The year our son turned nine, my husband and I joined him with his Boy Scout troop on a trip to Yankee Stadium. When we arrived, the boys raced up the levels of stairs in anticipation of the game. The look on Billy’s face as he emerged from the shadows and into the stadium sunlight is a memory I will hold onto forever. That first big league game solidified his love of the game. Since that trip, our summers have been synonymous with baseball and filled with the sounds of the game.

The essence of summer is captured within so many mediums in this August issue of Create & Decorate. Stitch the Uncle Sam Doll, who is ready for his own baseball game, complete with bat and ball. You will find that farm animals are abundant this summer crafting season through paint, paper, and fabric and they take shape as sheep, cows, pigs, chickens, and crows. This time of year also offers wonderful weather for vacation. A seaside vacation is a dream come true. We share creative ways for you to display your vacation beachcombing treasures. And, if you aren’t able to get to the beach, you may like to embroider the Sea Life Pillow, or paint the Ocracoke Lighthouse Village that will virtually bring the ocean to you. You will also find summer holiday décor in over a dozen different Americana designs, which our contributing designers are excited to share with you.

In between projects, whether you are using stitches or brushstrokes, take the time to truly enjoy this time of year. Watch a ball game with your family, take a walk on the beach, and enjoy the warm, starry nights that are filled with the sounds of the summer.

Welcome to Create & Decorate

Wander through the pages of Create & Decorate magazine and discover the freshest craft and country decorating projects. Let us guide your endeavors in punch needle, rug hooking, paper crafting, painting, and stitching creative designs that will spruce up your home. Find inspiration in feature articles that explore artists' livelihoods and lifestyles, take you on an antique junking journey, spark your gardening vision, or introduce you to a new recipe.

Inside the August 2009 Issue

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A Few of Our Features

	Country Lanes When you walk into Neff’s Country Loft, you’re greeted by a visual feast. Every place you look, you’ll find finished samples and the supplies to make what you see... READ MORE
	Discoveries Spinners, weavers, knitters, and folk artists from throughout the Midwest are making plans to attend the Third Annual Fiber & Folk Art Fair... READ MORE
	Country Still Life You're invited on our roadside adventure! Our readers share their country still life photographs. SEE PHOTOS