Mum's the word.

Oct. 20, 2011

It was Monday, Oct. 17, around 7:20 a.m., when I got the news.


"Um, Mom? Can we go to Hobby Lobby some day this week?"

"I guess so," I replied. "What do you need?"

"I need to get some stuff to make a MUM."

With that simple statement, uttered at the VERY END of what could've been an efficient, mum-producing weekend, my week was suddenly filled to overflowing with stops at Michael's, JoAnn's and THREE Hobby Lobby stores, not to mention hours spent with hot glue and the stapler. We had just four days (and nights) to make a mum in time for homecoming on Oct. 21.

But we got 'er done.

(For the record, Ryan's homecoming date was a FRIEND.)

I bought the base mum at Hobby Lobby and added all the bells and whistles found at the aforementioned stores. (Actually, there were neither bells nor whistles at Ryan's friend's request.)

Full disclosure: I had some help.

I also consulted my friend Jeana, a pro at this mum-making stuff. (Thanks for the tips, Jeana!)

Since Ryan's friend plays saxophone, we added a sax-playing bear. That was my favorite personal touch. I just hope the recipient liked it as much as I did!