So, as you know, I am a fundraiser. My largest event I coordinate is the Jingle Bell Run/Walk which was Saturday, December 13. I work really hard on that event and feel like I can’t truly relax and focus on anything else until it is over.
On Saturday, December 13, at 1 p.m., I started thinking about what I wanted to get my friends and loved ones for Christmas. Those who know me know I am not a “nice” gift type. I like to be thoughtful, and crafty. I want people to LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my present to them. It makes me feel good!
Saturday was a day to lay around, but Sunday was a different story. I spent about 30 minutes over breakfast writing down the people I needed to buy gifts for, and what I wanted to give them. I would love to make everyone’s gifts, but with a week and a half to go until Christmas, I had to be practical, and fiscally responsible.
So, I have 11 nieces and nephews! Lance and I can’t afford to give gifts to all of them so we pick a family gift every year. I found this cute gift idea on Pinterest to do a Ice Cream Social Gift Basket. The baskets are filled with ice cream toppings like gummy bears, Oreos, M&M’s, hot fudge, ice cream shake straws, and waffle bowls. Just add ice cream! To top it off we got each family a movie to watch together. Total cost per family: $30-$35.
I also try to listen closely throughout the year to see what people say they need, or that I notice they could use.
Essentials: I went to my brother, Stephen’s, for Thanksgiving and noticed he was missing a few kitchen essentials while he was cooking like: salt and pepper grinders, an olive oil bottle, and a garlic press. I love buying for him because I know he will get good use out of the things I get him. Total cost: $40
Personal Touch with Time: My in-laws just started feeding their dog a gluten free diet, so dog food is super expensive. We have a dehydrator, so we are making Sammy some gluten free dog treats with sweet potatoes! Total cost: $4. Total time: 4 hours. They will appreciate it, and so will Sammy!
Uncle Sammy and Max playing outside
Milestones: Most of my friends have had big life moments in 2014. It’s easy to find a way to store and display those memories for them by making something out of things like: a wine cork, saved speech, or even a framed picture. Preserving memories is the sweetest way to show someone you care.
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