Almost Christmas!

Last week was a tough week to get through. Between the shopping and decorating, my son's school apartment had a fire. At first, I was told it was relatively small and nothing to worry about. However, 2 hours later, the fire was finally under control but the building is now condemned. The school was wonderful and made sure Ben and his roommates had food, shelter and clothing. We only live about half an hour away, so Ben came home at the end of a very long day. The fire started around 9am and he got home around 8pm. We're happy no one was hurt but Ben lost quite a few electronic items. Needless to say, I am somewhat behind decorating but thought I would post a few things I've made and am finally getting to put up.

This is an ornament I made using directions I bought from Ann S. Lainhart. She vends at many quilt shows and owns The Quilted Gallery in Gloucester, MA. I made an ornament from her directions but she also has patterns to incorporate this kaleidoscope into a pocketbook. She makes bargello jackets as well.  The trick is to find the right fabric. She explains it all in her pattern. I found this fabric at Joann's and it's the same fabric used in the pattern instructions. I really love how it came out.

I made this tree skirt about 15 years ago. I found a pattern in a quilt shop. I had just started to sew and quilt. I bought the fabrics from Keepsake using their catalog and actually received advice from the woman taking my order over the phone!  I still like how it came out although I had no clue what I was doing when I made it!

Hope you enjoy my photos. I'm still trying to get my house back to normal. I have many of Ben's things in boxes in my formal dining room. I didn't expect to deal with more boxes this time of year but I'm just thrilled everyone is okay. It could have been so much worse. I guess boxes aren't so bad after all!!