When in Doubt...Swap it Out!!

For the past few months, I've been mildly obsessed with a blogger called "The Nester". That's both her blog name, and how she refers to herself. I read her all the time and think she's got some fabulous decorating ideas, tricks, tips and advice. Most importantly- or maybe- what I like most about her is that she's practical. And comical. She feels like it doesn't have to be perfect or pricey to be beautiful.

That makes a TON of sense to me.

Anywhoo....a while back she hosted a swap party.
And then I thought- hey, I could do that.
And then I wondered....could I really?

So I called my friend Sallie, explained the idea and waited for her reaction.
She loved it! (she's a good friend that one)
And so we planned. We altered Nesters version and had a Christmas swap.

The big day came and Sallie and I were all a flutter.
Jon helped make things festive by hanging garland. He was injured in the process but he pushed through the pain in true hard core party mode. I do adore him!



I haven't had time to make my wreath yet. Not to worry- nobody cared (not even me).

Everyone brought their stuff. We had so much that I had to throw a tablecloth over the dog crate and use it for display! I'm creative like that.


(bad picture, but it proves that improvising does have it's place- it also shows that I need to work on that corner!)

We mingled and tried to figure out the best strategy for the actual swapping.



I gave people time to preview and then we picked numbers and waited while that person picked their item.



Because everyone brought so many fantastic things, we were able to do 2 rounds of swapping and a bonus round if there was anything else that you were dying for.

And in between all of that swapping.....


We ate!




The food was delish...


but the friends were even better!

Thanks to Sallie and the rest of my fab friends. Hope the swaps have found new life in your homes. I am LOVING mine!

Merry, Merry!!