Tex's Tree Farm

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

It is time to pick out that special Christmas tree for your home. One of the fun places to visit especially if you are bringing the family along to chop your own is Tex’s Tree Farm. 

 

Here you find so many carefully grown trees to choose from. Tex has had this farm for many years. I love visiting there. I have watched families pick out trees , choose décor , and then visit Santa.

Grab your axe and go choose that special tree just for you and chop it down. Follow the directions for that. Tex has amazing texture changers available for an amazing price. Take a look at the decors you would like . There is a great variety. If you are feeling a bit lazy get the whole decorated tree. The notecard will explain it all. You will be able to control the number of prims to fit your needs.

After you wander around the farm and visit Santa it is time to go up on the hill and visit one of the loveliest shops in SL to look for décor or gifts.

”HO HO HO Gemma, Welcome to Under The Tree Christmas Shop. Best selection of Christmas gifts and deco items in all of SL. Please make sure you take all items after purchase.”

 

 Lots of toys for the kids as well as drivable toys are there .

The next room has delicious looking food for your table. Be sure to take what you buy. It is a gotcha area. Another room is filled with furniture, tables , little Santas , many decorations that will grace your home. 

 

At the other end of the building there is a room filled with more furniture, wall hangings and more trees to choose. The room is filled with décor for every room in the house. It is a great place to shop for that reason. Upstairs are so many gacha machines where you can choose the number of the item you want to purchase. The gachas contain clothing, accessories , decorations, and much more. Be sure to check them out. While you are walking around you might receive a gift. I got a cute little Santa hat.

When you leave the store take a right turn and walk up the hill to the barn where there are cute animated animals for sale . A nice addition to the gifts for the kids under the tree. Here is the entrance to the tree farm. I good place to start.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife//83/211/103

Gemma Cleanslate

 

The Thanksgiving Parade And Some Xmas Shopping Places

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

 

I was so happy to learn the DJ Franny Dean’s Thanksgiving Parade is going to continue with the help of her sl friends who are keeping her legacy alive. They also plan to have the Christmas Parade beginning after right after. It will be held at Dreamville. This spot is the beginning of the parade. You might want to walk down the street a bit for a great view . Hop on a float and become part of the parade! Some flying floats come by also.. look up!! Enjoy! 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Amazing%20World/30/30/23

Are you ready for it? Lights are on. Some trees are up, but not decorated yet. Most stores are filled with colorful décor already. It sounds early but it really is not. Now that the scary stuff is packed away we really need to think about what we are going to do for decorating our own little or huge spaces in second life. I will take you to a few of the places I love to go exploring every year to find decorations that you might like . I try hard not to shop myself but always end up adding to my own collection that I pack away from year to year.

Let’s go shopping!!! My first stop every year is at Dench . Outside the huge store you will find all kinds of décor for your region or lawn. Inside also. There is an advent calendar all ready set up on the upper level with Bargain Countdowns nearby. The bargain corner up there has cute little decorations for only 5L . Don’t miss that!!

If you like wanderers you have your choice from penguins to Santa If you like dancing animesh partners stop on the lower level and take your pick by testing your choice of dances with one. I love them! I have several. Check out all the wreathes and trees. There is a delightful Piano playing Santa with Mrs. Claus standing by and some elves listening intently for an amazing low price.. Here is your landing point among the snowmen, elves and bike riding Santas.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Rookery/13/32/222 

My next stop is always Snuggles Holidays because I love the name. It is enormous and takes time to walk the areas and look at all the goodies there. I like the organization and check the directory showing the offerings.

There is so much that they need a special place for Christmas cards and trees with its own teleport.The card selection amazes me! Across the way is a huge array of gift boxes and in the same building cute gift bears and snow globes that I try to ignore. I can’t resist them! Sigh ... wish we would all get a Christmas gift from the Lab…..more prims!!! Check out the Snuggle Baby for toys for the tots in your life. 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Snuggles%20Holidays/5/161/26

A little bird told me to hop over to Love Superstore to the winter area and take a look for bargains all love the place. There are many, some need group and some do not. I found a couple of cute freebies and so much décor is on sale for 50L . The place is huge and there is a good tp system to help you . The outdoor items are arranged in a nice fashion highlighting each with vendors.

The outdoor tree with lights collections are beautiful for region décor.

I did join the group because I saw how lovely the group gifts were and got them all. This is their 15th year so you know they are doing well . They have a lovely fashion section also. Don’t miss it. Plan time there is a lot to see!! Like Snuggle this is more than one region!! I saw a couple setups for New Year Parties at good prices too.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/NESWNGI/106/104/2491

Gemma Cleanslate

A Few Halloween Shopping Places

By Gemma Cleanslate

Halloween seems far away but it is closer than we think. So many stores are full of fun decorations and I went to a few of my favorites and some new ones(to me) checking out the wares out for those who love decorating for the ghoulish holiday. One that is always lots of fun to explore is Dench ..

Amanda Dench is always opening in early September . She has terrific animesh figures and puts out a trial area where you can rezz and check them out. Her decorations are great for either region décor or home décor and the prices are great.

If you want a whole cemetery take a look at that. Go visit and check out all the goodies.

My next visit was over to Snuggles . I love visiting here for all holidays. It is a large place full of indoor and outdoor items. Move from one side to the other to get a good look at what is there . Check all the cute items inside the store too after you finish outside. You can find autumn décor that will take you up to change over for Christmas. 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Snuggles%20Holidays/37/161/26

Never You Mind is the place for little critters that roam your area. The gifts for group members always get a chuckle and I grab them every time. Halloween critters are all around and have a different look than other critters you will find anywhere. A tip gets you little shoulder pet too. Take a walk to see all the different little guys and gals Harley (Harleywan Haggwood) makes for all times of the year.

Halloween Delights has an array of decorations to choose from always. Loads of pumpkins of all sorts , even pumpkin trees can be found here. One long wall is studded with Halo vendors.I love the flying witches

Another wall has a myriad of costumes to please anyone looking for any style. By the way Delights not only has Halloween but also many lovely fall decorations . Several other places do also.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Ragdoll/186/196/2006

Khargo is another market I love to see at Halloween time as well as Christmas. There are so many choices there for large scenery as above. Beach scenes with skeletons lying around can decorate your own beach. The store is filled with small décor for the house. It is a large place to explore.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Yellowstone%20Falls/237/5/22

There are many more shopping places to explore but I am running out of time! Have fun and check the Places in search or Halloween in Destinations. Have fun!!

Gemma Cleanslate

 

Still More Christmas Shopping Places

By Gemma Cleanslate

The Christmas Fair at Ancient Life is absolutely delightful. The streets and Lanes are a wonderful place to walk and shop. If you are looking for old time characters for your region decor there are so many here along with old fashioned sleighs. elves, carolers and so much more. I even saw some thin ribbon candy! I am pretty sure I saw Scrooge checking into the hotel.

Take a look at this milkman with his wares and truck too . Some of the figures are animated and so adorable. Santa is waiting there for you when you arrive.

I sat down with Santa for dinner at a sumptuous table that would look great in a region dining area. One shop  had some beautiful carpets that I may go back for but not sure they are suitable for a houseboat . I found a very pretty chickadee outfit and did indulge myself! If you have some decor for sale I did see some empty shops along the way.  Visit and get that old fashioned feeling of this holiday centuries ago. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Ancient%20Life/123/159/27

I love to visit this region every year I think mostly because I like the name Snuggles! This shopping area has many very well defined larger shops full of a special item... Gnomes,  Floral, Indoor decor etc, so it is easy to locate exactly what you are looking for  in case you need something in a hurry.  It is always beautifully decorated for the season.

 I went into the indoor decor and found a whole rack of really nice holiday cards. Sets for special friends, honey, kids, and some with songs are available. Some allow you to add your own messages. 

I also love the flying sleighs led by reindeer. Some nice chubby Santas hang around here .

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Snuggles%20Holidays/209/127/27

When I visited Erotic Shores Christmas region a few weeks ago it was billed as "Stores ready for rent." Well now it is ready for shoppers as “Christmas Shopping at its Best.”  I found several mens shops there with good holiday outfits. This is something I usually hear complaints about , that men cannot find clothes. .So visit here if you are having trouble. Of course there are many women's shops to check out too. One or the shops had some Christmas books and wrapping for sale.  

If you have some wares for sale there is still room for a few in shops and also market tables on the street for rent . While you are there look for both skiing and skating behind the shopping.    

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Erotic%20Shores/201/36/21

One more place I visit every year is the Christmas Store at Dench Designs. Amanda Dench always has wonderful free gifts for members and non members in her shop.
Outside there are cute little outdoor scenes that would fit well on small properties as well as large areas. Inside the shop are many items from trees, reindeer, animated characters and my favorite, those you can dance with !

It is great fun to choose the one you want and try out the dancing before you buy one for your own. Jump on , choose your dance and go.Try it! Go upstairs for the gifts!   

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Rookery/14/32/222

I will be finding more winter venues  for you to visit mostly scenic but some with shopping and perhaps with some winter fun!

Gemma Cleanslate

More Christmas Shopping Places

 
By Gemma Cleanslate

My tour of Christmas markets and sales of decor and outfits continues. Some of these venues have gifts around so keep an eye out. Also check the windlight settings and be sure to check the Music media . There is lovely music playing at most sites and it adds to the experience .

If you are looking for a ‘Special‘ Santa. a working Santa, a fire fighting Santa, a carpenter Santa, etc., you need to stop off at Christmas at the North Pole. There is such a gathering of them just waiting to go to work for you  where ever you need them/ Perhaps your water region needs  a Santa to deliver gifts in a boat. Well, he is here waiting for you . If there is a fire possibility get a fire truck with Santa. There are also loads of toys for sale here too in the elf’s store.

There is also a rezz zone where you can rezz the scenes to see what they look like before you buy. I had some fun there, looking at the various scenes.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Glenn/58/32/1525

Some people will be having fun gatherings for the holidays. If you are looking for some really goofy decor for the area or the house check out this place, Never You Mind.  It is a delight to visit and  if one really wants to buy some of the critters to roam around and just keep you company by sitting on your shoulder. There are singing elves, walking cupcakes, Angels and so much more. Most are singing holiday songs in their strange little voices. There is a little tipjar at the entrance where you can get a little shoulder pet for a small tip. I got a couple.  

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bundaberg/181/197/23

Clematis Island is hosting a Christmas Market that is so chuck full of decor, clothing, globes, toys and on and on. Everything is either on a snow laden stand or in a  shop on the roadside. Stop off at the Roasted chestnuts cart in the road. It is really a teleport area that will take you up to a lovely skating rink. I saw more little stands there waiting to be filled with more goodies. Also at one of the stands I picked up an invitation to The Nutcracker that the RIPA will be presenting on numerous dates in  December. I will be going!  

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Clematis%20Island/145/147/2501

Another venue where you can shop and skate right in the same market is over at Serena Little Inagua .This is a typical German winter market with stalls holding offerings from candles, wreathes, globes, Nativity scenes, cookies and other food. Watch for the red gift boxes near the stalls.

I almost bought a great looking ski outfit from Almut Brunswick Fashion but remembered I had better check my packed away ski outfits first. I think I got one last year. One stand had some cute ugly sweaters too but I do have those for sure .I stopped over at the wine bar before I left since it was my last stop of the day but discovered it was for sale. It was very busy while I was there .Around the perimeter look for the lovely scenes for your region or outside your home. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Serena%20Little%20Inagua/127/158/22

Gemma Cleanslate

Note: The wrong SURL was given out for Serena Little Inagua originally. It has since been corrected. - Hat tip: Annie Brightstar

Early Christmas Shopping Places

 
By Gemma Cleanslate

Time passes so quickly . It seems like a week ago I took down my Christmas decorations in sl and here I am getting ready to at least think about this year’s decor and activities though it is still a month and days away. 

I love to visit the sweet little Christmas markets with their little stalls housing goods from many creators that are around the grid . The snow covered trees and ground add to the festivity of the season. I am leaving my pocketbook home and just taking my camera along ( That won’t work for long).

The Winter Wonderland Christmas Bazaar is always  pleasure to visit. The walkways are lined with oversized snow globes that are  so lovely. ωɨԃgεт (Sahirah Hauptmann)  of Sahi Designs creates the decor found here. There is a skating pond near by and you can rezz a zippy little sled to scoot round on the ice or put on your skates and take a spin.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Andarah%20Island/209/104/22

The next stop was at Dina LaVega (Dinahel Resident) ‘s ChristKindl and Advent Calendar. This quaint market with stalls  circling a large skating pond has large and small decor for your house or  larger area to decorate . It had snow globes in several different sizes and out came my purse! The market was busy while I was there because of the lovely wares that are offered. Stop by just to admire if not shop.

Around the back of the market area there are more goodies for sale to decorate your region for the winter. Charming winter settings for very good prices.  

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Saint%20Pierre/223/218/25

Christmas Lane by Bee Caudron of Bee Designs is another wonderful market to visit. Inside the market area and outside the sights are so cheery. She describes it as “A big  mall full of Christmas decor items in a magic place where you will feel the real Christmas spirit wherever you go.” and it is.

Many artists presents their creations in the little shops. I did succumb to trying the gachas near the entrance. Watch out for all the cute critters running around.  This is another site where you must roam both outside inside the market area to see the enticing offers of winter decor and, if not shopping just to enjoy the lovely scenes.you need a bridge ,  of a camping site or a small pavilion? Go take a long walk inside and outside this market . It is well worth it.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Christmas%20Lane/52/161/25

“3D Republic's  Annual Christmas and Winter Market. Bringing together many creators from various backgrounds to bring you the joy and creation they have brought to SL. You need to take a walk outside the building  to get to the market itself over the bridge.  Explore the market. Many little shops filled with goodies. Be sure to stop at the gift tree for your gifts!”

This is a lovely market to roam through. They will be open until January 6 in case you forget anything.  

Here is 3D:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Builders%20Republic/248/43/29

Gemma Cleanslate

Christmas Shopping Markets

By Gemma Cleanslate

At this time of year it seems a bit early for Christmas however as we know from real life it is the time to get ready. Every place you go there is Christmas decor and gift suggestions. It makes us realize we had better get going! In sl there is are wonderful shopping opportunities from sim fillers to stocking stuffers. I picked out a few shopping venues where I thought you might like to visit . They are not only just for shopping, but for enjoying the sights and the builds . Meander around after you see the shops.

The first delightful market place is Christmas Fair at Harborview. At the landing place you are near the larger indoor stores. Lots of favorite creators have wares here. Kiosks with all kinds of Christmas delights fill the town squares, decor for the home, gifts , outfits for the season and more. Lovely Victorian ladies are shopping too. 

 
I found an ugly sweater I could not resist! I spied some lucky letters around the walkways. You can shop and also skate if you like. Great place for a photo with Santa! http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Harborview/152/217/22   

My next visit was to Mrs Santa Christmas Market, another charming venue in Kikai. Again large shops line the sidewalks with smaller kiosks and stalls still being filled with goodies. Merchants were working as I toured.  I found some nice personalize-able greeting cards in one shop that I loved. Here too you can shop and skate. Be sure to drop into the little chapel for a rest and a reminder of what the season is about.
http://maps.secondlife com/secondlife/Kikai/176/115/601

My third stop  was Christmas at the North Pole in Checkmate. If you are looking for new Christmas trees do not miss the selection in the tree area. What a selection of diverse trees! You will have to TP to sky lot so watch for the signs. On the main level  be sure you stop in the busy post office where I found Santa next to a huge pile of letter arriving by the second! Stores and outdoor shopping for all sorts of decor for your home inside or out is found here, including choo-choo trains, reindeer and a myriad of decor. I saw a whole forest of snow laden pines if you need that on your sim.
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Checkmate/170/137/23

There are so many more places in Second Life to visit for Christmas decor. I am also looking at the wonderful skating and hanging out winter sports regions for your winter fun. I am starting with the markets so you can get your shopping done and then just go enjoy the sims . Some of them will disappear right after Christmas so I want to start with them. After that I will tell you about the ones where sports and skating and events going on before and after Christmas and you can enjoy the winter season in Second Life while through the first months of the new year. If you find anything new and interesting let me know! 

Gemma Cleanslate