Challenge #193 week of 14th December 2015

Well, the Christmas build up is in its most intensive phase for the next 10 days and I'm late with everything - of course!

There are certain things that I like to do every Christmas and so far, I'm not sure I've managed more than one or two small things. But we've started one or two new traditions this year which is nice.

What is definitely missing is the time I need to watch my nice pile of Christmas movies which I like to work through in the run up to the big day.

Therefore, in the absence of me actually watching any of them so far, I think we need to make them this week's prompt.

So, be inspired by Christmas movies.

Everyone has a favourite. Mine is Holiday Inn for sure. Classic black and white Fred Astair and Bing Crosby with the original version of White Christmas. Who could ask for more? But there are also plenty of modern films in my collection, how about you?

As always, I think there are many ways to take this inspiration - whether it's just about your favourite, or your collection. Childhood memories, or traditions. Identifying with the characters  - I have a good memory that's very similar to Clark Griswold's tree that I might retell - or how they reflect your thoughts on the festivities at this time of year. Take it in any direction you like!

I'm late uploading a few into the Whimsical Musings Flickr gallery but if you create, it would be lovely to see you there too. Don't forget to tag your creation with WM#193 so we can find you.

I'm in the mood for a little giveaway in celebration of this special time of year, so I'll put your name into the hat for any comments on this post and double points for a layout in the Whimsical Musings Flickr gallery - who doesn't love a giveaway?!?

Challenge #154 week of 19th January 2015

Last week my family was anticipating a very special movie - The Paddington Movie.  You see, my son is 13 and my daughter is 8.  I'm not much of a movie goer and my husband will watch anything.  With varying ages, different interests, boy vs. girl, movie goers vs. non-movie goers, it is often difficult to find a film that suits everyone.  When we saw the previews over the summer, it prompted me to dig up my Paddington books that had been given to me as a child from my older sister.  My husband started reading them to my daughter and they quickly fell in love with the bear from darkest Peru.

We saw the movie together as a family and it was a delight for all.  It was an enchanted story filled with gorgeous scenes of London, beautiful creative effects, fun music and witty humor.    I don't think it's too much of a spoiler to say that poor Paddington loses his uncle in an earthquake and only his special hat remains. The marmalade loving bear treasures this hat and puts it atop his head on his journey to London determined to find its original owner.   The hat then becomes an important element in the movie.  Ahhhh....it is such a sweet movie.  

So, for this week's prompt I'd like for you to be inspired by hats.

Be sure to tag your layout WM#154 and show us what you create.

Cheers!

Lynnette