The Chronicle’s Cindy Johnson highlights some of her favorite businesses in Batesburg-Leesville.

Batesburg/Leesville was very busy last week.

The town was in a flurry for Christmas.

The Sweet Simplicity Christmas shop has sold most of their Christmas inventory, but is now having a sale on the remainder of those holiday items.

Palmetto Crest Sundry CBD still has some stocking stuffers available.

ChinaBerry Dreams has wonderful hand painted oyster shell Christmas ornaments.

Their earring selection is huge and affordable. I bought a cloth basket for a gift.

Economy Furniture is having a sale. One customer said that they got some great buys.

Faith-full Cafe smelled so good with the scent of coffee and chicken.

Shealy’s is closing soon for Christmas break. They take everything out of the restaurant and completely clean during this time. Barbecue sauce makes a great present, so I bought several.

Batesburg also had Christmas traffic.

Mae looked like a model in one of her outfits. Her accessories are amazing, and she can make an outfit “pop.” She truly has a knack for putting clothes together, no matter your taste.

The Root Cellar was having a busy lunch with inside - socially distanced - diners and take-outs.

Generations Senior Care had bags and boxes of Christmas presents for their residents. Staff is very cautious, and I did not go into the building. The Independent homes look like cottages, and the residents have dining services, as well.

The Oak Street Vintage mall is ready for Christmas. There is a magazine with a cover of Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward from the 70s’. They were truly the “beautiful” people.

The store is loaded with Christmas decorations of all kinds. Several German helmets from WWI and WWII piqued my interest. In the front of the store, there is an old doll house and furniture.

A dress from the early 1900’s complete with hat is on display and in pristine condition. I don’t think I could have ever worn the dress, as it is very small. This store brings back wonderful memories for me. I could look for hours.

I have had such fun in B-L over the last few months, and I have some new friends. One shopper said that it was like Mayberry! (I have seen every episode of Andy Griffith at least 10 times.)

What a great gift this town has been for me this year! Merry Christmas!