Dec 082014
 

The year I was born I became part of a very special family tradition.  That year my Grandmother gave me my first Hallmark Keepsake Ornament.  Each year after that I received a new one; some years she selected one for me, some years I was able to share a little input on my favorites.

Our family Christmas tree decorated with Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments

Fast forward 36 years and those ornaments – including that Baby’s First Christmas one – grace my tree.  And in addition to capturing special moments and interests from each year, that was the goal.  That by the time I (and later my brothers and cousins) grew up and moved out on our own we wouldn’t have a bare Christmas tree. Continue reading »

Jul 022013
 

When I was in middle school or so, the women in our family would sometimes set aside Thanksgiving afternoon as Christmas crafting time.  After the guys retired to the living room for naps and football my Aunt would set out the project she had selected for us.  We did gift bags, ornaments, snowmen made from socks, and lots of other stuff.

DIY Bottle Cap Snowman Ornament Craft #CIJ13

Continue reading »