Church Christmas Theme Graphics

It's hard to believe that Christmas was two months ago! One of the last projects I completed in 2017, was Christmas theme graphics for a church in our area. I was thrilled to work with Browncroft Community Church, a community that I'm familiar with, have attended events at, and know many who go there.

The theme "A New Hope" would be featured in both print and various digital formats. This was a little new for me, as I needed to keep in mind that the artwork would be used across a variety of platforms. The pieces included a poster, post card, bulletin cover, Facebook cover, Instagram image, website and auditorium big screen graphics. The main Christmas service, as well as Christmas Eve and a separate festival were showcased.

I enjoyed stretching my Photoshop skills to create the perfect image we were looking for. The team at Browncroft did a beautiful job implementing the graphics across all points of contact, and it was a pleasure working together. You can visit their website and view the message series A New Hope.

Away in a Manger

We saw a live nativity performance when we celebrated Christmas a little early with our family in Pennsylvania. It was outside, at a dairy farm with (real) people and animals.  There were even angels on top of the barn roof, wise men with gifts and shepherds with sheep. I was trying to remember if I'd ever seen one like this, and I don't think I have. The message of Jesus Christ coming to earth was beautifully presented through Christmas songs and Bible readings.

One song in particular, I'd never heard before, was so beautiful I had to look it up when I got home. The lyrics speak about the night of Jesus' birth and the hopeless state our world was in before his arrival. The world would never be the same after that night. 

The Night Before Christmas

Brandon Heath

Empty manger, perfect stranger about to be born.

Into darkness, sadness, desperate madness, creation so torn.

We were so lost on earth, no peace, no worth, no way to escape.

In fear, no faith, no hope, no grace, and no light.

But that was the night before Christmas.

Warm hay, cold sweat, a mother, not yet, praying godspeed the dawn.

She looks to her man, holding her hand, they wonder how long. 

And the shepherds, wise men come to find them, and bow to a king.

One star above shining on love, so bright

it lit up the night before Christmas.

And the world didn't know, mercy was meek and so mild.

And the world didn't know that truth was as pure as a child.

The night before Christmas

The night before Christmas

And the world didn't know, redemption was sweet and so strong.

And the world didn't know salvation was writing a song.

The night before Christmas

The night before Christmas 

The night before Christmas

I can't help but identify with Mary, more than ever before in my life, as I'm 34 weeks pregnant, with my first son. I can't help but put myself in her place, anticipating giving birth, while traveling far from home. Only to arrive in Bethlehem and learn that there's no room in the inn. A barn meant for animals is the only place to take refuge in and this is where she will deliver a precious baby boy, the Son of God. Talk about the most unideal circumstances! No doctors, nurses, medical equipment or clean hospital bed. This would be an absolute nightmare for me. But it was all part of God's divine plan. 

"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Luke 2:7-14

Jesus Christ, Savior of the world, sent to earth as a baby, born to die for our sins, so that we could be reconciled to God. This is what Christmas is really about.

What Christmas Means to Me

Merry Christmas!

From little Ohl me, to all of you. I'm so thankful for those who take time to visit Sohl Design. Thank you for sharing a little piece of my heart. 

Christmas is one of my favorite times of year. Not because of pretty lights, Christmas trees, cookies or gifts (although, I like all of those, very much). Christmas is important to me because it celebrates when Jesus Christ, the Son of God, my Savior, came to Earth. God's only Son became a man, with the ultimate goal of dying for us, so our sins could be forgiven. That baby in a manger was the King, with a history changing mission.

The story of "the little Lord Jesus" can be heard in Christmas songs throughout shopping malls and in carols sung by children's choirs. Joy to the world, the Lord is come! O holy night, the stars are brightly shining, it is the night of our dear Savior's birth. Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, the little Lord Jesus lay down His sweet head. Come and behold Him, born the King of angels!

It's not a fairy tale or a legend. Jesus came to Earth, through a miraculous yet humble beginning, because of God's love for you and me. Because sin needed a cure. Because we would never be good enough or capable of earning our way into Heaven. The real meaning of Christmas isn't about Santa Claus, presents under the tree or even family gatherings. It's about the greatest gift in the history of the world, God's gift to us, salvation through Jesus Christ. 

"But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God," Ephesians 2:8

I may not know what you think about God, religion or what life is about. But I do know that Jesus Christ is the answer. He is the reason that I live and the reason I have hope when life gets hard. He is the One I praise and thank for life's wonderful blessings and the One I pray to when I don't understand. He is the One who gives me strength when I don't have any. He is a good God, all the time. Even when things seem unfair. Even when hurt, sickness and sadness plague this world. He is there. He sees it all. And He made a way.

Jesus was born, two thousand years ago in Bethlehem, so that anyone who believes in Him can have their sins forgiven in exchange for eternal life, in paradise. John 3:16-17 says "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." 

We need a savior. If you listen to the news for five minutes, you know this world is in dire need. We are born sinners. I'm a sinner. You're a sinner. The world is riddled with sin. That's the plain truth. The only solution is Jesus. Not being a good person. Not donating enough money. Not doing good things. Putting your faith and trust in Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved. 

It's not about religion or a list of do's and don'ts. It's about a relationship with the God of the universe, the One who created you and made your heart. It's about life transformation from the inside out. It's about having faith and believing in the One who knew you before you were born. God is offering a gift to YOU, the gift of salvation and eternal life. What better way to experience Christmas? I can't tell you how much He loves you! You are not alone on this journey of life. Jesus loves you so much that He gave His life for you.

More than anything this Christmas, my prayer is that you would find the real meaning of Christmas in Jesus. I also pray that you enjoy spending time with your loved ones and that 2014 is a year of health, joy and God's richest blessings! 

This guy (Chancho) also wants to say Merry Christmas and photobombed my photo attempts. I don't think there were cats at the original nativity. But maybe. 

Merry Christmas!

Salt Dough Ornaments

Did you ever play with salt dough when you were a kid (aka knock off Play-Doh)? I forgot all about that stuff until I was perusing Pinterest and saw a few variations of salt dough ornaments. What a cute and easy idea! I made the dough with simple ingredients I already had on hand. I got out some cookie cutters and alphabet stamps and set to work crafting a batch of homemade ornaments. This blog was especially helpful. 

Ingredients:
1/2 cup salt
1/2 cup water
1 cup flour

Directions:
Preheat oven to 250 degrees.
Mix ingredients together to form dough and kneed for 7-10 minutes. 
Roll out dough and cut shapes with cookie cutters. You can imprint different patterns and textures too. Be creative! 
Use a straw to poke a hole at the top for ribbon or string, before you bake.
Bake on ungreased cookie sheet for 2 hours. 
Let cool completely before painting and decorating ornaments.

I was able to stamp LOVE, JOY and HOPE onto the dough. I even made a few stamped with OHL (the perks of having a short last name!). 

I painted both sides with gold and bronze craft paint and added a twine bow to each one. They look cute and very handmade, hanging on the tree. I also added them to gift wrapping. Isn't that fun? These would be a great project to make with kids. They could even be personalized wedding or party favors. Monograms would be pretty, too. Just don't eat them! 

DIY "Birch Box"

Are you familiar with Birch Box? I think the whole concept of Birch Box is a fun gift idea, with unique and special "surprise" items you may not have tried before. Things like makeup, accessories and skincare. All in a box you receive in the mail. What fun! 

Sometimes though, the prices are a little over budget. Why not make your own? This would be a perfect Christmas gift for any girl or guy. Just pick out a small variety of things you know they'll like - or a few of your favorite things that you want to introduce them to. I'm making two "Sohl Boxes" I'll call them, for two special friends in my life. 

Here's the type of things I'm including: comfy socks, nail polish, lip shimmer, eyeshadow, a scented pencil (I love those silly things), a mini candle, earrings. The other one has an infinity scarf instead of socks and earrings. 

Package it up in a cute little box and ad a tag or card. Who wouldn't want to receive one of these? 

If you're making one for a guy, it could include: cologne or aftershave, socks (who doesn't like new socks?), beef jerky, sports accessories (golf glove, tees, ball marker), chapstick, keychain. 

There are many possibilities and you can tailor it to the recipient and occasion. 

Riding Into the Future

Happy (belated) 2013 everyone! I hope you're riding into a healthy, happy and hopeful new year. I have missed all of you, here in blog land. I almost feel overwhelmed at how much I'd like to catch up on. I had a very wonderful Christmas vacation, complete with family, dear friends, gifts, good food, shopping and relaxation. Followed by a wonderful 2nd Christmas with our family in Pennsylvania, with whom we also got to ring in the new year. I feel quite blessed, indeed. 

The above photo was taken in my in-law's front yard after a beautiful snowfall. Yes, this is my Father-in-law, Denny, driving the 4-wheeler, pulling my two nieces on a sled, attached with a rope. I took quite a few turns riding that sled - by myself, with my husband and with Sydney and Morgan. You can imagine how much fun we had! Of course, there were also a few rides on the 4-wheeler, snow ball fights, and a couple attempts by Andrew and David to ride a snowboard behind said 4-wheeler. We Ohl's live on the edge! 

David, my talented brother-in-law and photographer, captured some amazing moments that day. Check out his webpage to see more of his work. The following are a few of my favorite shots he took on our snow day. 

Andrew and I holding on for dear life, as Denny "tried" not to dump us off, every time he took a turn. 

The joy on Sydney and Morgan's faces and the giggles/shrieks the made were priceless! 

My love and I, dressed like puffy Michelin men. Andrew is secure enough to wear his great-grandma's snow suit. He's a real man.

And here's me, laughing my head off, loving flying through the snow, trying not to fall off. Here's to 2013 and riding into the future!

Merry Christmas 2012

Merry Christmas to you and yours!

May your hearts be overflowing with love, joy and peace. God bless you! 

Love and Hugs,

Sarah xoxo

Baby Jesus

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Luke 2:11-12

Christmas is just a couple days away. My family and I celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, God come to Earth as a baby. Who is Jesus? Why does the biggest holiday of the year tell of His story in Christmas music, pageants and yard ornaments? Was the Christmas story just that - a nice story?

It's clear to see that the world we live in is filled with pain, sadness and just plain evil. Especially in recent days. How can we possibly have hope or even celebrate, when all around us is utter chaos? Broken hearts, broken homes, broken dreams, broken people. Lives shattered by any number of reasons. Where does real hope and true joy come from? And what does baby Jesus have to do with that? 

I believe that Jesus came to Earth to rescue the entire world. He's the answer to the questions we can't answer. Jesus IS hope. Jesus IS love. He's the only way to experience authentic peace, joy and lasting love. Real love. Unconditional love. That baby lying in a manger with a golden halo wasn't just a baby, He was, and is, the Son of God. He came to Earth to be our Savior - the ultimate Hero, for all mankind. 

And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 1 John 4:14

This world desperately needs a Savior. I desperately needed a Savior. Jesus is the reason that I have hope and can navigate this road we call life, in the midst of utter chaos. It's only by his blood that was shed for me - years after he was born as a baby - that I know I'm forgiven and free. I have joy in my heart because when Jesus died, to pay for my sin, and came back to life - that was the most magnificent day in history. Even greater than his birth (what we celebrate at Christmas) was His death followed by His resurrection (what we celebrate at Easter). I know that some day I'll spend eternity in Heaven with Him. What greater hope could there be?

Christmas isn't about a jolly man in a red suit, it's not about trees, lights, or even presents. Christmas is about Jesus and the reason that he came to this world as a baby, so many years ago. It's right there if you listen to Christmas music classics - O Holy Night, Joy To The World, Away In A Manger, Silent Night. Listen to the words and really let them sink in. Yes, He was a baby, but He grew to be a man who gave His life for you. 

My prayer is that you would find Jesus, the real Jesus this Christmas, if you haven't already. He may be hidden behind the latest toys, gadgets, family celebrations, shopping and cookies. But He's there. Waiting to fill your life with joy, peace and unending love. The book of Matthew in the Bible tells the whole story.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Favorite Things

And just like that, Christmas is 2 weeks away! There have been so many fun things going on this month - crafting, shopping, Christmas decorating, home re-decorating, celebrations and parties. I haven't forgotten about you blog friends, I just haven't had the time to re-cap everything as I'd like to! Trust me, there is lots to share. Hopefully I'll be back to my regularly scheduled blogging in the new year!

In the mean time, I'm sharing a few of my favorite things at the moment. 

McDonald's Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha. Nothing shakes off winter's chill like hot chocolate! What's better than hot chocolate? Peppermint hot chocolate. Or, if you need a caffeinated boost, a peppermint mocha. Espresso + milk + chocolate + peppermint = pure delight. Both are soooo delicious. The perfect early morning/afternoon/evening treat. 

Bath and Body Works Cashmere Glow. By now, you probably know I have a deep love for Bath and Body Works products. Darn them and all their coupons, email deals and gorgeous direct mail pieces! Not to mention their continuous flow of breathtaking packaging, year after year. Sigh. The latest scent I have fallen for is Cashmere Glow. "An enticing blend of shimmering vanilla and golden peach wrapped in soft cashmere musk." Yes, please. I am now enjoying the shower gel, lotion and mini eau de toilette (perfume). 

Bath and Body Works Sparkling Icicles Scented Candle. Another enticing winner from BBW. This candle is intoxicating. "Sweet moss and bergamot adorned with a citrus bouquet." I don't even know what sweet moss or bergamot smell like, but it is good. Reminds me of a light men's cologne. In fact, I wish this scent was available as a cologne because I would have already bought it for my husband. Light, fresh and masculine.

Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Nail Polish in Brilliant Bordeaux. My current favorite nail polish, and a long-time favorite color. It's that dark, rich, sparkly wine color that looks great, especially in the winter months. The Diamond Strength brand is pretty true to it's name. Two coats lasts quite a while. 

Old Navy's Rock Star Jeans. Yes, I know, everyone and their sister probably own a pair of these by now. I have a black pair and I'm contemplating getting a color, especially since they're starting to be on sale/clearance. They are super comfortable and fun to mix and match. I actually wish I could wear mine everyday. They don't really look like true "jeans", so you can dress them up or wear them casual. My one suggestion: try on many different sizes - they are all over the board and vary from color to color. 

These are a few of my favorite things. All of which would make nice gifts too - McD's gift card, a spa themed basket of lotion, candles and nail polish, or a great pair of pants. Which color Rock Star's would you rock?

DIY Soy Candles

I've been wanting to make soy candles (and get a jump on some Christmas gifts), ever since Christy and Kimi made candle favors for my 30th birthday party.

 

They used baby food jars, covered with fabric and string - so adorable! 

I enlisted Christy's help one Sunday "crafternoon" and she showed me how easy it is to pour your own soy wax candles.

I bought a few bags of soy wax from AC Moore (using coupons of course), wicks, and liquid candle scents (in vanilla and cinnamon). The tutorial we used can be found here. 

I had a whole stash of thrifted glass punch glasses that were just waiting for a project like this. 

We started by setting the wicks in place with wooden ice cream sticks. Christy set to work drilling small holes in each one to keep it steady. 

Next, we heated the wax in small batches in boil-proof plastic bags in a pot of boiling water. Stir until all flakes are dissolved. My assistant always looks like she's up to something! 

Set the melted bag of wax into a glass container, large enough to hold all of it. Mix in a few drops of scented oil and stir with a chop stick or skewer. Carefully pour the hot wax into a glass measuring cup.

Carefully pour the measured wax into the vessel and keep the wick centered. I filled each punch glass with 4 ounces of wax.

Repeat the process until all your containers are full. I ended up filling 24 punch glasses. The process went pretty quickly once we got going. 

Transport the candles to a tray or heat resistant surface to set. Keep them as still as possible. They start to set pretty soon and begin to turn white again. 

Once the candles are completely cooled, remove the ice cream sticks from the wicks and trim the wicks down (still need to do that).

These turned out even better than I imagined and we had so much fun making them! I would definitely use soy wax again. Now I need to figure out a cute way to package them up and gift them. 

"Christmas Candles! Do we have more of these?" The Target Lady would be proud. If you're looking for a great homemade gift, these candles are sure to light up any recipients day!

A special thank you you Christy the "Craftinista" for her candle making lesson, photography skills and a wonderful crafternoon!