It takes a Village....

Warning:  This is long and photo loaded with Christmassy Stuff.

I'm opening my post today with a photo of my Angel Tree.

My mother gave me my first angel ornament and a new one each year until she passed away, which was soon after the tradition started.  After she died many of my friends and family have given me angels for this special tree.

Our Dickens Village is one of my favorite decorations.  I add little touches every year.  This year I added a table skirt and some new bushes, like the front hedge.  I also added Ralphie's house as I reported in the last post.

Enjoy!

Here is a view before I add the snow.  I can not tell you how much difference it makes in creating the illusion of a real town.  It also hides those white ceramic feet on the figures.

And After - 

 Mr. Fun always does the fine snow on the rooftops.

Here is the "let's look up the skirt" view of the ugly wiring job.  Every year I think I'll do better then I get into it and don't.  ha ha.

I was really under pressure from this guy: Mr. Starbuck, who was judging my every move.

The end result.  I leave this up all of January to enjoy from the couch.

Here is the framed print of the Lincoln inking that Barbara gifted me.  I chose a red silk mat, simple scrolled black frame and museum glass.  I had it done at Michaels and they do a wonderful job.

It is part of my "Hall of Presidents"

I have a White House Historical Society ornament tree.  Did you know they are less than $20. each and they come in a beautiful box with a booklet all about the history of each years ornament. 

One day I'm going to sit down and read each and every one!

I got a wonderful gift this week from Kelly.  Do you know what this is?  Have you ever received one?  Made one?

It's a SURPRISE BALL.    How fun is that...?  really fun!!!!

You unroll it and surprises fall out - I'll share mine with you.....

 I wish Kelly had been here to hear my squeals of delight.  I did save it for when some friends were here.  Thank you Kelly!!

Well at last you have come to the end.  Sorry it was so long.  I have been super busy with a party we had.  I'll share more decorations next time.  

In parting, this is how coco has been helping me lately......

what a super duper dog - 

Hope your Holiday plans, parties and prep are going merrily!