A tree full of colorful lights like I had as a child ... hand made softies (a bear for Joan, a soft car like this for Marty) and a lovely little keepsake book documenting our story this month. Ahhhh ... that was the plan in November.
Well, things rarely go as planned and the holidays are no exception. You've got to roll with it; find alternatives. What's the plan 'B'?
Yesterday I replaced colored lights with strands of white. I just couldn't get passed that pink hue to get motivated to deck the tree. We lost quite a few needles in the process, but it was well worth it to have the pretty red and white glow of glass, pine cones, butterflies and candy canes. The girls and I are making some gingerbread ornaments this weekend to finish it all off.
My old sewing machine just isn't ready for use. Frankly, I have to admit ... it scares me a little. It's been a while. I think it may be time for a new machine, which I want now more than ever. (Dear Santa) So, my handmade gifts this year are small memory books for each child, highlights from our summer customized for each girl and a mini board book for M. I've been working on them anyway and now I'll just wrap them for under the tree. I must say I'm really happy with how unique each one is turning out; how personally fit for each of my children. I'll share them with you here, soon.
As for the "December daily" notion (I thought I would play along with Ali) but with my camera woes, (now my backup digital is going awry, too) I've decided to shoot film and start "documenting" next Wednesday with the kids Christmas pageant, journaling right on through our New Year's eve celebration with family. That will cover our annual road trip and will be a really good reflection of OUR typical holiday experience.
Today I begin holiday baking! We have sun streaming in the kitchen window for the first time all week. The soft light + the sounds of this should make for a most enjoyable time making mini pecan tarts.
It's mixer time! Let's see if that works.
Happy weekend!
