I had hoped to have time to get a nice post together for Dawn's Loveliness fair, handmade gifts. But life did not permit that yesterday. So here are some quick thoughts:
We are trying to go handmade for Christmas this year. Handmade gifts from the siblings to one another, handmade gifts from mom to her boys, and handmade gifts for family and friends (or copies of Cay's Christmas Mosaic. The toys we will purchase for the boys will be handmade from specialty toy stores.
Earlier in the year as our little internet community of moms discussed beauty and rhythm in our lives, my thoughts were toward using Christmas and holidays as a way to spread warmth and beauty in a way that is unique to us, by making the gifts we will give and by choosing things for the boys that were beautiful and different and created with craftsmanship and artistry.
As we moved on in our discussions to Waldorf-inspired learning, I was even more drawn to the idea of the boys using their hands and creative minds and hearts to express the sentiments of the holidays. And even more convicted that I wanted to give them things that nourished their imaginations and filled their childhood memories with golden hues of warm woods and the feel of natural fibers and unending play with a few well-loved items.
Then the whole China thing exploded and the plastic playthings I was already beginning to loathe became items of suspicion and worry. Even our beloved Thomas set was questionable. Now my convictions were solidified.
I have planned the handmade gift list and ordered the supplies. During my cleaning binge, I set up a spot to work. I don't want to list the whole list here because some faithful readers are also recipients! But I am going to set up a page to keep track of my progress--hopefully tonight.
By the way, my friend Alice and her family drive up every Christmas week with a precious box full of homemade cookies tied with ribbon and a handmade tag. It is one of our favorite holiday treats. It is simple and lovely and to me, the epitome of spreading warmth and joy.
I only hope this Christmas my family and friends can be blessed with those "warm fuzzies" that handmade lovelies bring me.