An off-white Christmas?

I wish I could say that it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.. But we haven't been that lucky. The snow is very distant on the mountains and the days are still dry and in the 60°s . I'm typically not the kind that enjoys cold and wet weather but after all this dessert tan, some green (grass is sprouting up in some places) and white would be a nice change! 

I haven't been in the mood for Christmas music or Christmas movies yet, but I am trying to put myself in the mood by knocking out my Christmas shopping. And I need to send everything out in the next day or two to make sure it gets home in time..!

Being about 12 hours ahead of the states I took advantage of Black Friday and cyber Monday deals online. I even found some local deals! 

Haha oh America, of all the wonderful traditions we have why are the sales the only things we pass on?! 

I was able to find some good gifts; most of which I won't post or talk about until after the recipients get them, but I can show some of the things I found for the kids since they're too young to read or navigate the Internet. 

After telling Alexis about the elephant purse I found out here she informed us that what she wants for Christmas are: a doggy (we already have one) and an elephant. Haha I think I'm going to leave that present for daddy to figure out! 

Even though Wyatt isn't old enough to play chess yet, I couldn't pass up the cute little handmade sets they have here! Maybe we can buy some checkers and start with that until he's old enough.. 

I also am passing the time by crocheting. Everyone that sees me assumes I'm an 80 year old that's knitting, but I like doing crafts, having something to occupy my hands and take up free hours at work and in the evenings! Besides I can make about 4 cute beanies with one thing of yarn (Spool? Bundle? Pack?) which costs about $4 instead of buying $10-$15 beanies that aren't as cute and personal.

Obviously I am still learning how to make the beanies cute, but with a little more practice (and enough Internet to load tutorials) I think I'll have it down!

If the shopping and crocheting isn't enough to get me in the spirit, maybe the office Christmas tree is:

In case you noticed the unique silver garland and wanted a closer look..

Yep, those are soda tops; that's what happens when your rather creative team members are exceptionally bored! 

At least some of the people here are embracing Christmas in Afghanistan!