Reinventing Christmas (and a giveaway!)

by Melissa @ The Inspired Room

Since my family is undergoing so many changes involved with moving this month, we are rethinking how we “do” Christmas. We’ve had to let relatives know things won’t be the same this year and we are thinking of ways to make Christmas special for our kids in new ways.

I’ve never been one who felt I had to hold to certain traditions that weren’t working for my family. So it isn’t too much of a leap for me to reinvent Christmas.

My son really enjoys shopping and buying new things. I am not sure why he has this trait…the minute he gets bored his first thought is ‘we should go to Target’ (ok, maybe he got that from me)! Usually I can get him interested in a toy he already has (with enough persuasion) but in his mind, the immediate cure for boredom seems to be shopping for something new. Oh, where have I gone wrong? Holy cow, he is only 8! Clearly, I have some work to do on refocusing his little mind. Especially at Christmas when the temptation to WANT is everywhere!

I am trying to teach him to enjoy the simple joys of the season, like spending time together creating things, listening to Christmas songs and drinking hot chocolate.

Last week, I decided that my son and I should make a paper garland together. Of course he would much rather play a video game or shop, but the process of reinventing what makes us happy doesn’t always come easy! So while he protested and complained about the idea (remember, he is an Eeyore), we sat down and got to work.

We traced festive shapes on to scrapbook paper and old holiday cards using our cookie cutters. Once we got into the tracing and cutting, his disposition changed and we started having fun together. We punched a tiny hole and strung our shapes on string and hung it proudly from our cabinet! Now every time we see our garland we smile and remember how much fun we had making it. It represents finding joy and making memories in the simple things that money cannot buy.

THE GIVEAWAY

I have another giveaway for you today! Hooray! ‘Tis the season! This one is from another of our own great Moms Unite members, Amy Locurto! Here is what she is offering, it would make a great gift too!


Personalized Wall Art by Amy @ Living Locurto

This giveaway is for an 8″x10″ personalized frame with matching ribbon. Photo size is 4″x 6″. I will create original art with any design and colors you want! Send me a photo of you or your child’s room and I can design something from scratch to match the decor. Frame can be any color. (frame design my vary from samples) I will also touch up your photo to make it look extra gorgeous! Total custom order worth $85!! This doesn’t have to be for children. Would be great for anyone!

If you’d like to see more samples, visit Amy & Living Locurto! To enter this giveaway, please leave a comment on this post at The Inspired Room!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED!


FINALLY! THE WINNERS OF THE JEWEL BOX HOME (SMALL HOUSE STORIES) GIVEAWAY!
(so sorry for the delay on announcing these winners–I had a series of mishaps trying to get these posted!)

Genevieve of The Jewel Box Home received so many wonderful small house stories she said she couldn’t limit the winners to five. She generously is giving away an apron to SEVEN lucky winners! WOW! I will share your name and part of your email address, so if this is YOU, could you email Genevieve with your mailing addresses?

* Katie - makingthis…
* Audrey – audrey.bu…
* Suzanne – easyat…
* Chrissie – csaesto….
* Chi-Girl – Colleene…
* Leslie – leslierutla….
* Imelda – imelda.phi…
See you tomorrow for our Holiday Mr. Linky, where you can share your holiday posts for the week! And be sure to visit the Blissfully Domestic Home & Garden Channel to enter the giveaways, including a new one posted today!

{ 129 comments }

1 Robin ~ PENSIEVE December 4, 2008 at 3:51 am

One thing my in-laws have really modeled for us is creating traditions; there’s something so comforting about having some things to expect at certain times. Tradition is a thread that unites present to past, and I love how you’re being intentional about creating some of your own (and recognizing the need for them). Children may resist them at some point, but down the road? When they’re away from home? THOSE are the things they’ll remember and want to repeat!

:)

2 AbbaDabbaBags December 4, 2008 at 3:52 am

Wow, what an amazing giveaway! I’m so glad I saw it on Twitter. This would be beautiful in any room of my house!

-Monica (AbbaDabbaBags)

3 Diane@A Picture is worth.... December 4, 2008 at 4:18 am

That garland is so cute, and such a wonderful way to use old Christmas cards!

I think ‘new’ Christmas traditions are always fun!

Diane@A Picture is worth….s inspiring blog post..Christmas Sayings & Memories

4 Vee December 4, 2008 at 4:41 am

You are a very smart mom to realize that Eeyore needed a bit of redirecting. What a good idea you had! It looks great and you shared. Thank you. I can do this, too.

Vees inspiring blog post..Book Tag

5 Erica December 4, 2008 at 4:45 am

I’m entering the contest for Amy’s wall art! So cute!

Ericas inspiring blog post..25 Days of Christmas - Day 23

6 Lisa @ The PW December 4, 2008 at 4:48 am

I adore those frames! The pink and zebra stripe is a pattern I’m thinking of using sparingly in my daughter’s room redo…We’ll see! :)
Lisa @ The PWs inspiring blog post..My Feng Has Lost Its Shui

7 Bella Casa December 4, 2008 at 4:51 am

That garland is a great idea! Do I just comment here to enter to win Amy’s custom picture frame artwork? Thanks, Melissa!!!

Bella

Bella Casas inspiring blog post.."Oscar The Pig, Mommy Goes To Work" (A Children’s Book Review)

8 Jinx December 4, 2008 at 5:00 am

What a fun idea!

It is the gift of time that is more precious & long lasting than any other.

Jinxs inspiring blog post..North Pole Memories

9 Natalie at FLHomeBlog December 4, 2008 at 5:20 am

That garland is perfection. I love it. I also love the idea of refocusing boredom :)

Yay! I love Living Locurto and am thankful for a chance to win a piece of her work.

Congrats to all the winners!

10 Michelle December 4, 2008 at 5:24 am

Well now I know what I am doing with all the Christmas cards we get this year. I would have used the ones I saved from last year, but I used those for name tags on presents this year. Thanks for the ideas. I’m looking forward to reading more.

Michelles inspiring blog post..Other bloggers

11 Lindsey Langhans December 4, 2008 at 5:36 am

Oh I am so excited about the Living Locurto giveaway! I would feel so blessed to win this giveaway!

Merry Christmas!

Lindsey Langhanss inspiring blog post..Before and After

12 Ang December 4, 2008 at 5:44 am

Love those custom frames by Amy- one of those would look great in our baby’s nursery!

Angs inspiring blog post..Still Hanging in There!

13 Amy December 4, 2008 at 5:46 am

I have just stumbled upon your blog and I LOVE everything that I see - you have a great talen - thank you for sharing it with all of us! This giveaway is just oo cute! : )

14 Becky K. December 4, 2008 at 5:51 am

I have found, also, that sometimes you just have to push them a little…just to try something new. Most times they will come around….

I love your garland. It is fun.

Becky

Becky K.s inspiring blog post..Colors

15 Kristen December 4, 2008 at 5:51 am

I love the garland idea. And I can’t wait (well…actually, I can. Only been married 6 months here!) until I have kids of my own to do fun Christmas-y things with (poor grammar, I know). Thanks for the reminder to slow down and do something fun and unexpected this season–regardless of my kid status.

And those pictures are delightful! One would make an excellent Christmas gift.

Kristens inspiring blog post..Christmastime Collecting

16 Debbie December 4, 2008 at 5:52 am

Love the personalized wall art by Amy; very clever! I’ll visit her site.

I’m amazed that you continue to be consistent in your blogging despite the fact that much change is going on in your life. I find myself coming back to your site to see how you’re doing. :)

There are times when it’s good to stop and reflect on ways we are celebrating Christmas. Running to the mall, buying gifts, getting caught up in so many things … it can be easy to forget what we’re celebrating; the birth of Jesus. May you and your family have a blessed one this year.

Debbies inspiring blog post..My 100th Blog Post

17 jen@Balancing Beauty and Bedlam December 4, 2008 at 6:01 am

My hubby always tells me…”Jen, you can’t be a slave to your traditions.” It’s taken awhile to ingrain that in my mind, but some traditions aren’t just worth it….if they don’t work….change them. Love that you did, and I’m looking at the paper garland with my 9yrold daughter thinking…that is one I can make from our condo at Disney. :)
jen@Balancing Beauty and Bedlams inspiring blog post..Multi tasking Mama… after

18 Sandy toes December 4, 2008 at 6:02 am

I love how you strung the paper cutouts..so cute and festive!
-sandy toes

Sandy toess inspiring blog post..Thursday Thankful In The Cold!

19 Hilary December 4, 2008 at 6:02 am

Count me for the Living Locurto giveaway!

Hilarys inspiring blog post..Repost: A Very Baby Christmas (2008 edition)

20 Maureen December 4, 2008 at 6:02 am

I love reading your ideas and inspirations each morning.
Thank you.

21 Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolates December 4, 2008 at 6:02 am

I love that garland! What a fun project! My son actually would love it if we sat down together and did a project like that. I’ll have to remember that one.

Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolatess inspiring blog post..Tea for Two-sday ~ Finding Tea Gifts

22 drewmark19 December 4, 2008 at 6:07 am

I found your site through Amy’s. Her wall art is too cute! I’d love to be entered for the contest.

drewmark19s inspiring blog post..Go, Jordyn!

23 Julia @ Hooked on Houses December 4, 2008 at 6:17 am

What a cute idea to make garland like that. That’s right up my daughter’s alley. She’s always begging me to do more crafty things around here.

Amy’s personalized frames are so pretty! Love ‘em. They’d make great Christmas gifts! :-)
Julia @ Hooked on Housess inspiring blog post..Remodeled Craftsman Bungalow: Too White or Just Right?

24 Laura December 4, 2008 at 6:20 am

The garland is precious! My 4 year old has the “can we go to Target today” syndrom. I think we may be making a card garland today instead.

I would love, love, love to win your giveaway!

Lauras inspiring blog post..Party like it’s 6 o’clock

25 Julie - On the Dot Creations December 4, 2008 at 6:20 am

I love the zebra print on the Camy frame. What fun designs! Thanks for the chance to win!

Julie - On the Dot Creationss inspiring blog post..:: Twelve Days of Christmas — Day 3 ::

26 heather jane December 4, 2008 at 6:24 am

My nephew would look mighty darling in this frame for Christmas.

heather janes inspiring blog post..Give Away Day!

27 Beth December 4, 2008 at 6:33 am

Love the garland! I am going to try this with my son and see how he does also…he is 16 so what cha think? I will let you know…I love the simple look!

28 hyperactivelu December 4, 2008 at 6:37 am

This is just precious!!! They all look great!

29 Christina G December 4, 2008 at 6:44 am

That garland is fabulous!! Love your ideas and appreciate you sharing them with the bloggy world. I’d love to be entered in the giveaway, too!
Merry Christmas!

30 Ashley December 4, 2008 at 6:51 am

These frames are so cute. I would love to win one!

Ashleys inspiring blog post..Great Giveaway

31 pam December 4, 2008 at 6:53 am

Sweet & Cute. I try hard to teach my kids, gee you don’t want to see my 7 year old list, it makes me wonder what happen, I try so hard to teach my kids, but its all around them and they are children and it all looks so fun. My son wants stuff like motorcyles, snowmoblies, 4-wheelers, etc… my thought is what happen to the fun little toys?????

pams inspiring blog post..MonthlyTop Secret Recipe share

32 Carrie December 4, 2008 at 7:01 am

My little boy (3 years) is a shopper too. He got that from me;) Too bad for me that his shopping powers only cover the toy departments. So if we go to Target we end up looking at little cars, trucks, and tractors the whole time. I love your garland. It is very festive and thoughtful. So cute! Keep all of your great ideas coming. I enjoy visiting your blog. I love your giveaway today too. They are really lovely.

33 Terri Steffes December 4, 2008 at 7:01 am

Congrats to all the winners! That was so nice to increase the number of winners.

Your Christmas will be wonderful and full of memories, no matter what you choose to do!

Terri Steffess inspiring blog post..Trim the Tree Thursday!

34 Linda December 4, 2008 at 7:04 am

Love your blog. I can’t imagine moving at this point. I’ve lived in my house for 19 years. Hope your move goes smoothly.

35 Kim Walker December 4, 2008 at 7:08 am

I love the picture frames. Her work is beautiful!

Kim Walkers inspiring blog post..Cricket is Here

36 Amanda December 4, 2008 at 7:11 am

love the gardland idea. I have to admit- I hate doing “crafty” things and my daughter LOVES it- I am the Eyeore in the family.-but I will have to try this one. And LOVE LOVE the giveaway- I have a newborn and would love to get his pic. in one of those.

37 Kelly @ Wisdom Begun December 4, 2008 at 7:26 am

I am also trying to redirect my children’s focus from “wanting” towards being thankful for the simple things. Thank you so much for this great idea!

Kelly @ Wisdom Beguns inspiring blog post..Time 4 Learning - Week of Reviews

38 Dolly December 4, 2008 at 7:32 am

That garland is sooooo cute!
I love it!!!!
A great project for gramma and grandkids! {wink}

I love Amys work!
She makes photos even more special!
Thanks for introducing her to all of us!

Hugz, Dolly

Dollys inspiring blog post..We got SNOW….

39 Katie December 4, 2008 at 7:40 am

First, thank you so much for including my little Berlin apartment writing as a winner, Melissa and Genevieve. I’ve been wanting an apron so very much.
Would I be so very greedy to enter Amy’s giveaway, too? I love Amy’s website and would give any won item to my younger sister and her empty walls.
Finally, I like what you say about holiday traditions that don’t suit you anyway. Why keep doing them? We’re at the point where I’d like to have a tradition (first Christmas away from home). But like for you, I think we need to be wary of establishing traditions that aren’t right for us.
Thank you always.
Katie

Katies inspiring blog post..Andrea Schroder’s Holiday Decor Tips

40 canadacole December 4, 2008 at 7:47 am

We’ve been working on refocusing our little ones back to the reason for the season too. It may actually be easier for you this year with the big move. Lots of opportunities for donations and service and working together. Good luck!

And my kids grandma would adore some of that art for her walls! Thanks for a beautiful giveaway!

41 The Arthur Clan December 4, 2008 at 7:49 am

Whoever win’s Amy’s giveaway is one lucky blogger indeed. Everything she makes is incredible!

The Arthur Clans inspiring blog post..Miss "Talkie"

42 leslie December 4, 2008 at 7:57 am

Oh my goodness those are darling! Please count me in!
I love the garland idea - those are the kind of things I cherish from my childhood.
Thanks for the cute post - I always enjoy your blog!

leslies inspiring blog post..Making our own traditions…

43 Mama Goose December 4, 2008 at 8:02 am

Oh I’m so happy I found your site from Amy’s… I love, love, love the garland idea. Just last night my 4 y.o. was cutting out stars, angels and hearts to make a card for Santa. He wants to do more tonight. He’ll love the garland idea.

Looking forward to perusing your site!

Mama Gooses inspiring blog post..He Melts My Heart

44 Brooke December 4, 2008 at 8:12 am

Those are so cute! I would love one for my cutie pie nephew! Great idea Amy.

45 Jackie December 4, 2008 at 8:13 am

Here, here to enjoying the journey of process!

46 Sara December 4, 2008 at 8:14 am

That garland is so cute. I’m going to make some.
I live 1.5 miles from Target. So, when I get bored, or the baby gets bored I should say, we pack up and go to Target. Funny how that works!

The give-away is so great today. I love Living Locruto, and Amy’s stuff!
Good luck with your packing, and I have a feeling this Christmas, some of your “reinventions” will stick with your and your son for a lifetime.

Saras inspiring blog post..Peace on Earth

47 Leigh-Ann December 4, 2008 at 8:15 am

What fun memories to create things together that don’t cost anything.

I love the frames and would love to be a winner!

Leigh-Anns inspiring blog post..Mom-Preneurs Shop a Thon and Daily Giveaway!

48 Tidymom December 4, 2008 at 8:22 am

The garland idea is GREAT!!

And I LOVE Amy’s Wall Art!!!

~Tidymom

Tidymoms inspiring blog post..Homemade CHRISTMAS CD and Fudge ~Gifts!

49 Shilo December 4, 2008 at 8:22 am

Love your garland!
And the giveaway is super cute too! :)
Have a blessed day!

Shilos inspiring blog post..Christmas Photo Mats

50 teresa December 4, 2008 at 8:29 am

That is so adorable- and something I can do! Love the pomegranate on the white cake plate- :}
I hope your move goes okay for you- it’s got to be super hard during this time of year-
I don’t know how you do it all.
Take care-

51 Whitney December 4, 2008 at 8:29 am

Christmas traditons are so important to our family but we also don’t mind trying new things. The homemade Christmas Garland is precious, what a wonderful thing to get your kids involved in. My daughter Eden is only 8 months old right now, so she’s a little to young to participate in making crafts like that. Once she’s old enough though I would love to share your Christmas Garland idea with her. I’m so looking forward to sharing our Christmas traditions with her.

I also love Amy’s wall art. What a creative idea! I know some grandparents who would love to have something like that on their wall. My goodness what am I saying, I would love to have that wall art on my wall as well.

52 courtney December 4, 2008 at 8:32 am

The picture frames are perfect… especially since I have a little one on the way!!! Thank you!

53 Steph December 4, 2008 at 8:33 am

LOVE the garland, and LOVE the giveaway! Can only imagine my precious baby’s face in one of those frames!! :)
Stephs inspiring blog post..Worth mentioning

54 Christy December 4, 2008 at 8:45 am

Great frames! Love ‘em.

Also loving that garland! Might have to make that w/my own little one this weekend.

55 Courtney @ Nesting Instincts December 4, 2008 at 8:46 am

I love the garland idea! And Amy’s wall art is totally fabulous too. Sign me up! :-)
Courtney @ Nesting Instinctss inspiring blog post..Have yourself a SPARKLY little Christmas!

56 Tracie December 4, 2008 at 9:04 am

Fantastic idea with the garland. I am going to do that with my kids and husband tonight. We are also trying to re-do Christmas. We’ve always put the focus on Jesus’ birthday, but we are trying to encourage our extended family to not be so focused on gifts. It’s hard, but I’d rather spend time with the family eating together and just hanging out than having to make/ buy gifts. We have decided to go all homemade gifts this year which has been so fun!

Tracies inspiring blog post..Advent

57 katy December 4, 2008 at 9:05 am

I would LOVE to win a custom frame and print from Amy! Wonderous

I also like your garland, great thinking!!

katys inspiring blog post..Christmas Cat

58 Amy Honestly December 4, 2008 at 9:20 am

How perfect it would be to win one! We just repainted my oldest son’s bedroom and have nothing on the walls as of yet!

The custome pictures are stunning!

Be Blessed,

Amy (Honestly)

59 Melody December 4, 2008 at 9:23 am

I feel like we’re going to be reinventing often too. Why is it when you’re trying to focus on just keeping my kids eyes on Jesus this year (and not every single present they hope they get), everyone in my family is asking every day what everyone “wants”! I feel like it’s so hard to keep my eyes where they need to be!

60 mary beth December 4, 2008 at 9:25 am

The garland is adorable. How nice to create something with your son. Amy’s wall art is just beautiful. {I would love to win!}

61 Sarah December 4, 2008 at 9:26 am

What a great giveaway! Thanks for the chance to win!

62 Stacey December 4, 2008 at 9:30 am

I loved it when my boys were little and I could talk them into projects like that! You are making memories forever. :)
Staceys inspiring blog post..I Have Been Spoiled!

63 aubrey December 4, 2008 at 9:39 am

What a great idea–you’re such a good mom. And I love the oxymoron of ‘he’d rather play video games or shop’. Funny. I can’t even get my daughter to like shopping. She’s like me, I guess.

aubreys inspiring blog post..Prepare Yourself For a L-O-N-G One

64 Kacey December 4, 2008 at 9:50 am

What a cute garland! I wish I had the time and patience to create something like that. :-)
Kaceys inspiring blog post..Let (Him) Eat Cake

65 amanda@imperfectlybeautiful December 4, 2008 at 9:59 am

What a great idea for using those Christmas cards we all get every year!And i just LOVE Amy’s personalized wall art. I would love to have one with a picture of my 4 kidlets together. Fingers are crossed!

amanda@imperfectlybeautifuls inspiring blog post..Cheap, Yet Chic Teacher Gifts

66 DebbieCalif December 4, 2008 at 10:08 am

Hi Melissa, great idea! I have always made my kids do Christmas crafts with me, it has only been since they have gotten older that they remind me now it is time to make some things. I’m shocked they actually like doing this….at the time it was alot of moaning and groaning!!! Blessings,
debbie

DebbieCalifs inspiring blog post..Gingerbread Rolling Pin

67 Jessica December 4, 2008 at 10:22 am

Yay for giveaways! I love to make Christmas cookies with my hubs. He’s my official taste-tester. Couldn’t do it without him. As he is a professional photog, I love having him take our little family’s picture.

Jessicas inspiring blog post..Baby Pod

68 Bettina December 4, 2008 at 10:23 am

Love home crafting christmas ideas. I’m inspired to make a garland with my two this weekend! The pictue frame is a really wonderful give away. Thank you for sharing the joy of giving.

69 Dina Marie December 4, 2008 at 10:29 am

I was reading Amy’s blog this morning. Her link brought me to your blog. I agree that she has a really neat idea by creating a personalized wall art. I would love to win this neat giveaway!

70 Ashley BB December 4, 2008 at 11:01 am

What a neat idea- with the garland!

71 AggieMomof2 December 4, 2008 at 11:06 am

The framed pictures are beautiful–it would be very difficult to gift one of those!
sylviarj@yahoo.com

72 Amy December 4, 2008 at 11:31 am

I love that garland, we will probably try that one out! Also, my boys are 2 1/2 and 4months and i am a goer. I love to shop especially at Target, my 4yr old is already asking to go there on a daily basis!

73 d December 4, 2008 at 11:45 am

That garland is adorable - wish my kids were still little. I’d have them help me with making that in a heartbeat. The young teen years are not quite the right time to inspire them with arts and crafts.

I love Amy’s frames!! What great gifts they would make.

ds inspiring blog post..Babies, Babies, Babies

74 Dot O December 4, 2008 at 11:46 am

Sorry, some how my name got dropped from my submit. Ooops.

Dot Os inspiring blog post..Babies, Babies, Babies

75 Celly B December 4, 2008 at 11:52 am

What a cute idea for a Christmas garland; it’s such a step up from the paper chain!
The artwork is gorgeous; thanks for the chance to win.

Celly Bs inspiring blog post..Preparing for the Season of Preparation

76 Dot O December 4, 2008 at 12:12 pm

I think I messed up my initial comment somehow. I wanted to say that I love that paper garland! If I could knock a couple of years off of my kids’ ages (both teens), I would have had a blast doing that with them. It is adorable!

I love Amy’s artwork too! They would make great gifts!

Dot Os inspiring blog post..Babies, Babies, Babies

77 Jodi December 4, 2008 at 12:24 pm

Thanks for the great giveaway!!! I love that garland too!

Jodis inspiring blog post..Training their wills; winning their hearts

78 Shawna Wagoner December 4, 2008 at 12:35 pm

Love the garland idea. Hope I win the custom frame - they are beautiful.

79 Jessica December 4, 2008 at 12:58 pm

I love the garland idea… especially in the kitchen! So cute, I will have to do that project with my little one Riley. Thanks for your inspiring ideas.
jess

80 Jersey Girl in DC December 4, 2008 at 1:03 pm

Count me in for the giveaway! Those are really cute!

My husband says the same about me and Target… he says every time we’re actually here in DC (we travel to Jersey and Philly a lot to visit our families) that I always want to go to Target. What can I say… like your son, my idea of fun is a visit to Target : )

Jersey Girl in DCs inspiring blog post..TRAVELLING: Shopping in Pennsylvania

81 Jenny December 4, 2008 at 1:06 pm

Cute garland! I love the giveaway too!

My 4 year old loves Target, but only wants to go if she can buy something! LOL!

Jennys inspiring blog post..Walgreens $5 off $25 Coupon Purchase

82 Mandi December 4, 2008 at 2:14 pm

Last year was my hubby and my first Christmas together. It came just a little over one month after we bought our first home. Our budget was practically nonexistant and I got crafty. I made a very similar banner with my cookie cutters and scrapbook paper. As I took out my decorations the other day, I smiled when I found my garland. I think I’ll always hang onto it.

I’d love love love to be entered into the giveaway! Thanks!!

Mandis inspiring blog post..Running as Fast as I Can to Catch Up!

83 Julie December 4, 2008 at 2:16 pm

I love the garland! Your blog is truly inspiring!

84 New Every Morning December 4, 2008 at 2:25 pm

We’ve had to ‘re-do’ things this Christmas too, in the way we spend. It has been fun, actually, to be more creative.

Count me in on the giveaway. Love her frames!

New Every Mornings inspiring blog post..Festive Fireplace

85 Kathryn December 4, 2008 at 2:38 pm

I will be making this garland with my little girls this season. Thanks for the idea…

86 Amy December 4, 2008 at 2:58 pm

What a great giveaway. Those frames are darling!

I also love the garland idea, I was thinking of doing something similar with snowflakes that my daughter made!

;) amy

87 rae December 4, 2008 at 3:00 pm

I’m trying to get myself out of that “I’m bored… TARGET!” habit myself. I could spend all day and all my money there. My husband’s carpool partner recently flaked on him, and with our fickle northwest weather, that mean being home more often. To my surprise, it’s been a nice change, and while the gas use has increased, my spending has dropped dramatically! Good for you for working with your son on this- my only child is almost two, and I want to train myself out of the spending habits before he’s old enough to notice.

88 Cheri December 4, 2008 at 3:42 pm

What a wonderful give away, please include me. I know just the perfect place for this.

Cheris inspiring blog post..A cute video to watch

89 Marla Taviano December 4, 2008 at 3:55 pm

I have a week-old niece, and I would loooooove a pink and brown personalized frame for her nursery.

90 Nicole@The Graves' House December 4, 2008 at 3:58 pm

sometimes we all need change to help us remember what is important in our lives!
love the giveaway… so hope i could win! (baby jack coming any day now…)
~nicole

Nicole@The Graves’ Houses inspiring blog post..The Most Fabulous Chicken!!! (and an award)

91 Deb December 4, 2008 at 4:03 pm

That’s a beautiful garland! I just might have to get my Christmas cookie cutters out and get off this computer.

Debs inspiring blog post..Rethinking Christmas: Accepting Gifts

92 Amy Elder December 4, 2008 at 4:34 pm

Perfectly timed post as I’m looking at my 7 year old son who only wants to play Wii every day after school. Can’t remember what my older children used to do in the days before lots of homework, but I know it wasn’t TV and game systems. Now where is that scrapbook paper … I think I hear a garland calling my name.

93 Sarah @ thriftydecorchick December 4, 2008 at 4:38 pm

The garland is wonderful! What a great idea. Love that he enjoyed it too!

Sarah @ thriftydecorchicks inspiring blog post..Evil, I tell you.

94 Pat December 4, 2008 at 4:51 pm

I love the garland and the precious time and thought behind it, Melissa!

Boy! Do I have a couple of links for you! I’ll check in tomorrow.

Pats inspiring blog post..~We Need a Little Christmas~

95 LuLu December 4, 2008 at 5:11 pm

I am really loving garland this year. really cute one you made with your son. love it.

LuLus inspiring blog post..Satin Ribbon and A Pine Cone

96 Emiy December 4, 2008 at 5:18 pm

Wow, what a cute garland idea! We’re reinventing Christmas this year too. I figure this may be the last Christmas I have a baby and would rather enjoy him than kill myself trying to do everything I would normally do.

97 Katy Lin December 4, 2008 at 5:35 pm

very cute garland! great idea! :) and what a neat giveaway as well :)
Katy Lins inspiring blog post..MHR Inspiration #1

98 Jennifer Wright December 4, 2008 at 5:52 pm

I LOVE those…what a beautiful gift.

99 Jennifer December 4, 2008 at 6:06 pm

These are great!!
Love your blog.

Jennifers inspiring blog post..Tis The Season

100 KayVonne December 4, 2008 at 6:11 pm

I found your blog through Living Locurto. I would love to be the prize winner!

101 Eileen December 4, 2008 at 6:36 pm

Love the garland! What a cute project to do with kids!

102 Carrie December 4, 2008 at 6:45 pm

I will win something one of these days! I just KNOW I will! And I really want to win this, so forget the whole choosing by random thing and PICK ME!!

Have I convinced you??

Dang…

Carries inspiring blog post..See You in a Bit…

103 micaela6955 December 4, 2008 at 7:08 pm

I love the custom layouts-very pretty and a wonderful keepsake!

micaela6955 at msn dot com

104 deepikaur December 4, 2008 at 7:25 pm

Love the garland idea, and great crafts! Really quite gorgeous. And whoever wins will definitely have a wonderful keepsake to add to their treasures. Thanks for offering this! Happy Holidays!

xoxo

deepikaur

deepikaurs inspiring blog post..Web 3.0?

105 all things bright and beautiful December 4, 2008 at 7:34 pm

Miss Melissa, just dropped by to say hi.

Hugs to you bug

Love FelicityXOXO

106 karen December 4, 2008 at 7:53 pm

The time spent with your children is the best time, no matter if it’s Target or making a paper chain. Blessings.

karens inspiring blog post..Come on In!

107 Margaret December 4, 2008 at 10:31 pm

this is such a generous giveaway. Thank you from all of us hopefulls.

Margarets inspiring blog post..Is Anything Growing Now!!!

108 Carrie - Oak Rise Cottage December 4, 2008 at 10:39 pm

Do stop by my nativity blog to enter the second giveaway:
http://carolanativitygallery.blogspot.com/2008/12/second-holiday-giveaway.html
Carrie

Carrie - Oak Rise Cottages inspiring blog post..Friday Show and Tell - Christmas Collections III - Trees Collection

109 efi December 4, 2008 at 11:42 pm

Hello from Greece

110 Melissa S. December 5, 2008 at 12:49 am

What adorable wall art! Perfect for my new little one’s room. I am so happy to have stumbled upon this site. Beautiful and inspiring…So many ideas and wishes for my own home!

111 Debbie White December 5, 2008 at 4:00 am

These are beautiful! Who wouldn’t want to win one?

112 Meghan December 5, 2008 at 4:16 am

Are you serious?
This is the giveaway???
No freakin mouth.
My mouth is drooling.
WoW!
Thanks for the chance to win!

Meghans inspiring blog post..When we go White Trash, we go all the way!

113 Theresa December 5, 2008 at 5:53 am

What perfect timing for your post today about your son…you could have beent talking about my son who is 9 . He is the same way. And today when I dropped him off at school he wasn’t a happy camper. We got his hair cut last night to a “boys” cut when he used to have long hair. I just couldn’t take it any longer and took him in for a cut. Now, actually, I think I like his longer hair, it suits him better. Anyway, I will try this with my son tonight and she if I can cheer him up. Thanks for the idea.
Yes, I beleive we have to take the blame for the Target addiction ;o
warmly, T

114 edie3 December 5, 2008 at 7:25 am

What beautiful frames, I would love to win one!

115 Timothy Selig December 5, 2008 at 7:53 am

garland idea ts cool
God bless our troops

116 Tracey McBride December 5, 2008 at 7:57 am

I totally agree with your holiday philosophy…sometimes a “Blessed ‘No’” will reinvent the season! Wise woman, putting first things (or, in this case people) first!
Warmly,
Tracey

117 melanie December 5, 2008 at 2:12 pm

Those are adorable!! WOuld love one for my daughters bedroom.

=) melanie
http://melaniescrafts.blogspot.com
melanieadey at hotmail dot com

melanies inspiring blog post..Support Handmade!

118 Joy Cronin December 5, 2008 at 7:49 pm

I agree Melissa, traditions can change. I use to think traditions needed to be repeated year after year until I found that we had too many Christmas Build a Bears! We use to go there every year to build one together. We stopped doing it once making “one” became an issue. They all wanted to make their own. We focus on spending time together and helping people less fortunate during this time (although, I must admit my children are overindulged at this time of the year - not my doing - but a totally different story). This year we are doing 25 Random Acts of Kindness for the 25 days before Christmas. They love telling me what they did each day and I love that they are actually thinking about it!

119 Julie December 5, 2008 at 9:27 pm

I love the wall art. Thanks for the giveaway.

120 kathemc December 5, 2008 at 9:40 pm

I would love to win — thanks for hosting the giveaway!

121 Trina S December 6, 2008 at 9:24 pm

Ohhh, how pretty! I believe I have a place for such a lovely frame in my home.

Trina Ss inspiring blog post..What I Made Today …

122 Kari December 7, 2008 at 4:42 pm

OOOhh, absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE the idea!!!! Super cute, count me in!! I’m finally back to some blog reading….sorry it’s been so long since I’ve visited you here! It’s LOVELY as always!!!! :D
Karis inspiring blog post..Playin Catch Up

123 Ginny December 7, 2008 at 7:01 pm

Beautiful giveaway!

Ginnys inspiring blog post..Il Divo Christmas Collection & the Promise CD

124 dre December 7, 2008 at 8:11 pm

I absolutely love this post about you and your son making garland out of Christmas cookie cutters. I’ve never thought of that! Brilliant! I’ve got die cuts and punches that I use for scrapbooking, card-making and other various paper crafts, but I never thought that I could go straight to my cookie cutter collection and use some of those shapes. Thanks for the great ideas!

dres inspiring blog post..Paper Back Swap

125 Carey December 8, 2008 at 6:05 am

Love this giveaway, beautiful.

Careys inspiring blog post..Happy Thanksgiving

126 ginger December 8, 2008 at 8:49 am

Love your giveaway and all the idea your sharing awesome!! And very helpful.

gingers inspiring blog post..Carved windows

127 Not for Children only December 8, 2008 at 11:10 am

I love this idea. It would be terrific for a holiday, vacation or family picture. Please enter me in the contest.

128 susan December 8, 2008 at 8:27 pm

I love the frames - so cute!

129 Susan Hahaj December 9, 2008 at 3:56 pm

What a gorgeous frame! Thanks for the chance to win! Suzie

Susan Hahajs inspiring blog post..Here’s my day, how was yours?

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