The Elves Have Been Busy

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? 

Despite the everyday distractions, we are making progress with Christmas things here. We have bought or made all of the gifts we can think of. (However, there are always some people we're unsure what to get.) The holiday letters have been mailed, and the Christmas tree has been decorated. Hopefully, we will be done decorating the house this week, which makes it sound like we do a lot, but we don't. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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...