Occasionally I post the latest happenings in my life here on the blog, but often they’re of a rare breed.
I don’t know why I refrain from sharing more day to day happenings, as you certainly have the choice to read them or not. I think they’re fun, and certainly enjoy these types of blog posts on other blogs.
So, this is one of my first in striving to be more “transparent” online.
Due to Holiday celebrations during this wonderful month of December, I thought I’d share a “photo journal” of highlights. Plus, Meggs commanded I share some photos from recent events. I had no choice in the matter. 
Below you’ll see our family Christmas photo, a picture from our piano recital & some gingerbread making fun! My wonderful Mother spent lots of time making delicious, homemade gingerbread for the homes. She’s amazing.
Let’s take a peek!
Let me introduce you to my family. This photo was on our Christmas card this year. I'm the oldest of six!
Every year my brothers I perform piano pieces at an elderly care facility in December. In the middle you'll see my dear piano instructor of many years.
One of my younger brothers. Very proud of his gingerbread creation (with the help of Dad).
Baby sister loves it!
A shot I took of some delightful Hershey Kisses!
Well I had to make one too! Along with my wonderful matching (handmade) scarf and beanie set! You may notice Mr. Gingerbread man playing his banjo for a group of enthralled Gummy Bears...
Yeah, I'm 21 and get my picture with Santa.
What are some of your Holiday traditions? What have you done different this year? Share with me! I’d love to hear.
Related Posts:
Tweet
Loading ...
"You’re such a smart boy!" were his first accolades heard. So, it’s no wonder that this phrase became the title of his business, Smart Boy Designs.
Read more about Christian 
{ 51 comments… read them below or add one }
Twitter: BetsyKCross
December 19, 2011 at 2:21 pm
This year might be the first year in 27 years I haven’t made gingerbread houses! Moving right before Christmas wore me out! We still have a few days to fit it in. We’ll see. But the kids have so much fun eating and decorating.
I love the Christmas party at Church and at Grandma’s. But Christmas morning is the best. I’m always 1st up and try really hard to get everyone else up. But they usually ignore me!! So backwards!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:04 pm
So what happened? Did you end up making those gingerbread houses? Moving is sure rough!
It will be interesting, having Christmas on a Sunday! I have four singing performances at different wards/branches. It’s going to be busy!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: annieandrehacks
December 19, 2011 at 3:51 pm
I don’t know why but whenever i see and hear about your family i get transported to another time. I think of Carey Grant and Dancing in the Rain. I love that you conjure up these images. Those were special times.
p.s. did you make the scarf and hat or were they made by someone else. Just wondering. My son crochets.
Annie Andre recently posted..2011 Annual Review Looking Back: The Good, The Bad And The Ugly!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:13 pm
Aaah, thank you Annie. My Mom loved this comment. I didn’t make the hat and scarf. Someone made them for me when I was on my mission.
I do know how to knit and crochet however. My Grandma taught me.
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: knikkolette
December 19, 2011 at 5:06 pm
I think it’s wonderful that you share your personal moments and family traditions with us!
Knikkolette recently posted..What’s the Big Deal About Social Media?
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:14 pm
Thanks for reading Knikkolette!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: janetcallaway
December 19, 2011 at 5:11 pm
Christian, aloha. MORE! Love it when you share your family.
What I especially appreciate, Christian, is the richness and warmth of your relationships with your family members. It is always a delight to read what you are up to with your siblings.
Great gingerbread houses. Gingerbread is one of my favorites treats.
Love the photo of your family of the Christmas card, Christian. Again, thanks for sharing another part of yor life with us. Aloha. Janet
Janet Callaway recently posted..The Gift of You
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:15 pm
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Janet. I really do love my family, and for all they provide and give to me. They are my strong support in everything I do!
Gingerbread is delicious! Especially with a good glass of milk.
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: hospitalityfan
December 19, 2011 at 6:24 pm
Hi Christian, what a great looking family that also looks sincerely happy! Your mom is going to love that statement in the above post from her eldest son!
What was different this year? Well, my son and I are experiencing a transition in our relationship where I now allow him to teach me vs the other way around…it is so fun to watch his self-esteem and confidence grow stronger! I know you will experience someday: children are the best gift ever! Hope his comment finds you well!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:17 pm
Love hearing about the relationship with you and your son. That’s really cool to hear about that transition. Do you mind me asking how old he is now?
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: hospitalityfan
December 20, 2011 at 2:23 pm
About 35 years old…just kidding. He is seven years old. Have a good one! Jim
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 3:23 pm
I was going to say….35….wow….young father. lol
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: hospitalityfan
December 20, 2011 at 3:34 pm
Did I get you on that one? btw enjoyed our convo this a.m.! We need to keep that travel discussion alive…imagine that trip is going to change the way you write!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 3:43 pm
When I first read, yes, you got me!
I really enjoyed the conversation also. Kept me alive and going strong today. You’re an exciting individual who’s full of energy for all it seems. I love that about you.
In my gut, I have a feeling the trip will change the way I view life, help me to write better – and give me more interesting content and photos TO write about.
Well, I’m off to get ready for a Sacramento Kings preseason game tonight. Taking a girl and three of my younger brothers!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 3:44 pm
Btw, let me know if you need help figuring out your Gravatar so you have an image on your comments!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: lance02
December 19, 2011 at 7:00 pm
What a great looking family you’re a part of – and what a happy group, too!! That’s wonderful!!
Merry Christmas to you…it’s been a real pleasure getting to know you over this past year…
Lance recently posted..How to Give Your Superb Health to Others
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:19 pm
Thank you Lance! Merry Christmas to you too. Excited for the new year and what it will bring all of us!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: harleenas
December 19, 2011 at 8:14 pm
Loved the pictures Christian!
I love it most of all when you share a part of yourself with all of us, it connects us more I guess.
What a beautiful family you have and I adore your younger siblings- I think they are simply lovely kids ( I guess all kids are when they are that age!)
Gingerbread house looks tempting alright. I guess all your mothers love has gone into it – by making it for all you kids
That’s what mothers love doing for their kids I guess 
Wishing you an enjoyable Christmas, full of love, warmth, and togetherness with your family and friends
Harleena Singh recently posted..Why Should Charity Begin at Home
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:21 pm
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Harleena. The younger siblings are certainly loads of fun! There are a whole bunch of them. lol
May you have a wonderful end of the year and into the next!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Like this very much as such family potraits always make me feel good and happy.
Talking about gingerbread- its my all time Favorite.
Meg recently posted..Cabinets
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:22 pm
Gingerbread is the best!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: MzMeggs
December 20, 2011 at 1:03 am
Your family’s so beautiful (and so are those gingerbread houses)! I love the fact that you all perform for the elderly each year. How touching to see people thinking of others during the Christmas season. I hope you all have an amazing holiday! God bless you!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:24 pm
Appreciate the thoughts, Meggs. I sure hope to continue performing for the elderly care facility for quite some time. There sure are a lot of people away from their families in Christmas. Wish that was different!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
After seeing you family picture with Gingerbread happening, I just recently misses to eat Gingers bread and to decorate Ginger house. Hope that you have a happy holiday Christian. And share us your holiday experiences with your family too.
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 1:25 pm
You should find yourself some gingerbread then!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: wonderoftech
December 20, 2011 at 8:29 am
What amazing pictures of a beautiful family! Thank you very much for sharing these, Christian. I felt as if I was a part of the celebration. Those gingerbread houses are adorable.
I hope you and your lovely family have a blessed Christmas, Christian!
Carolyn | Wonder of Tech recently posted..Portable North Pole – Your Personal Message from Santa!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 2:10 pm
Thank you Carolyn. Have a wonderful Christmas yourself! Enjoy every minute!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: kikolani
December 20, 2011 at 9:41 am
This definitely puts a smile on my face! This year, my husband and I have the best looking tree so far and although we have mostly silly little gifts for each other, we wrapped them nicely so everything would look perfect. We’ll be having a Christmas Eve lunch with family, then spending the day itself together before going on a road trip for the following week.
Hope you have a Merry Christmas!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 2:11 pm
Where are you headed on your road trip? Sounds like tons of fun!
I love beautiful, perfect tress. They’re special and lovely.
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: connectyou
December 20, 2011 at 4:35 pm
Christian,
Your family is adorable, and the enthralled gummi bears are precious!
Thank you for sharing,
~Keri
Keri recently posted..Launch: The Proof Is In The Fuel
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 20, 2011 at 5:12 pm
Thank you Keri. Glad you enjoyed it!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
My favorite post of yours EVER! Loved it and loved to see your GORGEOUS family!
Bruce Sallan recently posted..NEWS OF THE MOMENT
Twitter: adriennesmith40
December 21, 2011 at 8:39 am
Love the photos Christian and what a good looking family you have. Wow, five boys and finally a girl entered the picture. I’m sure your Mom was thrilled but probably shocked! Got so use to all her gorgeous boys.
So you sing and play piano, why am I not surprised. My Mom and sister play beautifully but I couldn’t read music. I played for a short time but I played by ear.
My Mom and I started a family tradition about five years ago. We will gather at my brother’s on Christmas day so it depends on what time we are to meet there as to whether or not Mom will come to my house the night before or the morning of. Whichever is the case, we drive around that night and look at Christmas lights. I use to enjoy that when we were kids but not too many homes do that much anymore. It’s hard to find different neighborhoods that decorate for the holidays now that are in my immediate vicinity. I do enjoy that though.
Thanks for sharing these wonderful pictures. You sure look cute in Santa’s lap! Hope you get everything you want for Christmas this year. Have a wonderful one and Happy New Year!
~Adrienne
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 22, 2011 at 11:17 am
She was sure shocked. We don’t think she really believed it until she was delivered and she had a chance to check herself. lol
Great to hear about your family playing piano. Such a beautiful instrument. I could sit and listen to someone play for hours. Especially if they’re good.
Christmas lights are wonderful. I need to make that tradition too. Haven’t made a point to go and see many this year. I should!
Thanks for stopping by my friend,
Christian
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: MattGron
December 22, 2011 at 1:57 pm
Thanks buddy 4 sharing my so transparent! Nice to get to know you even better!
I hope that we continue learn more from each other 2012. I wish you and your lovely family merry Christmas from Sweden.
-Mattias
Mattias Gronborg recently posted..Adapt Your Company Culture To Social Media Marketing With KASH
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 22, 2011 at 2:39 pm
Hopefully there will be some exciting developments for both of us in the coming year. I’m excited! Thank you for the wonderful Christmas wishes Matt!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: rzive
December 22, 2011 at 4:03 pm
Absolutely gorgeous family! Happy holidays Christian – thanks for sharing these lovely personal pics.
Ruth – The Freelance Writing Blog recently posted..Check Out My Glorious Guide to Crowdsourcing Content – and Help Me Win a Car
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 22, 2011 at 4:23 pm
You’re welcome. Thank YOU for checking them out!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Nice looking gingerbread houses you got there. You are also absolutely right when you said your mother was beautiful, she really is. You have a good looking dad too.
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 22, 2011 at 9:47 pm
Well thank you. I’ll pass along the compliments.
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Gingerbread Houses, Piano & Pics
Twitter: joannecipressi
December 23, 2011 at 7:50 pm
What a heartwarming post Christian. It was nice to come here and learn a little about you. I think its absolutely wonderful that you play music for the elderly. Music is so soothing to the soul and I am sure they must truly appreciate your time and skill.
You family looks so lovely and caring. I think its a great idea that you were transparent because there are many people that would benefit from seeing and reading this post–to see the example that you and your family set. Its absolutely beautiful and inspiring. Coming from a broken family and now being a mother, I love seeing families that are there for one another and are close with each other. They inspire me.
I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas. Hugs!
Joanne Cipressi recently posted..Beliefs: Overcome Self-Doubt with Action
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 24, 2011 at 12:17 am
Thank you Joanne, for sharing such a lovely thought. I really do appreciate it.
I believe part of the reason for a close family, is because of what my Dad went through in his own broken home as a youngster. It’s important to him to make things work because of it; and I’m sure you’re doing the same in your own home!
Have a fantastic weekend Joanne.
Christian
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Lyme Disease Serendipity
Great photos and message! I felt the Christmas mood and the smell of gingerbread! Happy holiday!
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 27, 2011 at 6:47 pm
Let’s smell the gingerbread all year long!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..The Value of Education by @Faryna
Your pictures are awesome and I have to say that you have an adorable family! You and your siblings look alike, like a lot! It’s nice when you share a piece of you to your readers, it lets us know you on a personal level. Merry Christmas!
Tim Ryan recently posted..Quick Fix or Complete Renovation?
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 27, 2011 at 6:48 pm
People are always saying we look a lot alike. As babies – we’re pretty much the same child! lol
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..The Value of Education by @Faryna
Cool pics here! Looks like you and your family truly enjoy the Christmas. What I like most the gingerbread house that was made by your brother. He really made something really great. I wonder if you helped him on that.
Samantha recently posted..AR Blue Clean AR383 Electric Pressure Washer Review
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 27, 2011 at 6:49 pm
My Dad was helping him the whole time with his gingerbread house. I thought it turned out rather well too!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..The Value of Education by @Faryna
That’s pretty cool! At least each and everyone had their own participation in celebrating Christmas. I do hope you also enjoyed your New Year celebration!
Samantha recently posted..How to Maintain Your Snow Blower in 2012
Twitter: jaynekopp
December 29, 2011 at 12:28 am
WOW Christian, what a beautiful family you have. What a beauty your Mom is too. I could just feel the warmth through your photos.
How wonderful to have 5 adorable siblings too.
We made gingerbread and shortbread this year. I let my children do all the work… mixing, measuring, etc. It was a bit of a mess… and a bit of a ‘hit and miss’… but things were edible and quite passable for a 7 and 8 year old.
Thanks for letting us into your world Christian. It’s lovely to get a feel for who you are.
best
Jayne
Jayne Kopp recently posted..2011 Review | Did you achieve your Goals & Finish Strong?
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 30, 2011 at 1:25 pm
You’re so sweet, Jayne. I’ll let my Mom know what you said. She’ll be all smiles.
Loved hearing about your children’s gingerbread creations. Usually when things are getting messy, that’s when the real fun begins!
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted..Romania, The Future of Online, and Community by @Faryna