As I reflect on the wonderful week in San Francisco, I ...
Latest reply
As I reflect on the wonderful week in San Francisco, I recall my personal journey as a host. One that I began nine years...
Latest reply
Christmas is coming ! Are we ever really ready ? What about gifting when youโre busy, recovering from surgery or for someone you donโt know very well ? Donโt panic, Iโve got a few ideas.
Your schedule plus extra commitments are bound to peak out at the Holiday season. You never get advanced notice of illness (so fun at Christmas !). Also, a relative or friend may surprise you with an extra guest at your very next gift exchange gathering. So, right now add a โgenericโ item or two to this weekโs shopping list. The following suggestions make thoughtful, inexpensive gifts for nearly anyone..
Gifty Things to Buy
- Fuzzy socks -Plush, cuddly, warm and welcome !
- Small, not-too-many-pieces, jigsaw puzzle -Kids of all ages enjoy them.
- Seasonal holiday candy -Such a special treat ๐ Chocolate covered cherries or Christmas shaped peanut butter cups: Yum.
- Make a lasting impression with seasonal scents in any form: Lotion, candle, car freshener, lip balm, bath oil, etc.
- Inspirational or seasonal book. Devotionals, poems, short stories. My fav to share, โThe Best Christmas Pageant Everโ by Barbara Robinson.
Treasures to I.O.U.
- Promise to babysit or dog-walk for someone.
- Coupon for a dozen of your famous cookies (or anything else you bake).
- Agree to walk or workout with a friend.
- Run errands with a neighbor/friend to keep them company.
- Coupon for hosting a popcorn/movie night at your place.
Gifts you Create
- Unique ! Share your talents: art, writing, crafts, stitching, photography..
- Make a tree ornament: Fill a โdollar storeโ clear ball ornament with tinsel, confetti, coffee beans, marbles, buttons, etc. Glue top on, add ribbon bow and youโre done !
- Make a small, flexible freezer ice pack for Boo-boos. Buy a pair of colorful infant anklet socks. Fill โ full with (long-cooking) rice. Unroll the ankle cuff, stitch across both layers of ankle near the fold line, close to the rice. Then fold the cuff back down over the stitching (Give instructions to keep in freezer until needed).
- Do you propagate your houseplants ? Repot, trim, root and plant cuttings to give !
And gifting when youโre sick ?
Loads of places who have a presence online also take orders and ship for you ! Stores, yes. But also restaurants and bakeries. Try local venues like a Mall/shopping center or Farmerโs Market gift card. Check with the Parks and Rec. department, museum, art gallery or winery. Is there a yoga place near the gift recipient ? or perhaps a clay/art class offered ? Does the local college have a concert or play coming up that sounds interesting ? All of these could be just a phone call away to arrange !
Very last-minute suggestion: (highly recommended !) Have a pizza delivered as a meal gift. You can do this even if you donโt live anywhere near the recipient (been there, done that).
Then you can get back to your nap and recovery, satisfied and guilt-free ๐
Wishing you all a festive and fun Christmas season !
Hugs from Helena,
Cheri & Rick
