It Seems To Be OVER... once again.

It came and it went, as I knew it would.  

The decorations made it up afterall (although less than usual). 

The tree, (although a process) made it's way to the towering place of honor. 

And the mantle got a simpler style than it's predecessors. 

(I had to convince my son that the stockings --

(now 4" mittens from last years Starbucks cards) were cool.

I tried this year to balance, (with intention) simplicity, 

while still providing joy to those around me. 

What a lovely Christmas it was... homemade and thoughtful gifts, 

less under the tree,  time together, and lots and lots of food. 

Even with simplicity, came a bit of exhaustion...

 Albeit, with simplicity~~ came more meaning.

s i m p l i c i t y can be rather chic! 

  ... even the decor can get  e x h a u s t e d! 

Too Much to Do!!!

... C H R I S T M A S  Branch Decoupage Ornament... 

Oh my...oh my... I say it every year-- "I am cutting back... I am not going to do as much work... 

I will simplify... I'm starting early..." NOT!! I don't know quite how it happens every year, 

but I do know that the process repeats itself. And I do know, I HAVE cut back!!

I've been doing more Boutiques this year. Although I know that it has cut into my Christmas prep time, it has given me an opportunity to meet many new people and share artistic chatter with others. 

The Red Rabbit Arts & Crafts Market, was by far, the warmest group of people I have worked alongside, which set the tone for a beautiful holiday season. 

Thanks to Carmen for always running an elegant venue 

with the continual warmth of a tall, non-fat, extra hot, light whip, mocha!!!

Back to the holiday prep... almond roca to make today-- finish tree decorating-- 

create 3 custom items to be sent out by Wednesday-- 

post office to ship orders--yikes!!!! Sounds worse when you write it down.