whatcha been doing?

I haven't felt much like blogging lately. We've had lots going on and I've been scrambling to catch up.

But today's a new day and I'm feeling Christmas-y! I think we're going to have a largely handmade Christmas which means I need to get a move on.

Anyone else going handmade this year? I'd love some ideas.

Here's what I'm thinking so far:

for my kids:
doorway puppet stage and puppets
felt board - I'd like to make a couple of character/prop felt kits to go along with some new books.
for Kira - doll clothes, blankets, etc. She's all about the babies right now.
for Jackson - some kind of detective kit - magnifying glass, note pad, hat - I need some more ideas here.

for my nieces:
I'm thinking about making little purses and filling them with these.

for my showing up any day now nephew - I'm crocheting a blanket.

for my little cousin who's like a nephew - possibly make some fun shaped crayons and some kind of art kit.

What else?? Help!

Also, my blogging/TMMO friend Mary Ellen gave me a lovely award and I promise to accept it officially in the next couple of days. Thank you, Mary Ellen!