Today I was paid a huge compliment by a friend I haven't seen in months. She's been gone since the end of summer, and thus has missed my 'transition period' of putting the kids in school, my new addiction to thrift stores, and my rearranging and/or painting everything in my house! However, as we talked about deeper things today than spray paint and good deals...things like how much I feel God is growing me, how healthy I am feeling right now, how much less stressed I am, and how confident I feel that the Lord has led us to this place (in regards to church, school, job, etc.) she was saying how she sensed those changes in me. She said "Even your house has a different feel. It just seems peaceful." What good that did my heart! Throughout all the transition and changes, I have felt such a renewed enjoyment in being able to be home, and focus on making it a welcoming place, not just for guests, but for my family. I used to greatly enjoy entertaining and just sitting down and sharing a cup of tea or coffee with a friend, and over the past few years felt that part of me had gotten lost somewhere. My home felt too small and not good enough, and just generally a place of pure function and anything 'extra' was basically resigned to position of afterthought. Over the holidays we've had the pleasure of having quite a bit of company, several of which were old friends we hadn't had in our home for quite a while. While it made me feel good to hear compliments on my projects, what made me feel better was a returned joy to being able to welcome folks and have them feel totally at home. Sure, sometimes it was tight and we had to set up extra tables for kids or really squish in tight, but we managed. Some cups got spilled and some cookies burned...but really - no biggy. And there were a couple of times when I was in the middle of conversation, and since the 'hostess' was distracted, someone helped themselves to look through my cupboards for a cup or bowl. While some might feel awkward about that, I love nothing more!! Not that I wasn't being a good hostess, but rather, it made me feel good to know that people feel comfortable enough with me and my house to know it was okay for them to 'poke around'. In some way, the past few weeks have made me feel like I found myself again.
So, without getting too 'deep', I don't know where I was before...but it's good to be back!! :)
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
thank God for Kids
Note: for some reason, the post I did after this one, is appearing below instead of above. So if you're interested in seeing my Christmas Home Tour, scroll on down!
There have been so many funny stories emerging from my little ones the past few days, but I just haven't had the spare moments to get them posted. But this one is just too funny not to share...
The other day I had to make a 'run' to the Yankee Candle outlet....no, not for gifts, but I had absolutely NO Christmasy candles in the house, and who can finish decorating or wrap presents or watch Christmas movies without the cozy scents and warm glow? So, it was imperative I pick up a few. Of course, since I'm there anyway, I simply had to take the time to sniff all the yummy jar candles. Lukey was with me, and he also enjoys sniffing, so we took a few leisurely minutes to indulge. One jar I opened and left him get a good whiff without telling him what it was. Immediately he said "Ooh, that one is coffee!" I said, "Yep! And I REALLY like that one." (Last year I received a pretty pink, but ghastly scented Rose candle from him. He absolutely insisted on it because he informed Todd that I liked pink, so he MUST get me that one. Thought I'd head him off at the pass and plant a few thought-seeds about the coffee candle). We continued browsing, and after a while Luke said, "Mom, I really want to get you that coffee candle for Christmas." I told him that it would probably be better, if he wanted to get me something, to do it when Dad had him out, without me there. He was completely undeterred. "Nooooo," he insisted, "I want to get it noooooow!!" I tried to dissuade him again, explaining that it really wasn't the best for me to purchase my own gift. After more unsuccessful exchange about it, I finally gave it. I figured, after all, Todd would be happy to not have to make the trek to the outlets, because I was pretty sure if I was able to manage to convince Luke to not get it today, he would be relentless in his pursuit of said coffee candle before Christmas. Nothing else would do.
After paying and heading out, as soon as we got in the van, Luke said to me "Mom, when we get home can you help me wrap the candle?" This time I was drawing the line. "No Luke," I said, "I really can't help wrap my own gift. Someone else can help you do that part, OK?" This time he seemed to see the sense in it and quieted down. Later in the afternoon, I had relayed the story to Kaitlyn while Luke was napping. When he got up, still a little bleary eyed, he excitedly said to his sister, "Kate! I got mom's Christmas present today!" (We were all in the living room at the time). She responded "I know! A candle, right?" Luke threw up his arms in frustration. "Kate!!!" He shouted, as he nodded in my direction, so upset his sister said it out loud, right in front of me! :) I quickly jumped in, "It's ok Luke, I'll still be surprised." Amazingly, he seemed satisfied.
Todd & I had a meeting that night, and when we got home, there was a gift all wrapped under the tree, and a funny report from Kate. Apparently he had recruited his big sister to help him. While wrapping she jokingly said to him, "So, do you think Mom knows what you got her?" Totally missing the humor he replied seriously, "I don't think so." Kaitlyn, stunned, said "Are you serious??" to which he replied, "Yeah.". Wisely she left it drop, but practically rolled on the floor later as she told us about the exchange.
The next morning when Luke came out he very solemnly came over to me and asked "Mom, do you know what your Christmas present is?" OH. MY. GOODNESS. It was all I could do not to crack up. I somehow managed to keep my composure and said, "Well, honey, I do, BUT if we don't talk about it anymore from now til Christmas I will probably forget, and then I'll be surprised on Christmas, okay?" Relief visibly washed over him and he happily agreed. Not one word about it has been uttered since.
He's doing great keeping the few other 'secrets' he knows about for his siblings and cousins, and I gotta say, between all his questions about and excitement over understanding the REAL Christmas story, and his questions and obvious struggle about wanting to believe in Santa, but having that niggling feeling he knows the truth, this has been the most fun Christmas with him yet. Little kids are so great.
This morning he was wearing a Santa hat and playing 'train' in the living room with lined up chairs. His brothers did something to harrass him, and he stood up and declared they were on the 'naughty list'. I laughed, at which point he turned to me and said "Now YOU'RE on the naughty list too, Mom!" He was about 1/2 serious, but the twinkle in his eye was priceless. I'm laughing again just thinking about it. All reminds me of that song "Thank God for Kids". So true.
There have been so many funny stories emerging from my little ones the past few days, but I just haven't had the spare moments to get them posted. But this one is just too funny not to share...
The other day I had to make a 'run' to the Yankee Candle outlet....no, not for gifts, but I had absolutely NO Christmasy candles in the house, and who can finish decorating or wrap presents or watch Christmas movies without the cozy scents and warm glow? So, it was imperative I pick up a few. Of course, since I'm there anyway, I simply had to take the time to sniff all the yummy jar candles. Lukey was with me, and he also enjoys sniffing, so we took a few leisurely minutes to indulge. One jar I opened and left him get a good whiff without telling him what it was. Immediately he said "Ooh, that one is coffee!" I said, "Yep! And I REALLY like that one." (Last year I received a pretty pink, but ghastly scented Rose candle from him. He absolutely insisted on it because he informed Todd that I liked pink, so he MUST get me that one. Thought I'd head him off at the pass and plant a few thought-seeds about the coffee candle). We continued browsing, and after a while Luke said, "Mom, I really want to get you that coffee candle for Christmas." I told him that it would probably be better, if he wanted to get me something, to do it when Dad had him out, without me there. He was completely undeterred. "Nooooo," he insisted, "I want to get it noooooow!!" I tried to dissuade him again, explaining that it really wasn't the best for me to purchase my own gift. After more unsuccessful exchange about it, I finally gave it. I figured, after all, Todd would be happy to not have to make the trek to the outlets, because I was pretty sure if I was able to manage to convince Luke to not get it today, he would be relentless in his pursuit of said coffee candle before Christmas. Nothing else would do.
After paying and heading out, as soon as we got in the van, Luke said to me "Mom, when we get home can you help me wrap the candle?" This time I was drawing the line. "No Luke," I said, "I really can't help wrap my own gift. Someone else can help you do that part, OK?" This time he seemed to see the sense in it and quieted down. Later in the afternoon, I had relayed the story to Kaitlyn while Luke was napping. When he got up, still a little bleary eyed, he excitedly said to his sister, "Kate! I got mom's Christmas present today!" (We were all in the living room at the time). She responded "I know! A candle, right?" Luke threw up his arms in frustration. "Kate!!!" He shouted, as he nodded in my direction, so upset his sister said it out loud, right in front of me! :) I quickly jumped in, "It's ok Luke, I'll still be surprised." Amazingly, he seemed satisfied.
Todd & I had a meeting that night, and when we got home, there was a gift all wrapped under the tree, and a funny report from Kate. Apparently he had recruited his big sister to help him. While wrapping she jokingly said to him, "So, do you think Mom knows what you got her?" Totally missing the humor he replied seriously, "I don't think so." Kaitlyn, stunned, said "Are you serious??" to which he replied, "Yeah.". Wisely she left it drop, but practically rolled on the floor later as she told us about the exchange.
The next morning when Luke came out he very solemnly came over to me and asked "Mom, do you know what your Christmas present is?" OH. MY. GOODNESS. It was all I could do not to crack up. I somehow managed to keep my composure and said, "Well, honey, I do, BUT if we don't talk about it anymore from now til Christmas I will probably forget, and then I'll be surprised on Christmas, okay?" Relief visibly washed over him and he happily agreed. Not one word about it has been uttered since.
He's doing great keeping the few other 'secrets' he knows about for his siblings and cousins, and I gotta say, between all his questions about and excitement over understanding the REAL Christmas story, and his questions and obvious struggle about wanting to believe in Santa, but having that niggling feeling he knows the truth, this has been the most fun Christmas with him yet. Little kids are so great.
This morning he was wearing a Santa hat and playing 'train' in the living room with lined up chairs. His brothers did something to harrass him, and he stood up and declared they were on the 'naughty list'. I laughed, at which point he turned to me and said "Now YOU'RE on the naughty list too, Mom!" He was about 1/2 serious, but the twinkle in his eye was priceless. I'm laughing again just thinking about it. All reminds me of that song "Thank God for Kids". So true.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Christmas Home Tour
Well, I've been thoroughly enjoying taking 'tours' of several Christmasy homes through some of the blogs that I read, and have been wanting to link up to them for days, but just haven't had the time to get to it! It's one of those things that is on the 'want' to-do list, not the 'MUST-get-done-before-Christmas' list. So, now that I think the latter is mostly under control, and we are still fairly snowed in (hubby is snowblowing the driveway as I type) I now have a few moments to sit down and post some pics of what my home is looking like this season. Here's the blogs I'm linking to if you want to check out some other Christmas Homes.
And, since I can't seem to keep my house totally cleaned up for more than 5 minutes at a time, you'll have to excuse any laundry, dishes in the sink, or piles of bags (presents waiting to be wrapped) that you might catch glimpses of in the background of any of these shots! Oh, well, I was trying to "keep it real" this year anyway, right? If you're here for the first time from a Christmas Tour link then welcome! And if you're an old friend here, then welcome to you too! I'd love to be able to have each of you over for real, for some tea and cookies, but since I can't, I hope you enjoy the 'virtual hospitality'!
I'll try to give you an 'overview' shot of each room, then focus on some of my favorite details. First the living room...our pretty but super-picky tree. Maybe our last year for a real one, depending on Seth's allergies. They only seemed to be a problem for a few days, and now he's been totally fine. Someone told Todd that when you first bring the tree in it releases all it's pollen, so what they do for their allergy-kids is bring it in to the basement for a few days, then up to the living room. Anyone else know anything about that? I'll have to do some research...but we may be hitting some 'after-Christmas-sales' to purchase a nice fake for next year. This is also the first year I've done white lights and a pretty 'uniform' tree (color coordinated, balls, etc.) Usually it's filled with homemade and random kid-oriented ornaments, and lots of colorful lights. This year we did 2 trees...this more 'formal' one, and the homemade looking one down in the family room.
My latest 'bargain' adorning the top of the TV armoir...my little red tin basket, another Goodwill find. And my candle filled in with cranberries and, you guessed it, epsom salts.
The shelf I just re-did and hubby hung, and also the nativity that Luke has been greatly enjoying identifying all the people and explaining its significance to me.
The dining room. My corner cabinet holds my special Christmas plate that my mom gave me one of the first years I was married. It's words tell of the meaningful parts of the holidays for me. (It doesn't specifically mention Jesus, which is of course, the most significant!) The countdown plate is this year's new 'crafty' addition, and the garland is something I purchased a couple years ago at Ten Thousand Villages. Besides it's beauty, it always reminds me to think of others across the world from me, who might be experiencing a Christmas quite different from my own. The other seemingly insignificant thing here actually holds quite a lot of significance for me. Those little Christmas tree mints...they remind me of my Grandma, who I've been missing a lot this year for some reason.
My cute little carolers, made by my special friends, Patti and Deb. They are actually holding some real sheet music...it's 'Joy to the World'. And my new yummy Yankee candle...Red Berry & Cedar. Very Christmasy.
Just 2 steps away is my cozy little kitchen. The fridge is messy with all sorts of papers, but they simply must be there so I see them every day and remember things...like party dates and school lunches, etc.! But atop the fridge you will see my collection of tins, which also remind me of Grandma. A few because they were hers, and a few because they depict Norman Rockwell covers of the Saturday Evening Post, a magazine I used to sit and peruse for comics and other funny things while I was visiting my grandparents house.
The tea kettle isn't particularly Christmasy, but it's at the ready for some tea or hot chocolate, complete with candy canes nearby to use as minty stirrers. And the little counter that has become our own personal 'coffee bar' - with the pretty red mugs and Christmas creamer and sugar just waiting to be used! The Christmas tree spoon rests - yet another thrift store fine for $.25 each.
The window sill with Mrs. Frosty and some Ball jars transformed into wintry candle holders with a few cranberries and epsom salts.
The toasty warm family room where our coal stove is all fired up. The tree looking a little sad, not yet full decorated, and just home from Goodwill. It was a bargain, and thus, the first time we've been able to have 2 trees. It's worth it, so we can make do.
And Maggie, the Christmas Dog. :o)
Even the bedrooms got a touch of Christmas.
A little spray paint, some ribbon, lights, Christmas balls and a few old silk pointsettias can actually result in something quite pretty. I'm loving laying in bed and gazing at this twinkling beauty at night before I drift off....it's very relaxing.
Bryce's room...with his beloved electronics all decked out in lights, and the little tree we found and transformed into his own funky style. (It started out all a hideous gold).
Kate's tree and the younger boys' tree. Rooms too messy at time of photos to show any more of those rooms!! :o)
And even the bathroom got just a touch of holiday cheer. (By the way, it's not Christmasy, but the wall art there was a thrift store frame that I made into 'art' with just some ribbon and scrapbook paper!)
Well, that's about it. There's so much more I'd love to do, so many ideas I've gotten from so many other blogs, but these things take time. Someday I WILL have a lovely red door, and it will be lavishly decorated in greens, and I'll have the time and energy to add lots of bows and ribbons and wreaths all around. However, for now, I'm just choosing to be content with what I have to work with. So, I hope that you enjoyed the little tour. (I tried to do it as a video blog, but that didn't work out so well. And I decided I don't like seeing myself talk. Pictures and words are much more my style.) :o) If you're a guest over here from a home tour, please leave a comment, I'd love to visit your blog. With the thousands of links that have been posted, chance are good I haven't made it there yet, but I'd really love to!
Merry Christmas!
And, since I can't seem to keep my house totally cleaned up for more than 5 minutes at a time, you'll have to excuse any laundry, dishes in the sink, or piles of bags (presents waiting to be wrapped) that you might catch glimpses of in the background of any of these shots! Oh, well, I was trying to "keep it real" this year anyway, right? If you're here for the first time from a Christmas Tour link then welcome! And if you're an old friend here, then welcome to you too! I'd love to be able to have each of you over for real, for some tea and cookies, but since I can't, I hope you enjoy the 'virtual hospitality'!I'll try to give you an 'overview' shot of each room, then focus on some of my favorite details. First the living room...our pretty but super-picky tree. Maybe our last year for a real one, depending on Seth's allergies. They only seemed to be a problem for a few days, and now he's been totally fine. Someone told Todd that when you first bring the tree in it releases all it's pollen, so what they do for their allergy-kids is bring it in to the basement for a few days, then up to the living room. Anyone else know anything about that? I'll have to do some research...but we may be hitting some 'after-Christmas-sales' to purchase a nice fake for next year. This is also the first year I've done white lights and a pretty 'uniform' tree (color coordinated, balls, etc.) Usually it's filled with homemade and random kid-oriented ornaments, and lots of colorful lights. This year we did 2 trees...this more 'formal' one, and the homemade looking one down in the family room.
My latest 'bargain' adorning the top of the TV armoir...my little red tin basket, another Goodwill find. And my candle filled in with cranberries and, you guessed it, epsom salts.
The shelf I just re-did and hubby hung, and also the nativity that Luke has been greatly enjoying identifying all the people and explaining its significance to me.
The dining room. My corner cabinet holds my special Christmas plate that my mom gave me one of the first years I was married. It's words tell of the meaningful parts of the holidays for me. (It doesn't specifically mention Jesus, which is of course, the most significant!) The countdown plate is this year's new 'crafty' addition, and the garland is something I purchased a couple years ago at Ten Thousand Villages. Besides it's beauty, it always reminds me to think of others across the world from me, who might be experiencing a Christmas quite different from my own. The other seemingly insignificant thing here actually holds quite a lot of significance for me. Those little Christmas tree mints...they remind me of my Grandma, who I've been missing a lot this year for some reason.
My cute little carolers, made by my special friends, Patti and Deb. They are actually holding some real sheet music...it's 'Joy to the World'. And my new yummy Yankee candle...Red Berry & Cedar. Very Christmasy.
Just 2 steps away is my cozy little kitchen. The fridge is messy with all sorts of papers, but they simply must be there so I see them every day and remember things...like party dates and school lunches, etc.! But atop the fridge you will see my collection of tins, which also remind me of Grandma. A few because they were hers, and a few because they depict Norman Rockwell covers of the Saturday Evening Post, a magazine I used to sit and peruse for comics and other funny things while I was visiting my grandparents house.
The tea kettle isn't particularly Christmasy, but it's at the ready for some tea or hot chocolate, complete with candy canes nearby to use as minty stirrers. And the little counter that has become our own personal 'coffee bar' - with the pretty red mugs and Christmas creamer and sugar just waiting to be used! The Christmas tree spoon rests - yet another thrift store fine for $.25 each.
The window sill with Mrs. Frosty and some Ball jars transformed into wintry candle holders with a few cranberries and epsom salts.
The toasty warm family room where our coal stove is all fired up. The tree looking a little sad, not yet full decorated, and just home from Goodwill. It was a bargain, and thus, the first time we've been able to have 2 trees. It's worth it, so we can make do.
And Maggie, the Christmas Dog. :o)
Even the bedrooms got a touch of Christmas.
A little spray paint, some ribbon, lights, Christmas balls and a few old silk pointsettias can actually result in something quite pretty. I'm loving laying in bed and gazing at this twinkling beauty at night before I drift off....it's very relaxing.
Bryce's room...with his beloved electronics all decked out in lights, and the little tree we found and transformed into his own funky style. (It started out all a hideous gold).
Kate's tree and the younger boys' tree. Rooms too messy at time of photos to show any more of those rooms!! :o)
And even the bathroom got just a touch of holiday cheer. (By the way, it's not Christmasy, but the wall art there was a thrift store frame that I made into 'art' with just some ribbon and scrapbook paper!)
Well, that's about it. There's so much more I'd love to do, so many ideas I've gotten from so many other blogs, but these things take time. Someday I WILL have a lovely red door, and it will be lavishly decorated in greens, and I'll have the time and energy to add lots of bows and ribbons and wreaths all around. However, for now, I'm just choosing to be content with what I have to work with. So, I hope that you enjoyed the little tour. (I tried to do it as a video blog, but that didn't work out so well. And I decided I don't like seeing myself talk. Pictures and words are much more my style.) :o) If you're a guest over here from a home tour, please leave a comment, I'd love to visit your blog. With the thousands of links that have been posted, chance are good I haven't made it there yet, but I'd really love to!
Merry Christmas!
and the winner is....
Brianna!! Using the official online 'random integer generator', I put in all your entries, and entry number 6 was chosen. So congratulations Bri, and I will get your prize in the mail...just as soon as we shovel out and I can trek to the post office!! Enjoy your weekend peoples, and the snow, for those of you (which I believe is most of you) who are getting it! Now, I must be off to the chocolate minty goodness my hubby just brought home from Dunkin Donuts! :0)
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
giveaway #2!!
I am sooo sorry that I didn't get to posting this exciting giveaway sooner! I'm very excited to offer you (and proud too, I might say) this lovely jewelry set from the 'Betsy Collection'. Okay, really, there's no such 'real' company, but that is what my sister's friend has been telling people when they 'ooh' and 'aaah' over her new, hand-made, one-of-a-kind jewelry designed by my sis, Betsy. She had made up several sets of all sorts a while back, but I believe she is completely SOLD OUT, so we are very lucky to have this prize up for grabs! I will give a blatant plug here... Betsy does to custom designs and takes orders for them....though, I don't think she is taking any more orders to be filled by Christmas. However, if you'd like to place an order, just shoot me a message, or let me know in your comment and I'll be happy to put you in contact with Betsy.
I have been terribly unsuccessful in photographing this set. The pic I got does not do it ANY justice at all...so let me give you a little description. It's very earthy looking, with tans/browns in the stones that are linked by a silver chain. The earrings are also silver loops with a tan center bead. Again, please forgive my lack of photography skills. If I can get a better pic later I will change it. If not, just trust me...it's truly some lovely jewelry!!
If you'd like to win this set, for yourself or as a gift, just leave me a comment...doesn't matter what, just something to get your name in. And please remember, I won't be able to draw an 'anonymous' winner, so be sure to leave your name. The drawing will close on Friday at 8 p.m.!
I have been terribly unsuccessful in photographing this set. The pic I got does not do it ANY justice at all...so let me give you a little description. It's very earthy looking, with tans/browns in the stones that are linked by a silver chain. The earrings are also silver loops with a tan center bead. Again, please forgive my lack of photography skills. If I can get a better pic later I will change it. If not, just trust me...it's truly some lovely jewelry!!
If you'd like to win this set, for yourself or as a gift, just leave me a comment...doesn't matter what, just something to get your name in. And please remember, I won't be able to draw an 'anonymous' winner, so be sure to leave your name. The drawing will close on Friday at 8 p.m.!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
holiday DIY decoration projects
Here's a few of the DIY projects I've done recently and just haven't had the time to upload the photos til now. (See, blah, rainy days are good for something...catching up on stuff inside!!)
Here's the TV armoir that we had gotten free and I redid to go with the 'shabby chic' feel I'm going for in the living room of late. It started out black, but I forgot to take a 'before' pic right away, so there is some primer on it in this shot. (I did love it black too, but unfortunately, black just doesn't go with the furniture I already have...)
The painting process was a bit more of an ordeal than my previous furniture projects, but, in the end, I'm quite happy with it!
Then there's my new candle holder that I am just loving. I saw this idea on another blog, then Bets beat me to making some great ones that she used on her Thanksgiving table. But they are easy as pie to make, (well easier, actually, for those of you non-pie makers!), they are super cheap, and you can change them many times for different uses! I started out with a few items from the dollar store and thrift store (that also cost$1) and some E6000 glue:
I put some of this great, clear drying glue around the edge of the candle base (which I believe was the bottom of an old Partylite hurricane lamp) set the tall vase on top and let it dry in a safe place (finding that place in my house was a job in itself!). After it was all dry I placed the tall candle in the center and played with different filler for around the inside. First I did some greens and berries:
Wasn't quite happy with that, so I played around with some different things, and in the end cranberries won out, and this is what it currently looks like sitting atop the TV cabinet.
Remember those red plates that I found cheap at the thrift store and used to make my countdown plate? I went back and got a few more, and found this plate holder at the thrift shop as well. It was originally white. A little spray paint (of course!) and it was black wrought iron looking, like the other decor items in my kitchen/dining room. A little free-hand painting and a bow on top (I know, the letters are a little lopsided and uneven...I'm going with telling myself that it's 'whimsical looking') and now I have another new Christmas decoration to add to my collection!
And how about this easy-peasy one? I think these are the perfect 'homey' decoration for my kitchen window sill. It's just Ball canning jars filled with epsom salts that look all snowy and sparkly with some candles bopped in! I've also read this are perfect for putting a tea light in and placing on walkways or porches outside because it's a safe way to burn a candle unattended. (Another craft note - I haven't tried it yet, but I've seen people coating plain old pillar candles with some clear-drying glue, like Mod Podge and rolling it in epsom salts for a sparkly coated candle.) I like sparkly...can you tell?
And remember that hideous blue plastic tray I painted a few months back? Well, it's now holding some dried cranberries, pine cones, etc. and a candle on my dining room table. Just tied a few scraps of material on the handles to make it coordinate with my table cloth. (And yes, I actually dried the cranberries myself.)
I think that's most of it for now. I've been having fun...can you tell? In the process, I think I may have developed a serious addiction to thrift stores....but that's a whole different post!
Here's the TV armoir that we had gotten free and I redid to go with the 'shabby chic' feel I'm going for in the living room of late. It started out black, but I forgot to take a 'before' pic right away, so there is some primer on it in this shot. (I did love it black too, but unfortunately, black just doesn't go with the furniture I already have...)
The painting process was a bit more of an ordeal than my previous furniture projects, but, in the end, I'm quite happy with it!
Then there's my new candle holder that I am just loving. I saw this idea on another blog, then Bets beat me to making some great ones that she used on her Thanksgiving table. But they are easy as pie to make, (well easier, actually, for those of you non-pie makers!), they are super cheap, and you can change them many times for different uses! I started out with a few items from the dollar store and thrift store (that also cost$1) and some E6000 glue:
I put some of this great, clear drying glue around the edge of the candle base (which I believe was the bottom of an old Partylite hurricane lamp) set the tall vase on top and let it dry in a safe place (finding that place in my house was a job in itself!). After it was all dry I placed the tall candle in the center and played with different filler for around the inside. First I did some greens and berries:
Wasn't quite happy with that, so I played around with some different things, and in the end cranberries won out, and this is what it currently looks like sitting atop the TV cabinet.
Remember those red plates that I found cheap at the thrift store and used to make my countdown plate? I went back and got a few more, and found this plate holder at the thrift shop as well. It was originally white. A little spray paint (of course!) and it was black wrought iron looking, like the other decor items in my kitchen/dining room. A little free-hand painting and a bow on top (I know, the letters are a little lopsided and uneven...I'm going with telling myself that it's 'whimsical looking') and now I have another new Christmas decoration to add to my collection!
And how about this easy-peasy one? I think these are the perfect 'homey' decoration for my kitchen window sill. It's just Ball canning jars filled with epsom salts that look all snowy and sparkly with some candles bopped in! I've also read this are perfect for putting a tea light in and placing on walkways or porches outside because it's a safe way to burn a candle unattended. (Another craft note - I haven't tried it yet, but I've seen people coating plain old pillar candles with some clear-drying glue, like Mod Podge and rolling it in epsom salts for a sparkly coated candle.) I like sparkly...can you tell?
And remember that hideous blue plastic tray I painted a few months back? Well, it's now holding some dried cranberries, pine cones, etc. and a candle on my dining room table. Just tied a few scraps of material on the handles to make it coordinate with my table cloth. (And yes, I actually dried the cranberries myself.)
I think that's most of it for now. I've been having fun...can you tell? In the process, I think I may have developed a serious addiction to thrift stores....but that's a whole different post!
Monday, December 7, 2009
advent
During my childhood, the church we attended never did the traditional advent wreath. The churches I later attended did do an advent wreath, but my only understanding of it was as a countdown to Christmas. However, this Christmas I did a little 'investigating' into the background and meaning of the lovely evergreen wreath with candles that seemed to me an odd choice for a Christmas tradition, and was very touched by what I found. I shared this with our church for 'Kids Sunday' on the first Sunday of advent, explaining all the different meanings and significances, and now we will keep touching on it as we light each candle on the remaining Sundays between now and Christmas. I thought I'd also share it with you, and if your church doesn't do this, maybe you'd even like to consider doing with your own family.As you can see, the wreath is made of evergreens in a circle with 3 purple candles, 1 pink candle, and the large white center candle. Early Christians missionaries, and even back to Martin Luther, often used things in nature to explain spiritual principals. The evergreens were often used to explain the concept of eternal life. This concept is also represented by the circular shape of the greens. The earliest observances of the Advent period itself was not merely a countdown to Christmas, with all the hustle and bustle as we know it. In fact, it was quite different.
The four weeks before Christmas were actually a period of spiritual reflection and repentance, with a focus on Jesus' coming...not just as a babe, but as a returning King. This included times of prayer and fasting. This period is represented by the 3 purple candles, one lit each Sunday, beginning with the Sunday closest to November 30th. The purple color represents royalty. These three weeks remind us that we are to be remembering and preparing for the coming of a King. Direction for the preparation for this King was given by John the Baptist long ago...a baptism of repentance and forgiveness.
The fourth week, a pink candle was lit. The pink candle is representative of joyous celebration. How very much we do have to celebrate...not just the Jesus came as a baby, and because of that we can have forgiveness for sins, but that he is return as the Prince of Peace and King of Kings, to reign over the whole earth.
Lastly, the largest, white candle, placed in the center, represents Jesus himself. He is the pure and holy one, the Light of the World, and He is the be the very center of our lives and all we do. This candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to burn as a reminder, all throughout our celebration, that he is TRULY the reason for it all, and we celebrate in honor of Him.
I know there are 'traditional' readings that often are read with each candle lighting, but we have decided that for our church gatherings, especially with having so many small children, that just discussing the significance, incorporating simple and clear verses is the most effective. I personally have found new meaning in the tradition that I always regarded as merely a Christmas countdown. Now, each time I think of 'advent' (which literally, the word means 'coming') I am reminded that I am also preparing the way for a second coming...and that preparation begins in my heart.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
and the winner is...
LORI!! We did it the old fashioned way, and I put everyones' names on papers and with his eyes shut, let my Seth pick one. My dear friend Lori who had to move away this summer was the lucky winner. Wish I would have done this earlier so I could have given her her prize when I got to see her for a few minutes at the poinsettia show yesterday! Oh, well... Lori, if you guys don't happen to be coming back through this way, I will get it in the mail to you ASAP.
Thanks for all the fun comments about what you're looking forward to about Christmas! The next drawing will be in a few days!
Thanks for all the fun comments about what you're looking forward to about Christmas! The next drawing will be in a few days!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Christmas in a Castle
As you may remember, if you know me in 'real life' or have been reading my blog since last year, that my sister and brother-in-law run a greenhouse, and every year they host an enormous poinsettia show. This year the theme is "Christmas in a Castle", and I can assure you that it will be spectacular. I've gotten some 'behind the scenes' glimpses, as well as getting to help ready some of it, and I stand utterly amazed at the creativity that has been poured into this year's displays. If you are local and have a chance to stop in and take a tour at Glick's Greenhouse in Oley, I am quite sure you will not be disappointed! I wish I had taken more pictures when I was up there the other day, but I forgot to take my camera (I was supposed to be there to work anyway), so here are just a few glimpses of things in the early stages (thanks to Beth Glick, and Glick's FB page and website for the pics I stole!):
The 'royal' invitation....
The drawbridge is down,
the gates flung open wide,
a Christmas Celebration
awaits you inside!
10,000 poinsettias, a wreath display,
There’s even a drawing for prizeson the way. 
The early stages of the Great Hall...undecorated yet, but will be grand once it's done!
And these 'family portraits' (of the greenhouse family) will line the walls:
A big seller (I think 'cuz they make such great little gifts) - the 'mini wells':
And the zillions and zillions of poinsettias!!! You can get them in almost any color imaginable, because they grow such a variety - from traditional red, burgundy, spotted ones and orange spice - and if you can't find one of those to suit your fancy, they actually do take white ones and 'paint' them if you like! Last year I saw many blue and purple poinsettias being purchased. And if you really like glitz, you can even get them dusted with glitter!! It's really rather cool.
If all that wasn't enough to entice you, there's also live music and free food and drink!! This is an event you seriously won't want to miss!! And if you do come, stop by Register 4, where I will be 'planted' almost the entire weekend!!! See you there!!
FYI: The hours of the show are Friday 9-9, Saturday 9-5, and Monday 9-9. Please note: CLOSED Sunday!! You can click here to visit Glick's website for more info on the schedule, directions, varieties of poinsettias, etc.
The 'royal' invitation....
The drawbridge is down, the gates flung open wide,
a Christmas Celebration
awaits you inside!
10,000 poinsettias, a wreath display,
There’s even a drawing for prizeson the way.
Gather into the great hall for music by the band -
Perhaps you’ll hear strains from a Celtic land.
You ask how much food and drink are worth?
You’ll find them completely free at our hearth.
So celebrate with us in a castle of stone,
As we look to the King upon His throne.
The early stages of the Great Hall...undecorated yet, but will be grand once it's done!
And these 'family portraits' (of the greenhouse family) will line the walls:
A big seller (I think 'cuz they make such great little gifts) - the 'mini wells':
And the zillions and zillions of poinsettias!!! You can get them in almost any color imaginable, because they grow such a variety - from traditional red, burgundy, spotted ones and orange spice - and if you can't find one of those to suit your fancy, they actually do take white ones and 'paint' them if you like! Last year I saw many blue and purple poinsettias being purchased. And if you really like glitz, you can even get them dusted with glitter!! It's really rather cool.
If all that wasn't enough to entice you, there's also live music and free food and drink!! This is an event you seriously won't want to miss!! And if you do come, stop by Register 4, where I will be 'planted' almost the entire weekend!!! See you there!!FYI: The hours of the show are Friday 9-9, Saturday 9-5, and Monday 9-9. Please note: CLOSED Sunday!! You can click here to visit Glick's website for more info on the schedule, directions, varieties of poinsettias, etc.
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