The weekend before last was what I like to call the official Holiday weekend kickoff!  It didn't go nearly as planned or how I had it all worked out  in my head. Usually we take in the Parade of Lights, kick back afterwards and watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and I start really planning Christmas gifts. This year we ended up not going and then by the time we figured out we could go it was late and we rushed to get to the city.By the time we got there the parade had started and there was just no way we were going to make it to our usual spot on Barrington street. Instead we ended up in from of the Casino struggling to get the kids close enough to see. Thankfully a friend of ours was also down by the Casino and had a good spot so we were able to hook up with them.

Austin danced, Amelia ooooh'ed and ahh'ed and Santa was the highlight (well the reindeer for Miss A.) We hustled and bustled to bring my nephew home and get the kids to bed, I made a dress and then hit the sack myself. No movie, no hot cocoa, no list.

I need a list night do-over. I love making my holiday list. Who is going to get what, what items I need to make, when I need to start, the whole shebang. I love giving gifts. I love thinking about each person on my list and trying to figure out what would make them happy. It may be a gag gift that makes them smile, something thoughtful that they didn't even know they needed or something practical that they know they need but never pick up (yes SH you are getting a silicone spatula...) I get pure enjoyment from seeing people smile.

It's time for me to add some new names to my list- my readers!

Thanks to all of you, my blog has been gaining a lot of momentum. I can't get over how many people are reading my babblings, pinning my projects and recipes and sharing what I have to say. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am truly grateful and I wanted to give you back some of the joy that you have brought me. I called on my awesome circle of crafty friends and starting November 28, I'll be hosting a countdown to Christmas giveaway! I can't wait to share these gifts with you and best of all all prizes will be awarded on Dec 13 so you can have them in time for the holidays!

I'm excited and you should be too because this contest is open for US/Canada citizens! (Some items may require additional shipping charges depending on location)

Merry Christmas!

A few of my favorite things- Christmas at the Forum Edition

The sweets aren't even all gone and the Halloween decorations are still up but it's already Christmas craft fair season. Christmas at the Forum has always been a highlight for me and, while it has changed it terms of the type of crafter that has set up there I found a few gems last night. The craft show is still on until Sunday, November 3 at 5pm. If you are in the area go check it out and snatch up these gifts if you can!

HomeGrownGoods

Mandy has her awesome playdough, crayons and chalk for sale...and these awesome chalk mats {that's a total plug by the way...I made them for her :) }She's got great gifts for littles who like the create and I love that the playdough doesn't have any chemically stuff in it.







Stitches that Bind

Seriously cute dolls, wallets and bags. Amelia already has a super hero doll but if she';s good I think Santa might bring her a ballerina!







Blue Frog Creations

I picked up a new coffee cozy!!! Last year I grabbed two snowman cozies for gifts because I loved mine so much. I decided that December coffees will need a reindeer the keep my hand from burning. I also picked up a pot scrubber. She has an amazing selection of hats too!




Pink Bucket Designs

Krys makes awesome personalized (and practical) item. See this placemat? It's for Santa's cookies and clearly I bough one for my kids. There is a spot for them to write Santa a note. She makes dishes, cups, placemats, tags...you name she makes it. I'm excited to pick this one up and a countdown calendar too (See A1 &A2's little names are on her sample!)





M & A Doggie Delights

Homemade doggie treats and dry treat snack bags. She has a great selection and I know a few fur babies who will be getting these :)


East Coast Momma Collective

There are too many creative mommas to list  but you really need to check out this collaborative booth! I picked up some artwork by Jack and Jill and fell in love with a bunch of signs by From Heart Creations and so many gorgeous items you are bound to be able to find something for anyone on your list! Little Lemonade Stand has some gorgeous bunting there. I love mine and this is your chance to grab one before she runs out!







Ella's Cottage

I loved everything she had at this booth and then it got better...I was admiring her fabric selection and she told me that she sells the fabric...as if I needed another source to feed my addiction!!! And I consider PEI local so even better.. I can't wait to check out her selection. I wish she had a picture of her mustache quilt on her facebook page. I didn't get to grab a shot and it was beyond gorgeous!

Laughing Pear Soap Co.

I bough soap. All natural COFFEE soap! They use coffee grinds from a local supplier in their coffee soap and I was very impressed this morning. It doesn't have an overwhelming coffee scent or anything and my skin feels amazing! I will be buying more of these soaps for Christmas gifts. Love her packaging and company name too








I am trying to support local whenever I have the chance and I found a few new favorites at the Forum this year. I hope you get a chance to check it out! 2 for 1 admission Saturday night- grab a friend and go!