Handmade gifts

This year I've tried to integrate more homemade gifts into my gift-giving. I haven't been able to do it for every occassion, but it's so fun when I have the time and creativity to do stuff. My mom and brother have birthdays five days apart and so this year we celebrated them on the same day. Greg just got back from choir tour in New York City so I decided to paint him a little frame so he could put his favorite picture from the trip in it.

For mom, she gets invited to so many weddings that I made her a box full of wedding cards. She likes making it personal for people so it was fun to give her something she can use. She was excited. Sweet mama.

Since everyone was together we decorated some easter eggs... I love this tradition every year! Especially with my artistic siblings and all of their creative ideas... the eggs are never just plain purple or anything boring like that. Peter and Greg made an awesome Conan O'Brian head with a yellow face and orange hair and everything. Greg made an Italian flag. Mom made the traditional watermelon. It was fun.

Mom made us a yummy meatloaf dinner with all these fresh salads and vegetables. I love the colors of fresh food. Natalie had a fun idea to frame pictures of fresh food and hang them in your kitchen... I sure like the thought of that. Wouldn't it be so appetizing to cook surrounded by fresh healthy images?

My little Greggie's 17 can you believe it?? This boy will be on his mission before we know it. I sure love this brother. He's so smart and mature and funny and down to earth (and he's sure getting handsome!). I'm happy he had a happy birthday.