Meeting Charles Dickens

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. … read the rest. . .

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Bedford Manor on a Budget: Pine Cones in a Vase

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.

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!read the rest. . .

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Beford Manor on a Budget: A Light Decor

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.

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 … read the rest. . .

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Bedford Manor on a Budget: Pine Cones on Display

I love pine cones. They’re fresh, woodsy, and versatile. Most stores sell them in bags, or if you have neighbors with pine trees, you can ask them for the dropped cones.

Next to my Nutcracker Village, this is one of my favorite Christmas decorations.

A display of pine cones brings a touch of the outdoors inside, and adds a splash of color to any Christmas shelf.

This craft is extremely easy. You’ll need:

  • A display container
  • Pine cones
  • Garland or other decorative filler
  • Spray paint
  • Newspaper (optional)

Start by selecting pine cones that are sized for your container. You can … read the rest. . .

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Bedford Manor on a Budget: Candles in Cups

Sounds simple, right? But until two years ago, I didn’t know how beautiful such an idea could be.

The local dollar store or thrift store is a great source for inexpensive supplies.

  • Votive glasses
  • Decorative stones
  • Platter or tray
  • battery votive candles

I found this great candle, tray and stone set two years ago for $14. I just had to add the candles. Since then, I’ve seen similar product at dollar and thrift stores, but I prefer the great selection at craft stores. Choose your product with whatever color scheme you like. Pink glass on a long silver tray. White … read the rest. . .

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