December a brief recap from end to beginning.
Still...I will miss the sight and scent of it!
This tree of an edible type was one of my offerings for an annual ornament exchange with friends. Since most of my contributions are sugar-laden, I was determined to also bring some "healthy" fare to share.
The day of the party began with glacial rain and penetrating wind. Since I was too cowardly to venture out, I improvised with what I had on hand. I used a basic bread recipe to make the wreath and topped it with...green cheese. I just dropped some food coloring into a bag of grated cheddar and gave it a shake and sprinkled on top. I thought a berry candle in the center was just the right touch. Though members of my family were snickering...I thought it quite Merry.
Our family tradition is to deliver candy cane pastry to family and close friends. There is always a family meeting to discuss who has made "the list" each year.
I try to make most of my gifts for friends. This snowflake hotpad pattern came from a book called "Holiday Celebrations in Crochet" by Annie's Attic. It was incredibly quick and easy to work up. I made it out of cotton yarn and put some stiffener on to hold it's shape. The small glass hotplate on the top was the perfect fit and I found it at Dollar Tree.
Made 2 extra special scarves this year for 2 little guys I know and love. An alligator (whose pattern is found here http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/crocheted-alligator-scarf and
a wild-eyed snake! I don't know that they will ever actually wear them as scarves, but they had a fantastic time romping with their new friends!
Of course, while I searched for the perfect pair of eyes for my snake, Poppy was happy to assist.
All the ladies on my list received fingerless gloves this year.
Loved the pattern! Once I completed a pair, it was easy to remember, so I churned out a number of them...these are just a few. I love that the longer length prevents a gap between coat and glove that can be annoying and cause an unnecessary chill.
This is an amazing musical Christmas tree which no picture can do justice. Early this month we made a trip to Branson, Missouri with some dear friends. We packed much into this stolen holiday! It is located in the Ozarks...a place with warm friendly people and I hope to have the chance to visit there again. If you are ever in that part of the U.S. be sure to visit Silver Dollar City for tasty food, fabulous music, plays, an amazing cave to explore and southern culture at it's finest. I could not recommend it more highly!
My month began with this tradition. My mother has always made a Santa bowl each year and my sisters and I do as well now that we have homes of our own. It was always fun to make as a child and I enjoy it just as much now. It is now pillaged and almost bare with an apple or two...chocolate kisses long gone and a few stray nuts that escaped the cracker.
