Two gifts are done!

Once upon a time I would have had my Christmas shopping and crafting done by now. I think shopping has become harder because most of us treat ourselves to things throughout the year and we replace items when they wear out. I have few people to shop for, but the search isn't easier. Do you find this to be true too?

Two long time friends and I go out to dinner once per month. Although we all live on the same street, Our families' activities and our returns to the work force put a stop to the casual chats on the street. Sometimes we go from one dinner to the next without ever spotting each other except for a car passing by.

December dinner dates always include a special activity. In the past we have seen a stage production of A Christmas Carol, comedic Christmas reviews, The Nutcracker, performances by the Rockettes and shopping at Canterbury Village. Next week we are going to Michigan's most famous Christmas shopping area, Frankenmuth and will be enjoying a dinner show at Zehnder's, a place famous for chicken dinners. If you've ever seen a catalog or shopped online at Bronner's, they are in Frankenmuth too and a must see if you're ever in the area.

The three of us don't exchange birthday gifts, but we do exchange gifts in December. We try to keep it simple both in size and expense. After many years of gifting, sometimes an idea for these dear ladies is difficult too. This year I made reversible aprons for them. We all cook for our families and even if they already have one holiday apron, they both have daughters, daughters-in-law and one has grown granddaughters helping out in the kitchen.

The aprons are from a Mary Mulari pattern that has a band in back instead of ties, and closes with a strip of Velcro. Because of size, I lengthened that band from the original pattern and used more Velcro than called for in the pattern, and I omitted pockets. The pattern used one yard each of two prints and called for 6 inches of Velcro.

 Here is the back closure

 

How are you coming with your shopping and crafting?