Summer Mantel

I have been working on a couple of fun summer projects for my mantel lately and thought that I would show you what I have finished so far.   

First of all, my sisters and I got together and made these fun firecrackers.  They are super simple to make and totally inexpensive.  I really love the way that they turned out!

The frames were a cream color, but I decided to freshen them up a little bit and painted them white.  I am so glad that I did because it really made a huge difference in the way that it all came together.  It was a subtle change, but one that was worth it.  I filled the frames with some of my favorite summer-y pictures.

I have been toying with the idea of making a pennant for a while now.  They are so fun and cute, I just have never found one that I just HAD to make.  After I made the firecrackers, I thought it would be fun to make one that goes on my mantel that is 4th of July-ish.  I really like the way it turned out too.  It is also a super easy and inexpensive project.  All you need is a couple of scrapbook papers, some brads, grommets and a sack from Roberts.  (Yes, that is what I used for the brown behind.  See.....cheap!)  I added a little detail by stitching around the pennant sides with my sewing machine.  I think it really makes it even cuter. 

Here it is all put together.  I really like it so far, but feel like it is missing something.  Any suggestions?  I am all ears!