I saw some adorable, inexpensive ideas for wrapping gifts in Martha Stewart's holiday issue of "Living." I couldn't find the specific article on her website that was the inspiration for what I ended up doing, but there are lots of other great gift wrap ideas on her website.
Here's what I decided to do. For smaller items, such as gift cards and ornaments, I used plastic, fillable sphere-shaped ornaments, tinsel, gift tags and ribbon.
These turned out really cute and can hang on the tree on the days leading up to Christmas.
For larger items, I opted to use brown craft paper, white, green and red streamers, ribbon (some solid color, some more colorful) and cute gift tags.
When I was first told about these cookies, I didn't think they sounded that great. I mean, molasses doesn't really get my taste buds watering. But then my mother-in-law Karen made them for me and they quickly became one of my favorites. YUM!
When Matt came home from a trip a week ago, I will admit I was a little frazzled. I explained to him that I was behind on my to-do list after being sick. He asked what all was on my to-do list so I gave him a run down my plans for gifts, meals, etc. this holiday season. After a moment of silence, Matt informed me that I was on what we are now affectionately calling "the crazy train."
My explanation for taking this ride on the Christmas crazy train is: too much Pinterest. This year, because of Pinterest, I was inspired and decided to get crafty by creating a plethora of homemade gifts. Then I decided that I would be wrapping all of my gifts as cutely as possible. Then I decided to send out 100 Christmas cards with holiday address labels. Then I decided to do a little ditty called "The 12 Days of Cookies" where I make a batch of cookies every day for the twelve days leading up to Christmas. (Insert: laughter that slowly turns into crying.)
I know what you're thinking. "Becca, you've clearly put too much on your plate and don't really have to do any of these things. There is an easy solution to this: just don't do all of it." And you would be right. But, I am going to press on, because if I can pull it off, I am going to give myself a promotion. I knew there were potentially negative consequences to me quitting my job outside of the home and essentially working for myself. As it turns out, I am an overbearing, relentless, slave-driver of a boss. But I'm not going to let her down.
Fortunately, I otherwise work with a great team here at the Matt and Rebecca Jones Family. And they help me remember what's really important...
Fun and inexpensive...
