Heaven-not-Harvard

Handmade Christmas was a success

we typically make many gifts we give to others at Christas time, so this years Handmade pledge was not a new concept for us. However this year, the kids each had to ake their gifts that they gifted to each other.  

Flannery to Liam- a fleece blanket

 

Siena to Flannery- a much needed black skirt.

Francesca to  Zelie-knitted kittens

Liam to Seamus- a new art portfolio

the next two, I confess mama had to "help" with!

Seamus to Francesca-book pocket wall hanging

Zelie to Siena- wall hanging/head board of her name

 

 

decking the doors and corners

little peaks into the early decorating. First is my kitchen tree.  I love this little tree, decked out with minituare kithcen appliances .

and these little elves perched by my kitchen sink are so sweet

handmade felt ornaments

and how much do I love this .50 cent, thrift store find?  just perfect for cards, awaiting a stamp.

 

and my wreath, I reuse a square form  and fill it in with pine and boxwood.  dressed up with these wonderful white bells, alwasy brings me joy.

Yarn Along

Joining in with Ginny, I share what I am knitting and reading.

On the needles, play sausage for Zelie for Christmas. For all those who know me- why yes, I am knitting on plastic-AGHAST!  Hey, they were only .97 cents at Joannes, sometimes economy does matter:)

I am reading, Rumer Godden's Black Narcissus, for my enjoyment and The Long Winter for the children. A wonderful blessing of having many chidren, is you get to reread many a great book.

 

Fall fun-Storybook Woods style

When I need a little beauty and whimsy in my days, I love to peek in to Storybook Woods.  Clarice is always full of inspiration and beauty, and always mindful of a budget, which makes her blog a must read for me:)

Well, she posted these wonderful silhouette pumpkins and burlap table runners, and I knew I had to have them.  A quick trip to Joannes, and sure enough they were simple and fast to whip up, and adds lots of fun fall.  Add in daughters more  than willing to do the painting and sewing of the decorations and you have one happy, festive mama!