Countdown to Christmas

Well, nerves are starting to fray. I was at auction all day Friday trying to grab up a few more one of a kind pieces to add into our Christmas vignettes. (I found some really great things and soooo want to put them out now but I know they are pefect for Opening Night and I am fighting the temptation.) Anyway, about every 45 minutes or so one of the auctioneers would ask over the loud speaker "how many days is it until Christmas?" Urging on folks to buy their Christmas gifts right then and there I suppose. They are all answering with the correct number but in MY head I keep saying 14...14...14!!!! I am starting to feel like the rabbit in Alice Wonderland...`Oh dear! Oh dear! I shall be late!'

Spent Friday night in the "dungeon" of the shop as we affectionately call it. Unpacking and pricing ornaments and such. I am realizing I need more and have scheduled a trip to market ths Friday. Next Friday, I start inventory and packup of the remaining Fall and Halloween. The paper goes on the windows Saturday and then we will start the orchaestration of flipping the shop into all it's wintry glory. They windows come first...there in lies the first problem...we are still trying to decide what we're doing...we've had all year to decide!! 14 days now!!!!

A New Venue

Well, Fall & Halloween is in full swing here at White Cottage...at least it is on the first floor. Tucked secretly away in the dungeon are Janet and I busily unpacking, assembling and pricing Christmas goodies. We're just like two little elves. "Mrs. Claus...we need more cookies and hot cocoa!" Each season it seems as though we have to start thinking about C-Mas earlier and earlier and I start to dread it. There is always SO much to do to flip the shop into the Winter Wonderland you all know and love. My "C-Mas To-Do" list(s) start forming in March and by the time October rolls around there are at least 15 of lists floating around in my car, the shop, my purses, at home and places unknown. That staff of 12 nevers seems to show up when I need them most! :-) But as I am opening and unwrapping every little puti house and glass glittered treasure my "dread thoughts" start turning to excitement and anticipation. I can't remember half the things I ordered so unwrapping each box is a surprise and I truly feel like a kid on Christmas morning. The store is going to look fabulous and I think you all will feel the same way I do. Mark your calendar for November 8th, 5PM!