O Christmas wreath...

This Christmas season began with a fun party at my cousin's family home. Besides the fun of just getting a group of gals together, we had a project to complete...Wreath making 101!

After several years of attending wreath making classes at a local nursery, my cousin's daughter, Rachel, purchased their own wreath making machine.  The machine makes the wreath making process smooth and efficient. The whole family gets into it, gathering greens, and sticks, and pine cones in preparation for the big day! The hardest part is choosing which materials you want in your wreath and deciding if you are going for a large or small one...decisions, decisions!

I opted to do a large wreath, which involves gathering and assembling 12 bundles of greens, rubber banded together. The finished wreath will be hung from the upper deck in Plain.

My bundles ready to go!

The bundling process in action with Noelle's friend, Jess.

The next step is to place a metal wreath frame on the platform of the wreath machine, secure the clamps between the bars, and rotate the wreath, clamping each bundle as you go.

And...voila...the finished wreath! Look at the fun variety!

Linda's lovely wreath...

Kristen and Karen's beautiful wreaths...

The Hansen's make wreaths as a family!

Amy and Rachel's artistry in wreath form...

The wreath makers!

Of course, it wouldn't be party without some food...always delicious at the Forde's!

And, lighting your way as you go to your car...

Hope you are all taking time to do some fun things this December! Warmly, Gracia

P.S. The older I get, the more I treasure my remaining aunts, uncles, and cousins from both sides of my extended family. So sad to hear we lost my Aunt Ruthie, my Mom's sister, this week at the age of 92. I'm so thankful I had the opportunity to visit her last summer with Uncle Ron and Aunt Con in her home in Rhinelander, WI...such a special memory of a very special lady. Her love and warmth will never be forgotten!