Christmas in July

I know when the thermometer reads 80 it is hard to think Christmas but.... that is exactly what I am up to here. I am painting Santas and getting the sweaters and caps all tagged and ready to go. Gingerbread families are drying and ready for finishing touches,
   I have a couple gift ideas and a neat way to decorate not just at Christmas but in your kitchen year round. GINGERBREAD.  simple yet adorable.
First if you have little ones, you can trace gingerbreadmen onto brown craft paper for ornaments and let them decorate with markers and a little white glitter for a sugary effect. Brown craft foam also works very well. Just trace a cookie cutter. make garlands cards, oh so many cute items for one pattern.
  Not feeling in the mood yet?  simmer a pot on the stove with a little ginger and nutmeg, maybe a dash of cinnamon and your house will smell like the holidays while you are busy working.
  My personalized gingerbread family has been a great gift idea now for a few years, the babysitter, grandma, friends and even yourself. Each little cookie wears the name of a family member.. Extra cookies are always available.  Gingerbread ornaments for your tree or use as gift tags that the recipient can use over and over again.

Make these ornaments and gifts with your kids, they will remember the naking years after the gift is gone.   

It not only feels like fall but smells like fall in downtown Montello this weekend. Traffic has been fairly heavy but I am sure as the leaves change and people travel back from Warrens Cranberry Fest we will see customers take some time to stroll through town.

I have been busy as can be crocherting little skunk and frog hats. I sometimes amazes me at what items catch on. The model is adorable, that's true but so are the hats. Pair up one of these with a pair of soft warm sweats and the little one is ready to trick or treat. A great and inexpensive costume alternative. Then use the hat all winter.

Gingerbread men are also coming along as the holidays will be here long before I am ready. The personalized ornaments and family are a big seller and everyone loves to get personalized gifts.

The Great American moose Hunt is well under way and we are seeing people come in now from across Wisconsin to play. This is a wonderful idea for businesses and for those playing, they will find some really great shops that have been overlooked and the prizes are great.

If you get a chance come on out and visit us at Pattibears Place and see all that Montello has to offer!