Preparing for xmas 2015

Islandmaid

Hi Manx :hello:

I don't know about others, but I love the process of making things for loved ones, things have been really well received - little hampers of homemade things is so much nicer than shop bought.

I,ve not made decorations before so look forward to seeing what you create - please post some pic,s

The closest I have come is the 'Santa sleighs' made from candy canes and a well known 4 fingered chocolate bar, which I did as table dec,s last year

Manxcottageonthehill

Thanks Islandmaid!!

I tend to make a little something every year but I’m really looking forward to ramping this up. I have a general idea of making needle minder cases for both my sisters, bed socks for my mum and long motorbike socks for my dad. The other half will get my love and affection for the following year (LOL). Also with this will be a crochet blanket I started making for one of my sisters, which will be finished before Christmas, which will turn into a joint present for both her and the other half. Still thinking of the additional item to add to my other sister’s pile. Dog treats will be made for all animals (thinking Christmas theme, in flavour and shape) also thinking of a little mini mini hamper for everyone, say some biscuits and a jam, still unsure!

With regards to the decorations I’m hoping to make a wreath for the outside door and a bunting sign (Merry Christmas) to go above the window with fingers crossed snowflakes I can attach to the house somehow, as I doubt we could afford electric signs so no lights! Oh and a pom pom garland. Inside will be stocking, pom pom garland, bunting and anything else I seem to find.

Just got my fingers crossed I can do everything!!

Living_proof

The solar outdoor lights are really cheap and effective and although there won't be enough sun or light to run them more than a few dark hours, they are quite pretty and low-key. I got mine from B & M for £3.99 I think.

davidsdesire

our goal is to scale back for Christmas. The small kids get $100 to include 4 gifts: something you want, something you need, something you wear and something you read. The grown kids get $100 cash and we all go out to dinner at our favorite Vietnamese restaurant.

I am delcuttering the house to sell so there won't be any holiday decorations this year. We have walls of windows so the snow and birds on the evergreens will have to be our winter decoration this year.

I think it's pretty simple already.

determined_new_ms

lushlifesaver wrote: »

brother I have no idea - he's planning on going travelling apparently so maybe something around that - a new journal, passport cover, luggage tag that kind of thing?

A friend of mine who was off travelling was given a travel "Who's who" and all the faces had been replaced with pictures of her friends. She really loved it

BigMummaF

Lushlifesaver, what about researching local customs & things, for the places your brother would be visiting? You could make up his own 'travel guide' with tips on acceptable behaviour, handy phrases, nearest chemist, etc so he is less likely to offend the locals by innocently showing the soles of his feet or something

bossymoo

I love making things, time to start on the chilli jam again I think! Not all my recipients enjoyed cola cube vodka and mince pie brandy. Philistines. Lol.

My favourite gift last year was from MIL. I'd mentioned I love the cauliflower out of jars of mixed pickle. She does her own onions, so last year she brined and pickled me some cauli. She must have a few jars stashed as every now and then if she spots my almost empty jar, a fresh one turns up soon after :T christmas all year round!

missyrichards

davidsdesire wrote: »

I am delcuttering the house to sell so there won't be any holiday decorations this year. We have walls of windows so the snow and birds on the evergreens will have to be our winter decoration this year.

I think it's pretty simple already.

That sounds really lovely.:)