A Sublime Christmas Open House

Welcome to my Christmas open house!

Come on in...grab a cup of eggnog and a cookie.  There's a cozy fire in the fireplace...the tree is decorated and the lights are twinkling...

So, let's get this party started with a little giveaway...

You may have seen my crystal icicle ornament in this post.  The tutorial for it was included in my friend, Amy Powers', wonderful online publication, Inspired Ideas: 

 For you, my visitors, I'd like to give away one of my crystal icicles. Leave a comment on this post and I'll draw the names of one lucky winner.  

And, another thing...

I'm also giving away one of these nifty 1 oz Ice Resin applications, as seen in my previous post. If you've never tried Ice, this is a great place to start!  While I won't be able to personally answer each comment as I usually do, please know that I'll be reading each and every one of them and leave my own comment, or two.  Good luck on the drawing!

And now for a really big, exciting (at least to me!) announcement:  to celebrate the blessings of the Christmas season, for the very first time...I'm offering a 20% discount on all jewelry in my Etsy shop through noon this Friday.   Please enter the coupon code SUBLIMEHOLIDAY in order to receive your discount.

Among the pieces I'm offering is this adorable little snowman necklace.  I made just a few of these pieces and all of them sold, except one.  I fell in love with this little guy but, like my own almost-grown guys, it seems he might be ready to go to a new home.

("Glad"--sold)

I've loaded up the shop with lots of new pieces so, if you've ever wanted a piece of my jewelry, or are looking for a gift for Christmas, now is a great time!  

"Swing" (Sold)

Shibuichi Heart (sold--thank you!)

"Drusy Pearls and Rhinestones" (Sold)

These are some of the fab new pieces...click HERE to see more.  Make sure you enter the coupon code SUBLIMEHOLIDAY to get the 20% discount at checkout.

One of my favorite things about the Christmas season is my 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments swap. The swap was featured in the Nov/Dec 2007 issue of Somerset Studio.  Every year, for about the last 6 years, 12 artists participate in the swap and the ornaments are nothing short of amazing.  For a little Christmas ornament inspiration, check out past posts on my 12 Days of Christmas ornament swap, here.

This year, for the very first time, I'll be offering, a few...a very few...of my all time favorite 12 days ornaments, my Christmas cartes de visites.  To me, they are the essence of a vintage Christmas.  I'm putting the finishing touches on them now and am hoping to find time to complete more than the few I have in progress.

For this year's ornament, I got a little carried away and made extra so I'll be offering a few of those, as well.  I can't reveal what they are just yet (because of the swap) but they're fabulously whimsical! Look for the ornaments to appear in my shop next week.  This year's 12 days of Christmas ornaments swap begins Wednesday so watch for those posts.

As promised, I have another terrific cookie recipe for you.  This is one of my favorite "go to" cookies...so good and so buttery bad, at the same time!

Butterscotch Lemon Cookies

1 1/2 c flour

2 t baking powder

1/2 t salt

3/4 c sugar

1/2 c butter, softened

1 egg

2 T milk

1 T lemon juice

1 t grated lemon rind

1 1/2 c butterscotch morsels

Preheat oven to 375. In small bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt; set aside.  In large bol, combine sugar and butter; beat well.  Add egg, milk, lemon juice and lemon rind; beat well (mixture will appear curdled.)  Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in butterscotch morsels. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets.  Bake at 375 for 8 to 10 minutes.  Allow to stand 2 minutes before removing from cookie sheets.  Cool completely on wire rack.  Makes about 1 1/2 dozen.

Make sure you check out Food Network's online 12 Days of Cookies.  Today is day one and you can opt to have it sent to your email, newsletter style.

You may be noticing, by now, that I'm a bit of a freak for Christmas.  While I know that it can be a difficult time of year, I admit that it's my very favorite.  I believe the trick to enjoying it is to keep focused on what it's really all about...

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.  This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Lk 2:10-12

I hope y'all enjoyed my little Christmas interlude...I thank you for joining me! 

Comments

[Cindy Brockett]

Love, love, love Christmas too! So many wonderful memories...Christmas programs at Brookwood Elementary...Sis Lori stopped by there the other day and had to leave, cuz it made her cry. Looked the same, just everything a lot smaller. We grew up in the perfect generation, simpler and more innocent. Happy Holidays and God bless you and your family this Season, Deryn!!!

[Lori Michaud]

Deryn, every visit to your blog is filled with beauty and calmness. Some days, you're blog is my port in a storm. Have a wonderful holiday!

[Carolyn Mallin]

Oh, how I would love to win that ornament. It's so beautiful. Or, the ice resin. I've been wanting to try it.
Your pictures are so lovely. My tree is up and slowly I'm getting around to putting up the decorations. I have my last show of the season tomorrow so it's crunch time right now. Thanks for all the inspiration. Have a Merry Christmas Deryn.

[Sandi Volpe]

Deryn,

So glad I got a chance to take a class and meet you this year at ArtBliss, I love reading your blog and seeing all the beautiful pictures.
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Healthy Happy New Year.

[Kathy]

That snowman is too cute. I always love your style.

[Kim]

The ornaments are so beautiful! Thank you so much for the chance to win one in your giveaway. Holiday Hugs! xoxo

[Joanie]

Such beauty! I will have to come back to visit your blog more often (as I used to when I had more time).
Thanks for the giveaway! xox, Joanie

[Lorna E]

Love your creations, & love the icicle! Here's hoping, fingers & toes crossed.

[littlepurpleroom]

I don't do any decorating for Christmas anymore, so your blog is a wonderful treat for me.
The pictures are so warm.
Thank you for sharing your Merriment and your faith.
And I love the magazine. I spent hours going through the archives just soaking it all in.
Amy and all the contributors have done such a wonderful job.
Merry Christmas
OOO
Diane

[debe]

I just love that icicle & plan on trying my hand at making one. It will NOT look like yours! Thanks for the idea & holiday spirit!

[Theresa-75]

Thank you for sharing your joyous celebration of the holidays. Can't wait to see what you receive and give in days to come. Your sense of style and creative reserve is delightful to see and read.

[Elizabeth Woodford]

What a fabulous tour and treat and feast for the eyes!!!! I am in full christmas blitz creation mode but so glad that I took a break on my computer to read your fabulous post!! Ho Ho Ho!!!!!!

[lo]

Beautiful pieces and great Christmas cheer!! I, too, love this time of year:)

[Erin Strother]

Love the Christmas icicle! That would look great on my tree.

[carol sloan]

add me add me!

[Lisa]

Tons of Christmas inspiration! I just love your snowman necklace...so adorable!! Thanks for the great giveaway!

[Jenny]

Deryn - thanks for the holiday inspiration, I have left this afternoon open to decorate and break out the Holiday Cd's... now i feel ready.
I am also ready to win some ICE resin! Best of luck to me for the giveaway... ;-)

[nan]

this post has everything..food,decorating, giveaways,i so want to try the ice resins i only hear good things about it.
happy holidays

[Hope Amen]

How enchanting...thanks so much for putting me in the Christmas spirit. Great giveaways as well. Cannot wait to see the ornaments next week!

[Lee]

Wow- such a great post. Our tree is already up, but I'm having a hard time getting motivated to put the rest out. Please count me in for the ICE giveaway- I've been dying to try that stuff!! xo

[Lis DesJardins Bommarito]

You are the hostess with the mostess, and the eggnog was superb! Bless you.
Lisa

[Cindy]

Deryn, what a wonderful post today - jam packed with everything from sparkly ornaments and gorgeous new jewelry, to a yummy cookie recipe (that I'd love to try!). I love Christmas as well, and your post today sure put me in the Christmas spirit!

[Judi Rose]

Gorgeous post and pictures today!! I will go to bed dreaming of Christmas Crystal Icicles!!!!!!!!!!! Precious! Thanks for the chance at winning! Hugs, Judi

[Penny Stuart]

Deryn,
Your site is such an inspiration to me...I envy your red hotrod and ultra cool cowgirl boots! Your jewelry is absolutely too die for! I am in love with your snowmen, made some myself! They are a hit with the girls at work! I do hope I win your beautiful icicle ornament, would look beautiful on my gorgeous snowman tree!
Penny

[Andi Hinkle]

Deryn...loved your open house! All of your jewelry is awesome as are the decorations and pictures. Thank you for sharing...
Merry Christmas!
Andi

[sharon]

Well, I guess I was so overwhelmed with the beauty of your post I got disoriented and posted on the wrong post! That's okay because I have been looking and re-looking this post over many times, and have to thank you again for all your kindness and inspiration, and friendship.

[Sharon]

So warm and cozy, I feel at home! I'm baking those cookies tomorrow for tea time, they look yummy.

[jodi]

Your work is beautiful- so different. Love it- thanks for sharing. What a wonderful giveaway!
:)
~jodi

[Nancy]

thank you for the lovely open house -it is always good to have the reminder in all the busyness that Jesus brings us great joy. Its easy to get wrapped up in commercial Christmas and forget what is important.

[mary d]

Thanks for the invite to share your Christmas art and beautiful works.The season is truly a special one.

[Kathi]

Love all your Christmas decorations, and really like the crystal ornament. I used to love to go all out with decorating when I had my house, now live in a much smaller place and only can fit in a little-but love it just the same.

[Deryn Mentock]

Hey y'all! You've been such wonderful guests. Fyi...I'll be listing new stuff to my Etsy over the week. Thank you for making this so much fun!

[Pattie]

oh my gosh Missy D,

You have been a very busy girl elf!!!! I'm not going to stick around and visit because our internet has been more off then on, now that it's on for the moment I'm headed to do a bit of Christmas shopping!

Pattie ;)
Mazatlan Mx.

[pat m]

I just love your Christmas Open House. Everything is so beautiful and inviting. Before I entered my comment I made a batch of your cookies and some hot chocolate, lite a fire. By the way, I'm including them in my Christmas cookies bakes from now on.........Thank You for sharing. I sure hope I win the crystal icicle ornament. I hope your Holidays are filled with the warmth and magic that your Open House has given........................

[Stina]

I think you're a master in jewellery making! I often check your blog, hoping for some new design of yours. It's always a pleasure to the eyes. I really admire your skill. (I'm not flattering you, it's the truth!)
Stina

[Sharon]

Thanks so much for all the gorgeousness and sharing.....you're a true example of what the holiday is all about. Blessings to you and yours!!
~Sharon~

[Debbie / Prairie Emporium]

Awesome post!!! Will have to try the cookies for sure. Would love to win your icicle, love it. Merry Christmas to all.

[Donna Knadle]

As always Deryn your work is beautiful! Your open house was a dream to browse. I hope you and your family have a lovely Christmas together.

[Sally Turlington]

Here I am mellowing by the fireplace sipping a cuppa nog and drinking in the fragrance and visions of Christmas past. I got here just after the first ten guests and we are all enjoying the ambiance of your myriad charming decorations . . . each of us hoping to get a chance at the door prizes. What a lovely party and just at the right time to foster holiday (think Holy Day) excitement.

[lululiz]

What a thoroughly enjoyable post. The recipe sounds so delicious, I just have to give that one a go.

[Erin Prais-Hintz]

How inviting and enchanting! Love the cookie recipe. I will have to test that one out. Thank you for sharing your inspiration and passions with us.
Enjoy the day!
Erin

[Francy]

I have the "stuff" to make some of the ornaments you designed. Think they are so awesome plus will use up some of my stock.

Good luck on your sale and Happy Christmas!

[Mary Bullough]

Deryn... Everyday I look forward to checking to see if you made a post to your blog. It's such a pleasure and I am grateful to you for sharing your talent and life experiences... I so enjoy it! Today's post is awesome and I had to read it a few times to absorb it all. Thank you... MANY CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS SENT TO YOU!!

[Dawn]

Your Christmas Open House is off to a great start Deryn. So many pretties (and yummies)! Your jewellery is beautiful and inventive as always. It would be awesome to win the draw for your crystal icicle ornament ~ I love sparklies! And finally, thank you for always including the true focus of Christmas too.

[Lorna E]

This was a post chocked full of lovely! Thanks for sharing, and thanks for the opportunity to have a lovely icicle come to my home to live!

[debbiejl]

I love your work!! That last necklace is so incredibly stunning!! Thank you for this generous giveaway(s)!!! And your cookie recipe looks really delicious!

[Renate]

What a beautiful open house, Deryn! Your little Christmas village is so cozy looking. I have been counting the days until your 12 Days of Christmas Ornament Swap reveal starts and I already know it will be fantastic.
Your heart knows no boundaries. Wishing you a blessed day.

[Alice]

What a lovely open house, and so much to see! Lovely handmade ornaments, pretty decorations, gorgeous jewelry, giveaways, and yummy treats.

Thanks so much for sharing!!!

[Susan Marling]

Your decorations look beautiful - I am sure in person they are stunning. Love your blog and your jewelry. Would love to win either the icicle or the resin - I have been wanting to try it out. If these cookies are as good as the Dream ones - I will be all over them this weekend!! Thank you for reminding us the real reason for the season.

[Meaghan "Bonafyde" V.]

Loved that magazine, so many inspiring ideas! Loved your icicle ornament, I can imagine it sparkling on my tree!

[Jackie]

Thank you for the Open House, Deryn!! I love all of your decorations! What a great giveaway! I love those icicles...

[Kim Gibson]

WOW! What a terrific post! Your jewelry is always fabulous, and I love the idea of the ice resin in tiny amounts....thanks for that. Oh, and if you just happen to draw my name for the icicle, wahoo! Now that would be the best!

[Melissa M]

lovely post Deryn...I enjoyed your open house! Those little snowmen were a favorite of mine, but I am absolutely in love with that last necklace...gorgeous!!

[rebecca]

thank you for this lovely greeting to a sacred season of love and peace. your generosity is everywhere, in every detail.
your beauty tumbles out of you like a crystal snow fall.

now off to bask in the labors of your hands.
you are visionary...with the superb craftsmanship of one who cares with each step of creation.

blessed christmas deryn,
rebecca

[Kathy]

You do such beautiful work and I loved the project in the magazine.

[Linda Hanes]

Deryn, I ALWAYS enjoy seeing your new creations and would love to own one of your pieces. I need to start dropping some BIG hints to my hubby for gift ideas for myself. hee hee I bought an Ice Resin 1 oz applicator back in August at a bead show. Of course I would love a chance to win another one! It is the best resin! Your Christmas pictures are lovely. As always I enjoyed your post and your treasures.

[Angie Platten]

Oh man, I hate being the first to post as the random number generator never picks number one! Boo.... but I'm commenting anyway. Your offers are beautiful, of course. Thank you for a chance to win something special made by you! Have a wonderful holiday, Deryn!

[Chris Kerr]

OOOOoooo! I'm in! A Christmas Crystal Icicle! I bet they twinkle like crazy on the tree~~~I LOVE your Christmas Open House! I'm on my way to my "day job" and this starts my day out with joy~~