Christmas Stockings and a Christmas Tree Shelf

For years, I struggled with where to place our stockings. I love stockings hung from the mantle. But we use our fireplace often in the winter and it's not smart to have stockings dangling in front of a fire. Even if it is a gas fireplace - it get's hot! At one point I hung them from the stair railing, but they're not very visible there. For a few years, I had a metal stand that held the stockings, but that broke.

Two years ago, I built a Christmas tree shelf. As soon as I added the hooks, I determined that this was going to be the home for our stockings from now on. At least until Christmas Eve, when each kid chooses a spot on the couch to place their stocking and dream of the presents that would surround it and be stuffed inside.

Golden Graham Chex Mix - A Sweet and Sticky Irresistible Treat

I would like to introduce you to the most irresistible treat of all time. Graham Chex Mix! This mix is a combination of Chex cereals and graham cereal, covered with a sticky coating of sweet deliciousness, and topped with sliced almonds.

How to Make a Christmas Tree Skirt with a Ruffle

Do you change your tree decor every year? I am on the 5-10 year rotation plan. Last year, I started the nativity tree theme and I foresee making a new nativity ornament each year for several years to come.

My tree for the 5-6 years before the nativity tree, was a white theme. I used white ornaments, each year making something new to add. For that tree, I used a white felt snowflake tree skirt {Go see the tutorial - it's no-sew!} I ended up using that white tree skirt last year, but I felt that I needed a red skirt this year to match the red bulbs and bows that round out my nativity tree.

I looked and looked for a tree skirt that would match and that I liked. I found nothing! So I decided to make one. I found the PERFECT fabric and there was EXACTLY enough left at the store to create the skirt. It was meant to be.

Today's project is part of this month's Inspire My Creativity Link Party. The theme this month is RED, which worked out perfectly since I wanted a new red Christmas tree skirt.