Las Vegas

I spent a few days in Las Vegas to start off Winter Break.  It was my first time to Vegas and I enjoyed it.  A little busy with some interesting characters, but a fun trip nonetheless. 

The purpose of the trip was to go to the NFR.  Going to the NFR was the perfect end to the rodeo season, especially, since we spent a lot of time at rodeos with Erin over the summer.  It was fun to see the cowboys and cowgirls finish up their seasons.  The trip was also the perfect start to Christmas break.  It was great to finish up school and get a way for a bit.

Welcomed upon getting off the plane.

Excalibur Hotel and Casino at night.

Rodeo time!

The NFR contestants during the opening ceremony.

 

This momma polar bear at the Bellagio was made of 10,000 carnations!  The lighted fountain shows were also pretty outside the Bellagio.

View of the new bridge from Hoover Dam.  It looked cool from the helicopter, even though, the ride was scary!

We went to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and drove around their lighted displays.

 

We all enjoyed the trip and the rodeo.  We enjoyed it so much that we hope to go again next year!  

 

 

Christmas Quilts

Last year I did a post about all the little Christmas projects I accomplished.  This year the list of projects is a little shorter as I attempted one big project that I have dreamed about doing for some time...Christmas quilting!

Originally, I was going to make one big Christmas quilt.  However, it turned into two, which I really believe to be better.

So here is how one quilt turned into two:

I went to the fabric store at the end of September and bought some of my favorite Christmas prints.  I got started on the quilt and as I laid out the blocks I became really unhappy with the look of it all.  After some thought and almost jumping ship, the great idea of making two quilts instead of one struck me.  I loved the idea because it meant I could keep a quilt and give the other to someone else. 

The lucky and very special recipient of the quilt I made to give was Rachel.  You may recognize Rachel from other posts and pictures.  I decided I wanted her to have the quilt because she is so crafty and thrifty.  She inspires me in my projects.  I just knew she would love her quilt and enjoy it forever.  I'm still also very timid about my quilt work and am afraid it may not be perfect.  I, however, knew that Rachel would appreciate my effort and be impressed regardless. 

Take a look at how cute Rachel is with her quilt in her house. 

 

 

Thanks for sending the pictures Rachel!

 

My quilt is the same pattern as Rachel's but with black Christmas prints and the same green.  Both quilts are really cute, but my one and only picture is not where near as cute as all of Rachel's!

 

 

Merry Christmas!