land Between the Lakes.  I tend to close my eyes on this one.  A very very skinny two lane bridge that will have you holding your breath when an 18 wheeler is headed towards you. The video below is actually when we are leaving since it was dark when we went over it on our day of arrival.

We Made It!

When you make it across the skinny bridge you are in the Land Between the Lakes.  One more bridge (newer so wider) a bunch of turns (use that GPS) and we arrive at Kentucky Lake Lodge (read more)! A beautiful home located right on Kentucky Lake looking out at the Land Between the Lakes.  Opening the front door we were pleasantly surprised to find the whole home decorated for Christmas.  Three lighted trees, garland on all 4 fireplaces and festive holiday decorations were placed throughout the 8,000 square foot home.  All a very nice and very much appreciated touch to make our family holiday reunion even more special.

There are 4 bedrooms with King size beds and a bunk room with 4 sets of bunkbeds, so plenty of room for everyone.  Spacious area for cooking with two kitchens, one on the main floor and one downstairs. Laundry room, pool table, ping pong, media theatre, 4 fireplaces (wood, gas, electric). Our hosts made sure we had plenty of firewood too! We did end up needing a lot since the temperature dropped in the teens!

Check this video out for a great view of the Kentucky Lake Lodge

The Holiday Is Finally Here!

Sometimes Christmas seems to take forever to get here, but when it finally comes, you want to make it as special as you can.  So of course that includes an Ugly Sweater Contest!  Believe it or not, I forgot mine in Florida, so designated photographer I shall be 🙂

My Sister-in-law Karen, Mother-in-law Janice and niece Tori


My son Westley and daughter-in-law Kayla who showed us she fits right in with her wonderful voice!

Janice and Kevin making their speeches

THE WINNERS!!

Gatherings with the Allbritten family usually includes…

Music

My husband Kevin’s side of the family is very musically talented.  My Father-in-law Jitter and Mother-in-law Janice were known as Mr. and Mrs. Country Music in Kentucky back in the late 60’s through the early 80’s.  They sang in local shows, music halls like the Big Red Barn and even made a few records. Thankfully,  a little bit of their talent rubbed off on their three children; Karen can sing beautifully, Kevin can play the drums and Kritt plays drums and guitar.  Now the Grandchildren are taking over….

Niece Ali, Daughter-in-law Kayla and daughter Alyssa (on guitar- which she has taught herself- yea proud Mom here)

Games

Daughter-in-law Jessica and Alyssa trying to play the game speak it!

 

Hot Chocolate with a little something…

A Snow Princess

Sister-in-law Stacy!


Karen and brother-in-law Daryl

The Rest Of The Holiday Week

We spent time with sporting clay shooting, eating cookies, Jan Jan’s famous Mississippi Mud Cake and Coconut Cake, exploring the Land Between the Lakes (Richard and Jessica), hikes and more games and music! Or just spending time in flannel pajamas and yoga pants.

On Wednesday evening we had a little surprise for Jan Jan!

Son Richard showing off his skill

 

This is what a beaver can do!


Hiking around Kentucky Lake

Hiking around Kentucky Lake

 

The Mighty Bison!

The Mighty Bison!

The Land Between the Lakes

A Surprise 80th Birthday for Jan Jan!!

Kentucky is a beautiful state every season of the year

Western Kentucky has so much to enjoy and explore with Lake Barkley, The Land Between the Lakes, Kentucky Lake, the City of Murray Kentucky and the surrounding small towns. The people are wonderful and full of southern hospitality. Our holiday was as special as it can get at Kentucky Lake Lodge.  Being with family is the most important part of the holidays and we nailed it!

I hope your travels lead you one day to visit Kentucky!

From Our Family to Yours….We hope you all had a wonderful Holiday Season!!

 

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