Karla's Cottage

Heading East

More snow here!

Twinkle loves chasing the red birds who stand out so pretty against the white snow.  The other dogs are staying by the wood stove and keeping warm.

This is the view out the back door of my studio, where I have been working away on TAXES- urgh.  Everyone asks me how I manage to get so much creative and decorative stuff done. Well, I don't do the things I should, like keeping up with quarterly taxes!!

I waited till the end of the year to do all of them at once.  Did I mention that the State of KS has been calling to chat with me about it???

The thing is, since I have so many on line sales, I owe very little to Kansas, so I put it all off.  They don't like that, as I am finding out.

I am also working on the list for packing up and driving to DC to move into the new apartment.

My husband made up the list, and I see it includes a painting I had done on a Florida vacation and the painting I did of our barn (that used to sit behind our house, where this photo is taken. We made a garden in the old foundation)

It also includes a stained glass lamp a good friend made for us, a cribbage board, his guitar, and a bottle of Captain (rum).  That is just the start of the list. Plus a lot of his clothes, an extra computer, and tons more.

The thing is, he wants to drive HIS car out there, across country in the winter.

His car is sporty, and doesn't do well in bad weather or hold much.  Those stained glass lamps will take up the whole back seat.  And we sure aren't pulling a U-Haul with his car!

Hopefully our luck will hold out and the roads will be clear and I can balance a lamp on my head the whole way there.

You know how I am always going on about how lucky I am? This car is 5 years old, and a week before the warranty was up, we took it in for a small problem that they couldn't find, so they replaced the ENTIRE ENGINE!! We drive our cars until they turn to dirt (at least 10 years), then give them to our kids, so this one just doubled its lifespan by getting a new engine!!

We leave on Sunday, and Ry will stay here and take care of the house and the Dorkies. He has been known to build them a nice warm fire to lay by, even though he lives in the other end of the house in an apartment, and gets no heat from the wood stove over there for himself.

That guy has a soft heart.

I am trying to get some goodies listed on Etsy before I go out of town, and mark down some Christmas items already listed.

I made up 18 Cottage Collage Kits filled with ephemera to sell.  Somerset Living magazine is featuring one of my kits in the next issue and I HOPE to sell some from my Etsy shop after they are seen in the magazine. 

So I thought I should have some there to sell, just in case!

I'd like to get the computer set up in DC and try to write on my blog from there, but I am not sure how it will all go.

It will be a big job to set up an apartment from scratch! And there will be shopping to do for all the things that will NOT FIT into the car on the way out. 

As Sugarwings says all the time now, "Oh My!"

I don't know if I am up for this move.

We are breaking up the drive  by staying in Indianapolis with Sissy.   Luckily, that is about 1/2 way there. So we are hanging out there for New Year's Eve, to have a quiet evening with my sister's families. 

I think I should be able to announce my December drawing winner from Sissy's house and post there.

Also, I am very close to receiving my 5,000th comment!!!!!!!!!!!  Again, to borrow from Sugarwings-- "Oh My!"

Thanks so much for all your comments, I love to hear from you.

I will try to think of something special for that. But if I am not near a computer, I might have to wait and do a special giveaway for the 5,555th comment.  I like the sound of that lucky number.

Speaking of lucky, look at the sweet gifts I received from Sandy (snowman and snowflake, plus a pretty "K") and from Betty (the lovely rose tag)!! thanks, ladies!

By the way, Betty is hosting a nice giveaway right now, you need to go and enter!

Here are a couple more pages from the book that Beth made for me as a Christmas gift (along with a subscription to Victoria!!!)

Notice she took all the pages out of the book before she covered them, then went to the trouble to punch new holes and re-bind it all? That was something we learned in a Silverbella class. I thought it was way,way too much work, but I sure like the way it looks!

Well, I am off to mail taxes and pack up lamps and rum.  We have two parties to go to before we leave, so I'd better get my work out of the way and leave some time for fun.

A perfect day

What a perfect Christmas we had! I hope yours was too.

How can things go badly when you have a giant box of gifts arrive in the mail, a new  Care Bears outfit to wear and a best friend to share it all with???

My buddy, Beth, came by for brunch on Christmas day and brought the most beautiful hand made book for me.

She and I are both avid collectors of old wallpaper, and she made this book to showcase her collection of papers.

Inside the cover, was this sentiment, a rule that I live by!

Our Christmas was about all the simple pleasures-

finding just the right gift for someone you love-

Leaping into the air with excitement over an unexpected surprise-

Laughing with your family-

Being cozy by a warm fire with some great companions-

Building a snow princess, complete with crown and magic wand-

(then getting into a snowball fight, see it about to begin?)

Having just THE PERFECT dress to wear for the occasion-

Playing a game of pool with your favorite cousin-

Cuddling up with the world's sweetest great grandma-

A big bowl of festive punch-

Gathering together with friends and family for a feast-

Like I said, it was Perfect.

Ho Ho Ho

Merry Christmas!!!!

Its starting to look like Christmas!

The view from my studio window is a blizzardy one today. 

But the view inside is improving!

I actually got the studio cleaned and HALF of it is set up for my 3 big Christmas party meals coming up.

Did you notice the amazing painting on the wall??? A gift from my sister-in-law's family.

She commissioned an oil painting of her mom and had copies on canvas framed for everyone in the family.

Look at this detail!!!!  Right down to the hearing aide in Little Joan's ear and the nub of the eraser on her mechanical pencil. 

The artist is Lynn Lupetti, and I was so impressed with this portrait, I had to look her up online.

Apparently, I am not the only one impressed with her, she has paintings hanging at the Smithsonian, The Vatican, and the White House!   

Now, I am stunned by this gift.  Not only does it capture the sweet nature and kind face of our Little Joan, it is from a renowned artist.  I loved it before I had any idea who did it.

I'm sure it was expensive and so is the frame, but do you think anyone would care if I painted the frame white??  You know it is going to happen. Maybe more of an ivory.

I placed the painting in my studio for now, so we can all enjoy it during the holiday meals I have planned for out there.

I have this side of the room set up and ready to go, and the other side is close. 

I got side tracked and made some Christmas cards while trying to set up the unfinished side of the room.

I'd already had Sugarwing's painting copied into four per page, and cut them out, some around the body, but others, just as a rectangle. All of the cards are different.

I buy note cards on clearance to use as background, this one was a teddy bear design thank you card.

I glued a piece of vintage styled scrapbook paper over the teddy, and across the back of the card to cover the writing on it.  Then, I added snowflake stickers, some swirls of black glitter ink (I thought I had a silver pen, oops! but black is OK, at least it is glittery)

Then, I glued a sepia toned copy of Sugarwings onto it- and was done.

These are being kept extremely simple. I did a couple dozen this morning and now will stop and add addresses those before I do any more. I want to be sure I can get some mailed to relatives and not get carried away with cutting and gluing and having too much fun, then not have time to address or mail them.  (The vintage wrapping paper is from Beth 's stash)

This one is on old wallpaper that has a star pattern in gold. The paper wraps the back of the card too, so you can appreciate the vintagey goodness of the print, and so it will cover the writing, since I am using premade note cards and don't want that to show.

I cut a snippet of holiday ribbon to glue down and embellish with a brass snowflake and that is it on this one.

I keep wanting to do MORE to them, but figure that friends and family would rather get one like this, than nothing at all. And if I spend too much time on them, I wouldn't get any out.

Plus, I really need to get back to work on the studio/dining room and get it set up completely. Looks like I will have 22-27 on Christmas Day and this side of the room is only set for 12. 

The bleached and dyed bottle brush trees didn't go as far for a centerpiece as I would have liked.

I added sugared birds, reindeer, cake plates and compotes, as well as some candle holders.  Lots of clear glass and tea cups with millinery flowers or tea lights in them. 

I always serve all my meals as buffets, so I can fill the center of the table with pretties and have the food set up in the kitchen where it is convenient to clean up and put away afterwords.

I don't know how I will decorate the other side yet.  Funny, that 4 packages of 21 bottle brush trees only fills one table. But they are so tiny, they need to be clustered for any impact.

See there is progress on this part too! When I finish my Christmas cards, I will stash all the supplies behind the screens and arrange them to hide the messes, foof up the tables, scrounge around the house for chairs, and as Tim Gunn says, "make it work".  I might need another table squeezed in somewhere......

Hope your holiday preparations are going well too!

*<];{> Santa comes early for me with pretty pink birdies and a fairy land delight!

I got pretties in the mail!!!!!

My Sissy made these pink paper birds for me, and I ripped open the package immediately. Hope I wasn't supposed to wait till Xmas!

Aren't they sweet????

And look at the cute box that Barbara sent to me.  This is a whimsical box as it is, and who would have thought to use something this fun to mail a package in??

But look at the magical creation inside!

Twinkle and Sparkle Fairies, in a glittered floral wonderland.

Next to the princess of all the fairies, Sugarwings!

Every detail is perfectly wonderful from the rainbow paper the banner at the top is made of to the vintage pink ribbon bow.

I hung this fairy filled glitter ball of delight on the silver wreath next to the other gifts Barbara sent a while back, silver snow flakes that say Twinkle and Sparkle. Oh, I owe this lady big time!

Christmas is catching up to me and I know I won't be able to make something for her by then, but Barbara, watch out when Valentine's Day rolls around! And thanks so much!

Here is an update on how far behind I am in getting ready for Christmas.  My studio is a jumbled up mess from the sale I had in here the 2nd.  I had over 600 people come through here and haven't recovered since.

I do have a menu for Christmas day brunch and for dinner that night, but I don't have any place to seat the people till I get a bulldozer and shove some of this out of the way.

Here is my menu-

• a professional ham (that is what I call food from Vermont Street BBQ where my son works)
• 4 pans of Rhodes cinnamon rolls (yum)
• fruit and cheese by Beth
• sausage gravy and biscuits (not from a can)
• egg casserole from Lori
• tomato salad from our garden tomatoes that I have been babying along to ripen by Xmas and made it just in time! And they really taste good too.
• fudge and cookies (if I don't eat them first)
• maybe more desserts or muffins or something??

juicy juice boxes, bottled water and coffee in to go style cups

all served on paper plates with plastic forks

and most important- a Forest of bleached and hand dyed bottle brush trees as a centerpiece

At least I have my priorities right- the trees are done! Sugarwings and I made 4 packages of them the other night. 

They were not easy to glitter.

I ended up dunking them into a can of water based poly and then holding them upside down to drain off, then sprinkling them with glitter.

The problem was that after being left to dry overnight, the poly still dripped onto the craft table, and dried the trees solid to its surface! I had to pry many of them up.  ooops

But, back to the mail- I ordered myself a little Christmas gift.  Beautiful wallpapers from Donna Layton on Etsy.

Can't you see me using some of these for the covers of my cook books for the Swap that Beth and I are doing for Valentines Day??

I wish I had time to play with them now, but Christmas is getting closer and closer and closer and I am far from ready. (see above studio photo!)

This big box of goodies came from my brother-in-law Randy in Florida. That cylindrical shaped package on top is for ME. I am crossing my fingers that it is more vintage wallpaper, from the heft and shape of it, my chances are good.

Randy's husband, Kevin, is a master junk shopper and I think he might have found a roll for me. I'll wait til Christmas and won't peek, but it will be hard.

Sugarwings and I have been having some tea parties. She is very good at feeding imaginary treats her teddy bears.

And the fairies on her tea table Christmas tree.

I am off to run errands and mail packages.

Oh- I put Sugarwing's room on HGTV's Rate My Space.

That site is addictive, so I try to stay away from it, it is too much fun. Here is the site, if you want to give her a rating:

http://ratemyspace.hgtv.com/SNC/GroupSearch.aspx?pguid=6db6be3f-1720-4ba3-a081-999042c09b6b&username=karlascottage

Twinkle has a go at helping decorate the studio

Its a relief to be feeling well again and back to getting ready for the holidays!

I am feeling all well now, thanks for all your kind thoughts and wishes!

My flueyness was gone and I was able to go to my cookie exchange party last night. The best part was that I got the dates wrong and made up fudge to take to it last week instead of this.

Which was great, because this week, I would have been sick and couldn't have done it! 

The flu-germ-free fudge was made a week ago and frozen, ready to add tags to before the party. 

My Aussie pal, Natasha had sent me some wonderful, old, textured wallpaper that I made simple tags out of, and added a snowflake sticker to and then tied to the dishes of fudge.

I like giving treats out in containers that people will use and keep and enjoy, a gift in a gift. For bake sales, I always put my goodies on vintage plates from garage sales, they are so cheap to find around here.  As little as a nickle quite often. 

I love living in the Midwest!!

Every year, I think I am going to go all out and wrap gifts so beautifully and they all will match and be breath taking. But, I never do. I wrapped all these yesterday and towards the end, the were lucky to get stuffed into a bag with a bit of tissue.

What's my favorite thing in those bags and boxes? This sweet little dress for Sugarwings! Can't you just picture her playing in the garden and getting all muddy in it this summer?

Maybe we can dress her in a long sleeve onsie and tights underneath it, so she can wear it this winter too. 

Our swap is full! And a great mix of artists, bloggers, friends and fun people are in it, we are so lucky to have them join. Thanks everyone!!

Doesn't Twinkle look like a sweet little angel?  That girl thinks that her only job is to pose for the camera.

Well, that and CHEW things.  My favorite chair!!!!!!!  And now that she has had a taste of it, she won't let it go.  Any tips on stopping a dog from chewing your furniture??? I've never had a Dorkie as hard to handle as this one. She chews, she licks, she jumps, she hams it up every time I try to take a photo.  She is one tiny,wriggling, bundle of desperate need for attention.

I am still feeling sentimental today.  This table was one of  my mom's favorites and was made for her by a friend.  No, actually, I think her friend made it, and her husband got it as payment for a poker debt at some bar.  Oh well, what ever its origins, it is hand made and she loved it and now I do too!

The drawing was done by my great grandmother in 1906, and is another treasured possession of mine.

Notice the alarm clock?? I found a non-ugly, electric clock on Ebay, finally.

Then it quit working after about 6 weeks. So, I am back to looking, if anyone has any leads, I'd love to hear them.

People are still visiting our "What do you LOVE about your Holiday Home?" party and I am still adding links.  Feel free to visit here for some holiday decor ideas and pretty things to see. I don't even know how many sites I have linked, but I know there was a lot of beauty and warmth out there!

I want to thank Sara (Sadie Olive) for adding my latest magazine to the line up at the left.  If you ever decide to have a blog redo, I have to tell you that she is so reasonable, helpful, talented, and easy to work with!

Sara is going to add my next few issues too. I have a collage kit shown in Somerset next month, and another in the next issue.

I am always surprised and thrilled when something gets published, since I am not a professional writer. All my articles have been just lucky strokes for me.  A right place, right time, type thing.   

Oh, and thanks also to my friend, Gail, who always takes time to visit and comment, has entered my Sweet Treats and Roses swap, PLUS bought this desk from me!! Thanks, Gail!!!

In the few minutes that I have sat here at my computer writing my blog for the day before I go run holiday errands, this sweet angelic little dorkie of mine as done-

THIS.

Oh man, just that much more I need to clean up before I can turn this mess into a dining room for 3 big dinners, at  Christmas.

I am having a Christmas Eve prime rib dinner for the immediate family, then have invited about 28  people for Christmas Day Brunch and will have about 18 for Christmas dinner that night.  Do you think they will enjoy dining in Twinkle's decor and my mess from the sale??? I really need to get to work.......... but for now, I am going out to lunch and playing with Sugarwings!!

don't forget every comment is an entry to my monthly giveaway!

A red and green (with only a hint of pink), sentimental journey through Christmasses past

Throughout my kids' lives, I have painted an ornament each year for them to hang on our tree.  Ry is still a bachelor and lives in an apartment we built onto our home, so he shares our tree, (plus most of his apartment is a home gym, with punching bags and weights, not exactly Christmas tree friendly).

But Adam lives with his pretty little hippy chick and Sugarwings, so I think it is time to pack up all of his ornaments and send to his own happy home.

The teddy on the rocking horse was an early one for him, painted in 1981.

But his all time favorite was the pink Care Bear. My little guy was never afraid to be fond of pink toys. He had a pink water balloon named Pinky that lived for over a week and went every where with him when he was four. He wrapped Pinky up in a towel "blanket" to cuddle it. (the towel came in handy when Pinky met his demise)

This was one rough, tough, little boy, but he had his sweet side too, and that might be why he is such a great dad now.

This Care Bear ornie is even more special now, because Sugarwings is a huge Care Bear fan, and her uncle Ryan is giving her a big stuffed pink Care Bear for Christmas.

Some of the balls that I painted over the years are satin, most are glass. 

When I was a single mother, working as a waitress, I used to buy all the kid's Christmas gifts with money I made by selling hand painted ornaments for $3-  $5 each.  And my hand painted ornaments were the gifts I gave to everyone else. I still do a few dozen each year as presents, as well as selling them.

I also used to paint these pre-made ceramic pieces too.  These two horses were painted to look like our own horses, Scooter and Fairy Belle.  I think these were made for Adam in his Jr. High years. 

Here is a cartoon of Adam as a high school wrestler.

And a moon face for the year he had his bedroom done up in gargoyles.

The marble looking balls were some that he and I made together, by pouring and then swirling acrylic paints and glitter into clear glass balls.

Sadly, not all the ornaments survived, we've had a few mishaps over the years. But I have quite a few to pass on and to hope he will pass on to Sugarwings someday.

  Some of them do make me cringe, looking back at them.  I think I was lucky to sell my work for five bucks back then! They were all cute, but maybe not that good.

I enjoy seeing the progression of my style over the years.  And I am glad I didn't trash the ones I painted when I was young, no matter how bad they look to me now.

Some of my sentimental things always make it into my holiday decor, things that aren't necessarily Christmas items.

Like this scrapbook, that I made last year of Sugarwings. I have it opened to the page of her first Xmas.  

(of course, I made the book so thick, it never closes anyway!)

The book that Mr. Snowman (the doll is not sentimental, only 50 cents at a garage sale)  is reading was written by a friend, Vicky Howard. And the apron covering the chair was sent to me by my great Aunt Caroline who is turning 100 this next summer.

I had painted this little wooden box for my mom one year. And she didn't really like cats, so i don't remember why I painted a kitten for her.

I think I was just in a kitty phase and was painting a lot of kittens in late 80s.

I always have family things on display year round and dedicated one wall in my stair way to paintings and photos of people I love.

The background of the oval painting of my mom is of a quilt she made for me.  And I hung the necklace she wore in the painting to a nail I put into the frame.  It is a charm necklace that I made for her, and she used to wear it a lot.

Here is a painting I did of my husband's grandmother, and also used a quilt she gave to me as a background.

Her name was Gladys, so I added a gladiola to the painting. 

I used her quilt top as a table cloth in the library and set out more family scrapbooks on it.

One page is open to Grandma Nathan's picture in a cabinet card.  The background is "quilted" with strips of paper, and I tied a teeny sewing machine charm to the flap of the photo cover.

And the card opens up to the photo I did the painting of.

Well, I'd better get to work. I have a studio to clean up and turn into a dining room.

Does this look like a place you'd want to eat Christmas dinner?????

I have packed up a few things, sold a few, gave some away, and then the rest of the things from my sale are just shoved here and there and every where.  I have to do a major transformation, plus buy gifts  for my family and wrap them. And did I mention that not a single Xmas card has been made or sent??? I've been in bed with the flu and have severely fallen behind.

Heck, I've shown you bad artwork from my youth, the total wreck of my studio, I'm sure you'd love to see the ultimate in NON-eye candy photos- me recovering from the flu. Ugh.  Now, I have probably chased away all my readers for good!

At least I have Twinkle by my side through it all.

Now, for a shower and back to work. Or maybe a nap.

PS- here is a little tidbit of decorating advice from my funny freind, Beth.  She was sick too, and stayed at an auction long enough to buy a transferware bowl before going home to bed, and I said, at least she had a pretty puke bowl to keep by her bed. 

"That's a pleasant thought- maybe you should write an article about how to keep living a lovely life while you sick- pretty puke bowls, arrange your pills in the shape of flowers, use antique lace hankies instead of kleenex to blow your nose, take your cough medicine from a sterling silver spoon"

Romantic Country, Toasty Trees, and enough tiny trees to fill a country

I have news- my latest story is out!! Romantic Country is on the stands now, I picked up this issue at Borders.

I had dealt directly with the managing editor, Phyllis, for the whole article and didn't even know that our fantastic blogging friend, Fifi was the guest editor!!!

If you don't read her blog, you should get right over there, it is full of great how to's for beautiful projects and sneak peeks into her lovely life.

I wish I had gotten to work with Fifi, she seems like a fun person and everyone who knows her says such wonderful things about her.

The issue is 100% gorgeous, and I am thrilled with the whole magazine.

The titles to my story, that Fifi added, are cute as a button and add so much to the article, I wish I could take credit for them.

Here is a tiny snippet from one of the photos by my good friend, the talented, Diane Guthrie.  Diane and I had worked together on an article for Romantic Homes a couple of years ago, and it was such a great time. She is a buddy and we get together regularly for coffee and hanging out.

Diane is the one on the ladder in the photo on this posting, and there are also photos from our collaboration for Romantic Homes on that post too.

And now for more news- the winners of my drawing are:

Lori Oles- Vintage Flair (blogger winner)

Gail Sell (non blogger winner)

Gail has entered the Sweet Treats and Roses Recipe Swap that Beth and I are doing.  I know that Gail LOVES roses as much as I do, and can't wait to see what she comes up with.  We still have a few spots left if you are interested in joining in too.

The two winners get to chose either a pair of earrings I made from vintage pieces, or a copy of The Crown and Tiara book (great ideas in it, and so pretty!!) First come, first serve, email me with your choices, I only have one book to send.

Remember, there is still the monthly drawing that you can win too.  I'll draw that the beginning of Jan.

We've had a fun morning here, yesterday was a Sugarwings sleepover night.

She helped cook breakfast.

A favorite around here is "Egg in the Hole"

You cut a hole in bread with a glass, biscuit cutter- or even better, holiday cookie cutter, then drop an egg into the hole and fry it up together.

Of course, the best part of egg in the hole is the little piece that you cut out, that you cook in butter too, then add jelly to. 

Sugarwings liked the jelly covered Christmas tree shape, but notice that under her high chair, Twinkle is having the rest of the meal.  I think Twinks gets more food than the baby does at mealtimes.

Well, I never have to mop after I feed the baby.

Sugarwings  was fascinated by the Christmas tree project I did too, but I had to keep her back from the bleach and the dye. She isn't quite ready yet to be a hands on helper with these kind of things.

I found the directions to this on Clarice's site.

I am crazy about the results!! Vintage  looking, beautiful bottle brush trees from brand new ugly ones!

First you soak them a few minutes in bleach and hot water, and rinse well.

They already look great once they are bleached, but if you want you can dye them any color.

I used professional quality fiber reactive dyes, just because I had them, but am sure that Rit would be fine too.

Of course, I should have changed clothes. I should have done this in my studio. But no, I was too excited and wanted to play with the colors, so did it in my kitchen sink.  There is a perfect, made for projects, sink in the studio.  But, heck, it is only dye, I bleached it out of the sink when I was done.  I think the sink might return to white again.........

I left the dye in the trees for about 10 minutes.

And since I hate to let anything go to waste, I used the left over pink dye that was in the bowl to dye some shirts for my fairy grand baby.

Once the dye is washed out, the trees are perfectly vintage looking!!

These trees are on sale at Michaels right now for 25% off, plus they are pretty cheap to start with, a big bag full of all sizes for $14.

My little helper was pretty impressed with the results too.

Thanks for the tip, Clarice!!

And thanks to Fifi and Phyllis for making my article look so good in Romantic Country!

And thanks to Sugarwings for making my morning such fun with her giggles and all her help.

And thanks to Beth for being such a fine administrator for our swap and for being such a buddy.

And thanks to Diane for being such a pal and for her great photos.

And thanks to everyone who participated in our "What do you LOVE about your Holiday Home?" party

I must be feeling very thankful today.  Just extra happy and exuberant, I guess.  I need someone to start playing the music that tells me it is time to shut up, like they have at acceptance speeches at the Oscars.

Edited note: These trees really are not my own idea, I saw it on other blogs!! here is another one with them, http://mamanjackjack.blogspot.com/

and here is a flickr site to see everyone's!!  http://www.flickr.com/groups/563828@N24/

They are so fun to make, and so easy. Nothing like a simple project at this hectic time of year!

And speaking of passing along project ideas, Dona has used my lamp/coat rack idea and tweaked it into her own. Mine is featured in the Romantic Country magazine article that I wrote.

Sweet Treats and Roses- a Valentine's Swap coming up

Thank you all so much, for participating in our "What do you LOVE about your holiday home?" party!!

Wow, it was quite the tour of homes. I loved getting a peek into the creative and colorful as well as the traditional and charming decor that you all shared.

I am blown away by the beauty and the response for the get together!

I'll continue to link as many people who want to join until Christmas.  So keep checking back, and take your time looking through a few particpant's homes here and there for a taste of holiday cheer throughout the season!

I'll announce my drawing winners tomorrow- for today I have a special announcement.

As Beth and I were hanging out and making things yesterday ( I made this banner), we decided to host a swap!

I LOVE blog swaps!!! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them!!

So, what would be more fitting than hosting one that is full of Valentine LOVE?

Yes, I know it is really early, to be thinking about, it isn't even Christmas yet! Am I as bad as Wal-Mart, having the next holiday out on display before this one is even over??

There's no hurry, sign up is until Jan. 2, 200EIGHT.

We were just too excited about our idea to wait till later to tell you about it.

These photos are a hint of what is to come.

The swap involves you making photo copies of a decorated dessert recipe and Beth and I making   covers for them and assembling the cook books.

So, yesterday, we made up a few sample covers to show you.

These first two are mine.  All will have a rose theme, but no two will be alike.

All will be made with lots of vintagey goodness to go along with your yummy recipes.

Here is one that Beth made.

How pretty is that???

We will ask that along with your copies (color on card stock) of your treats, you send in a rose themed decorated tag, (one original) that we will tie onto another swapper's cook book after we add the cover and assemble it.

And look at this one from Beth! I am looking forward to getting one of her covers, that is for sure.

I will be in DC setting up my part time apartment there after the holidays, so please RSVP to Beth at her blog, Gathering Dust.

She and I will be sharing hostessing duties, and you are lucky about that, because she is very organized and I am not.  She'll make sure that the books all get the right amount of pages and get mailed to the right addresses. And are on time.

So, please contact the detail oriented one of our group to sign up.

And speaking of details, here is what she wrote up for us- the Swap Rules are:

Karla & Beth’s Roses and Sweet Treat

Cook Book Recipe Swap

Put your favorite sweet treat recipe on a 5 ½” x 8 ½” piece of paper turned vertically, and decorate the page. (5 ½” x 8 ½” is half a regular sheet of paper.)

Make as many copies as there are swap participants- we’ll let you know the number when the sign ups are complete.

Also make a tag (approx 2” x 4”) decorated in some way with roses.

Send to Karla and Beth.  They will assemble the recipes into a “Sweet Treats” Cookbook.  Each cookbook will have a unique cover, handmade by Karla or Beth, and a tag decorated by another swap player.

The Details

Recipe Card- 5 ¼” x 8” with the recipe vertical.  The books will be bound on the top, so leave at least a 1” margin for binding.  The copies should be well made, in color and on card stock. 

Sign Up Date- Sign up by emailing Beth, using the email link on the upper left side of her blog.  The deadline is Jan 2.  We’ll limit the number of players to 40.

On Jan 3, we’ll send a confirmation email to all participants letting them know how many copies to make. (To save on copy costs, you can print 2 per page, and cut the paper in half before sending to us.)

Receive by Date – We’ll need to RECEIVE your copies by January 20^th so we have time to make the covers and assemble them.

Cost- The cost for a padded envelope, mailing and materials is $5. Please include the $5 with your copies and tag.

What You’ll Get

A Sweet Treat Recipe Book with a one of a kind handmade rose themed cover created by Karla or Beth, decorated with a tag from another player.  We’ll mail the books by Feb 7, so you’ll have them in time to make sweet treats for Valentine’s Day.

Can you imagine how cool the individual pages will be from all those great artistic crafters out there in blog land?????? I can't wait to see what you all send in for this!

Here is the button for the swap:

PS- thanks for your interest, we are full now! And we have GREAT players!! thanks to all of them, can't wait to see what they make!

Its Party time! What do you LOVE about your Holiday Home?

Its time for our "What do you LOVE about your Holiday Home?" party!!!!

And I am glad it is a virtual party, or no one would be able to make it to see me- look at this ice!

This kind of weather does put me in the mood for the holidays.  I'm glad I can stay snug and warm in the house.  I have a pot of soup simmering on the stove, made with ingredients I grew in our garden and froze to save just for a day like this.

Everyone has been curious about my fudge recipe.  I think I made it up, but I am sure I am not the only person who makes this fudge. Its too easy not to!!

I have been making it this way for at least 25 years, with an average of 15 batches a year (one year I made about 35 pounds!).

Here are some tips:

milk or semi sweet chocolate chips in a 12 ounce bag are perfect.

Peanut butter chips are tasty, but make a thicker fudge.

White chocolate chips don't set up thick enough if you use a full can of the milk.

What I do, is use a full can of sweetened condensed milk per bag for the regular chocolate chips--1 1/3 can for the peanut butter chips---- 2/3 can for white chocolate chips

Then, you warm the milk over a medium heat, add the chips  and stir till they melt- NOT COOK, JUST MELT.

Beat it with a mixer till it is fluffy (a long time, but I make 4 bags in a pot at a time, so it goes faster)

At this point you can add mini chips, nuts, crushed candy canes, etc.

Pour into a lightly greased pan.

I layer the flavors, it makes them pretty to look at as was as tasty to eat.

My favorite will always be white chocolate with pecans. But the boys in the family are crazy about chocolate and peanut butter.  But the best thing is???  It is always perfect and never fails.

What else do I love about my holiday home, besides the tons of fudge I keep around all season??

Simple and easy decor ideas, as easy as the fudge recipe.

By the front door, I use my summer garden things and add a bit to them for some holiday flair.  Gazing balls and flower pots grouped together, can look Christmassy with a few added ornaments in the pots and a couple branches from the Christmas tree.

Yes, I stretch the budget by dividing up my artificial tree.  This is a white Martha Stewart tree from K-Mart that I only set up the top half of.

I don't use the branches in the proper order either, I like the tree a little more natural looking If you can call a white plastic tree natural) and will use branches  out of the sequence the directions say to.  The tree is less of a sharp triangle that way.

Then, I take the lower branches  from the part of the tree not set up and use them all around the house, like in the pot on the floor next to the tree.

I put one in a glittered terra cotta pot and shaped it like a miniature tree and filled it with lots of red and green ornaments, then set it up in the library upstairs. To hold the tree in the pot, I have scrunched up newspapers around it and covered them with a holiday hanky.

In my master bathroom, I added a branch to a pot of ivy.  I stuck the wire of the branch directly into the soil and that holds it steady.  Then, I draped the white "tree" in strands of old pearls.

(My master bath should be in the next issue of Romantic Country and on the stands in the next few days)

I have laid a couple of the white branches on the top shelf of my bathroom cabinet too.

A white basket in the breezeway holds a branch and is topped with a pink velvet bow.

There are even a  few branches in the chippy old blue painted drawer under my stereo cabinet, that hides the view of the speakers.

Yep, one tree, a dozen uses!

I love being able to make my decorating dollars stretch and also to have a little bit of Christmas in every room of my house.

Using what I already have (like the garden urns from garage sales, or the salvage piece from a flea market), using decorations  from my child hood and my boy's childhoods, as well fun souvenirs of good times, like the sparkling glitter "K" that I bought when out shopping with my friend, Beth are all things that I love about my holiday home.

(Twinkle thinks she is the main subject of every photo I take)

I love sentimental things at the holidays.  This butterfly was a sun catcher that always hung on my mom's patio door.

Unexpected and non-traditional ornaments make a tree unique and whimsical.  And very entertaining to babies, Sugarwings loves to hear stories about the things on our tree!

Mom and I went shopping at Montgomery Wards together the year I was 11, and I remember her letting me pick out these doves for our Christmas tree that year.  I have had them on mine every year since then.

My good friend, Connie made this ornament by gluing each individual white bead into place.

Sometimes you might not be able to afford a "real" piece of art by an artist you admire, but when they have Christmas pieces for sale, it is a great time to purchase some of their work.

This carousel horse was given to me by my mother-in-law my first Christmas after my wedding to her son.  It isn't meant to be an ornament, but I love having it as one.

Another sentimental piece from Mom, is this little bag she made for me. She had made quite a few that I decorated to sell at art and craft shows, but I ended up keeping a few for myself and am glad I did, now that she is gone.

Behind it, is a hand blown glass ball by another artist in town.  His work is normally very expensive, but at the holidays, it is a good time to pick up a couple of ornaments for a fraction of what his lamps or bird baths go for.

Another friend, Shanna Wagner,  made this stained glass star for me.

Next to it is a clear glass ball from a 90% off after Christmas sale that I added part of a necklace to by just draping it over the neck of the ball.

Underneath is a gold vintage ball that I glued a piece of jewelry to for a magazine article I wrote for Victorian Decorating a few years ago.

Well, I've rambled long enough about what I love about my holiday home:

Hot, home made soup

White Chocolate fudge, and knowing that we will be having big family get togethers where I need lots of home made fudge to serve, and also having great friends and people I care about to make lots of fudge for too.

Sentimental ornaments filled with memories

Entertaining little Sugarwings by showing her the birdies and sparklies and horsies on the Christmas tree

Decking every hall in the home with a little bit of Christmas and using budget stretching ways to do it so that I can still afford to buy presents!

Now it is your turn to tell us what you LOVE  about your own Holiday Home.

If you don't have a blog, leave a comment and tell us a story about your decor

If you do have a blog, leave a comment (with your URL) so that I can link your blog and everyone can visit you and "party hop" on over.

My Sissy, in Indiana, sent me a photo of a tree she decorated through her office,  for a Woman's shelter. 

She made and donated beautiful things for the tree, then the company filled it with toys and presents for the women and children staying in a shelter at the Holiday.  How is that for some LOVE?

Make sure you leave your comments on THIS posting, so I don't miss you to add to the party.  Also, I will be drawing names for Christmas presents I will send out.

I will do my best to list everyone. Please, please please, check back to make sure your link is active and let me know if I have messed it up and I will fix it.  I don't want to leave anyone out. I'll be adding sites starting Tuesday night, and continue throughout the day on Wednesday, then adding some stragglers on Thursday. 

Happy Holidays! and thanks for coming to the party!!!

My buddy, Beth has a new holiday banner and will be starting her party at 9:30 Tuesday night.  The cute kids in her banner (which she made herself) are tiny little Bethy and her brother from a Christmas long, long ago. Here is a little sneak peek of what Beth has been making.

In Chile, Maria Elena has Santa greeting us at her front door, then later cooling off in the swimming pool, since it is summer in her part of the world.

My Candian friend, Joy (who also won my November giveaway drawing) has vintage toys on display and the cutest Ho-Ho-Ho banner made of snowballs. Good thing she already has plenty of toys, because it looks like ole Santy Claus is in some danger on her rooftop..........

The other Karla, Sugar Bear, is welcoming us with a fresh wreath. She was also lucky enough to get one of those adorable Sugar Shack kits from Hollydoodle, and it turned out beautiful. Keep reading down to the next post, and you'll see her trip to the talented and sweet Jennifer's Sis Boom sale.  Wow, what pretties!

If you love pink as much as I do, you have to go see Shannon . 

Jennifer Hayslip was the bella of the ball at Silver Bella's junk gypsy night, she is one pretty lady.  And she has an eye for pretty things.  If you can catch your breath after seeing her "Sugar Plum" dining room, scroll on down to her previous post too. She's taking us on a tour of NY as well as giving us a peak at her own creative creations at home!

Oh goody, more pink and white! This time at Robin's.  She also has some cute sugar cottages that she made herself, with NO pattern! 

And if you are looking for pure creativity and wonderful handmade items (some she made at Silver Bella too)- you know you are going to find it at Kari's.  Kari was the inspiration for me to throw a party, when she had her teaparty last spring, I was HOOKED on blogworld and have not been able to get enough since. Thanks, Artsymama!

Pink! and roses!  and more! Its heavenly at  Ele's home and she isn't even ready for us yet. She says her holiday post is to come 10am Wed. morning. That means you get a bonus dipping of holiday heaven, because the one up now is pretty spectacular.

I spy a pretty pink fairy over a pink village at Pink Faded Roses.  And check out her wreath on the pink rose wallpaper.  I am a wallpaper junky, and that stuff is delightful.

Lori has some visitors, pretty red birds have come to call. I have always loved cardinals, they just say 'winter' to me. Lori seems to be having the same Christmas tree issues that my neice, Shelli has.  There is a kitty hiding in her tree.

Bottle brush wreaths, glittery letters and a little bit of Pooh and Tigger are some of what you'll see at Vintage Bliss. Scroll down to the previous post and you'll think you've entered Wonka's world.

I found a plump little fairy to visit over at Sue's.  She had quite a few fairy friends on the tree.

Carolyn, the tiniest Santa is waiting to meet you at Rhonda's.

Its a summer garden Christmas in Argentina with a TV STAR!  Marina Capano is a pretty lady with a pretty home to show us.

A luscious tulle and ruffled gown filled with vintage flair and ready to be a Christmas gift to a lucky little girl is at where else but- Vintage Flair!

A sparkling lit tree is reflected on a shiny wooden floor in this pretty living room.  Come by Alexia's to see the warm glow at her home.

Back up to Canada again to visit Linda  for a tour of her lovely home. You'll swear you are flipping through a magazine when you see her first photo.

I love the banner with the tussie mussie spilling over with goodness above the white curtains over at Sarah's.

Don't stop at the chocked-full-of-creativity holiday post, keep scrolling down or you'll miss the wreaths!! Suzy always has great stuff to see, and today it is especially true!

When you see the cheerful blue door with a wreath welcoming you to her home, you have to hope you'll see some blue and white dishes at Janet's.  And yes, she does have a great collection, and has even used some to hold paper whites and a tree.  Don't you just LOVE to make use of your favorite belongings as part of your holiday decor?

Katrina has been baking sugar cookies and put some elves to work decorating them.

You'll want to pull up a chair by the golden glowing fire at Amy's to enjoy the cocoa she prepared.

My buddy, Betty, has really decked the halls!  Fun and friendly just like she is.

The carols are playing at Shelly's and her vintage Santas are out to enjoy.

I seem to be drawn to wreaths during this party, and am crazy about the giant one over the dreamy, white piano-- and the hydrangea one tied to the footboard is a BRILLIANT idea!  I might have to steal that inspiring look at the Inspired Room.

Way down under, at Alison's, the kangaroos are a hoppin!

Jen has a cute idea, she's doing a virtual Advent calendar with a photo a day till Christmas. She is also having a give away, post a comment on her 8th photo to enter. Good luck!

A new blogger, Nancy has hand crafted elegance to share.

At Mary's you'll be greeted by a smile from a couple of carrot nosed snowpeople in a cheerful holiday collage.

If you have never been to see Carol at Raised in Cotten,  silly, silly, you! Get there NOW.  I just love Carol, we became buds at Silverbella and she is as much fun to hang out with in person as she is at her blog.  That is one inventive and talented woman, and she has more than one post filled with holiday decorating ideas that you need to look through.

Carol made this little watch box lovely for me as a swap at Silver Bella.  She was a vendor there and, her booth was jammed packed with great vintage finds as well as her own cool creations.

I was looking forward to seeing this one, I always love the dreamy look of Becca's pictures. And you can tell she puts a lot of love into her Christmas decor.

Jeanne has a snowman themed tree and the sweetest snowman ornament made by her daughter.  That is a true keepsake.

It looks like Beachy loves the vintage sitting elves as much as I do.  She has one from her childhood out on display.

Here are a few I saved from when I was a kid too.  Of course, since then, I've added a dozen more or so to the collection, it is a weakness of mine.

Beachy has a tree full of holiday memories to share.

At Alicia's home make sure you don't miss that mirror over her mantel! And the fantastic chair the doll  is sitting pretty in.

3 generations of Christmas crafts are lovingly displayed at Raechal's on the other side of the world from me here in Kansas.

I met Jessi at Silver Bella too- and she has an out going, fun personality and her home matches it. Her home is as pretty and fun as she is.

I LOVE the jars of star dust at Becky's.

Kari and Kijsa have worked their artistic magic again.  I want to pull up a seat at that whimsical table they have set up and take them up on their offer of a Diet Coke.  And don't miss their previous post with directions on making one of the coolest wreath ideas around.

When I see a home like Rhondi's at the holidays, I start itching to paint a room red.  Her red dining room is the perfect backdrop for a traditional Christmas.

Crystal knows the importance of scent at the holidays and has filled her home with the aromas of a real tree, potpourri, and  candles.  Scroll down for a mini home tour and unique cloche idea!

I am linking as fast as I can! I'm glad I got an early start and linked a few last night. I'd like to take a little break and say thanks to everyone who is joining the party and also to show you a present that just came in the mail from Debbie.

How cute is this?  Such attention to detail, the package is almost too pretty to ruin by eating the peppermint bark. Ha! Like that would stop me!! Thanks Debbie!! I'll be snacking on your treats throughout the day as I link all these parties. 

Now back to work, I am about 60 some behind!!!

Cathy,  in Idaho, says she has to love snow up there, and celebrates it with a shelf filled with snowmen.

Carrie has a collection of Natvity scenes, and some nicely set tables ready for a holiday gathering.

And hey! what do I see?? On the silver tree, she has two of my collaged ornaments that she purchased from my Etsy shop! Thanks, Carrie!

Darling! That is the baby's nursery at Sandy's. What a lucky baby.

And did you think we could ever have a party and not go see Heather???? It is always pretty at Pretty Petals, but at the holidays----wowoowowow!!!

My friend, Natasha never disapoints, either.  Another big wow for her place. I'm ready to buy a ticket and head to Australia to see it all in person!

And don't miss the sweet tussie mussie's on Cathy's tree.

Stephanie gives us a glimpse of Christmas past with some old photos, then shows us all the perfectly pretty pinks and roses she's decorated with.

Fresh cookies right out of the oven and some sweet sentiments to go along with them are served up at June's

Adeline has exciting news to share about her publishing debut- check out the magazine! And make sure you scroll down to see her charming cottage and the ginger bread homes she has created.

This home has all my favorite combos, some silver and aqua, pinks and whites, and jadite greens with red shiny brites- don't missPriscilla's place

At Elizabeth's she has stayed with a simple palette of red, white, and silver.  With charming results.

Every room is done up at Brittany's, even what she calls the "dog's room" has a cheerful red and white tree!

Meet "Swiss Santa" and "Schmootly" and see some European Christmas pictures at Mary Lou's

Santa's little helper is counting down the days at Kerry Anne's

In Alabama, Adrianne is asking what the holidays mean to you.

Its an elegant Country Christmas at Mary's dear little red house.

The cookies look yummy in Germany at Regina's

More vintage cuties are on display at Valerie's, she even has some angel figurines her husband picked up at a yard sale for her! That is something to love about the holidays, a husband who can pick out garage sale treasures!!!

Paul-ene has her little doggy decked out and ready for coming to the party.

Debbie has a lavendar tree!! And you have to see her collection of "weird" snowman.  I'd collect those too, if I ever came across any!

All of my snowmen are the traditional kind, like this one.  I could go for some vintage cool ones like she has.

Rich, warm colors and Southern Hospitality await you at Rhoda's

Tamy has a tree decorated by her boys, and it is as cute as a button. 

Ok, as soon as I get back from visiting Natasha in Austrailia, I have to go to England to see Ginny!  This is beautiful!!! You are going to love her English Christmas!

Warmth, coziness, and a kind thought are waiting for you at Julie's

Have a cup of tea and enjoy Luame's tree. It is just my kind of tree, a little bit of everything and LOT of it! pretty!!

I always enjoy visiting Phyllis, she's like the next door neighbor I wish I had in real life.  She always has a great new banner, that changes reguarly, but I think that the one she has now is my all time fave.

Gail is showing her favorite things at her place.

More vintage to love at Lakewood Manor.  And who doesn't love those ceramic Santas from the 60's? I know I had one growing up too.

BJ is getting a start on her holiday candy making and I just wish we were there in person to taste those goodies.

Cindy is another friend who never disapoints in the decor department.  Day after day her blog is a beautiful place to visit and for the holidays, it is even more special. 

Liz has made the cutest cookie cutter wreath. And you can learn how to say Merry Christmas in Swedish.

Besides a festive slide show, Debra is giving away a gift. I've been on the receiving end of some of Debra's gifts before, and believe me, if you are a collage crafter, you want to win the give away she is having! 

Lidy has a special call out for helping the less fortunate, as well as sharing her holiday gorgeousness with us.

There is a lot to see at Blanca's, but I of course, am always drawn to the white displays and love her shelves with the pottery and white deer.

Speaking of deer, look who visited my yard during our last big snow.

This is the view from my studio back door.

My yard is always full of "antler rats" as I call them when they eat my rose bushes in the spring.

This home is one I could move right into.  That display in front of the mirror, is a knockout.  Suzanne has lots of pretties to show us.

I almost got teary when I read the story of the sign on the gate at Sandy's. It is very touching and a wonderful family treasure at the holidays.

Now, you have to go junking in Georgia with Karen and take a peek at her fabulous Santa collection!

When you go to see Gina, don't miss the adorble, flirty little faces of the cute girls on the ornaments.

My Silverbella friend, Valita has some dramatic, red curtains that are a wonderful compliment to her decor, and her newly painted walls I'm glad to hear I am not the only one who repaints for a holiday. 

Santa ROCKS! at Karen's. How funny ! Also, look at how pretty the simple arrangement in the window is. Scroll down to see the kit she ordered from my BFF Beth. 

Beth still has some of these kits for sale and you still have time to make some for your own tree.  Although..... with the houses I have been seeing, I dont' know how any of us would  squeeze in one more ornament!  But- we manage, don't we??

There is snow up in Canada at Cheryl's.  She had a bit of a tree dilema, but solved it. Haven't we all come across something that just didn't want to fit into our cars??

Another Silver Bella friend has come by to invite us over to her snowy part of the world- Natalea is getting a start on wrapping gifts to put under that big, gorgeous tress of hers.

I  just love the slide shows, and here is another one to enjoy at Leanna's.  Gotta figure out how to get my own slide show...

Here is another whole house tour, that you wish would keep going on- lots to see here at Becky's

Ispirational messages and photos are at Cielo's spot

Penny has been posting about her holiday decor for a while, you'll have a lot to look at and scroll down through here.

Shiny Brite wreaths, ribbon candy, pink bottle brush trees, and is that a pink feather tree I spy in the bachground? Great collections abound at Sue's

Oh, how sweet, a nutcracker tree at Andrea's. Plus the mystery of what really happened to Elvis is solved, scroll down and you'll find him.

Back to Canada to visit Kim and Liam for some cute displays. I love the watch face and jewelry by the bottle brush tree. 

A studio tour at Maria's features some vintage balls.

There is a soft, comforting glow over everything at Swaddle Cottage

Now I am homsick for our old barn after seeing Julie hang wreaths on hers.  How festive!

Renee is going through a move right now and can't decorate, but I am sure she'd appreciate a visit from some holiday friends.  Its hard to be trying to sell a house at the holidays.

Santa himself is delivering the mail at Pamela Jane's

Amy is dealing with toddlers, dogs, and little space, but still rallys and makes her home festive for them all up in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Here is another one where you will want to continue scrolling down for even more to see. I am crazy about the simple trees covered in vines and sheet music, as well as  the candy cane heart and the simply wonderful can covered in old paper at Jill's

The Advent Calender at Jennifer's is a one of a kind item I wish I had thought of.  Crafters and decorators, you are going to love the ideas she presents in every photo here. Bottle brush trees in egg cups, a Christmas tree in a red toy dump truck, PLUS a giveaway!!

Monica, who was the hostess for the Deck the Halls swap has made a perfectly beautiful white and aqua wreath.  Love those colors! 

Kathy has me drooling over the vey thought of cream cheese sugar cookies......

You know, with a name like the Rose Cottage, the place HAS to be pretty, and it is. 

We have a party to attend in Holland too! Corina takes joy in decorating with her little angel.

I just decided what to give as my present in the drawing.  A choice of the Tiara and Crown book, or a pair of earrings.

I've seen so many people going all out to decorate their homes for the holidays during this party.

So, I thought it would be nice to let them decorate themselves!

So, the winner will get to pick out a pair of earrings that I have made from vintage pieces, something with some holiday flair and glam.

OK, back to linking- I am almost, but not quite, caught up, and have been at it for hours.  It is taking so long, because there is so much to see and I am looking over each site. I'll go back when I can linger, but hey, you can't fault me for not being able to pull myself away too quickly!!

Its a candy lover's dream come true at Cindy's.

The painted door with roses is a one of a kind decor item that is just to die for at Kimberly's.

Pearl Maple is on the road visiting family and has holiday travel pictures to share. 

A dollar store, blue Santa is as cute as can be over at Mary Alison's. I'll be getting out a dollar and heading to that store myself, he is a steal!

Sandy, a fellow painter, has a cute hand painted Santa on a window, as well as trying her hand at a glittered pair. It looks adorable in the blue and white chintz teacup she has placed her sparkling fruit into.

No matter how far away we travel on this party, it is amazing to see how much stays the same.  All the way over in the Netherlands, Santas, Snowmen and candles are still the highlight of a holiday home.  This Netherland's home would be as comfortable here in the midwestern state of Kansas as it is all the way across the world from here. 

A very special hand drawn Santa portrait graces the beautiful white mantel at Deb's

I am going to go and STEAL Vickie's couch!!!!!!!!  Love it!! and scroll down a few posts to see a truly unique aquarium.  I wouldn't be surprised to see a mermaid swimming around in there.

Yay, another Bella friend has come to the party- Heather has a whole herd of glittering deer to show us, and some beautiful hand made pieces she has bought from friends.  If you don't already shop with her, you have to check out Heather's store. She carries some of the best supplies around.

Angelina's Beautiful Cards, needs to be called "Angelina's Beautful Trees" from now on!

So far, I don't think I have put my foot in my mouth yet- only a couple of mistakes. One misspelling that I corrected, and just now, I added the link to Paint Mine Pink, since before I forgot to include it. She was at the top of the list of links, so if you missed her when you were WAY up there, try again now!

At Laura has beautiful things on display and best of all, you can shop while there and pick up some for your self! I love the angel.

The "Pink Pearl Girl" has a genius of an idea for a tree stand!! Check it out atVicki's.

Britt at Sparkled Vintage Charm is celebrating her 2nd Christmas in a row "preggers" so wasn't going to be a part of this party. But she has the cutest baby Santa on her Flickr site that you have to see!

I always enjoying chatting with Michelle. I just came back from visiting her blog and saw that she has the same tradition that we do! My husband's mother has also made a cross stitch stocking for everyone in the family.  Looks like the same pattern sock too, nice and big to fill up with lots of goodies!

The lights are twinkling and the tree is glowing at Dolly's.  I'm fond of that fairy with the snowflake, too. 

A lit tree tour of the Big Apple is up on Susie Q's blog.

Its a red hat holiday at Pat's

Dara has one of the prettiest, most dreamy blogs I have seen yet! There is a dear little deer that you can't miss out on, she is delightlful!

Oh no, my Silver Bella friend, Heather, is ill- and so is her camera!!  She is all decorated and ready and will have photos up soon. Please check back with her!!!

Lisa has some unique banner ornaments.  Hmm, something else I'd like to try to make. Wow, I am getting sooooo many good ideas today!!

I can't even say what I love best about Meg's because every single picture looks like it came from a decorating book.  I just have to love it all.

Cindy has a  beautiful home and "cute pink stuff" just like the name of her blog!

Barbara has a traditional home with a splash of whimsy.  Its a "beary" merry Christmas there!

Terri is someone who must believe like I do- that anything looks more important under glass.  Her domes make the pretty white cottage and snowpeople take center stage.  And speaking of snowpeople- look at that fun fridge!!!

There is a holiday baking party and some of the prettiest white furniture you have ever seen over at Miss Gracie's

Well, it is after midnight and I have a big day tomorrow, having fun with Beth, we are going out to lunch, swapping wallpaper, maybe doing some estate sales, then playing with paper.  See, fun!!!

I've linked and linked and linked my little heart out today. I hope I didn't miss anyone. I didn't leave comments on all of your blogs or answer your comments because I was in a hurry to get everyone up and connected.  I did read them all though, and really enjoyed this day of holiday cheer!

I will add on stragglers over the next few days. That is a nice thing about virtual parties, they don't have to end when the evening does.  Thanks everyone!!

THURSDAY MORNING:

I will add a new guest before I go hang out with Beth for the day and would be happpy to add more tonight-

Cherished Vintage is a new place for me to visit. This party has been great for meeting a few new people, but I do think that 90% were already blog friends.  That made  me feel good to know that I had that many out there!!!

Any way, at Karoline's brand new blog, you will wonder why it took her so long to start one! She has some beauties to share.  Drop by and welcome her to blogworld and enjoy that adorable pink Santa sitting there so jaunty with his legs crossed.

And at this site!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She may be late, but who cares? Lets just say we are thrilled she made it and go straight over to Alice.  (by the way she did her blog design, and it is one pretty place, done up perfectly)

And at Alda's, there may not be a partridge, but check out the hand made pears.  Also, you have to scroll down to see her fairy angel.

Victoria has been writing her Christmas cards, and if you scroll down a bit, you'll see her tour of Shabby Chic in NY! Lucky girl, I want to go Christmas shopping there! (But I am pretty cheap, when I went, my souvenier was a box of matches- still, I loved every minute of being there)

THURSDAY EVENING- Ok time to add more!

My friend, Sandra is doing surgery on Santa (!?!) You'll just have to see for yourself.....  but don't miss her beautiful artwork, what a beautiful blue bird she has painted.

There is a family story behind the Shiny Brites on Brenda's tree.

8 crazy nights are listed at Saucy's, as well as a silver Christmas to drool over.  Yum, I just love the simple silver decor.

I know I keep saying this, but-- wow!  Here is another-  too pretty to believe!  I love Dawn's home, and check out that white light fixture!

I'm not sure where to start with Denise's home, it is all just so perfectly perfect. All of it.  Photos to just be thouroughly jealous about. And that song that is playing is one that I haven't heard before, I love the line about Shiny Bright in it. Of course, it reminds me of my favorite ornaments. How have I never heard this song???

Please welcome Stephanie to blogworld, she is just getting started and has a few trees set up for us to enjoy when we come by to tell her how much she will enjoy being part of the community!

Here is a holiday craft idea for gift giving if you have a baker in the family, complete with how-to's over at Kimmie's

You know, Susan has it right when she says that pulling out all the ornaments brings back so many memories of the past.

I don't know if Mary lives up at the actual North Pole or not, but it sure looks like it from her pictures of the Northern Lights!

At Kathy's you can meet Isabelle in her glowing cloak of roses.

I have just been so impressed that so many of our blog friends have photos of their homes that look like they came straight from the pages of a book or magazine. Here is another one that  looks like a professional decorator did the home, it is so well done and beautiful.  But it all came from the heart and Maureen has sentimental stories to tell about the decor.

One of my very first blog friends, Vicki, has a sugar plum cottage on display. She says she'll have her own home pictures up this weekend, so you'll want to go back and look again then. But, once you've been to see Vicki and her creative masterpieces, you'll want to go back again and again anyway.

I will continue to add links to this post for the next week. We don't want to leave ANYONE out.

FRIDAY MORNING- And the list goes on..............

Its a PINK Christmas at Jennifer's.

The Queen of Christmas is reigning over the "wonderful life" of my creative, fun, and kooky pal, Carlene at Unruly.  She has a unique way of seeing things and her decor is always one of a kind, funky, but oh, so elegant and enviable!

Friday night's additions:

A St Lucia Celebration is in full swing, Swedish style at Mica's, where the home is decorated vintage decor and shimmering white lights. You'll love this pretty blog.

A poll on favorite Christmas songs, a give away, and a  Holiday camera.  What more could you ask for? Stephanie has her home ready for a visit from all of us.

Saturday night's additions:

Its a little boy's dream Christmas at Dayami's home, complete with a candland truck with peppermint wheels. 

Its a trip to Beford Falls over at Debbie's.  And don't miss the wreath she made with the collage in the center, its so pretty.

Sunday morning and we are still having people drop into the party-

At the Pink Gate, Louisa is showing us photos of a nearby attraction, that had been featured in Victoria magazine.  Its so lovely, but everything they had in their pages was..... 

And back down under again to the Bowerbird's Nest where Jenn has had a Christmas tree catastrophe, but has made the best of it, and has so many beautiful pictures to see of her home. I've had a tree come crashing down TWICE myself, it is heartwrenching to lose the precious ornaments and the memories they represent. 

She has a long post, and it is worth lingering over, have fun visiting!

When I visited Cathy, I saw that she and I are in the same issue of Romantic Country that is out right  now!! How nice! Then, I spent some time turning green with envy over the photos of her garden before scrolling down to see all the pretty pink holiday decor.  I am so green right now.

The link takes you to her home page, it isn't easy to get to her blog, you have to go through a couple of pages, and see the blog listed and click on it. I promise, you will be glad you took the time to find it, she has some beautiful eye candy to share.

Heralding angels and red Santas will greet you at Jen's

Monday's additions:

I'm glad that Janet has joined us, because she has a great idea for holiday decor. I am crazy about all the little sliver birds in thier ironstone and shredded sheet music nest!

Here is another lovely nest, this time over at Lynn's.  Everything is beautiful with touches of red and white amoung the cedar.  But I just love the sweetly simple, bare branch , table top tree sitting in a nest.

Monique shows us the deals that only 6 Euros can buy!

Its Tuesday and we have a new hostess inviting us over- Maureen has decorated goodies and will be adding her holiday cross stitch projects.

Wednesday:

Take a tour of the "castle" and let puss and boots introduce you to the knight in shining armour wearing a santa cap over at Jeanenne's

Ginna has had to downsize and rethink her holiday decor after downsizing homes, as well as keeping pretties out of the reach of a 3 year old.

Oh, this one is fun! Not only are Alvin and  the Chipmunks singing in the background, and the cat is eying the tree with a plotting gleam in her eye, but Lallee has made a pretty tree with words, and seems to know how to load her photos in an interesting way. All I can do is do single pictures, and I find myself feeling very lucky when TYPEPAD lets me put the words close to where I want them to be.

Her blog is laid out well and there are nice photos too.

Another pretty, pretty place to go!! and here I thought I was crazy about pink and white, but this aqua, white and silver at Jennifer's is darling!

There is a sweet story of the what it means to be a grown up at Christmas at Keetha's as well as a funny, what can go wrong next? baking story in the previous post.

Thursday's additions:

Jilly has some lucky estate sale finds, one is a darling hand made ceramic church, maybe from the 60s?

We are going out with a BANG- take a lookie at this cottage!!!!!! funky, elegant, fun, I love this house. I am always so happily surprised to come across a great blog I have never seen before.  I know you'll enjoy this one! go visit Diva Deb and see for your self.

Well, it has been a fun week of looking at the holiday homes and seeing all the things we love about our Christmas decor.  All this cheer has really been a boost in my Christmas spirits! Thanks so much to all of you who participated and made this party the fun and successful festive gathering that it was.

We are winding down now and everyone must be busy bustling around with their last minute Christmas to do lists. I think I can stop listing and linking now.  Thanks again!!  I am finally ending this LOOOOOOOOOOOONG post.