A special gift

My mom tucked away a small package with the rest of the gifts. My boys handed it to me when all the gifts had been opened and it was the last one to be found after rummaging through the piles of gift wrap and bows. In it was this "Willow Tree" box. When I opened it; this little opal necklace was inside. Isn't it sweet? My mom gave this to me to wear for my senior picture almost 28 years ago, but it was just a loaner back then, now it's mine for keeps. I love it.

Shopping spree!

I was so blessed on Chistmas this year. Everyone knows how tough these economic times are. Things are tight in this household too. We followed a strict budget when we bought gifts; my husband and I even swore off gifts for each other, so imagine my surprise when I opened up a Macy's gift card and then opened up a card with $50 inside. My parents and in-laws are such sweeties. Tears ran unchecked down my face. I have not bought clothes or anything fun for myself in a long time, so here is fashion show:


I am going to wear to school with leggings:
This one to wear with black jeans and a belt:

This with jeans or a brown skirt and belt.

I haven't had anything new for a long time, I feel a little like a princess.

Kansas snow

I know the east coast has taken quite a hit, but so have we in the midwest! Flooding first and then a blizzard warning on Christmas.

Meri Krima! (Merry Christmas!)

Christmas morn!!! Me and my Snuggy!

I am still working away at my in-laws Jack Russell afghan and am excactly halfway done. keep your fingers crossed I can get it done in 2 weeks!

I also started a scarf froma pattern over at Ravelry to do when I still need a fiber fix but don't want to pull out the afghan.

Close up of stitches:

Snow is supposedly on the way! Chant with me! Snow Day! Snow Day!

Feliz Navidad!

Here is our Christmas tree this year. It went up so much faster, now that all the kids cn be so helpful. My lil guys loved going over every ornament and helping decorate.

Here are a few of my favs:
Hand-carved wooden Santa from a good friend over 15 years ago:

Button Santa from my sister's small town of Hesston, KS:

Resin santa from a friend about 20 years ago:



Hand-blown santa from an ornament exchange last year:


Sobrero santa froma student about 15 years ago: