Well, Christmas time is upon us once again. Where HAS the time gone. Didn't I just put my Christmas decorations AWAY from last year?

It seems that this time of year should be one of reflection, contemplation and joy, but in my attempt to make Christmas "meaningful and special" I end up doing the opposite sometimes. With all the cards, baking, shopping, decorating and with all the Christmas events and parties to attend, it gets so busy and unfortunately, Jesus gets left in the dust. That being said, in the last few years I have tried to simplify my holiday time. That's why many of you reading this blog have not gotten a Christmas card from us in the past few years. Don't take it personally. Remember...I was simplifying. I also gave up baking. I'm already a little overweight. Then one year I asked my self..."Self, why on earth do I bake yummy goodies that just add inches to my thighs?" This year I've decided to send out Christmas cards once again. I just hope I can get that family photo taken soon. I'm still not going to bake.

Most of you know that my degree is in graphic design and that's what I do for a living when the work is there. When the work is not there, I've had to get creative...literally. I have found jewelry making and painting to be my avenues of creativity. My specialty is painted furniture, mirrors, frames, etc. I use acrylics paint and 3 coats of polyeurothane to protect. I hand-lettered an inspirational verse on each piece and they're all unique. If you are interested in purchasing any of these, please let me know. I sell the mirrors for $45.00 each.

I also dabbled in jewelry making but I created one particlar bracelet that I name "Genesis". It's a themed bracelet that has done very well. It was one of the items in the Prairie Home Companion Catalog. I was thrilled to be able to fill an order of 350 units last year but now my time with the catalog is over as they did not reorder. I will soon post a photo and if you are interested, I also have those for $45.00 sale as well. They are made of the finest materials and are packaged with a story card. That's all for now! I'll be back soon.