Monday, December 8, 2008


Hi Folks,

Over 30 years ago I created Christmas stockings for my husband, two sons and myself. The stockings were carefully stored throughout the year and hung again each Christmas. As new members joined the family, I made new stockings for them. I have to confess that this year, the hanging of the stockings was virtually the last bit of my Christmas decorating. I didn't want to face the fact that I wouldn't be hanging two of the stocking this year.

So this month, my beaded square is a final Christmas stocking for my husband Gordon and son Donnavon. After I finished stitching the sides of the stocking, I symbolically stuffed it with all the family traditions that involved Gordon and Donnavon and sewed it shut. We're determined to remember the good times, but not to morbidly focus on the loss. We will adjust and find our way through this holiday season, as well as begin some new family traditions.

May you all have a wonderful holiday and a joyous new year.
Jeanette Shanigan
http://shanigansbeadshenanigans.com