Christmas is for Creativity with Family and Friends

Christmas is undoubtedly my favorite time of year.

The dark and quiet of Advent makes space for contemplating the glory all heaven anticipated that first Christmas Eve, with angels singing and shepherds worshiping the birth of Christ our Lord! The time of preparation allows us to greet Christmas morning singing with gusto, Joy to the WORLD, the Lord is come!

Though some complain about the busyness of the season, I enjoy seeing the preparation and beauty EVERYWHERE! Each year I find that decorating our home is one of my favorite things to do. The time and effort are totally worth it. There is so much scope for possibility!

A key part of this blitz of creativity is the annual wreath making party hosted by a very dear friend, and her husband, who kindly keep us fueled with incredible smoked meats, cheeses, scones and wine...what's not to love! 

Our first attempt over twenty years ago was a bit timid, but our kind and creative mentor gave us the tools and courage to experiment. We all went home with a wreath we were proud to say we made ourselves!

Over the years our personalities have come out in bold and subtle ways, with our styles and tendencies ranging from wild and crazy to symmetrical and well planned. We've all gotten more adventurous, busting out square shapes, balls, triangles and family heirloom vases (it doesn't have to be wreaths all day long!). The end result is an evening of delightful fellowship AND some pretty stellar projects.

Last night's wreathing extravaganza may have been the most epic yet, due to the synergy of fine minds creating in one place (or maybe it was the wine!). Here's what went down:

a. yours truly decides to make a wreath using a giant embroidery hoop. Having never tried this before, it was good to experiment with friends around to give appropriate encouragement.

b. yours truly feels that the wreath is still lacking something, even after piling it with a LARGE variety of greenery and add ons.

c. wild and crazy friend says, "I think it needs....... ANTLERS!" Said friend encourages yours truly to loudly proclaim her need for antlers to the room, including the two gentlemen brave enough to hang out with all these ladies!

d. seconds later, the man of the house disappears into the garage and returns with...wait for it....... ANTLERS!!!!!!!

e. yours truly places the ANTLERS on the wreath and they fit perfectly! BOOOOM!

I'm sure wonderful things are happening in your home as well.If not, maybe it's time to gather some friends and family, find a mentor, and get creating!

Wishing you will all have a chance to make your homes beautiful in some meaningful way. Enjoy this season full of the light and love of God, and don't be afraid to bring some of His good creation inside to fill your house with joy.

Merry Christmas!