Snow in New Mexico

Well, we went up to Denver, Colorado for the holidays and no snow.  We come home and uh huh, snow.  1-2 inches of snow doesn't seem like much to those who may live in higher elevations, but to us here in the south end of New Mexico, it is a novelty.  Our dogs loved it and it was perfect for that winter snowman we used to make when we were kids.

It was also a perfect day to stay inside, knit by the fire and just enjoy it.  I'm looking forward to the new year and what it may hold.  The New quilts I hope to be making, and more new patterns to find and make.  I'm trying to finish a Lone Star quilt now and will post when it is finished. 
Happy New Year everyone and enjoy it wherever you are.   

Christmas Bag

I finished this bag this morning for a friend for Christmas.  She loves oriental fabrics and this just suited her perfectly.  I used three different fabrics (pockets on the inside are third fabric) and put the brown handles on  using tabs.  I quilted over the geisha girls with gold metallic thread and also used gold metallic thread along the top edge where the fabics change from brown to gold and to topstitch the top edge.  The directions were a bit challenging to follow, but I think it came out nice and know that she will like it.  Now, on to another Christmas gift.  Whew!  It's really busy around here - must be Christmas.

Bible Totes

I made this first little tote recently for a friend's daughter.  Another friend saw it and asked me to make one for her granddaughter.  They both loved them.  They are simple, easy to make and can be personalized with embroidery.   I found them so much fun to make that I made one for myself in Christmas fabrics.  Of course, I couldn't just make a simple bag. Instead I elected to embroider each of them, but I think it adds a special touch to them and those pre-teens just love these.

These little totes are just the right size for your bible and the outside pockets allow you to carry small items, like cell phones, etc.  I found the pattern in my latest Better Homes and Gardens Creative Collection, American Patchwork & Quilting magazine, "More Fast & Fabulous Quilting Ideas."  I challenge you to make one - bet you can't do just one! 

If you click on the pictures, you will be able to see the details.