Decorating and Basket Making

I have been busy lately trying to finish up the last of my Christmas things. Trips to the post office, wrapping some gifts, etc. I actually did some decorating, which is unusual for me. Last Sunday afternoon the women's group had their annual Christmas home tour. I was given a free pass so I went to 5 of the 6 homes that were open. I always try to go, free pass or not!! I love going to the home tour! One was farther out and I did not go to it. Of course they were all beautifully decorated for the holidays and so it kind of got me into the spirit of it. I purchased some wreaths and put out on the porch railings which makes it look more festive. I decorated inside some as well and put up one of those smaller fiber optic trees. It is relaxing to turn out all the lights and just watch it as it changes colors! As you can see I had a helper (not really any help though) when I was putting up some garland. I had just gotten it out of the package and it all landed on Pup who was just laying there minding his own business! He didn't mind being covered in garland at all.
Then yesterday I finished up my egg basket. It was lots of work but it is so pretty!! Each basket I make is a learning experience for me. This one has not been dyed yet. We also spent some time yesterday (my neighbor and I) dyeing some reed to have on hand to decorate future baskets we make. We dyed some reed green and some red. We had a pot of walnut stain, a pot of red dye, and a pot of green dye all simmering on the stove! My reed is in the basement drying now. That will really pretty up the baskets! Stay tuned!
















This picture was taken looking over the end of our porch when we had that snowy day last week. It was pretty on the trees but looks really cold looking down at the lake and the houseboats below. It has warmed back up nicely now to the 60's. More like it!!!