I'm Back :o)

Hello everyone, it's good to be back with you in the Attic again after my little break, thanks so much as always for calling in to see me.

I hadn't intended to be gone quite so long but last week sort of gathered it's own momentum and I decided just to go with the flow as the days rolled by. I had fully intended to use my time away from Blogland constructively last week, intended to Get Stuff Done. But Clutter and Mess still reign supreme around here, and I didn't manage to achieve an awful lot.

However, what I have done is to sort of shift my nesting instincts away from the Piles for the time being and direct it towards Christmassy things. Nice, pretty things like wrapping paper, ribbons and bows, which has been surprisingly satisfying. All of my Christmas present buying is now finished and I'm hopeful that gifts and cards will indeed be mailed out on time this year. And I'll be happy about that for sure.

I've been making a conscious effort to sloooow myself down a bit more this past week too. Been putting my (swollen) feet up and spending more time resting. Making time to sit still and rest myself physically has not come easy. But I'm working on it. A neat pile of Inspirational books and magazines has helped keep me occupied, as has my ever-faithful crochet (do remind me to show you the new bag I'm working on...I keep forgetting to show you).

We put our Christmas tree up on Saturday. After last years trauma with the Needle-drop Situation, we decided against a real tree this year and instead dragged out our old artificial one from the depths of the clutter in the cellar. As much as I crave the sight and scent of a real tree, I know that truthfully I just cannot cope with any sort of cleaning up of fallen pine needles this year. 

So yeah, the tree went up with a new set of coloured lights and a new fandabidozy sparkly star on top, but that's as far as I got before I ran out of steam.

The Little People are taking it all in their stride. They've not actually asked me why the tree remains undecorated (which is an activity that they normally have full involvement in). Instead, they simply took  it upon themselves to begin making their own decorations from paper and bits of coloured thread they have stashed. I came downstairs this morning to a rather huge mess on the table before breakfast, with tree decoration production in full swing. It all looked very creative if a little chaotic.

These are Little Lady's decorations, already proudly hung on the tree. I have absolutely no idea what significance the crocodile has, but did very gently suggest that perhaps she could think of something that was slightly more Christmassy....

 

....and so the angel followed the crocodile and who knows what will be next? We had to halt production in order to eat breakfast and get ready for school this morning, but I'm reliably informed that more decorations will follow.

I wonder if I provide enough encouragement whether they will keep on making and hanging until the tree will be full of their little paper creations?? Maybe we won't do baubles and shop-bought decs at all this year, but will go totally homespun?? Will keep you posted on that one.

And talking of keeping you posted, I'm starting to give some thought to the business of blogging and my little Attic24 space, and how things need to be managed as the next six weeks unfold. I don't want for you to worry about me if I'm suddenly not about, and of course I'll do my level best to keep you informed.

Think I'll need to have a little chat to J about the delights of Guest Blogging so that he can step in and do the necessary when required. That's going to be fun (?!)

Right...need to go drink tea now so will love you and leave you for today....tomorrow I'm going to make into a "Ta-dah-Tuesday" as my Lampshade Makeover is finally ready for it's big reveal....oh now that WILL be fun!!!!!

See you tomorrow

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Comments

[Louise]

The idea of a completely "home made decorations" tree sounds wonderful! I hope the little people don't lose speed/interest on the production of ornaments. Have a lovely day!

[Carolina Girl]

I have been stopping by your site enjoying your blog. You have a wonderful site and I enjoy sharing in your creativity. I will continue to stop by regularly.

[Claudia W]

I think the completely homemade ornaments would be perfect for your christmas tree! What is up there so far is great. Can't wait to see the lamp shade.

[Patricia End]

Great blog I look forward to reading it and doing your crochet patterns, the birdies are very cute and the stars also, we just love them in our home. Thank you. Be well and rest.
Pat from Port St Lucie Florida

[Fruitful Fusion]

So good to hear from you Lucy!!! Glad to read you've been slowing it down a bit. So looking forward to tomorrow's reveal AND don't forget to show us the bag OK?
:D

[Simone]

Hello Lucy! We don't seem to keep in touch like we used to and I just wanted to pop by and wish you well. Do you think little lady's crocodile has anything to do with pantomime's and Captain Hook perhaps? Just a random thought! Take care.x

[Cathy]

Hey Lucy,

Thanks for the blog fix, I needed it. So glad to hear things are good.

Cathy
Lizard Lick, NC

[gill]

hi lucy
i'd love to be a fly on the wall when you have your little chat with j about the delights of guest blogging!!!
love as ever
gill xx

[Maura O., U.S.]

Oh, I am so glad to hear from you. I have been anxiously awaiting your return. I think the homespun tree idea is awesome and something your kids will remember for a long time. Can't wait for the Ta-Dah moment tomorrow. Thanx for keeping us inspired!!

[Pamela]

Hey!! Nice to "read" you again... !! I missed you these few days...
question: why are your feet swollen??... mmmm...

Lucy, have been my greatest inspiration... I'm working hard to show you (I hope before Christmas) my ripple...
Lots of hugs for U and family.
<3

[Lululiz]

Good to have you back again! Look after those poor swollen feet of yours and take it easy! Crochet something! ( haha, as if you needed to be told ).

[Siobhan]

Lovely that you are back!
Be nice to see how the tree evolves - if you feel like doing baubles you can, otherwise why not let the little people take it over? Never mind the mountain - they are for looking at not climbing, and you can visit at any time. Bumps can make life pretty uncomfortable and take a lot out of your normal energy levels. Just take things as they come; there will be other Christmases to run around like mad. I hope you've enjoyed your time-out. Give yourself the best Christmas present- have a relaxing easy going Christmas. Love your Christmas star - yummy colours!

[PengPeng]

oh you made my day Lucy.

You will keep all those 'home-spun' tree decorations for the years to come and learn to cherish and enjoy them in 20 years' time.

Always nice to see a new entry and what a lovely way to start my week.

We just had our X'mas decorations up in the office and it's really lovely and 'Chrismmassy' in here now.

xxx.

[Suzy's Vintage Attic]

Hello Lucy

When I saw your tree top decoration, I could already hear Miss P saying Ooh can we have one like that PLEASE???

I think your children must have a lot of fun in your colourful house!

Enjoy those relaxing moments...

Warm wishes
Isabelle x

[Nathalie]

Lucy,

Didn't anyone tell you crocodiles like to hibernate in Christmas trees as the green works as a camouflage next to the green of the tree?
Besides crocodiles are just Waaayyyy cool and do have that lovely green color we can always find in your projects ; )

[Nina - Tabiboo]

I wouldn't worry too much about an undecorated tree Lucy, ours is still bare all apart from lights and ribbon and I really have no excuses - though maybe tonight, maybe.......?

Love the children's Christmassy pictures,

Nina xxxx

[Dorit]

I'm new to your blog and am totally amazed by your creativity and colourfulness :) Lovely treedecorations!

[Jennifer]

We decided to do a handmade only tree this year a couple of months ago and everyone is loving it. The kids have worked hard to get it all decorated and had lots of fun creating wonderful ornaments.. Your children would love doing the whole tree, I know mine did. Glad you are getting some resting in.

[valerie]

love the decorations can't wait to see your lampshade

[The Coffee Lady]

ALL your presents are finished? Oh dear. I think I shall stop speaking to you now.

[pattie]

Awww Those ornaments are so precious! lol. Can't wait to see the lamp shade!

[annri]

Lucy, it seems that you have hit the perfect pace, and should continue that way as it feels right. The tree is adorable with all the smalls' creations! Take care and keep warm!

best - Annri

[Girl from Mozambique]

Yes dear, now we wonder what is going on at Attic24 when you are gone. :-)

[M.B]

I am so glad to hear from you.I have been waiting for some news from your blog in my sidebar.Guess you have to relaxs a bit.I am looking forward for tomorrow.See you then.

[Sarah A]

You could put your snowflakes on the tree- that would qualify as homemade as well as very HOOKY indeed!!

I saw some ornaments on the Eddie Ross blog (google him you are sure to find it) made with strips of material- might be something you would enjoy!