all is calm…….

Took a photo of the kids Thursday afternoon.  Got my cards made, finally!  Half of them went out today – the rest will wait until Monday.  I’m starting to feel the "whew!"

I confess to having a wrapping paper crush.  I love collecting rolls and rolls of handsome printed paper.  But at this time of year paper can get me so cranky.  How about when you love the pattern but the quality is dodgey, like too thick, or too thin?  I adore when it comes with a printed grid on the back – perfect for those of us who mathmatically wrap boxes.  And don’t you start to feel really wasteful when you see the bags of paper that goes in the garbage? (or the fireplace, if we had one)  I have cheated a bit this year and got myself some of those holiday printed boxes – and simply taped the bottom to prevent peeking and stuck a sticker label on it.  Gone are the days when I would make stashes of tags and delight in finding the perfect ribbon.  Maybe it’s because Winston gobbles and gags on curling ribbon.  I’m also enjoying the gift bags….had some leftover from last year.  I cleverly packed them away with the holiday decorations last year so they were easy to find and re-use this year. 

Here’s something I finally figured out:  After getting all frustrated that I couldn’t find my scissors, or the tape, or a pen, as I dashed from table to table in a wrapping frenzy, I smacked my head in a duh-moment and got out my studio apron.  Pockets are perfect for keeping scissors and tape as you take on the wrapping task.  I should really tie the scissors to my apron!  (is that what apron strings are??!!)

So here’s a great gift idea for the women in your life (because we KNOW the women do the wrapping).  Get an apron, with nice big front pockets.  (Maybe you could even spray paint some cool things on it!)  Then fill the pockets with a wrap-assistance-kit.  Scissors, tape, pen, ribbon, labels and tags.  Wouldn’t that be a loving gift?  Include a xmas music cd and you have a useful and thoughtful gift.  Maybe even insert a little notebook for list making.  Think about that as you scarf up all the after-christmas-sale stuff.  OH, and send early!