I enjoy looking through old catalogs - especially vintage Christmas Catalogs.

They are fun to look through for several reasons:
- the "Oh my gosh - can you BELIEVE how CHEAP that used to be!" factor
- for some of us it is PROOF that there WERE things to do before video games and computers
- they are great for dating items that you collect.... "what year is this?"
- it is fun to take a trip down memory lane - even if the memories are "before your time".

- some of the items advertised in old catalogs can be downright wacky - an early kin to some "as seen on TV" items

Do you have a favorite old catalog that you enjoy looking through or a warm memory that was sparked by flipping through it's pages? Share it with the rest of us by posting a comment below.

You can view several Sears Christmas/Wishbook catalogs from the 1940's up to the 1970's by clicking here courtesy of the folks from Wishbook Web.

And check out these other vintage Christmas catalogs that are available:

Glass blocks were first made in the 1800's for use in cellar windows and ships.  In the early 1900's glass blocks started being used in structures.

When I see glass blocks used as windows it instantly gives me a feeling of being transported back in time.  I guess it is because I remember seeing so many older homes with glass block in their basements and some other windows.  I just love the look of them and the memories they conjure up.

I found this really neat craft project that can be done with glass blocks - make them into lit Christmas presents!  It is like giving someone sunshine wrapped up with a pretty bow And they don't cost much to make.  These would definitely make good Christmas presents - or actually gifts for anytime of the year!

You can learn all about making these by CLICKING HERE!

Check out these pictures:

To make these glass block Christmas presents you need to:

Carefully drill a hole in what will be the bottom of the glass block.

Insert a small strand of Christmas lights into the block.

Decorate the "glowing present" (block) with gorgeous ribbon and such.

And voila!  Sunshine in a box!

Try a new twist on these by including a music box in their too! - maybe hide it with the bow.

You can learn how to make these unique gifts by CLICKING HERE!