I Dream Of Macy's Christmas Windows

We often hear about family traditions and I certainly talk a lot about them, but I have realized that over the years I have developed several of my own personal traditions.  I am sure many of us have those things that we just have to do every year or so and they are often called habits or something else but most are really traditions.  I love my traditions and have been faithfully celebrating and finding these every year on my own.

I've been married before and, of coursed, lived with my parents when I was growing up; I never thought much about how they would say I was boring for wanting to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade.  Not a soul in my network thought it would be fun to watch It's A Wonderful Life for the 50th time but I faithfully watched my old movies every year, even as a kid.  I didn't even think much about how people would dismiss my desire to see the Macy's Christmas windows and they were disgusted to even think of going into the city just to see the lights.  But I still, to this day, watch old Christmas movies right after Thanksgiving and I still love the parade and I dreamt every year of going to see, first hand, the Macy's windows; that is until a few years ago. 

My first holiday with my husband, Terry, started with some challenges; I had just moved across the country and had mixed emotions about the coming Christmas season.  I missed my children and it since we just moved couldn't fly back to see them.  It was also a huge cultural adjustment.  The differences were more than I had expected since we were still in the US and I hadn't moved to a new country for Pete's sake. While I was a little sad in the beginning I soon discovered something truly amazing about us as a couple.

I hadn't shared with Terry my little traditions because over the years you just become so used to friends and family thinking they are strange or hokey you stop mentioning them.  As I made plans for Thanksgiving that year he mentioned watching the parade, what!?   I almost thought I didn't hear him right.  We started talking about how everyone always thought we were silly for watching the parade ever year and how we remained steadfast despite having to watch it by ourselves.  For the first time Terry and I watched the Macy's parade with someone willing and excited to join us in our personal traditions.

'Holiday traditions...Here Comes Santa Clause' by postcardsintheattic

The Macy's Parade and Christmas windows are a huge part of my holiday traditions.

Santa Claus And His Elf... valsphotoart $30.00	Santa balloon at Macy&#... RobertPLangdon... $3.50	Even More MACY's TH... KreativeStiles $20.00	2.25" Magnets-Macy... rogueradish $16.00
Chicago Holiday Scene C... ArtdeJoie $2.95	Macy's Day Parade- ... JRoseArt $6.00	Fine Art Photography - ... MarcysPlaygrou... $15.00	Vintage Marshall Fields... mammothcurios $400.00
Fine Art Print Reproduc... GwenMeyerson $18.00	Original 1935 New York ... ryder $16.00	Vintage Gold Key Comics... CharmingPony $2.50	Santa Animal Parade wit... LoriCrossStitc... $200.00
Polymer Llamas Waiting ... Llamatique $30.00	Wall Art. Winter Parade... cagneyandfrien... $11.20	Spray Gun & Tin Man Col... moregood $4.00	Believe- Christmas in N... MelissaLoraine $8.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

H2 style="FONT-FAMILY: sans-serif; MARGIN-LEFT: 10px; FONT-SIZE: 16px">'Holiday Traditions...Christmas classics' by postcardsintheattic

My favorite classic Christmas movies

White Christmas Recycle... Momsmedia $8.00	Vintage Movie Poster - ... VintageCanadia... $99.99	Magnet- Miracle on 34th... CrossEyedCatGi... $3.50	Miracle Ornament ThreeDegrees $4.00
Chevy Chase National La... DonnasCraftsnC... $3.99	Is Rusty Still in the N... omghidanielle $1.00	George Lassos the Moon ... teaessare $15.00	Scrabble Tile Pendant ... ziggles $5.95
How the Grinch Stole Ch... BubbleRoll $14.99	Grinch Steals the Chris... createhumankin... $24.00	1958 Rudolph The Red No... TheIDconnectio... $15.00	Christmas Classic "... anamgifts $16.50
Vintage A Charlie Brown... ALLTHINGSSNOOP... $7.50	Charlie Brown Christmas... noteableart $15.00	The A Christmas Story M... nukes $1.00	A Christmas Story VHS t... sallysSerendip... $5.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

During that first year I found that we both love It's A Wonderful Life, Miracle On 34th Street, and National Lampoon's Christmas; we watch them every year at least once.  Every year we decorate our tree and home the day after Thanksgiving and take it down the day after New Years.  And best of all my dream to see the Macy's Christmas Windows did not seem silly to him at all.  The very next Christmas he took me to Chicago to see their Macy's windows, until then I thought it was only done in New York City. 

My personal traditions have been so important to me that I didn't give them up even if I had to do them by myself and even face a little teasing. My traditions help me get into the Christmas spirit and simply made me feel good. But now these traditions are so much more important to me because they are no longer just my personal ones but they are true family traditions.

Happy Holidays

This years Macy's Windows

Wish Lists and Letters To Santa

While I was growing up letters to Santa were a must if you were going to be guaranteed any in put on your Christmas gifts.  As soon as I was told that it was time to make the list it was as if the starting gun went off.  Making the list meant that Christmas was on its way!  Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and everyone that I hadn't seen for months will be busily chatting around the family table soon.  We would be baking Christmas cookies and singing carols in no time.  Decorations and street lights will be going up soon and day dreaming would become a irresistible pastime.  It was a chance to dream of grandeur; Santa would get my letter and list and I would have wrote it so well that he would cheerful bring me every last toy and trinket on it. 
At that time the Sears catalog was still huge and both they and JcPenny would print their Christmas series called the Wish Book.  These brightly colored books were amazing; hundreds of pages covered in pictures of every toy you could imagine.  Even if it wasn't a toy the item intrigued me because at that time we didn't really have super stores.  Many of the featured items could only be purchased through the catalog so they were unique and never seen on the store shelves.  As a small child it was easier to believe that Santa brought your gifts because there were no Walmart emblems on the packaging.

Once I was blessed with having my own children I always asked them to make a letter to Santa and their own Christmas list.  Gone were the days of thick dreamy catalogs but there were so many other stores contributing to the clutter of advertising that I would be able to gather together a pretty impressive pile of magical fliers.  When they were too little to write out everything I would help them with the letter and then give them scissors and glue.  Their little collages would be choppy and hard to make out at times but most of the time it sent a clear excited message; Christmas is coming!
It seems that many kids do not make Christmas lists or even write letters to Santa any more.  They take for granted that they are going to wake up on Christmas morning and all they wanted will be there.  I am not sure how that tradition goes now maybe Santa has taken to bugging each house and that is how he knows but I think that there were many important things going on when we made those lists.
Growing up, writing those letters gave me and my kids an element of magic and anticipation, it was something that you looked forward to as it kicked off the holiday season.  I also found that those were perfect teachable moments; my kids wanted to spell everything right, they wanted their handwriting to be perfect and I can't forget to mention it also gave me a moment of peace and quite.  Fortunately my kids never questioned why they didn't get certain items from the list; it was understood that it was a Wish List. But to keep them encouraged I did make sure at least a few of those things on the Wish List would arrive on Christmas morning. 
I hope that more families will be able to find the time to teach this fun holiday tradition to their kids and please, as a favor...Don't have them text Santa the list.

Have a blessed day.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Frankincense

First I would like to apologize for my absence.  My family has lost my beloved Grandfather who, along with my Grandmother, was a huge inspiration for Postcards In The Attic.  While he is greatly missed by his family and friends, he had a very rich and full life.  Now at the age of 93 he will finally be reunited with my Grandmother after what must have seemed to be an eternity in itself.  Rest In Peace, Grandpa.
_________________________________________________________________________________

It is Aromatherapy Thursday - Frankincense, what could be a better topic at this time of year?  Most of us already know that this pretty resin was cherished and held as the most holy incense during Biblical times.  But did you know that other cultures, such as the Egyptians and Persians, held it at an equally high value?  It has been recorded, that during this period in history, the Persian king required an annual tribute of Frankincense.  I still find it amazing to be able to physically smell and touch materials that are referenced so many times throughout the Bible and ancient texts...

Mathew 2:11
And when they came into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshiped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

In the Bible Frankincense was traditionally used at that time as incense and in anointing oils.

This is one of my creations and can be found in Butterfly In The Attic at http://www.etsy.com/listing/87834013/christmas-incense-frankincense-religious

The resin is produced by slashing the outer bark of the tree and allowing the sap that runs from it to harden into little "tears."  These are later "stripped" from the tree, thus why there are sometimes little pieces of bark found within the tears when you purchase them. 

Frankincense essential oils are distilled from the resin not the leaves or bark themselves.  This fragrant oil is used in baths and messaging oils (anointing oils during ancient time) because of its calming affect.  One of its contributions to aromatherapy is the ability to induce a deep breathing, making it a very useful sleep aid and to enhance meditation. 

It also boasts of properties that will help rejuvenate the skin, making it a great ingredient in cosmetics and women's facial creams. 

On a more metaphysical note, Frankincense is burned (alone or with other resins such as Myrrh) as an incense to invoke Angelic hosts to religious ceremonies and prayer.  Many believe (myself included) that merely having Frankincense on your alter will draw positive energy pushing away negative while you are meditating or in prayer.

To used Frankincense as an incense, simply make a bed of hot charcoal (following all the standard safety precautions you would using any incense) and place a few tears on top and allow it to smoke.  For a calming bath you can add a few drops of essential oil to your bath water or use some of the lovely products found on ETSY.  The oil can also be placed in a diffuser or a vapouriser to benefit from its affect on the respiratory system.

As with all essential oils and natural product, it should never take the place of medical treatment.  Consult your physician prior to using any essential oil or aromatherapy to make sure it is safe for you and always conduct a skin test for allergic reactions. 

Black Friday Sales

Happy Black Friday!  While I am not big on massive crowds and frenzied shopping (I am more of a online girl) I have to admire the stamina of the die hard Black Friday Shopper.  Last night I witnessed the hardiest of the hardy setting up tents and chairs leaning against the Best Buy in Schaumberg.  It was a chilly (to me freezing) 36 degrees and they had 8 hours longer to wait for that magical moment.  I always wonder what it would take to get me out in the frigged darkness waiting...waiting...waiting...
I have decided that there is nothing, no sale, that could get me to wait that long.  I have never  been very good at waiting for anything and now with the new age of instant gratification via the Internet I opt to do my power shopping online from the comfort of my home sitting in my favorite chair with my favorite PJs and a good cup of Joe.  It is all relevant to the memories and past experience people have had because to me that is a good time.  But I am sure for many it is exciting and festive to brave the masses of people and the elements.  So how ever you celebrate your Black Friday I hope you have a wonderful festive time and are able to find some great deals. 

To start you out use coupon code Holiday25off for both PostcardsInTheAttic and ButterflyInTheAttic.

This festive very old antique postcard can be found in PostcardsInTheAttic at
http://www.etsy.com/listing/86196754/antique-christmas-postcard-santa-clause



These fun handmade gift tags are found in PostcardsInTheAttic at
http://www.etsy.com/listing/86354409/calvin-and-hobbes-cartoon-gift-tags-set



Imagine these beautiful goblets decorating your holiday table.  They can be found in ButterflyInTheAttic
at http://www.etsy.com/listing/70206727/kings-crown-pattern-amber-glass-goblets



What a fun unique gift!  A upcycled handmade costume ring found in ButterflyInTheAttic at
http://www.etsy.com/listing/83846594/handmade-unique-costume-ring-vintage


Here are some more wonderful finds at ETSY...

Great ETSY Treasuries for the Holidays

I have been featured in some very lovely ETSY Treasuries. What a wonderful gift guide for the holiday season.

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival in Chicago - The Parade of Lights

Every large city has a wonderful personality of its own and Chicago has one of the biggest. I love Chicago and would be living there now it was so darn cold.  It has beautiful old architecture, Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, and always has so much going on that rather then having to wait for an event you have to choose which one you are going to. 

One of the events that I wish I could attend today is the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival (click here for more information.)  This grand parade of lights kicks off the start of the Christmas Season in this wonderful city and if Mickey Mouse is there you know it is an event not to miss. 

Christmas in Chicago is amazing; I miss it and have found that although the Midwest is cold they know how to celebrate like no other group of people.  I took it for granted that everyone decorated for holidays and everyone would eat, drink and be merry until the break of dawn because not all cities do.

So if you are living in the Chicago enjoy the Magnificent Mile and I will have to catch up when I am visiting next week.

National Game & Puzzle Week ~ November 18 - 24

Today kicks off the first day of National Game & Puzzle Week.  For me growing up in an area that had extreme weather games were a typical pass time.  Many of the members of my family were athletic and very competitive so when you couldn't play a sport or be running around outside you were playing Yatzee, Chess or Euker (just to name of a few.) 
I am surprised to find how many families do not play games with their kids.  Game night can be very inexpensive (as little as the cost for a deck of cards,) it is relatively easy to keep the kids attention, and it develops some wonderful memories.  To this day I cherish the memories of my Uncle and my Grandfather teasing me while we were playing cards; they would joke and kid around trying to beat a 6 year old at a game of War.  The next chapter of my life is filled with the giggles and laughter of my children as we played everything from boardgames to Back Alley ( a more complicated card game.)

Amazingly my daughter who had special needs was a very sophisticated card player.  She can hold her own in a game of Three Thirteen, which is also a more complicated card game that use many math and organizational skills.  Games are an excellent way to help your children grow and learn.  It builds confidence (when done right,) makes learning academic skills fun, teaches patients and how to take turns, along with so much more.  So drag out the Shoots and Ladders and have a great Friday Game Night and create some wonderful memories.

Here are some of my family's favorites (of course found in ETSY shops.)  Happy Gaming!

Why Does Snow Have To Be So Cold?

Since moving to California I have discovered just how much our life experiences mold the perspectives we have.  Everything is truly relative, even something so black and white as the outside temperature.  Living in California now and having grown up in the Wisconsin gives me a entirely different perspective than many.  First a little disclaimer: I know that there are people out there that truly love winter and the cold, so Koodos to those people but I happen to not be one.   I can't even tolerate a temperature below freezing and struggle with it when the temperatures dip below 70 degrees.

Although I dislike feeling cold, I had to laugh when I saw my fellow Californians running around in scarves, knit hats, puffer coats and Ug boots as soon as our "cold" weather started this month, a chilly (get this) 65 degrees.  I once thought that their choice in winter apparel was merely for fashion but as I have become more acclimated to this climate I realized that, yes, they are that cold.  


These cute little dolly sized boots and hat was found on ETSY shop PennyStitches at
 http://www.etsy.com/shop/pennysstitches?ref=seller_info

But more amusing to me is that these same people will tell me that they would love to live in the snow.  They go on to tell me how it is so beautiful and they like the cold weather and hate the heat, Really!?  At this point I wish for a teleporter so that for a brief 5 minutes I could zap them into downtown La Crosse Wisconsin to do some window shopping while it snows at 15 degrees F (an above average temperature for some months there.) 

I do think that the snow is beautiful to look at.  But as soon as I had to scrape off my car and shovel the driveway for a half hour just so I could get to work, the beauty wore a bit thin.  The funny thing is that when people, who never experienced the true cold, see a lovely winter wonderland on TV they think that it would be a Christmas miracle to have it snow here in Fresno.  Warm and toasty in their California homes they do not have any means to gauge just how chilly it has to get before the heavens can make those beautiful little crystals.

This beautiful photograph can be purchased from ETSY Shop TierraSky at http://www.etsy.com/shop/TierraSky?ref=seller_info

Alas, I will let them keep that dream and they can think that I am just over exaggerating about how cold it feels back home.  Because, I know that maybe someday they will be standing in a place like Chicago mid December and it will be picture perfect... snow gently cascades down upon their knit cap, a breeze stirs the freshly fallen blanket at their Ug covered feet... a winter as seen on TV ...

Then suddenly, they realize that their hands are freezing mercilessly through their gloves, the winds are picking up to bite at their red chapped nose, and it is at that point they will remember what I told them and think "what the #%@*!!! am I doing here?" Then they will run back to good ole Cali like we do every year after our Holiday visit.

This wonderful vintage newspaper insert was found on ETSY Shop FineOldThings at http://www.etsy.com/shop/fineoldthings?ref=seller_info

Happy snow to all and to all a frost bite, LOL ;)

Made In America - Christmas 2011

I found this on Christie Cottage a wonderful blog that I follow. I think that it is great that she reposted this and would love it if my followers would do the same. I feel a little silly to say that I never thought of some of the ways to "buy American" that is in this article. Best of all, some of these gift ideas would be greatly appreciated by my friends and family. I hope you have a beautiful day and get a chance to check out Christie's blog http://christiecottage.blogspot.com/

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition

As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!

It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?

Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?

Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down the Benjamins on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.

There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip.

And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre. Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine.

THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.

Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussion groups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section in your city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about each other, and isn't that what Christmas is about?

My Family Tradition - Saint Nicholas Day

This beautiful German Postcard was found in ETSY shop FineArts8 at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/finearts8?ref=seller_info

Many family traditions are past down for so many years that the members often do not remember how they evolved.  My grandfather, born in Baden Baden, Germany arrived on Elise Island at age 8.  My great grandparent brought many Christmas traditions from Germany that our family practiced with great enthusiasm throughout my childhood. One of those traditions included celebrating Saint Nicholas and fortunately there is a wonderful story behind this tradition.  

The tradition of Saint Nicholas has many different origins and stories of how the Patron Saint became a celebrated figure by Christians world wide.  Nicholas was a fourth century saint that also had great wealth.  He is known for his many miracles and his great generosity and compassion. 
My first memories of this celebration was when I hung my father's large wool sock by the mantel and was told that a mysterious Saint would fill it with a surprise during the night.  My family story of St. Nicholas was that he was a Saint that would take care of the poor children of his time by leaving them things that they needed.  During his time many children were orphaned and had nothing, not even shoes to wear in the cold.  Each year, as the cold of winter drew nearer, he would go house to house selecting those of poor children and leaving them shoes wear.  But not only did he leave this wonderful gift of protection from the cold, he filled each shoe with nuts, fruit, coins and little toys.  If it wasn't for the Saint's generosity the children may not have survived the winter let alone received such novelty items as a toy.  He did this anonymously giving the gift an air of mystery and demonstrating true selflessness.

These amazing Antique German Shoes were found in ETSY shop Lookinglasshouse at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/lookinglasshouse?ref=seller_info

As years passed children would leave their shoes and stockings out by the hearth for the great Saint to fill.  Over time stories grew and families honored the Saint by carrying on the tradition in their own homes.  For hundreds of years, up to the current day, surprising family, friends and those in need with gifts during the winter months has been carried on springing from the generosity of one man.

This may not be the most popular or accurate story of Saint Nicholas but it is my favorite and one my family retold.  Many combine Saint Nicholas and Santa Clause together celebrating them on Christmas day but I enjoy celebrating these two figures separately.  I love the tradition of leaving our stockings out for the kindly Saint to fill with traditional treats building the excitement for Christmas Day.  My image of Nicholas is similar to the traditional Father Christmas, thinner, and less decorated.  The tradition in my family was to leave gifts of meaning rather than grandeur on Saint Nicholas Day.  

These wonderful digital images can be found in ETSY shop Nukes Artisans of LA at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/nukes?ref=seller_info

So as the days grow shorter and colder, we chose the weekend after Thanksgiving, tack up the biggest sock you can find with your children.  While they are fast asleep fill the stockings with inexpensive little treats such as chocolate coins, nuts to crack, candy canes, fruits, and little gifts.  We always placed the best treat in the toe.  Most of the little gifts we gave or received had sentimental value or meaning such as a bracelet made of charms holding family photos or even an item that you already have in your possession.  The best gift I received was a beloved hand painted necklace from Germany that had been in the family through generations.  I still can remember how I felt when I opened the little box and seen the pink rose on the delicate bell.  A family tradition will carry on strong if you give it meaning it doesn't have to be expensive.

This wonderful vintage postcard was found in ETSY shop Karodens at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Karodens?ref=seller_info

Here are some great items that would be a wonderful addition to your celebrations.

Early Aromatherapy - Ornamental Pomander

One of the earliest uses of aromatherapy was as pomanders.  Pomanders were small apple shaped ornaments made up of resins, herbs and perfumes that were carried or worn in midevil times to repell illness or mask foul odors.  It was also used in religious ceramonies throughout history and many pendants and ornaments were used to carry the ball of fragrance. 

Over time many cultures created there own versions of a pomander some very expensive and scientific and others very basic and cheap.  One cheaper trational version was a hollowed out apple or orange filled with herbs and spices.  Slits or decorative holes pierced this ornament allowing the fragrance to excape the fruit.  Another method is one that I enjoyed creating as a kid.  We took oranges and other citrus fruits piercing the flesh with whole cloves making designs or covering it enirely.  At the top we added a ribbon loop fastened with a pin.  We would then dry the fruit in an area away from sunlight and then either hang it from our Christmas tree or would adorn the staircase or mantel with our handmade decorations.

While this method is a great decorative tradition I have really enjoyed using the more recent vintage ornaments available to encase the wonderful sachet mixes I have been creating.  Many room fresheners have chemicals and containers that you throw away, these little treasures are made with natural products and the reusable ornaments are enviromentally friendly. 

Found at http://www.etsy.com/listing/67615179/handmade-sachet-with-vintage-ceramic

Log Cabin In The Midwest (My Little House)

When I was growing up I spent most of my childhood living in a beautiful log home.  It was hand built by my parents and skillfully decorated by my mother.  The log cabin was nestled at the base of a sloping bluff in the countryside of Wisconsin.  It reminded me of the stories from Little House that I had read many times.  In the fall the colors would pop; yellow from the Paper Birch, burnt umber from the mighty Oak, bright pinkish orange from the Sugar Maples and the deep rich green from the many varieties of pine dotting the forest behind our house.

This beautiful picture was found in ETSY shop Carla Dyck Fine Art Photography at http://www.etsy.com/shop/CarlaDyck?ref=seller_info

I was blessed with a large 70+ acre yard and took many long walks through the trees.  My favorite pastime was to hike towards the top of the bluff and along the way I would discover many new herbs and plants.  The air would be damp and cool, the sun was bright cutting through the mist, and the forest bed would emit a the sweet smell of freshly fallen autumn leaves with every step I took.  I would get so excited at the thought of what I could make with the scraps of paper birch bark, the dried herbs or the nuts that I harvested (if I beat the squirrels to them.)  It was a wonderful playground that tantalized the imagination.  I often came home loaded down with treasures to cook, dry, or decorate with. 
Despite being a modern construction the log cabin had many antiques and features that gave it the old fashioned country feel.  My favorite was the old cast iron wood stove in the dining room.  I loved this little wood burner since it was one of the only sources of good dry heat that would successfully dry all of my treasures.  I carefully bundled the herbs by their stems and hung them around the freshly stoked stove.  I begged for any old sheet pan my mother had and placed the small items into the oven space. Most often the house would be filled with aromas of drying mint, comfrey, and chamomile (my favorites and these were the most abundant herbs.)   I looked forward to the days it was cool enough to start the wood stove since in the Midwest it was always so humid that drying things was a challenge.  

This sweet miniature replica looks a lot like the stove I grew up with.  It can be found in ETSY shop Rubees Nest at http://www.etsy.com/shop/RubeesNest?ref=seller_info

While I no longer make the home brew teas, I still make the other natural crafts and continue to add my own personally collect and dried touches to each.  I love my new life in California and rarely miss the cold winters of the Midwest but I get a touch of nostalgia with each project I create as it takes me back through time to my little log cabin at the base of the hill.

Happy National Chemistry Week

Yes it is finally here...National Chemistry Week!  I shop and shop all year long for the perfect gift for each of my loved ones.  Decorate the yard with giant molecular models and trim the tree with beakers and ribbon. . .

This great Classroom Model was found in ETSY shop CathodeBlue at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/CathodeBlue?ref=seller_info

No, but seriously it is actually National Chemistry Week and I do love chemistry.  I tutored it in college along with some other subjects and would also balance chemistry equations just for fun (like a crossword puzzle.)  Chemistry was a lot of fun but as a young girl I fell into the trap of that old myth that girls are not good at science.  I allowed myself to be so insecure that I avoided all science related classes and barely made it through the classes that were mandatory and actually I think I failed one.

What an amazing Artist!!!  This wonderful Charcoal Drawing was done by Erika Baez and can be found in ETSY shop ErikaBArt at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ErikaBArt?ref=seller_info

When I went to my interview for the Viterbo University I was informed that the Dietetic Course I was requesting was actually a Bachelors in Science and Math.  I was told that not all students make it through etc.  At this point in life I was an older very stubborn non trad student so I replied that I was sure that I would love it (hoping that I wouldn't show the stress on my face that I was truly feeling.)  I was certain that I was better at writing, reading etc. but my family needed me to pursue a degree and my mind was set on didatics.

So, I studied hard, prayed before each test I took and I was happily surprised that I was at top of the class.  I also found that I loved the crazy little experiments in the lab.  Making things spontaneously burst into flames was one of my favorites but more practical things like creating aspirin and running it through the equipment to test the purity was another.  It was a simple start but I fell in love and gained much more confidence.  I went on to take organic chemistry, bio chemistry and more, finding myself at the top in each (of course I had to work at it.) 

This wonderful Illustrated Science Book was found in ETSY Shop Blue Apple Vintage at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/blueapplevintage?ref=seller_info

It took the love for my family and the desire for something better for us to get me over the big wall of fear and intimidation.  I hope that young girls will learn from me that chemistry and science is not just for men or tomboys but girls and women can be good at it and enjoy it too.  If I can do it and love it anyone can. (Besides I found out I can't spell or make a correct sentence so that leaves me just math and science.)

This is sooooo Cute!  I love this little set and it can be found in ETSY Shop Shiny Pennies at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ShinyPennies?ref=seller_info

So in honor of Chemistry Week, just like I do for all holidays.... Lets Celebrate With ETSY!!!!!

Christmas Gift Guide, Free Shipping and Coupon Codes

I am ready for the holiday shopping season and can't wait to get the ball rolling.  So I am offering a wonderful special good until Midnight October 31st.  40% Off your entire purchase at Postcards In The Attic or Free Domestic Shipping on purchase of $5.00 or more (excluding books.)  Use coupon codes WOWOCT40OFF or OCT2011FRSHP

I would also like to provide some gift ideas each of the following guides include shops that are offering Free Shipping on all or some of their items.  Don't miss out now is the time!

I hope to see you soon

Haunted Pathways and Bewitching Halloween Parties

I don't remember how it started but I did go a bit crazy...our first Halloween party ended with such a huge success that I was struck.  I needed to go bigger and better each year after.  I loved planning and scheming all year for each new scare.  At that time internet access wasn't as common and there was no ETSY.  Just think of what I could have done with what is available now.  I am going to sprinkle a few of my favorite ETSY party decorations throught this little blog to help you get some great ideas for your own party.

My kids were 8 and 10 at the time when I was walking through my yard one night and realized the layout was perfect for a Haunted Pathway.  It was almost pitch black with many creepy country noises of hundred year old trees bending and creaked in the breeze.  I had only a few months to plan but my first year I was successful in setting up a very creepy haunted pathway which became the highlight of our Halloween parties.

You can fine this great piece of fine art for purchase at ETSY shop Mommy Makes at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/MommyMakes?ref=seller_info

By our second year we expanded our pathway and lined the parameter of our 5 acre country yard with orange strands of light.  We ran it through the pathway of trees that skirted our small ankle deep creek continued up around towards the field by the wild and bushy dogwoods and ended it at a patch of closely growing trees.  These trees once provided protection for an ancient outhouse that was torn down a long time ago.  The grapevines here hung linking the tall gnarly trees together to add to the creepiness and provide a wonderful anchor for the many glowing cobwebs I put throughout the area.

This great luminary was found in ETSY shop SniKitty @
 http://www.etsy.com/shop/Snikitty?ref=seller_info

A graveyard was set up in front of the dogwoods with life (or death) sized tombstones complete with arms and legs of the undead and two foggers to cast a mist around the entire space. Some of the tombstones were handmade with Styrofoam (instructions found on my Halloween Party Ideas page) and some were purchased at the time I couldn't afford to buy an entire graveyard.  I was so fortunate to acquire a full sized coffin; it was extremely heavy but very affective.  It was crudely made out of cheep wood and wasn't painted for the lack of time but it was aged and in the dark it didn't matter as long as it produced many screams.

This creepy tombstone would have been an excellent addition to my creepy graveyard.  You can find this beauty at ETSY shop SigsRose at http://www.etsy.com/shop/sigsrose?ref=seller_info

I created my own wispy ghosts (Halloween-party-ideas.html) and plastic cut outs for haunted trees to supplement my store bought decorations.  The year before I snagged up all the decorations, party cups, napkins and more that I could afford during the 75% off discounted Halloween sales.  There were me and my scouts (my mother, sister, etc.) set out to shop diligently throughout garage sales for anything scary or distressed.  One person's broken skeleton decoration quickly became my pile of bones for the graveyard. 

My children helped me pick out the prizes from Oriental Trade to fill the 20 buckets that were strategically placed along the pathway.  Anything from little notebooks and cute erasers to obnoxious, but fun, baking soda bombs and candy that turns your mouth red. 
Next was our costumes...Many of which were comprised of salvation army or garage sale items but some were investments and were more expensive, we used these every year.  When I was building my handmade costumes I found it a little funny that in the past I had said "why would anyone try to sell this" when I would find an torn up garments at a garage sale for a 25 cents.  Well...I guess I would because those were what turned out to be mad scientist, Frankenstein, witches and the living dead outfits.  Often those old clothes were not tattered enough so I would run them over with the car which produced a much more realistic tears and wear apposed to cutting them with a scissors. 

For the costumes that we would use every year we would invest in quality masks and even full suites.  This mask would look excellent with my "ran over" tattered clothes. Put some fur around your neck, hands and feet and you could scare anyone!   This great costume was found in ETSY shop Sans Soucis Studios, a real Artist and Mask Maker at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/sanssoucistudios?ref=pr_shop

Donning my freshly ran over costume and with a rehearsed scripted in mind I guided a group of 20 children to the haunted pathway.  We would follow it first down towards the trees next to the creek.  Faint haunting noises could be heard in the pitch black and only my flashlight along with the strings of orange lights guided our way.  We crunched our way through the leaves to the first clearly marked bucket of treats.  The kids excitedly dropped the prizes into their treat bag eagerly moving on to see what would be in the next. 

The first few kids spotted the next bucket on their own and ran towards it with their friends close behind.  Suddenly a werewolf leaps from behind the tree, growls and grabs at them.  Several kids jump, scream, then giggle as they realize what had just happened.  They all grabbed their treats and moved on again gleefully chatting about what could be at the next bucket.  Often the boys would insist that they were not scared and were daring the next haunt to come after them.

I wish I could have found these amazing luminary buckets back when I did the parties; they are perfect for the pathways!  I found these in ETSY shop LizzieJeans @ http://www.etsy.com/shop/lizziejeans?ref=seller_info

This amazing fun continued through many years until the kids became to old to scare effectively and the excitement seemed to have waned.  We didn't wait until they were completely board with it but closed it up and held more traditional parties instead.  Unfortunately there are few pictures of these wonderful moments since all of the adults in our family were busy haunting various areas but my memories are vivid and so are my children's memories.  These will always be the best Halloween memories I ever had.

I hope that some of my tips can help you set up a haunt for your family and friends.  (Halloween-party-ideas.html)  Luckily now we have ETSY and can find many items handmade by those creative artists and crafters.  Happy Haunting!!!

I am back and now a Mother Inlaw!

In 1991 I gave birth to a large healthy beautiful baby boy.  From that moment my life was changed... there is nothing like the bond between a mother and son.  The time I spent with my son as he grew up was an amazing adventure; he was my sports star, my artist, and my friend. 

Two weekends ago my son married his sweetheart and again my life has changed.  Now I am not only the proud mother of a wonderful son but also a wonderful daughter.  Change is bittersweet, it is hard to see your children grow up and become independent but with that comes new adventures and memorable moments. 

Their wedding was the first of many beautiful memories to come.  I loved her choice of colors and flowers; my daughter inlaw and her mother did a beautiful job designing her wedding. Sweet little navy colored butterflies everywhere and bouquets of dark blue columbine, lovely light blue hydrangea along with white roses for beautiful nontraditional autumn colors decorate an elegant little reception hall.  (Not that I am partial to butterflies or anything.)

I have been blessed with mature successful children and now I have the opportunity to welcome a new member to our family.  I can see that she makes my son happy, she has dreams and visions of their life together and my heart felt prayer is that they are able to reach all of those and more.