![A festive holiday scene with a nutcracker, a wooden tree, and a "Merry and Bright" sign on a table. There's a red plate, a pomegranate, and greenery in the background. The words "South House House Mates" are written at the bottom.](https://southhousedesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12-14-24-Header.jpg)
12-24-24
What I Can’t Let Go Of:
This blog is publicly, a politics-free zone, so all musings will be “Otherwise“.)
(just like the NPR Politics podcast on Fridays- minus the “Politics or otherwise” disclaimer.
When you love what you’re doing, it’s not like really working!
Life’s magic is all about perspective.
Sure, it’s late December, and I’m totally worn out. My days are packed with cutting, sewing, and shipping – endless hours that would normally feel exhausting.
But then I think about something incredible: every stocking I create becomes part of a family’s most cherished traditions.
Those thousands of families who’ll gather around, hanging the stockings I’ve carefully crafted? They’re my inspiration.
Each stitch is a thread connecting to someone’s holiday memories, and that thought? It gives me wings. The tiredness melts away, replaced by pure joy.
To all my stocking families: You’re the real magic. THANK YOU! ❤️
![](https://southhousedesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/image-1.png)
On the Blog This Week
First Ever Christmas Stocking Sale
Yes, it has been all consuming.
But, I’m taking more sale orders for January shipping — think of it as gifting yourself stockings early, or as checking off the first item on the list for the 2025 season!
Have you told yourself, “next year, I’m going to start earlier”? Here’s your chance — and save serious money, too!
![](https://southhousedesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/image.png)
Tech Seasonal Tip
Remember, these tips are exclusive content for my creative community.
They will be in the Saturday newsletter emails only
(and sometimes in the FB and IG stories for my followers there).
It’s just one way I can say thank you to all those who support me time after time!
Don’t worry, you too, can become a House Mate!
![](https://southhousedesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/image-2.png)
Great Shares From Around the Web
Look at All the Cute Gingerbread Village Ideas
I Found For You!
For Hanging on Your Tree
My delightful and super talented friend Wendy, from WM Design House created these adorable 3D houses to make for your tree.
Don’t panic — easy peasy with Wendy’s Free Printable.
Or use on a wreath, or lined up on a mantel or in a garland … you get the idea!
For the Top of Your Tree
I never thought of using a gingerbread house as a tree topper, but I’m glad Donna at an Organized Season did.
Honestly, I’m stealing being inspired by this idea to make several to use in other spots around my house!
For Your Table
And the crazy talented Jen at Midwest Life & Style turned dated thrifted houses into “gingerbread” for a snowglobe wonderland centerpiece!
Gingerbread Not Your Thing?
No worries? I took similar thrifted houses and turned them into tree decor that fit my color scheme better.
I hope you’ve been enjoying the weekend!!! Thanks for hanging out with me a bit,
![Smiling face of Diane under a signature that reads: With My Merry Best, Diane](https://southhousedesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Merry-Best-Signature.jpg)
Hi Diane! I can only imagine how busy you have been making your beautiful stockings! I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas! Thanks for much for sharing my gingerbread tree topper and let me know if you make some of those cute houses! Blessings, Donna
Yeah, Donna! I’m just glad I have such creative friends with wonderful projects that I know my followers love to discover. Happy 2025!!!