Christmas is Coming

Okay, so I haven't crafted in months. You know how it goes, you get into a craft, you buy all the gear (or so you think) realise you will never have enough and always need more and although it's enjoyable, it does become expensive. I used to enjoy my trips out to the craft shop, looking at all the latest 'must have' and seeing new things to try, the joy of filling my basket and then spending weeks trying out new ideas or techniques. But... things change, job roles change, pay changes and so ultimately lifestyles must change and for me that means no more trips to the craft shop, no more latest 'must have' and no new things full stop. Does it sound as if I am feeling a little sorry for myself? I was, but I'm over it now. I’ve got a job, a roof over my head, good health (mostly), food on the table, a good family... So here I am now, picking myself back up and starting again with what I have. Christmas is not too far away, which was a good enough reason as any to dust off the Grand Calibur. Looking through my 'stuff' I quickly realised I only had two Christmassy dies (which I bought last year) and one stamp (free with a magazine) one large embossing folder (which got damaged when mangled in my machine last year and very limited amounts of Christmas coloured paper and card (reds and greens). Fighting the temptation to just put it all away, I set out my workstation and began. It wasn’t long before all the enjoyment I used to get from crafting resurfaced and I was happily crafting away. Anyhow, here are the results of my crafting weekend.