ooohhh....I'm really excited about this one!

 So last year, I was perusing my arch nemesis--Pinterest--when I came across this bad boy.  It's not that I don't thoroughly enjoy seeing all the wonderful ideas that others out in the world are posting. It's just that once I see an idea I like, I can't help but make it happen. And I do believe that Pinterest will lead to my demise one day. Sometimes being a crafter isn't always that great!  

Any way, I saw it pop up again a few weeks ago, and then not long after that I saw a version of it outside one of my favorite home decor stores-The Gatherings.

Well after inspecting the price, I knew I would be able to recreate it for far less. 

So last weekend it was brisk, but sunny.  The boys were taking advantage of the nice weather and decided to hang our outdoor lights.  (While we won't turn them up until after Thanksgiving, it's nice knowing they won't have to slip on an icy roof to hang them.)

 While they were busy doing their thing, I took it upon myself to head to the barn and see if I could find some old lumber that might do the trick.  While I didn't find exactly what I wanted, I managed to find enough scraps.  I thought I might need to recruit the guys to help me make the cuts I needed, but with a little persistence, I managed to make all the cuts and assemble my sign all by myself.  First time ever.  No offense, Mr. Mann, but you were busy, and I was determined! 

 After watching you use this tool for the past decade, I decided it really couldn't be that difficult.  And to my surprise, it wasn't!  Go me.

  After getting all the small parts pieced together, I brought it inside to paint.  It was a bit windy and I didn't want to get any dirt on my fresh coat of white.  Well, I guess the puppies didn't get the memo.

So then, I used my fancy schmancy ruler and some plain paper to make the letters.  From scratch mind you.

 

Next up, was painting the letters red.  It is for Christmas after all.

I was really fascinated when I got to this particular part of the painting.  You see, I decided to get a little bit done while waiting to drive the kids to school.  My stopping point left me with these letters.  JC.  I  couldn't help but smile and think of my Lord and Savior.  He is the reason for the season.  Plus it really made making this sign that much more meaingful.  Had I waited to paint until returning from carpooling the kids around, I might not have even noticed this.  Love it!

And here is my finished project!

 Even Lilly wanted to get in on the photo ops!

As I am passing through with a load of laundry, or making the long trek back from Pam's Place, I am delighted to see this from the window.  What a lovely view for the season.

And the best part of this whole project is that it was free.  Yep, FREE.  Woo hoo!  I was able to use supplies I had around the house. 

 I love the anticipation of the Christmas Season and I am so excited to have this as the first decoration to bring me such "joy" throughout the next month.