Weaving the image of Christ

True to form I am running slightly behind schedule with my preparations for Christmas.

Inspired by a tree silhouette stamp purchased from a craft show at the NEC, I have gone minimalistic on cards for friends, family and church folk.






This is the final one left in this series and has been reserved by big daughter.
With hindsight, I do wish I had taken more pictures of the cards before I sent them all!

The tree stamp was fascinating to work with, as each print was slightly different, and then, depending on which ink and embossed powder I used, each one evolved to create a unique image.







I had a very ambitious project planned for fellow bellringers, but true to form I ran out of time, so some got bell outlines, mounted on different textured backing papers. Any ringers who have not yet received a card, will not get a hand-made one, as I have succumbed and purchased a pack.

Meanwhile, the cards for the neighbours ready to post through their letterboxes.


Until Saturday evening I had not yet wrapped ANY presents! An intensive session of wrestling with brown wrapping paper followed.
Then came the moment when I realised that I had absolutely no idea where I had stowed one irreplaceable present.
Frantic searching ensued, but the present was nowhere to be found.
Several hours later I finally remembered where I had stowed it.
Phew!

Sunday evening was cracker assembly time.
Yes, I know this is a crackers idea,
but I resent paying any money for the rubbish that is available in the shops.
During the year I had kept a sharp eye peeled (to use one of the KHT's phrases) and purchased suitable items that would fit within the physical limitations of the cylindrical cracker centre.

Christmas cards are an opportunity to be part of a wider Christmas blessing.
If we only send cards to those who will return the favour, then all we do in create limited circles of co-dependence.
However, when we step outside these conventions and send cards to those who are on our minds, regardless of whether they will return the favour,
then we create a network of threads, which behind the images of penguins, wintry scenes, robins and snowmen, Christ can be seen.
If you receive a card from someone you have not sent one to,
do not panic,
do not feel guilty,
do not rush to respond.
Instead, stop and appreciate the fact that they cared,
and give thanks for the beauty of the thought
and feel loved.

I am absolutely rubbish at keeping track of addresses, so if my husband doesn't know where you live, you don't stand much chance of receiving a card from this particular branch of the family.
I suggest you just pick out an image that appeals to you from those on this blog

and accept it with our good wishes for Christmas and the New Year.