Some Christmas Decorating

I saw this idea on Pinterest (of course) and couldn't wait to try it.  We have a large picture on our mantle, but it fell a while back and busted the glass and messed up the frame.  We replaced it with the same frame which left us with an empty one that wasn't quite usable but not quite trash either.  I decided to use it for this project.  Basically, you just wrap a big frame or canvas with pretty wrapping paper and stick a big bow and ribbon on it.  I made this bow, but you could certainly just buy one.  The paper and ribbon are taped to the frame and the bow is stapled to the ribbon.  Cute, quick project! 

Yes, Josh and I collect S'mores ornaments.  I think the mantle is a fun place to put them since they're close to the fire :)

This is our 4th Christmas in this house but only our second tree.  We don't give each other gifts and we often travel for the holidays, so we don't always feel the need to decorate.  We prefer live trees; the Fraser Fir has become our favorite.  Someday I'll get around to making a bigger tree skirt.  I made this one back about 10 years ago when we lived in Oklahoma.  Also our Christmas trees never have a theme.  We just use our childhood ornaments that have meaning to us and add a couple of new ones each year.  Nothing fancy, just like us :)

More Rag Quilts and a Tie Onesie

My sewing machine has been getting a workout lately.  Here are 2 more rag quilts I made for babies of very dear friends. 
This first blanket was for Cassia who lives in Malibu.  I get to meet her this Saturday and spend a week in CA with her lovely family!

Smooth side

Rag side

This blanket is for Baby Silas who should arrive in early February.  We go to church with his parents and they also work at ACU.  This may be my favorite blanket I've ever made, but I say that often :)  I decided to try a brick pattern for the first time, and I was quite pleased with how it turned out. 

Smooth side

Rag side

Silas also got a tie onesie.  I love making these for little boys!  I use Rit dye and the stove top method  to color the onesies.  The stitching stays white and adds a little interest in my opinion.

I have more crafts to share, but I can't reveal them until they've been given :)