handmade for christmas

I really had a great time making crafts this Christmas season because I really took it slow and gave up on a few projects that just weren't going to happen without a breakdown (my own that is). I always have the idea that I am going to get going early, like October, but it just doesn't feel like Christmas yet, so I just don't have the feelings I need to get me started. I made some (1.)key chain fobs for teachers, friends, and family following this tutorial and adding some rick rack. I made a few (2.)Sunday Bags for friends and family to take to church with them. I filled them with steno pads, crayons and pencils. I made a (3.)Birthday Kit for the family across the street. It had a Happy Birthday banner, candles, ice cream scoop, cake mixes, etc. in it and I made a bag to store it all in. And, finally, I made a (4.)knitting bag for my mom and bought a cute knitting book to go in the front pocket. Of course, on some of the Sunday Bags and Knitting Bag, I cheated and bought the canvas/denim bags at Hobby Lobby and just added pockets and details - much quicker. My grand dream of making new stockings was quickly dashed when I couldn't even decide which shape and pattern I wanted to use. So, there's always next year on that. And, if we get a cold spell in October, I might even feel like starting on them early!