This Week's Blog Post

Safari Jasper Bracelet
Safari jasper makes me think of all the colors one would don if going on an African safari. I fancy its color, probably because a safari is my ultimate dream vacation! It is the most exciting (and most expensive) item on my bucket list!

The small beads here are chrysanthemum stone which match the dark grey markings perfectly! This bracelet is available at Miss Val’s Creations.

Festival of Trees Part III
Here are the last of the Festival trees I enjoyed!

Owls were part of many trees this year!

This is my favorite bird. I always love their shape and eyes! Such a gorgeous predator! Owls were so popular that they made the topper for 3 trees!

I noticed when loading up this photo that there is a mouse at the bottom. Dinner perhaps?

Country style is not me however every year I love seeing a country theme tree.

I guess I am fond of the style for the Christmas holiday! There is always a couple decorated this way.

Here is the Wizard of Oz! The plushies are a little creepy looking but dolls can be so sometimes!

I love how this one is decorated with the snowy berries and pretty ribbons.

I wish everyone a safe and wonderful week ahead. I would love to end on a happy note but we have had a couple of horrible tragedies this week in the US that I believe have us all on edge. I can’t help but think about what the families and friends of those affected are going through. L ~Val

This Week's Blog Post

Agate Eyeglass Chains

I came across these great multi agate beads that would make fun, beautiful eyeglass chains. So I made 1 in gold and 1 in silver! Available at Miss Val’s Creations.

Festival of Trees
The Methuen Festival of Trees is in full swing again! I took these photos in dim lighting with a flash which probably comes out better than taking the photos when they are lit!

I have not seen Frankenweenie yet but love Tim Burton and really want to see it!

More Tim Burton! Remember a Nightmare Before Christmas?

The Festival takes place in the building where I work. It is open to the public on nights and weeks. 200 Christmas trees are lit up when it is open.

Anyone can donate a tree to be raffled off. Each raffle winner takes the tree they won along with any goodies that come with it!

Awards are given for things such as best tree topper, best tree skirt, best theme etc.

 You can tell who is going for which award! The toppers and tree skirts can be really amazing.

Each year in the center of the building is a super creative tree created by a local hairstylist. The use of materials is always really cool. 

Of course the photo does not do it justice. It is really amazing lit up with twinkling lights.

Those of you in the US are probably familiar with New Balance sneakers. Their factory is in a city next to mine.

There is a store at the factory where I purchase my sneakers for a small fraction of retail! Well this is their tree. It shows how creative people get. A tree is not necessarily a tree!!! I did not read what comes with this one but my guess is a serious gift card.

The Festival is organized by the Methuen Historical Society and the proceeds go to maintaining historical buildings like the ones I have been showing. The Festival gets bigger each year so they now donate to local towns as well. There is tons of history in the area where I live so it is wonderful to see such a successful, entertaining fundraiser for these sites!

I will be back next week with more festive fun! Have a great week everyone! ~Val