Busy, busy

No matter how early I start, I'm never as far along as I'd hoped by December. Remember here, when I said I'd be lucky to get Halloween stuff up by Nov 1st? That's about right! This year, I even stalled on going to cut our tree. I just couldn't handle cramming more in over Thanksgiving weekend.

My little brother is engaged(!) to an awesome girl and they graciously hosted this year. So I didn't really change up my fall decor for any blogworthy Thanksgiving pics. One vintage turkey and some kiddie crafts were the stars of our mantel. 

Again, last years pic is a favorite!

Thanks to all you energetic and creative bloggers tho, I've been inspired to finally begin Christmas decorating.

I've pulled out some of my kitchen stuff and love the fun yellows n blues mixed in w/red n green.

Isn't this the cutest nativity? My mom gave this to Sarah years ago - it all goes inside n folds up. LOVE IT!

I just barely got all my donations out and cards started. Made these pedestals for Water For Christmas. Please Click!

Started giving baked treats to some neighbors, clients etc., mostly quick breads w/ornaments or custom cake box cookies that can be made fast. One box choc cake mix, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup oil + your additions  (I chose 1 cup mint chips and about 8 candy canes broken up). I  mix most candy bits in but save some "pretty" pieces to press in the top. Easy peasy, mint chocolate AND red n white = PERFECT!

Our holiday spirit's also been boosted by ice skating, crafting, rocking out to Christmas music and finding Santa's Elf spy! (The Elf hides in a new spot each night.) The Elf seemed to have sought out comfort from another small elf already in our candy... See note in boot!

Jack found him first and was absolutely mesmerized. He grabbed the stuffed Santa and conversed w/the Elf for over a half hour! Yes, I know he's wearing the same sweater one year later, and my central vac hose is (permanently) out, and floors need mopping... That's my life!

The Elf left us this note on December 1st and the game is on... *smile*

                                    Have you ever wondered how Santa could know

                                    If you’re naughty or nice each as you grow

                                    For hundreds of years its been a big secret

                                    It now can be shared if you promise to keep it”

                                     

                                    “At holiday time Santa sends me to you

                                    I watch and report on all that you do

                                    My job’s an assignment from Santa himself

                                    I am his helper, a friendly scout elf.”

                                     

                                     

                                    “In the car, at the park, or even at school

                                    The world will get out if you broke a rule.”

                                     

                                     

                                    “I can hide on a plant, a shelf or a frame

                                    Where will I be? Let’s make it a game.”

                                     

                                     

                                    “There’s only one rule that you have to follow

                                    So I will come back and be here tomorrow

                                    Please do not touch me. My magic might go

                                    And Santa won’t hear all I’ve seen and I know.”

             Hope your holidays are FUN!


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