Modern and Mod Christmas at Southern Exposure

Sometimes it is just what you need. After all, it's been a rough few weeks. Political turmoil; Korean missile tests; sex scandals out the wazoo. One gets nervous turning on the radio, telly or checking social media or the newspaper. Friends and family members of friends seemed to all die in the same two-week period. I'm nervous about my biopsy and while my lip is healing, it's taking its own sweet time about it and is still pretty darned tender. It's felt like a pretty dark path with only a bit of light along the way.

I told members of my book club I just wanted to read shallow books, biographies or mysteries, watch Hallmark movies and decorate my house. I want pretty. I want light. I want a rest.

In other words, I need a little Christmas, right this very minute!

So, Jan and I headed with great anticipation to Southern Exposure for our workshop, Modern and Mod.

We knew decorating a tree would be involved and that was really all we needed to know, because after all, we were at Southern Exposure, which wipes away stress like a long, clean shower or like sitting on a pool noodle in the middle of a lake on a perfect, calm summer day.

We got there early enough to take some photos. It was getting pretty dark but somehow it made it seem all the more peaceful.

And of course, there was the gift shop! They have the loveliest things and we had a 20 percent discount which makes it all the more enticing.

I was pretty good -- just a string of small lights. But there were numerous temptations!

And to be honest, that bed in the bride's dressing room looked pretty inviting, too! I'd gladly move a wreath or two.

But no! Shopping, then dinner awaits.

This wreath reminds me a little bit of a previous winter project! 

On the way into dinner we got a sneak peek at our "modern and mod" project -- a small flocked tree.

Then after, it was on to the craft tent. Our trees greeted us...

...along with our supplies.

The trees are done on a wire frame and the flocked branches and red berries were prepared for us. We added a string of lights, silver ornaments, sparkly snowflakes and a cheery red bow. Here's Jan's.

Of course, the Southern Exposure chickens were on hand to socialize with the guests. Southern Exposure not only rescues animals (including these chickens), it also provides over $30,000 a year to their region's humane society through a portion of each workshop registration fee and two fundraisers they hold.

Rick noted that "the trees look just alike," as he saw photos of both my tree and Jan's. True. Each project is made very easy -- but you can change it up a bit if you like when you get home. I will probably replace the silver balls on mine with smaller ones, possibly red. But I'd be happy with it as is.

All in all, a grand time and, I think, one of my favorite projects. It felt practically perfect in every way.

Now, if only we could get the rest of the world in a practically perfect place.

And so, I'm off! On to decorating the house, getting ready for some holiday festivities and more. Hope your days are being merry and bright!