Countdown to Christmas: 50 Days Sean Bean as Santa Claus? Well, at least we know he won't get killed off...or will he?

Sorry folks, it's not a new major motion picture...it's just a meme. But I'd be glad to take a meeting with a film exec and discuss my ideas.

Sean Bean has played some iconic characters like Zeus (Percy Jackson), Boromir (Lord of the Rings), Caesar (Is this the Shakespeare version? I haven't seen it yet), and of course, Mellors "Aye, I Luve Ya" in Lady Chatterly's Lover.

So, why not cast him as Santa Claus, St. Nicholas, or Father Christmas?

Although I don't really see Sean Bean as the Kris Kringle type, he could definitely portray one of the more nobler gift givers.

But how does one go from John Ryder (The Hitcher) to Belsnickle? Hmmmm

Anyway...

During my countdown to Christmas, I will be making "Ned" evolve into a more festive character...one who will surely keep his head about him during the holiday season.

Steph McCrombie, Photographer

HOLIDAY POINTER:

Follow Gus (and Travis) on Instagram @ifitwags

Countdown to Christmas: 52 Days Santa Collectors dot Com

When you have time...LOTS of time, check out Santacollectors.com.

Angie McKaig has created a very entertaining and educational site that any fan of the jolly man is going to want to add to their favorites.

Anyway, in attempt to give credit to both Kati, the artist of these beautiful one of a kind Santas, and Angie, whose affection for collectible Santas and her diligence in spreading the word about her favorites, I have included links to both sites.

santaworld.com

Picnic with Santa

Each of Kati's Santas figures is telling a story of his own. Her attention to detail and choices of accessories are as unique as each of the Santas she creates.

Doesn't this Santa (no longer available) bring to mind the little ditty "Teddy Bears Picnic"?

Steph McCrombie, Photographer

HOLIDAY POINTERS: When dusting Santa sculptures such as these, start by using a soft bristle clean craft paint brush or make-up brush to gently brush away dust from the hard surfaces. Then I suggest you wrap them snugly in tulle or a laundry bag with the pull cords, and fasten the "bag" securely. Use your vacuum's dusting brush and, if possible, adjust your vacuum to low. Do this ONLY when absolutely necessary and avoid "tugging" on the beard and real fur.



If you are displaying Heirloom Santas and decorations year round, invest in a glass front cabinet placed away from direct sunlight.

Due to lack of space in my recent home, I am down to two cabinets: my main cabinet houses mostly chalk ware Santas, some Valiant court, some by other artists, but mostly those I painted. And the second is really my china cabinet.

Countdown to Christmas: 53 Days So Much To Do

Wow!

There is nothing like trying to start a new blog goal and waking up to the busiest day you can imagine. Today was both Louisiana Tech's and Ruston High's homecoming and I had company all day. So here it is, way past my bedtime, and I am just now getting to my post.

I have a rather large to do list between now and Christmas Day, but don't we all.

The first thing I need to do is figure out how to add a countdown to my blog.  Technology can get a bit overwhelming this late at night.

Usually this time of year I am well into learning a new Christmas musical program or trying to recall all the words (and notes) to Handel's Messiah. Unfortunately, I've had to give up singing. One to many bouts with bronchitis has really affected those high, long notes. This still leaves a big empty place in my heart when I realize the "daze" between Halloween and New Years can really fly by without significant events like your elementary school age child's holiday recital or the annual visit to see Santa and have a photo taken with him. 

But I digress...

So, tomorrow, not only do I have to dust the Santas that I keep up all year long, but I have to put away all the Halloween and non-Santas and prepare for my holiday decorating which includes a short stint on the mantle, buffet, and dining table for the turkeys and pilgrims.

Steph McCrombie, Photographer

HOLIDAY POINTER: One trick I like to do while decorating my home for the holidays is as I unpack a box of Santas or other holiday decor, I repack that box with my regular decorations and attach a note of what is inside.

Now, I use the term "regular" loosely. I love to change out my decor. There was a time when I would change out my decorations monthly.

My Santa crafting challenge of the day was to find vintage or vintage style brooches to add to all the Santas I either make or remake.

eBay proved more fruitful than my local thrift stores today, but I'll be keeping my eye out for the perfect bling for each of my Santas to give them my own little signature.