Dec 14, 2014 |
Saturday was the monthly meeting of the California Writers Club, High Desert Branch. I’ve been a member for just under two years and have been, well, no other word suffices ~ I have been blessed.
To be surrounded with a group of like-minded people who “get” the why of writing, who quote and embellish and say “Wait!” as we write a note on anything including our own skin if there’s no paper around ~ these are the people I live with and for.
The critique groups, salons, meetings, and friendships are more than I ever anticipated being a part of. And those are on the regular days.
The Wordsmiths Critique Group
Then there’s the special moments, like Saturday’s meeting. Our branch president, Dwight Norris, arranged for this month’s guest speaker to be none other than Charles Dickens . . . okay, so, obviously, not really, since the man’s been dead for nearly a hundred and fifty years.
Dwight Norris and Charles Dickens (Paul Jacques)
Our speaker, Paul Jacques, portrays Charles Dickens in the Riverside (CA) Dickens Festival each year. He regaled us with his performance filled with history, biographical information, Dickens quotes and readings, and all-around literary magic.
I was lucky enough (or just early enough) to get the front row center seat which enabled me to capture some memorable photos and video.
Molly Meets Dickens
As you’ll recall from the very few (okay, two) videos I’ve ever posted, I’m not exceptionally gifted in the video editing department. Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy this little blurb I put together.
And may God bless you, every one.
And Frankly, My Dear . . . that’s all she wrote!
You may also enjoy reading:
Some Christmas Trivia
Destination: Mission Inn Festival of Lights
How Bedford Manor Got Its Name
Dec 7, 2014 |
This cute and creative idea was inspired by a magazine ad I saw years ago. It’s my favorite homemade craft.
People Feeder
This versatile project can be themed around any holiday, or any decorating style.
You’ll need:
- A wood birdhouse with plastic windows
- Acrylic paints
- Glitter (optional)
- Decorative add-ons (optional)
- Small candies
- assorted paint brushes
- cleaning rag
- water in a small dish (for brush cleaning)
People Feeder Supplies
Acrylic paints dry quickly, which makes this an easy afternoon craft. Starting with the inside of the birdhouse, pour a small amount of paint on the wood then use a paintbrush to spread it around and get into the edges. If you want to add a little extra touch, sprinkle glitter over the paint while it’s still wet.
After you’ve painted the entire birdhouse inside and out, carefully lay on its side separating the base and the lid, and let it dry overnight.
Let it Dry
Carefully scrape off any dried paint from the windows. For more creative detail, glue on painted decor or tiny tokens (miniature candy canes, ribbons, tiny packages, dollhouse ornaments).
Fill with your favorite small candies then step back and watch your people flock to this fun centerpiece.
This craft costs less than $10 for all supplies, and takes about an hour to complete.
Happy Holiday Decorating!
And Frankly, My Dear . . . that’s all she wrote!
You may also enjoy reading:
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Christmas Wreaths
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Candles in Cups
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Pine Cones on Display
Bedford Manor on a Budget: A Light Decor
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Pine Cones in a Vase
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Christmas Candies
Dec 6, 2014 |
What would the holidays be without a little sugar and spice?
This wonderful craft/gift idea was given to me by a dear client.
Christmas Candies
You’ll need:
- An airtight container
- Candies, cookies, or other sweets
- Packaging/tote bag
Although this gift may seem so simple to be personalized, the beauty is that it is extremely personal. Know a chocolate lover? Throw in some miniature candy bars. A big fan of mints? Wrapped or unwrapped, the airtight container will keep them fresh. You can package home-baked cookies, tea bags, or whatever special treats your loved ones like.
Wrap with a ribbon, and place inside a decorative tote and your gift is ready to give, even to yourself!
And Frankly, My Dear . . . that’s all she wrote!
You may also enjoy reading:
Five Years and a Party
Angry Christmas (or was it Awesome?)
Dec 5, 2014 |
This is the simplest of my decorating posts, yet a favorite.
You’ll need:
- A glass vase
- Pinecones or other small decorative items
- Ribbon (optional)
Carefully place your items into the vase, and if desired, tie a ribbon. Display.
Pine Cones in a Vase
I use small pine cones meant for ornamental use. You can also use small ball ornaments, miniature candy canes, or whatever other festive items you like.
Craft stores such as Hobby Lobby carry a wide assortment of vases, or you can check out your local thrift store for options.
Happy decorating!
And Frankly, My Dear . . . that’s all she wrote!
You may also enjoy reading:
Holiday Recipe: Doo-Dads
2014: BETTER.
Mojo Book Review: “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis
Dec 4, 2014 |
Today’s decorating is from my daughter. She’s always had a knack for creativity, and this is no exception. With a few leftover pieces from her own Christmas Wreath, she created this beautiful eye-catcher.
A Light Decor
This lightbulb-shaped glass container has a flat bottom so it can stand anywhere. It also has a screw-on cap.
You’ll need:
- A lighbulb-shaped (or other small) glass container
- Small pieces of Christmas decor (bits leftover from other projects work great!)
- Cinnamon sticks
- Burlap strips
- Hot glue gun
Simply remove the cap from the container, gently fill with your cinnamon and decorative bits, and recap. Then, take two strips of burlap. Fashion one into a bow. Shape the other into a ring to fit the container and glue them together, then slip them over the neck of the container.
Because the glass is reflective, this makes a great decor near candles or the Christmas tree. It can be used as an individual item or placed on the table-top for those holiday dinners.
Light Decor on Display
This craft costs less than $5 and takes less than five minutes. Now that’s a great holiday deal any way you look at it!
And Frankly, My Dear . . . that’s all she wrote!
You may also enjoy reading:
Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder
Life Is Rough. I’m still a diamond.
The Adventures of Will Power and the Search for Christmas
