The Big White Farmhouse

intentional living, little by little

{christmas} Pinterest Overload?

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I love Pinterest.  Really I do.  But sometimes I have to take a step back from the never-ending list of beautiful images before envy rears its ugly head.  Because my reality right now looks nothing like the stylized beauty that fills my screen.  There are toys scattered on the floor.  A carefully constructed block tower that has been long abandoned for other things.  A funky half-decorated tree (because we have a 1-year-old who likes to break things).  

My dining room has become gift wrapping central, where I try to get a little bit done everytime I can steal away for a few seconds.  Of course, that really is a nice way of saying that my dining room is a huge mess!  

So yeah.  My house isn’t the picture perfect scene that splashes the front pages of Pinterest, but it’s ours and it’s good. 

{chit chat} A Post You Really Must Read

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My husband took the day off, so we’re taking the day to run an errand or two and enjoy our time with Daddy!  I wanted to just pop in quickly, though, to share a blog post I found last night that really resonated with me.  I was nodding my head throughout the entire thing.  For the most part, I think I succeeded in creating “a Christmas of yes” this season.  You really must read it.  You can find it here.

{christmas} A Link List

Happy Friday!  Christmas inspiration is all around the blog world this week, so I thought I would share some links:

  • Anna from In Honor Of Design made a link-up of packaging ideas.  So much inspiration there! 
  • Britt over at Gus+Lula talked about traditions with her new babies (who are adorable, by the way!)  I loved her jingle: “Bring some joy, Give a toy, Show our thanks, Share our banks”. I plan on incorporating that more in our Advent next year.
  • Kirsten at 6th Street Design School came up with an adorable gift for her neighbors.  She used fabric yardage, but I think a tea towel would be just as festive!
  • Looking for a recipe for homemade gingerbread men?  Stephanie from barefoot in the kitchen has a yummy looking one that I am dying to try.
  • Jennifer at JCasa shared a really easy craft to do with the kiddos using washi tape.  I love the result..how cute would it be framed for the holidays?

Hope you have a wonderful (and non-stressful) weekend!  9 days until Christmas!

{christmas} Gift Ideas for the Men Folk

I don’t know about you, but the (adult) males in my life are the hardest to shop for.  Tools?  Technology?  Sports?  So tricky!  Here are a few ideas I’ve found online…and bonus!  You still have time to order in time for Christmas! 

For the techie…
This Charcoal Grey Laptop Sleeve is a great idea for the stylish techie guy in your life.  C&B also has a cell phone case in the same fabric.

For the cook…
If your man likes the kitchen or is interested in learning, this is a great gift.  How to Cook Everything has great reviews.  Another wonderful book I recently bought for my husband (an anniversary present) is Ruhlman’s Twenty: 20 Techniques, 100 Recipes, A Cook’s Manifesto.  The French Onion Soup is awesome!

For the coffee addict…
My husband is crazy about coffee.  And according to him, the best tasting coffee comes from a French press.  This gorgeous pot from Bodum holds 8-cups.  I would add in a bag of his favorite coffee (Mark’s pick is Starbucks’ Christmas blend!) 

What are you getting for the men in your life this year?  Find anything special?  Please share in the comments, I know a lot of us would love the ideas and inspiration.
P.S.  I heard from this girl that tomorrow, December 16th, is known as “Free Shipping Day” for lots of online stores.  Great news for all you last-minute shoppers!  You can check out all of the participating stores here.   

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