This year it seems to be proving harder than ever to get organised for Christmas. I had so many things on my to do list for this week but on Monday Toby developed some snuffles, and although he has no other symptoms and isn’t unwell in himself I felt that keeping him home from college was the responsible thing to do because the current situation has us all feeling a little paranoid and extra sensitive to other peoples coughs and sneezes. Anyway, I’m going to be deleting a few of the less essential things from my list and what doesn’t get done by friday will simply have to stay undone 🙂
I have ticked one thing off my list today though and that is to upload a new and updated version of my tiny bear Christmas tree decorations. I first shared this in December 2008 and I thought it could use a make-over and a few new photos. The instructions are the same as they were and are very simple and fairly quick, if a little fiddly, to follow. If you wanted to make some of your own you can download the new copy of the file from here: download now
And you can see all of the projects that others have made over the years (including lots of sweet adaptations) over on Ravelry.
Lastly, out in the garden I have a new friend. I am still missing Kit the fox and will never forget her frequent visits over the last 2 years, but the antics of this little squirrel definitely put a smile on my face. We’ve had plenty of squirrels in the garden before and they have all been typically skittish and wary, but this little chap is a very friendly character and follows me around the garden. I now have hazelnuts in my pocket whenever I go outside, and he politely takes each one in his little paws before scampering off to stash them somewhere – by now he must have the largest stash in the area!
little cotton rabbits 
I am sorry to hear that Kit hasn’t returned, it’s very sad to wonder if she is ok or not. I love your blog and your animals. Thank you for sharing. Merry Christmas to you and yours from Canada.
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Brilliant squirrel photos. We don’t have any in the garden but always see lots on our morning dog walk. They seem to know when the dog is on his lead and sort of sashay down the path in front of him. Needless to say, he is furious. My bird table is struggling to keep up with pigeon appetites at the moment. I know they are hungry, but I fear they aren’t leaving anything for the smaller birds. I have set up a bird feeder with sunflower seeds that the pigeons can’t access. The tiny bears are absolutely brilliant, I love the tiny ears and the patterned tops. I hope Toby is feeling better soon. CJ xx
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What a sweet post – I love the teeny bears and the beautiful squirrel. Perhaps we’ll get to knit a squirrel one day? 😉 I too have a regular squirrel visitor who scampers along my high garden wall. Thanks for the kind pattern update. Best wishes to you all and a speedy recovery to Toby xx
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Thank you for the pattern update…and more inspiration for me! I have a bunny girl in a Christmas dress in my car, ready to gift to a little girl. Seeing all the wonderful little clothes…ooooh, I need to make another one!
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I miss seeing your photos of Kit. It was so fun to follow her forays onto your garden over the last few years. I do hope Toby is all right and things get back to normal for him soon. Good luck with the list of Christmas tasks. Wishing you a safe and blessed holiday this year. Thanks for all of the joy and happiness you share with all of us, your friends.
XXX Bonnie
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Those little bears are just the cutest little things! I am totally with you, Julie. Christmas has snuck up on me and I am in a bit of a panic now! Hope Toby feels better soon! And your little friend really is a friendly little guy! Merry Christmas!!
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Your little bears are always a favourite Julie. 🙂
I just love your new little friend!!
V x
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Thank you so much for the update. I love your patterns and your new little friend is adorable. Kit may still show up and if so, we will all love seeing your beautiful photos again. Hope your family has a wonderful holiday season.
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I’m so glad you have a new friend. I too miss Kit :-/. Thanks for all your beautiful work.
Merry Christmas!
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What beautiful photos of your squirrel friend! Our squirrel friends aren’t as friendly — they just take the stuffing from my patio furniture and run — without even taking the time to pose for a picture! Your little ornaments are adorable – as always! Thank You for your never-ending inspiration dear Julie! XO
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Hi Julie,
I only discovered your blog a few months ago, and have been reading through it from the beginning. You are such an inspiring person. Life is difficult for me now, and your beautiful example of making a wonderful home and caring for those you love is very comforting. I wish you a wonderful Christmas and all of us a better year next year. I’m knitting a koala for my great nephew!
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