Sometimes, it's bothersome when regular life gets in the way of holiday preparations. Does anyone else feel that way? But work continues, appointments continue, paperwork continues, and chores continue. They don't seem to take a break. Can you tell, I'd like to just concentrate on holiday things?
Ward and I have been working on a few projects together. We make a good team. I come up with ideas, consult on designs, and manage projects. Ward implements his many skills to bring the projects to fruition.
Below are what we've done so far.
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| This is the prototype for bluebird boxes that we put together for kits. We will give kits to our older (5-7 yo) niece and nephews, along with a bluebird book. |
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| Ward made hamburger stacking toys for the younger kids. In the foreground, you see the separate pieces, and in the back, you can see them stacked. The stacking puzzle is harder than it looks, so a couple of the very young ones may have to grow into it. |
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| We are still experimenting with different versions of these trees. These two will live on our mantle. Hopefully, we will get more done to give away. |
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| These are cross-stitch projects that I started years ago and finally finished. I will add some garden tools to these for a gift. |
There are a couple of other things that are already wrapped. Maybe you'll get a look at them after Christmas.
How are things going at your house? Do you celebrate the Christmas and/or Hanukkah? Do you do it in a big way?
Those everyday things are calling, so I guess my computer time is over.
Until next time...
Oh my goodness, those wooden toys and decorations look amazing! I paid dearly for those stackable wooden burgers when my kids were little, and I would have been thrilled to buy them from someone who made them by hand! Would you consider an etsy shop?
ReplyDeleteI asked my husband about an Etsy shop and he doesn't want to be bothered. He'd rather give stuff away. I think making stuff to sell would take the fun out of it for him. However, if he decides that he wants to do something like an Etsy shop, I would manage it for him.
DeleteYour tree is just enchanting. What pleasure it must be to just look at it. And the stacking hamburgers, how clever! I like those mantle trees too. You two sure are a good team.
ReplyDeleteI am trying hard to get in the spirit but it has been difficult this year. Usually I am all about it, but it feels like I am running on autopilot and not finding the pleasure and peace I usually experience this month. Maybe it's the knee, the van, the as you say everyday ordinary that is getting to me. Or just the lack of good sleep. But I will get there! At least I am checking off the to-do list, and that does feel good.
The tree is heavily decorated, but there's a story to every ornament on it. There's definitely a lot of reminiscing while decorating. I think the tree is my favorite part of getting ready for Christmas. You have a lot going on, so I'm not surprised that you don't have the same Christmas spirit so far this year as you have had in the past. Hopefully, your sleep will improve soon which should help everything.
DeleteI got my tree up and the outside lights. You sound so organized. I don't think I'll send Christmas cards this year outside of about 5. last year I think I got just three. I like those little 3 ornament tree stands.
ReplyDeleteI still send out a fair amount of Christmas cards, but get fewer and fewer each year. Social media has mostly been responsible for that. I've been writing a Christmas letter for many years now and are happy to have a yearly snapshot of our family whether anyone else reads them.
DeleteOh wow. Your handmade gifts are stunning. My daughter and husband have participated in a study which monitors bluebird nesting, and the bluebird boxes reminded me of that. It's a great idea for older kids.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Obscure, you and Ward could set up an Etsy shop, but I understand how it's more enjoyable to make them as gifts. Lucky recipients!
We are anticipating yet another winter storm today, so I'm going to try to get a move on and package/mail gifts. I'm doing well with all.the.things. to prepare for Christmas. I find that I prefer go get the heavy lifting done well ahead of the fact, as there are ongoing tasks to do during the season. I hate feeling stressed and overwhelmed (nobody likes a cranky mom/wife).
Speaking of the storm, wouldn't you know, I'm heading to a neighboring city to attend a big concert this evening, and the roads are going to be icky. Sigh.
The pieces in the kits are very well labeled with clear instructions. Only tool needed is a screwdriver. The kids we're giving them to will probably need the help of an adult, but should be able to put them together themselves. We thought it would be a nice idea for the child and parent and/or grandparent to do together. We have all of the gifts that needed to be mailed mailed. But the cost for sending was more than for the gifts. I think in the future, we will be sending something we order and will be shipped from the company.
DeleteSorry about your weather. We're having a cold rain, but not snow. Be careful out there on the roads, and I hope you enjoy your concert.
Shipping costs are outrageous. I often order from companies and have them shipped to the recipient. Or I purchase small, light gifts.
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