Christmas List

Swiss Cowbell and Vancouver Keychain

 I love Christmas traditions. A few years ago at my parents house I wrote a whole bunch of stories, movies, and activities on a December calendar. I've lightened up about some of it, and now make a calendar as a general guide, to help us remember some of the activities we like to do throughout the month to bring the feeling of Christmas. Included are movies such as "White Christmas," "Nora's Christmas Gift," "It's a Wonderful Life," "Mr. Krueger's Christmas," and Zak's favorite, "The Muppet Christmas Carol." I love to read stories, and this year made a recording of The Gift of the Magi, and then read Christmas Jars, which Mom Porter gave me last year. I baked several gingerbread houses using the family cast iron mold, but Zak and I were a little tired by the time it came to making our own. I have several nativity sets, and put them around the house. Husband discovered a love of burning scented candles (carefully), and we put up our little tree with ornaments collected from our travels and lives. To add a personal touch to some gifts to co-workers and others, I crocheted snowflake ornaments, which I then ironed and painted with glitter paint. They have a lot of room for improvement, but I enjoy the process and seeing the final outcome. I do love this time of year. May you spend time with family, and have a Merry Christmas and Happy 2013!

Moveable wooden man from Liechtenstein

Mickey Mouse hat from Sister's travels to

Disney World, Bear family given by a

wonderful family I met on my mission

Wooden Stars made by Dad Porter

Bunny in our backyard!

Before iron and paint