Annual Cookie Day
I get together every year with my mom, sisters-in-law (and their mothers), and my mother-in-law to bake. We call it Cookie Day.
But really, it is a day each year to connect with one another. Some of us bake, others do projects to help them get ready for Christmas (like addressing Christmas cards), and still others nurse their crying babies…ehem.
It is a time to connect, create and celebrate during an otherwise busy season.
What I remember and cherish about Cookie Day:
- Smelling cookies baking and candles burning (thankfully, not cookies burning!)
- Feeling fresh, cold air hit my face, as the patio door opens to let out bakers cooling their warm treats
- Tasting chicken salad sandwiches, white wine and a lot of nibbles of “that pieces is broken I might as well eat it now” cookies
- Listening to Christmas carols and a lot of conversation
- Seeing community and love being built by generations of women working side-by-side
Oh, yes, I did find the time to get the new-to-me work bench set-up (phase one – still more organizing and cuteness to come) in the garage. SO, Pete can finally park in the garage!
Love,
Jess
This post was linked up with The Preacher’s Wife for her “How We Christmas” blog post party.
Weekend Project
Are you as excited for me as I am? Think of all the tinkering that can be done!
I hope to get this new-to-me workbench all nestled away, in her spot in the garage, asap.
Have a great weekend!
Love,
Jess
My Wreath Got a face lift
I was given this beautiful, handmade pine cone wreath a number of years ago. (Thanks Aunt Mary J0!)
For Christmas, it needed a bit of festivity splashed on her.
1. Start with a plain pine cone wreath. The wreath could stand alone too, it’s so wintery and natural. But, that wouldn’t be as much fun, now would it?
2. Gather a pile of festive items. Thank you Target and The Dollar Store for low, low prices!
3. Add some items to the wreath. Here are the details. I alternated white snowflakes with red ornaments. I used three of each item for a nice decorator balance. (Like I know what I’m talking about!?) I placed a big letter M in the center of the wreath for a personalized touch. The M is made from papier-mache (from a local craft store) and covered in polka-dotted scrapbook paper.
4. Ta-Dah!
I love adding a festive flair to my home. It reminds me about the reason for the season, Jesus is Born!
Love,
Jess
Linked up with Blue Cricket Designs Show and Tell Day
Dollar Store: Ball Ornaments and Felt Trees
Just a little bling for that Christmas touch!
Just a reminder of what the farm window looked like before:
Proudly linked up with Kimba’s DIY Day and DIY Showoff Blog Holiday Edition and Today’s Creative Blog Get Your Craft On.
Love,
Jess
The switch is done!
As many of you know my house has 2 bedrooms with 6 family members! Peter and I took the smaller of two rooms (“before” post) when we found out I was expecting twins. We worked all summer and fall, slowly sifting through our junk, to get organized enough to fit into our new smaller space.
Here are some decor shots from my new bedroom.
I kept that old farm house window from the garbage pile! Click here for my post about sorting and purging, in which, I claimed I would simply perish if I didn’t have that window. (even though it went unused for 3 years)
More re-purposed farm wood! This board was part of a chicken coop of yesteryear and discarded. I washed her up, removed the nails and gave a once over with some sand paper. I used a light white wash to brighten it up a bit. Then I added my name with a sharpie and stencils. Of course the year of establishment is our wedding year. I can’t believe I’ve been married over 7 years already!
Well, I just noticed the shelf decor could use a little more centering.
That’s all for now! Gotta go feed those babies.
Love,
Jess
At the Farm
Peter’s Uncle hosted Thanksgiving at his new farm house in the country. We enjoyed pumpkin pie made with pumpkins from their garden and a roasted hog from one of their pigs. So we said Oink! Oink! instead of Gobble! Gobble!
I was glad that I was still in maternity pants so I could treat myself to all the yummy treats. The kids played in the hay loft collecting guinea hen eggs. Peter swung from a huge rope swing proving he still has cool moves!
Hope everyone enjoys their leftovers!
Love,
Jess
P.S. I just had to include Pete’s hay bail jump. Crazy guy, I love him.
Big sister, big brother and two little sisters
I am grateful for my kids! Molly, Ryan, Claire and Leah
I am also grateful for glue guns, flavored coffee and good books.
May your attitude of gratitude lift your eyes to God and thank Him today and everyday!
Love,
Jess
