The Big Reveal (UPDATED 12/28)

12/28 Update:  This post was rushed and does not do the stocking justice.  I am now adding more pictures to show off some customization she did,  and to highlight some of my favorite details.  The new pictures are at the end.

Remember "Sneak Peak" from way back in April?  Well, it turns out Dominic's Aunt Emmy made him a stocking!! That is, made from scratch using thread and needle. And since these pictures were take, it has been transported to San Diego where it is awaiting our arrival and the big night.  This will be the first time Santa has been to the Gerow house in several years!  (He cut us off when Robert grew up).

Here's the finished product:

She's so talented! Thanks, Em! This is definitely something I would try to grab if I was running out of my burning house.  I think that says it all.

Here are some close-ups:

We bought metallic thread for the dog's collar as well as the garland on the tree.

Emmy custom-designed the wrapping paper, including miniature holly and snowflakes (on the blue paper).

She also customized two picture frames on the mantle.  One contains an old-fashioned silhouette and the other has Dominic's initial.

We bought blue satin for the lining.  It will feel nice on his hands when he goes in for his treats.

Emmy sewed red cord piping all the way around the edge.

And we picked out this manly plaid for the back.