It's been busy

I'm glad it's done & we have a long weekend!

Obviously we don't do Christmas but these families I care for do...and I suppose I wouldn't have to do anything extra but it's fun to do all the craft stuff with the kids to give to their parents so we had some projects to finish up before Friday. And they nearly all give me gifts so I like to send a little something home with them in appreciation. So I made strawberry jam and fudge for them (and cranberry orange bread for Damon's coworkers, 2 pans of homemade brownies for his work potluck) and framed pictures of their child. I realized part way through that the framed pictures and ornament projects the kids made would have been plenty along with all the crafts that have been going home but that's me....I tend to over do a lot of things. It didn't seem like a big deal at first but it ends up being quite a project for 10 families. I did enjoy it but wow, I'm glad it's not something we do normally. Next year I'll try the K.I.S. method. They were all so appreciative though and I work with wonderful people. I've really grown attached to this group of kids too. The kids got a Scholastic book and treat bags with candy, raisins, pencils, Kleenex pack. I sent it all home so it didn't get dumped out and consumed here! LOL

I got a good response on the framed pictures. Some requested the picture emailed or on disc so they could print & use for gifts too so I was glad they liked them so much. I was pleased with how they turned out too. The parents are so kind to me and gave me many nice gifts including cash and a spa certificate which I can't wait to use!

We're off until Wednesday. Tomorrow we have an all day special meeting. Otherwise we have no plans. Oh, there's things we'd like to get done, but we'll see if that happens! LOL Damon's going to do some car repairs for sure. Hope everyone has a great little break!

Picture collages made in Smile Box. I did one more after this was taken.

Thumbprint wreath cards (the other kids had a Cmas related poem on theirs)

Hand print snowmen ornaments 2 Batches of Strawberry jam 2-5 lb pans of fudge!Orange Cranberry Bread (recipe from the Thompson cookbook) Gift bags (before they were filled)