Christmas in July

I always try to celebrate Christmas in July in some way.  Usually I go to quilt stores to look at the new lines of Christmas fabric.  I also can be found working on Christmas presents in July and listening to Christmas music (not as extensively as at Christmas time though).  This year, I even made a turkey dinner (only it was missing the rolls and mashed potatoes)!

I started this ornament two or three years ago.  First you cross stitch and then bead.  There are red, green and gold beads on this little ornament.  I had just about finished the cross stitching when I abandoned it for about two years.  Well it just so happened that I gave blood in early July and that always knocks me out for the day.  So I put in a three hour documentary about the right to vote and finished all the beading. 

Then I had to cut off the excess paper.  I've only made two ornaments like this and this is the most difficult part.  If you cut too far in, you can destroy the stitching; if you don't cut enough, it looks lame.

And then I created the beaded hanging loop.  Very fun stuff.  I also glued some felt onto the back to protect all the stitching.  I'm happy with it and glad I can hang it on the tree this year.