Life With an Almost Nonexistent Internet Service

Where I live, our internet service is almost nonexistent.  (I have blogged and complained about it often.) We use a satellite service for most of our needs plus another phone service so the boys can play their video games.  Well, we used up all of them a few weeks ago and have been struggling to keep going.  So, I have unfortunately not been able to even view my blog until today.  It's so sad and with no remedy anytime soon.

The good news is that I have been to a few Holiday Open Houses recently.  I love this time of year and try to get to as many as I can.  I stopped by one in Woodstock on Friday at the American Barn.
I love the shed in their yard.

That night, my neighbor Jan and I went to Christmas on the Farm in Belvidere hosted by Ann from Nellie's Barn Sale.  We had such a nice time and I got some great crafting ideas that I had to try out as soon as I got home.

Today was Mistletoe Magic at Grace Lutheran Church in Woodstock.  They have crafts, vintage jewelry and soooo many homemade goodies.  Ethan met me there (he loves the cookies by the pound).  It was nice to see so many friends that I only see a few times a year.  We did buy way too many goodies, but I freeze them (after we eat our share) to bring out during the holidays. 

I found some really great rusty and vintage metal toy trucks and followed an inspiration on Pinterest to create a holiday scene.  I just love the red trucks!  I have been stocking up on small Christmas decorations.  They came in handy with this project.  This idea with vintage trucks is showing up a lot lately that I had to try it for myself.  I am pleased with how they turned out.

Wednesday, November 11, the Pink Geranium on Route 14 in Barrington and the stores on Pepper Road will be having their open houses from 4-8.  On Friday, November 13 (Thursday with a $10 entry fee) starting at 4pm is the Algonquin Library Book Sale.  One of our favorite book sales!

November 19-22 is our open house at the Carriage House.  I have been busy going through my vintage Christmas and boy do I have the vintage Christmas treasures.  It's hard to believe but in one week I'll be setting up for the open house.  I'll be there on Thursday.  Here is your invitation:

There are still sales here and there.  I was at a fun estate sale in Crystal Lake.  I found really great bark cloth drapes in a bold brown floral pattern.  Love them!  Once again, I bought lots of vintage linens.  I have to be careful to stop keeping them for my own collection.

Enjoy this wonderful season.  Happy treasure hunting!