Christmas in July 2015

Every year I look forward to and anticipate the month of July!  Not only is it a time to celebrate our nation's freedom but it's also a time for an annual tradition of mine - creating Christmas cards with friends!  Even though it's HOT outside, we enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of Christmas inside (and I crank the air conditioning for that "winter" feeling!).  From playing Christmas music to eating Christmas treats and making Christmas cards, all is merry and bright!

Our first card looked like a wrapped present on the outside and on the inside was a fun pocket to hold a gift card.  This card featured the Merry Everything stamp set.  (We also used the Merry Everything set for the tag on the Christmas bag.)

Time to make Christmas tree cards using the Festival of Trees stamp set and coordinating punch.  Love this bundle of products!  (Check out the video tutorial and supply list for this card here.)

The blue card using the Every Blessing stamp set was one of my favorites (you can see the up-close picture below).  With the sparkles and sentiment, it just might be my Christmas card this year!   (You can get all the details and video tutorial for this card here.)

Here are the projects we created:

And the Christmas goodies we shared:  (Yum!!) 
I have to give a big "shout out" to my friend Emily for baking loads of the Christmas trees and wreath cookies!  Thank you!  Thank you!  We also had peppermint bark and sugar cookies.  What could be better for our Christmas celebration?

Do you have a Christmas in July tradition?  Maybe you start your Christmas shopping or begin making Christmas ornaments or cards, too!  I'd love for you to share your traditions!  I might just pick up a new one, as well!

A great resource for Christmas ideas and inspiration can be found on Patience Brewster's website. This small, one artist company is creating some beautiful Christmas ornaments and decorations that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit any time of the year!

Merry Christmas in July!