Sunday, December 4, 2011

The Missing Rubbermaid Tote of Christmas bags and boxes

Or as I like to call it, proof positive I am a hoarder of Christmas stuff. As I indicated in the previous post, (as found here) I have a tendency to purchase and hoard Christmas paper, ribbons, boxes and bags.  Okay-- not just Christmas stuff, but that is all I am addressing for now.

Ahem. . . .

I was missing a tote full of gift boxes and bags but we found it.



So the final tally is. . .

30 rolls of wrapping paper
71 gift boxes
47 gift bags

hahaha. . .oops. Anyone have a gift wrap emergency?  Because I have you covered er. . . wrapped. 
 Now remember this is JUST the Christmas related gift boxes, bags and wrapping paper.  
 I will not, should not might not buy anymore. . . but HAVE you seen some of the stuff they have Target?
Do you think there is a 12 step program for Christmas gift wrap?





Saturday, December 3, 2011

Craft Show goodies!

Just a quick post! I attended a local craft show and of course I didn't walk away empty handed. Just had to share!

A beautiful hand crafted primitive star tree topper!

A cute snowman picture. AND bonus points for referencing 1) my German heritage 2) I ♥ Snowmen 3) I ♥ ♥ anything bird related! 

3 adorable felt tree ornaments!

An african violet pot


And rumor has it there may have been some delicious homemade Peanut Butter and Chocolate fudge....but there is no evidence to support that, HA!

I love going to all the local craft fairs and support the local artisans. And to eat BECAUSE there is always yummy nom-noms. But I really like to go so I can steal borrow some of their ideals! 

Thursday, December 1, 2011

A little holiday inspiration...

I am feeling a bit blue today. My job is winding down due to our plant closure. Today I had to say good-bye to a few more colleagues as they leave to begin their new lives. Since I really can't afford anymore retail therapy, I decided to look for inspiration in some beautifully holiday decorated homes. 

I adore this! I love to garden and enjoy the playfulness of this display! 
Courtesy Southern Living

How adorable is this? The teddy bear adds just the right amount of whimsy!Simple evergreen topiaries, a wreath, gift wrapped boxes--all create a nostalgic feel of Christmas past. I can just hear the giggles of the children playing in the yard before clamoring for some hot chocolate.
blog.pacificmutualdoor.com

Very simple but effective. I like the natural, out-doorsy look. Gather boughs of evergreen from your yard (or your neighbor's if ask nicely), paint the words Merry Christmas on some MDF  or scrap wood. A very North-woodsy vibe!
http://www.allthingsthrifty.com

This is a clean line, slightly more modern take on the Christmas foyer. Paint plastic or clay pots, add miniature evergreens (real or artificial), tie on a few ribbons, wrap a few empty boxes and voila! instant holiday charm!
inspirationforhome.blogspot.com

This would look adorable in front of a mirror, nestled with couple of hurricane candles.
rudolphday.blogspot.com

Candy in rectangular vases. You could nestle this on a flokati, a scarf or weave garland between the vases.
via BHG

Not only are all of these inspirations festive, anyone can re-create these using what you have or on a minimal budget.  I hope you enjoyed these as much as I did. (And I am so taking notes and stealing some of these ideals!).