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Frances Ray's avatar

We go down a similar path, Cate. I do love to view the very done-up Christmas trees in Country Garden UK tho they aren't for me. Am enjoying your choice of gifts for the foodies and the lovely things for others.

I hope you take a photograph of your veranda decorations as well as the wreath.

Just think, in 2 weeks Christmas will be over, How quickly time flies by.

Before that tho, I'm dreaming of Solstice.

xx

Barbara Graver's avatar

Your pictures are beautiful Frances. As are your gift ideas. I loved the history of Christmas trees. I had no idea that artificial trees have been around since the 1880s! Thank you so much for mentioning me. Wishing you all the blessings of the season <3

Frances Ray's avatar

Thank you, dear Friend.

Christmas Blessings to you, too.

And sweet (or, at least , useful) dreams.

xoxo

Linda S's avatar

I have a few decorations scattered throughout the house. I have tables with holiday tableclothes and centerpieces. This year I am doing Advent candles. I also have been baking goodies and addressed a handful of Christmas cards. I plan on taking some baked banana bread to some neighbors. And, for our family gathering there will be a big meal and gift exchange. My heart is full of gratitude for all of the above.

Frances Ray's avatar

This is so lovely, Linda. I don't know many people who are doing as much as you. I'm sure your neighbors and family will be grateful for all of your efforts.

In case we don't 'speak' before Christmas, I'm wishing you a lovely day and sending you love.

xx

Linda S's avatar

I am actually doing much less than usual and I do none of the big meal cooking! Daughters do all of that now and I have much gratitude for that!

Elizabeth Gelfeld's avatar

What a wonderful composition of history and down to earth personal gift ideas! You must have spent many hours in research and thoughtful idea generating. I'm impressed! And thanks so much for including me in your list!

Frances Ray's avatar

Thank you, dear Elizabeth. If I had as much money as ideas, I'd be sitting pretty...

Of course you'd be on my lists...your posts are a gift.

Merry Christmas!

xoxo

Elizabeth Gelfeld's avatar

Merry Christmas to you, too, Frances!

cate kerr's avatar

Love your little tree and gift choices, Frances! I am putting up a small (2 feet) artificial tree with a just a star at the top and eight carved wooden birds gifted years ago. There is a pot on the veranda with lengths of birch (fallen), cedar (from the hedge) and a bow., and the wreath on the door is the same one used for many years with elements replaced. Gifts to others are things like extra virgin olive oil, imported Dijon mustard, small pots of herbs and wooden spoons. For friends who don't go in for culinary activities, amaryllis bulbs, scented candles and good coffee beans are preferred choices. A friend gave me a wonderful birthday gift this week - he shoveled my snow!

Sari Botton's avatar

Thanks for the mention!