Holiday Cheer !

Move over, Martha Stewart! Here comes the convertible, and look how decorative we are!

Four people sent pictures with such lovely notes that I want to give each one a spotlight. Books all around. You get a book, and you get a book, and you....Everybody gets a book!

First up: Kirsten...

Hi Kathleen !

How are you. My family has the holiday tradition to wait with decorating the tree till the afternoon of December 24. So I can’t send you a picture of our tree as it isn’t up yet. We come together on the 24^th to unpack the boxes with lots of eclectic ornaments collected over the years. There’s such a giddy and expectant atmosphere. Waiting so long I believe increases the excitement. We share stories often told : remember when… you made this when you were 6 years old … oh no not that ugly gift from auntie, do we have to include it?.... We also haven'tgot many lights outside. It is sadly not a possibility. A shame for I have seen many memorable shows in gardens close by and loved how it just screams Happy Holidays.

Often it’s difficult to ignore that call of Christmas that makes you want to run to the attic and pull out some sparkles or snow. So this year I was a little naughty and decorated our cabinet with early Christmas spirit. I hung up an angel. Picked a apple branch, tradition says it has to be on St. Barbara day dec. 4, placed it in a vase of water and it will bloom on Christmas day. As I was late I don’t know if it will make it but blossom is always beautiful even after xmas. I bought at Ikea a standard that holds some hearts a peace dove and pair of ice skates. Also a little gold star. In the middle is a chocolate wreath and green sprig with plaited bow. Added two candles and a vase with two (unfortunately fake but still) very pretty poinsettias. In the front I placed sparkling snowballs that won’t melt for years and years. Some snow at last for the weather has not provided it. I wrote it down on my wish list but alas. And a wooden box that has cross stitch xmas cookies on it. Like a gingerbread guy. A gift from my mother last year, despite her being in much pain she took the time and effort to make me this gift. Knowing how much it cost her I treasure it dearly.

I made the angel, hearts, skates and dove myself using a fabulous book of patterns by Tonne Finnanger. It was very fun and easy as I’m not usually so gifted with the needle. But if you ladies do not have the patterns and want to make a heart it’s easy. Any heart shape will do. (Cut two hearts out of a scrap of fabric and sew together. Turn inside out, stuff firmly close opening and sew thin ribbon as hanger in the middle. Decorate with button, glass beads or other fun trinket. Simple and super.) Mine did come out just like the pictures in the book. If I may say so myself without sounding arrogant I’m very proud of them. I have much more decorations and even some more handmade ones but they are still in their boxes. For we still go ahead with our tradition and leave the decorating of our tree till the day before Christmas. I’m really looking forward to it, fun and family time, what joy.

When the tree stands in all it’s glory we leave it up for the 12 days of Christmas, another tradition passed down to me from my parents and grandparents which I wouldn’t change for the world. And I’m sorry Santa for being naughty. It’s just so that I no longer could (completely) ignore that jazzed feeling of: Christmas is coming! Does this mean I’m not getting my wish for snow?

Heeere's Anna...

This is a photo of our tree. The ornaments are mostly disney and we've been collecting them since the children were born. This year my son helped with the lights and my daughter helped put the thing together. The advent calendar on the wall is from our time in Hawaii and says Mele Kalikimaka, which means Merry Christmas. If you look out the windows you can see the first snowfall of this year, nothing like Michele's neck of the woods but pretty all the same. Our traditions are a bit different because we are military and usually travel back home for the holidays. We always put this tree up on Thanksgiving and take it down on New Years. While decorating we have snacks, chosen by the children, and watch movies, chosen by all. Hauling the boxes is Flyboy's job and he mutters (and curses) about too much stuff, but he still lets me have more. We decorate the entire livingroom and kitchen areas even if we aren't going to be home because the kids like it. The tree and household decorations are our constants during the holidays because everything else is changeable.

Dagmar on her adorable display...

I always put my decorations together by species. They look better in a group.

Have not much room for christmas being a student. Here a picture of my little collection.

Gingerbread and Soldiers. Love a man in Christmas uniform.





Our longtime friend Candace always does Christmas up big, bright and beautiful. Here's her tree ...


...and her
Santa mantel...














....and the piece de resistance
Candace's holiday dessert buffet!
All deliciously, meticulously home made. She hosts a party every year and bakes for days in preparation. Mmmm...

Happy holidays, everyone! Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories. God bless us, every one.

'Tis(zy) the Season

One more week, two big questions: What are you doing for the holidays? and/or Are you all ready for Christmas? Does anyone else feel pressured?

This is Kylie's tree. Love the way the packages look, don't you? Here in The Eagles' Nest we have an old rocking horse who comes out this time of year, too. He's painted red, and he has different riders every year--babies, teddy bears, Barbie dolls, whatever's handy.

Did you put up a tree? Real or artificial? Do you have a color scheme, or is your tree like mine--decorations collected over the years, each with a story behind it? Last week when I told my sister over the phone that I was almost finished decorating, she said she wasn't putting up a tree this year. I've heard that from a few people--"keeping it low-key this year." I've had years like that, when, for whatever reasons, I just didn't feel like dragging all that stuff out only to have to pack it all up again a few weeks later. Most years, though, once I get started, I don't know when to quit. I'm a pack rat. I save everything and the story to go with it. I'm going to have to downsize one of these days. But not today.

I made these felt frames backed with magnetic tape a few years ago. The grandchildren weren't with us for Christmas that year, so I put them up
where I could see them a lot. I haven't taken them out since, but I put them up again this year, and the kids love them.








Michele says: "In the Hauf household, we use the traditional means of measure to determine snowfall. The cat toss. I’d say we have about a half a tail’s worth (about four inches) right now." What a gorgeous photo, huh?








Cindy's kitty says, "Don't mean to be catty, but I'm much prettier than that guy in red."













And how about Lois's beautiful Sage in his holiday
finery?

Do the critters in your house get stockings? One of my favorite gifts for humans who have everything is a wildlife adoption from Defenders of Wildlife or the MN Wildcat Sanctuary.






This is a wonderful season for those of us who love to collect. My brother's wife collects gorgeous Santas. Over the years I've collected bear ornaments, and we always have a special bear tree. What's your ornament collection like?

Kylie accents her Santas (right) with lights. It's so much fun to arrange groupings like this. It's like seeing old friends once a year.














Kylie displays miniatures on a beautiful antique dresser.











Here are some of my Christmas collections. The candles are E-bay finds that brought back memories. Anybody recognize them? Mama had some of these--snowmen, trees, choirboys, angels, deer, Santas from the early 50's. Some of them were premiums that came with Prell shampoo. Decorations were simpler then. I love the stories that go with these keepsakes, and I tell them every year as we unwrap each piece and make a place for it.

The Wizard of Oz dolls are more recent. They're McDonald's toys. Most of these came from E-bay, too, although the grands collected the first ones with the very occasional Happy Meal. Then I decided it was healthier--and cheaper--to bid on them.

And then there's my Barbie collection. Upwards of 50 of the vintage variety--1959-1973. I get teased a lot, but not by my granddaughters. They understand. They're 5 and 7. I've told them they get the Barbies when I die. (The 5 year old has taken to getting her dibbsies in on other things, too. "Nana, when you die, can I have these shoes?")








And what Christmas would be complete without our favorite stories? I like to incorporate the books into the scene.

Now, it's your turn. Share your decorating ideas. Even better, e-mail your snapshots (kathleen.eagle@comcast.net) and we'll feature them here, riding around with us as we dash through the snow, laughing all the way. We'd love to hear about your traditions, your memories. An autographed book for anyone who sends a picture with permission to post it here on RWTTD! But comment with or without a picture. 'Tis the Season!

Oh, and per our movie discussion the other day, I have a recommendation. We saw Invictus today. Two talons up from the Eagles! If you're looking for feel-good, this is it. Clint Eastwood scores again with a terrific story and wonderful performances by Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela and Matt Damon as the captain of the South African rugby team that won the World Cup.

Secret Santa Nightmares

Now that I have co-workers again, I'm starting to remember some of the less pleasant rituals and customs associated with working "the day job." Like the tradition of "Secret Santa." You know, the quaint little custom by which people unload ghastly knick-knacks and re-gift awful items onto their office-mates in the name of Christmas cheer. Or take the opportunity to buy strange or overly explicit gag gifts (emphasis on the "gag" part) for people they believe are too prudish or aggressive or clueless. Or use the occasion as an excuse to lavish unsought and embarrassing largess on people they've harbored a secret crush on for months. . . years. . . decades.

There are pitfalls aplenty in the Secret Santa tradition. The whole "secret" thing, for starters. I mean who wouldn't like the opportunity to give a coworker what we think they deserve? Especially the jerk who keeps emptying the candy jar and the coffee pot without once replenishing the Hershey Kisses or bothering to make a new batch of coffee. Unfortunately, the secret only lasts until the Christmas party. . . then you're outed and have to own up to the six-pack of Speed Stick deodorant you left with a big red bow on "Stinky's" desk. sigh. I say, if it's a Secret Santa exchange, then keep in a secret. . . FOREVER.

But even on those occasions where you draw a friend or respected colleague's name, you still have problems. There's that pesky $1, or $10, or $20 limit that everyone swears they'll abide by. And of course, they lie. You hear what other people are buying and it seems like everyone is ignoring the limit. . . you don't want to seem chintzy, so you overspend. And then you feel like an idiot when the person who drew your name gets you an angel ornament made out of doilies from some church bazaar or a puke green nose warmer crochetted by a little old neighbor lady. There is no such thing as equity in the world of Secret Santa. Karma seems to have totally disappeared in that warped social Black Hole. What goes around does not necessarily come around.

I confess, I did it again this year. I overspent. We had a $20 limit and I ended up with a cocoa set (with 2 cute mugs) and a cozy blue microfiber throw for cuddling up under while sipping the cocoa. Then I saw these really cute ornaments that you put your kids' photos in. . . and of course I had to get some additional gourmet cocoa. I'm thinking about making the receiver of my fabulous "Secret Santa" gift sign a joint custody agreement. . . so I can use the throw on alternate weekends.

What about you? What was the best or the worst Secret Santa gift you've ever gotten? given? Are you a big spender or a penny pincher? Do you shop at a "dollar" store or try to score a bit of luxury for your giftee?

Such gifts -- done in secret-- may say as much about us as they do about the one we buy them for. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Uno, Dos, Tres...Movies!

I'll go long lengths of time without hitting the theaters, but this last week I saw three movies! Let me tell you what I think...

My mom came for a visit and as she's a Jake Gyllenhaal fan (think he looks like her husband!) we had to see "Brothers." Tobey Maguire (nominated as best actor for a Golden Globe) is Sam, the "good" brother and a Marine officer about to be dispatched to Afghanistan. Before he leaves, he retrieves brother Tommy (Jake's character), who has done time for a robbery, from prison. The brothers obviously care for each other, but bad boy Tommy feels out of step with his brother's family, including two daughters and wife Grace (Natalie Portman). When tragedy strikes, the family dynamic changes. Forever?

I thought the actors did a great job in this movie but it is violent and the premise is tragic. I had my hands over my eyes several times and my heart broke for the characters involved. This is not a feel-good movie, but one that is powerful and poignant. You'll need hot chocolate and cookies after seeing this.

I went with a group of girlfriends to see "The Blind Side." I felt guilty going to see this movie (mid-day, hurray!) without the guys in my life. Except, really, it's a woman's movie. A mom's movie, in particular, though I think all of us with the XX will get Leigh Anne Tuohy's (as played by Sandra Bullock, nominated for a Golden Globe for best actress) determination to help the quiet, gentle giant, Michael Oher, who comes into her life through her childrens' school. Tears started early from my row while watching this one. This is feel-good, feel-powerful, feel-for-others in the very best way. It's not a sports movie in any elemental sense, and they went over the football aspects of it slowly, and with small words, which worked for me. Great way to spend some holiday time.

George! What's the delightful secret George Clooney knows that has him grinning that delightful grin? Certainly not the job he has in "Up in the Air" (nominated as best picture for the Golden Globes, George for best actor) as the character Ryan Bingham who flies around the country firing people. We see how disconnected he is from others and we also see real film of real people losing their jobs. Their reactions tug at your hearts and gut as well as the fictional predicament of Ryan. He's self-deprecating and self-aware, which makes him all the more charming...and sad. I enjoyed this movie, but not sure I recommend as holiday fare. I like a more...um, satisfying ending, and if you want to know how I rewrote it, email me and I'll give you the Christie edition!

Now I'm eager to see "Nine," the musical with everyone from Fergie to Sophia Loren. What about you? Is a movie on your holiday list?

Breakfast of Champions

I breakfasted on potato chips this morning. I’m not sure what that tells you about me, but I don’t think it says anything positive. I think, in fact, it suggests something like ‘I have officially hit bottom.’ There are other signs. Such as the length of my leg hair. It should be harvested soon. Someone could make a nice rug. Well, not ‘nice’ exactly, but you know what I mean. I have also ceased to wear makeup. And one day last week I wore my pjs under my snow suit when I stumbled outside to do morning chores.

What’s the reason for all this bottom hitting, you ask? I’m not exactly sure. I believe it has something to do with my broken arm. I’ve recently discovered that fractured bones don’t have much respect for deadlines. Hence, my book is going to be late, REALLY late, for the first time in my life. So, in my all or nothing way of thinking, I figure, what’s the use…I might as well be YEARS late. And become hirsute, and get fat. And so what if there’s a half an inch of top soil on every horizontal surface in my house?

As it turns out, hitting bottom is pretty liberating. And while it’s a nice place to visit I don’t think I can afford to live here. So, what do I do about rising above it and all that?

Truth to tell, I got my cast off today. It was duly replaced by a removable splint, which allows me to type with all ten lovely (if somewhat misshapen) digits. Yay! Except, I no longer have a reason to avoid shaving, and cooking, and there are those who expect me to get out of bed sometime before late afternoon.

Hence I need suggestions about how to motivate. Have you ever hit bottom? What precipitated the fall? Did you find yourself dining on substances that should only be eaten by the Inuit during the dark season? Or do you have other methods of ruining your life?

Winter Memories

Cindy's post yesterday sparked the thought for mine today. Winter has settled not so gently over the area with a blizzard last week and freezing rain expected early this week. As I check the weather forecasts daily and mentally adjust schedules in case of bad weather, it occurs to me that I now look at winter and snow through an adult's eyes.

I'm not quite sure when this happened. I suspect about the same time I started carrying gloves in the pockets of every coat and buying winter boots again. Sometime between that teenage oblivion to the temperature and the day I started insisting the automatic battery jumper was in my vehicle before setting out on a trip.

And when I look outside at the gorgeous snow (and yes, it's beautiful before it's all crusty and gray and dirty), sometimes I miss being able to see it with a child's eye. Granted, I still enjoy snow days just as much :) but now they are accompanied by the worry of how far into June my school year will extend. I'm not going to lie and say I do *any* shoveling, but I do feel sorry for my sweetie when he's out there for hours.

When I was a kid I remember having far more snow than we get these days. Snowdrifts were as high as the curbside mailbox. Of course I never thought of the work my dad put into getting the snow into those drifts. With the rosy memory of youth I figured he enjoyed his time shoveling as much as we enjoyed digging a fort into the side of drift. When we got older and more sophisticated we'd drag the hose out and spray it so it'd ice over, ensuring our work would last all winter.

Sometimes when the drifts were high enough we'd have a fort on either side of the driveway, one for the boys and the other for the girls. The snowball fights that ensued most likely created another shoveling issue for my dad. I just remember they tended to be vicious and short-lived. No matter how many snowballs we had ready, we lacked the throwing ability and sheer bloodthirstiness that propelled my brothers to victory, every time.

We used to ice skate. There was a large outside rink at a nearby park that had live music and romantic moonlight circles around the rink (or at least as romantic at twelve year olds can get.) Although our parents never knew it, we also skated indiscriminately on the creek nearby, jumping the barb wire fence and the dam with a fearlessness that has long since escaped me.

When the snow was piled especially high, yes, we'd even jump off the bridge onto the drift. I will admit being petrified to do it, but I mentioned having three older brothers, right? The possibility of breaking a leg didn't measure up to being called a 'baby' by any of them.

We had a toboggan and sleds with the old-fashioned metal runners. We'd use them on a huge hill outside of town. The next door neighbor had a snowmobile and the dad would have all of us pile on a toboggan hitched to the back and take us sledding for hours.

When I was older a large group of us would trek to MN or WI to go skiing and I'd pretend to have fun. Okay, I am so not athletic. And falling down gets old fast! But when my kids got old enough I'd don my winter clothes and take them outside and help build snowman, and teach them how to build snow forts (if you don't have a drift handy.) For several years my husband and I had snowmobiles and that can be fun if you travel to where they have trails through the woods and lakes to ride across. There's a sort of spiritual quality to riding along pristine snow and seeing the evergreens boughs heavy with the latest snowfall.

Somehow I seem too busy and cold these days to contemplate the snow with anything other than a wondering eye. But I'm making a vow that as soon as the grandchildren get here next week, I'm teaching them how to make snow angels. And try to recapture a bit of the wonder that used to accompany snow.

Visions of an Iowa Winter

I took a few photos of the snow and other ...things :o). Just for fun I thought I'd share them with you on this cold winter day. Enjoy! Cindy

This is the path to our deck and screened porch after the big blizzard hit. That's not fake snow on the Christmas wreath :o)
Now I realize that for you tough Minnesotans and Mountain Westerners, this doesn't look like a lot of snow - but this early in Dec, it's a lot of snow for us so soon in the year.







Here's a shot of the front of our house with the shrubs all covered with that pretty white stuff we love to look at but hate shoveling :o)














A view from the back yard. That's about a 5 foot drift covering the ground in front of the little play house my DH built for the grandkids.














Meanwhile, inside the house, I was going on about my business, cleaning and doing laundry and keeping warm while the wind howled and the temp hovered around zero. In this pic, I'd just removed a batch of clothes from the dryer and was about to toss in another ... but wait. Buddy found a nice warm place to sit out this cold winter.






So I shooed him out of the dryer and finished my laundry and decided it was a great day to wrap presents.
Oh course, Buddy decided the packages were a great place to take a nap.










Here's one final shot of the pasture beside our house. It's hard to see it but that drift in the middle is over 6 feet tall and about forty feet long. I love how the wind cut swirls into the snow and made all those pretty patterns.










Stay warm everyone!!