Finished...

I finally finished Durin and Ceridwen's step up clothes. They aren't elaborate but they ARE what they wanted. Someone else is doing the embroidery on the wool garments and it's someone in whom I have confidence. I believe she will finish what she committed to, in a timely manner and it will be nicely done. I turned over Durin's undergarments last Tuesday and I have Ceridwen's to get to her, hopefully today or tomorrow.

Unfortunately, that's the only thing I've finished. I didn't finish my Brother's Wedding album and I'm not even going to try to before Christmas. Which means I have to figure out another gift for him. I'm trying to finish my mom's gloves before Saturday evening. Her birthday falls during investiture and I determined to go to it. So I'll be giving them to her on Sunday I think. I am planning on leaving before the feast Saturday, but I don't think I'll get back in time to celebrate with her.

I added a coworker and her children to my Christmas list because they wouldn't get a Christmas this year otherwise. I picked up some Thomas the Tank Engine wooden toys for the nearly 3 year old (Danny) and I think I'll be getting gift certificates to the book bin for her and her 16 year old daughter.

I got my Godson the same things as Danny but different specific toys. I started this collection on his birthday so I hope he's still interested. I know he just went to see the actual train so hopefully so. Jay and Candy got novelty gifts that I think will amuse them, even though they have no actual practical value.

I bought Barnes and Noble gift cards for my sister and BIL. The kids got educational gifts: Stupid History and Stupid American History I'm also going to look for a copy of 1001 Things Every Teen Should Know Before They Leave Home: (Or Else They'll Come Back) (I have a copy but I'm not willing to give it up). My nephew will probably find it interesting but I'm not sure about my niece. Oh well, it is educational.

Since my parents bought my SIL a sewing machine for Christmas, I bought her a book that has several patterns but also lots of finishing techniques that she's never learned. She already has it. I'll probably send her some more bobbins and needles as stocking stuffers. I've also got a sock on the needles for her. I am totally at a loss for what to get my brother; Mom has his list but nothing is under $50. I need a birthday and Christmas gift for him.

I bought my Mom a couple of skirts, so I'm covered if I don't the the Travelling Roses scarf done (or I guess the gloves- I could give them for Christmas instead and maybe as a set...hmm, it bears considering). I bought my dad socks- sounds exciting, huh? I'll also try to get him the elastic collar extenders. He hates collars that rub on his neck. He wants a head lamp that attaches to a brimmed hat but I'm not sure I'll 1) find it or 2) be able to afford it.

I had a sudden brainstorm for Carrie this weekend but I'm not sure I'll get it done. If I don't she won't care. I'll be able to give it to her late; I just need to get the materials. Carrie and I have a scheme in motion for part of Robert's gift. I just need to fill out the rest for both of them.

Since I have the office gifts I want already, that takes care of Christmas. I know all this Christmas frenzy sounds stressful but my favorite part of Christmas is watching people open the presents that I've picked out just for them. I'd prefer to give strictly handmade gifts but sometimes that doesn't match the needs and sometimes, like this year, I simply don't have time.

I hope you all are enjoying the season and not stressing out.