Santa Claus is coming to town

I've been one of Santa's elves.  With the Christmas trees up and decorated it's time to put the finishing touches on the Christmas gifts I've been working on. 

I feel like reciting the 12 days of Christmas, but I just can't tie my projects into the lyrics.  So I'll have to work at this one.  But first up I made three casserole holders.  They are insulated to keep food hot or cold and holds a 9" by 13" by 2" casserole with cover.  There is even a pocket to hold utensils.  I made them for my daughter-in-laws.  They are both excellent cooks and are always bringing a dish of homemade food.

Next, eight children's crafting aprons.  The two young kids that come to play have outgrown the previous crafting aprons I made them so I had to make each a larger size.  I also made them each an apron to bring home.  They love to do crafts.  When they come to visit they always ask what will be the craft they get to do today.  So for Christmas I bought them each art sets with paint, crayons, markers and colored pencils.  They have fun and are pretty messy so I've included a crafting apron with their gift.  They also love to bake and cook so the apron can be used in the kitchen too.  In fact, I got them an Easy Bake Oven with all the accessories and mixes.  What a great way to learn to measure, read instructions and use a timer.  And of course it fun to eat!

My two grandchildren are now old enough to craft with markers and paint.  One of them I bought a painting easel for Christmas.  Both will get a crafting apron.  They all will have hours of fun.

Last but not least, I made a dozen cozy bowl holders for each of our families.  They each will receive a set of three (small, medium and large).  Cozy bowl holders are hot pads that are bowl shaped to hold  your dish and can help keep food cold or hot and protect your hands. They are made of 100% cotton, including batting, so they can be used in the microwave.  Not only are they useful in the kitchen, but they also become great gift baskets.  One set I made has Mickey Mouse fabric so I was able to find Mickey Mouse printed glasses to set inside.  Another set holds a custom made mug with a matching cookie plate/tea bag holder.  A useful and unique way to present a gift.

Now it's time to hang the stockings with care knowing Saint Nicholas soon will be here.

Merry Christmas to all and too all a good night!