Wood Pumpkin Banner

In a yearly tradition, my blogging buddy, Nancy, and I exchange a fall gift that we created. This year I painted a wood pumpkin banner using different colors and patterns. Happy Fall! - JM

Beginning the decorating process.

The end result!  (Photo credit: Nancy B.)

Table Runner to Bag

You know those bins in the front part of Target where most of the items are $1 to $3? I found an autumn theme table runner for $3 and turned it into a bag. You can use the material for other things  like coasters, place mats, pillows, etc. ~JM

Table runner.  Cut to desire length.

Fold in half with the back side facing up. Mark where you want to cut.

Sew along the sides, but do not sew the handles.

Turn the bag back to right side out so you can see the pattern.  Sew the tip-top of the handles.

Fall decorating

I wanted to make a cozy Fall area on our wall in the living room.  I found a few fun things at Target and then added some fall photos. I especially love the cinnamon scented pine cones!

Museum Visit: Van Gogh Museum

I was recently in Amsterdam and was fortunate to visit the Van Gogh museum.  Van Gogh was one of the greatest 19th century Dutch painters, and the museum has the largest collection of his works.

Some of the highlights are found on the museum's website.  Click here.

 Visiting museums and art galleries can open your eyes to the world even if you can't get on an air plane.  I encourage you to visit your local museums to see the brilliance and creativity that surrounds us.  ~ JM

Money banks

My husband and I have been taking a wonderful financial class. I have been wanting for a long time to teach the kids more about money management. I made these special banks to teach them about the areas of spending, saving and most importantly....giving!!! :)

new camera!

I have been so excited to try my new camera and got to practice with it on a trip out West.  I love being able to zoom in on things.  I look forward to learning more and more about it!

Abstract Photography

I'm revisiting old photographs I took when I first moved to the DC area.  These pictures are from a class called, "Abstract Photography".

There are no rules or guidelines for this type of photography.  According to Wikipedia, "Photographer and Professor of Psychology John Suler, in his essay Photographic Psychology: Image and Psyche, said that 'An abstract photograph draws away from that which is realistic or literal.'"   ~JM

Below are photographs that I took: