Christmas Gift Projects pt. 1

Ok, so this Christmas I tried to make as many homemade gifts as possible. I really underestimated the time it would take me, and so I didn't get to do as much as I wanted. Next time I will start in September or so so that I can do more and not be so rushed. Anyways, the first project I did was stuffed kittens for my nieces Zorianna and Luna. I got the pattern from Amy Butler's Little Stitches for Little Ones. They turned out really cute, I think. Like always, I learned a lot during this project. I learned how to do some embroidery stitching. I also learned how to edgestitch, satin stitch, and slipstitch. Anyways, here are the pics:

Happy Birthday, Michele!

I guess my blog is turning into a birthday card. Oh well...

Today is my sister's birthday. Unfortunately she has to share it with New Mexico (which usually eats all of the cake).

Michele is her name; funny is her game. My sister and I laugh together more than should be humanly possible. She is hilarious! She has a cynical and silly sense of humor.

She is also very smart. I've always been jealous of her brain power. She's always been a great writer and she can read big words. Nowadays she teaches high school students how to be smart. And I bet she does a great job. We always joke about her being like the teacher in "Freedom Writers". While I've never actually seen the movie, I do picture her as the type of teacher that pushes students to do more than what they imagine that they can.

This has just ended up being a lot of rambling. And I didn't even edit and re-write, which probably disappoints you, Michele. But I just wanted to tell you HAPPY BIRTHDAY and I can't wait to see you soon and really celebrate!

Happy Birthday, Dad!

I know it's a little late in the day, but
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!

The man who taught me how to make lists, help others, wake up early, clean my room, have fun, and most of all, how to be genuine. You are my favorite father...plus my only.

A quote I recently read in a book all about dads (from another person whose life you have touched) said, "Anyone can be a father, but it takes a special person to be a dad." That about sums it up for me. I feel so blessed that I have a dad that loves me. And that I have never had to question it. I have always known that I was loved and valued. I hope that you know that I love, value, and appreciate you as well. You are a hole in one!

Happy Birthday Niecey Poo!

Two years ago tomorrow, December 20, something wonderful happened--my sister had a baby! I always knew it would be fun to be an auntie, but I had NO IDEA how MUCH fun it would be! I am totally in love with my Judy-bug! Here are some of my favorite pictures of my favorite niecey-poo!

Here begins the rollercoaster! Your mommy was super brave on your birthday! So was your daddy. You're blessed to have such wonderful parents that love you more than anything.

The first time I saw you! I couldn't wait! I still owe you a spankin' for taking so long and for giving your mom such a hard time!

The first time I got to hold you. I was smitten! (And I still am.)

Last year's birthday...This year, easy on the frosting!!

Look at those eyes! So full of life!

What's not to love?

You make me LAUGH when I see your, uh, creative side!


Blah, blah, blah...I love when we chit-chat, and I can't believe how much your vocabulary increases every time I see you!

You are so brave and always try new things--even if auntie thinks you shouldn't! (Be careful :0

Hollywood!

Always the fashionista! I love your shoe fetish and the way you boss everyone around with what to wear and what to dress you in!

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to my best friend.
To my hero.
To the calm voice of reason when I am "losing it".
To my surprise goofball.
My mad scientist.
Patience personified.
It can only be one person--my husband, Doug. My favorite everything.

Love you and sorry it's late!

How Old Are You?

This is from our last trip back home. Our niece is such a crack up!

Hike!

We went for a hike this Saturday in the Sangre de Cristo mountains north of Santa Fe. It was Charlie's first hike. We had a really good time! Doug took some breathtaking pictures--I really think he has an eye for photography!