Christmas decorations... in October

Campbell has started asking me why are there Christmas decorations out at the stores already and we have even seen some houses with the Christmas lights already on. Maybe they are Halloween lights? Or maybe they never took the lights down from last Christmas? Anyway, I don't understand either Campbell. But in the spirit of too early Christmas decorations, I thought I would show Trades of Hope Christmas collection 2013! Shop here to have beautiful things in your home and make a difference in the lives of women around the world! www.mytradesofhope.com/ChristyGadman They make great teacher gifts since you can split the sets into 3 separate gifts! The nativity set from Haiti is my favorite! Happy Shopping and Merry Early Christmas!

Made of recycled tin, this Haitian piece is a beautiful addition to your Christmas collection. Simple, yet detailed in design, this purchase goes towards supporting the artisans living in the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, and finding hope with their amazing works of art! Set of 3. Design patterns vary. Made in Haiti Approx. Measurements: 3x4 in each - $28.

 

 

Keeping families together in Haiti! Made of recycled cereal boxes in Haiti by people breaking the cycle of poverty for themselves and future generations! Hang some hope on your loved ones tree this year! Made in Haiti - Set of 3 stars. Approx. Measurements: 3 in. - $28

This authentic tri-fold manger scene is made from recycled tin, once 55-gallon drums! The drums are cut open, hammered flat, and marked with designs. The designs are then implemented with a hammer and chisel. This is more than just a wonderful piece for the Christmas season, but a token of support towards these Haitian people working to provide for their families. Made in Haiti, $38.

These Cambodian acid-attacked women are rebuilding their lives, gaining courage by the knowledge that they are not alone. Through this business, mothers are earning their own living in safety and supporting children they were left to raise alone. Made in Cambodia - 3 pair per order (2 red and 1 white) Approx. Measurements: 3in x 4in - $23

These bright knit angels are handcrafted out of alpaca wool by women artisans and mothers in the Peruvian highlands community of Chucuit. These moms make whimsical toys for their kids and from there; puppet knitting has become a natural part of life. Knitting empowers these women, within their household and community. It provides extra income while watching over their kids and caring for their llamas or alpacas. Amazingly, even in their tough environment, the cheerful spirit of these strong women shines through in the quality, detail and creativity they put into each of their puppets. These angel puppets make great Christmas gifts for younger children! Made in Peru Approx. Measurements: 4 in - $18

Happy Birthday Campbell... Two Months Late

My baby turned 5 August 9, and for the first time, we gave him a real birthday party, with friends and everything. For those that know me well, I detest birthday parties. I'm not good at them, can't afford good ones, my kids get presents they don't need, and I'm not convinced that they remember them for too long afterwards. But this was the first year that he asked for a party, and asked and asked and asked. So I gave in. We invited 5 friends, since he was turning 5, and had it at our house. And the big event was playing in the backyard in the sprinklers. Yep, no bounce house, no games, no major decorating. Just come over, have cake and ice cream, open presents and play in the sprinklers. I did bring out the big guns, literally, and had water guns. And I did decorate with previously used Mickey Mouse decorations. I panicked that morning because the forecast called for rain. That's a problem when you only have one activity and its outside. So I asked on Facebook for ideas and someone reminded me about making flubber. I thought that might be a good thing to do rain or shine. So I looked all crafty like I had planned that fun thing all along. I told mommas they could drop their sweet ones off and a few took me up on it. See, I really say that because I don't want mommas to judge my lack of party throwing abilities. Over all, it turned out fine I think. They seemed to have fun. And it wasn't too stressful, except for the flubber experiment that wasn't as easy as I thought it was going to be. So here are pics. Don't judge! I'm gifted in other ways!

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Daughter of the King: The gospel according to Cade

I noticed someone read this past blog today, and so I reread it. Now my sweet one is in 4th grade, so it brought a little tear to my eye to read this. I'm not sure I can describe him the same way. He is still relational, and can have a servant's heart when called upon to, but he is also independent and bossy. Oh but his heart! Love him and am so thankful for him!

Daughter of the King: The gospel according to Cade: Cade wrote this epistle today during church, most of it with no help from me. I thought I would pass it on to bring a smile to your face. Oh...