For some, this is a bit soon to be thinking of Christmas and for others, planning began months ago.  Our holidays are normally low-key (except for Halloween) yet I am waxing sentimental for the coldest of holidays – in the Northern Hemisphere, that is. My memories of Christmas past, included one large gift under the tree (usually a craft project box) and a stocking filled to the brim with nuts, oranges, smoked oysters, and miscellaneous small gifts that could be wrapped and added.  At no time were gifts tumbling from under the tree; when my daughters were young, I tried to keep minimal the norm…very difficult with well meaning grands. Gifts need to have purpose and meaning.  My sister has a rule: One must be able to wear it, eat it, or put it in the bank.  An excellent rule with one addition: it must be handmade. That brings me to now.  Having poured through many crafting/repurposing idea books, we found several viable gift ideas..items that must be started now in order to be ready in time for …