Christmas in July

If instead of a gem, or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give. ~ George MacDonald

Welcome, dear friends! I am delighted to have you join me today! 

It is the month of July, and some of us are celebrating Christmas in July. So, I decided to do a post using some of my Christmas china and baking from posts I shared over the years.

When it is Christmas in July, you think about Christmas trees and ways of bringing joy to others; just like the season which is less than six months away. Is anyone watching the Hallmark Christmas movies?

I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month. ~ Harlan Miller

Today, I am sharing my little tree which I created for the top of the cabinet in the dining room. Above it, is a wreath I made to match.

Now, one must have some food to nibble on. How about some tea sandwiches and sweets? 

There are egg salad and chicken salad sandwiches on the tiered plate stand.

Below, I have some ribbon sandwiches using both white and whole wheat bread. These are like three sandwiches in one; one of egg salad, another of devilled ham, and lastly, cream cheese. These are cut into little triangles so they are perfect for tea time and are especially tasty!

Now how about some sweets? 

I have light and dark fruitcake which I make every year. One was my maternal grandmother's recipe while the other was my paternal grandmother's recipe. The top plate holds mincemeat tarts and sugar plums.

My Christmas teapot holds a fragrant and spicy rooibos tea. An assortment of cookies are waiting on the plate.

The teapot was a Christmas gift from my son and his family one year. It is made by Ganz.

The teacups are Royal Albert's Flower of the Month series, December, Christmas Rose.  

The teacup below is Royal Stafford, adorned with some pretty holly.

I used to do a lot of crafting at one time. This cute stocking jar was once a floral container filled with a festive arrangement of flowers for my mother. When the flowers were finished, I brought the jar home and placed a miniature tree in it and a cute teddy bear on it. 

I like repurposing things especially when they have sentimental value. 

Many begin their Christmas lists this time of year and some also begin crafting their projects for the upcoming season. How about you? Do you get started early?

I always think of my father this time of year because his birthday was in July and he adored Christmas. He passed his love for Christmas and all its charm on to me.

Celebrate love. It is the breath of your existence and the best of all reasons for living. ~ Author unknown  

I think it's nice to take a break in the summertime when we can remember how beautiful Christmas is! For most, it is not only the happiest time of year but it is also a time when others go out of their way a little more to make someone else feel special. It is showing good will toward men. Would that it could last all year long!

Happiness is often the only thing you can give without having it, and it is by giving it that you acquire it. ~ Voltaire

Thank you for visiting today and enjoy this new week. My hubby will be on vacation beginning next week so I may be away for a little bit but I will be back soon. Do take care and God bless you all!

Sharing from my heart ~ Sandi