~ a merry little Christmas ~ with a few favorite things to make using baskets…

12.16.2008 by savvysuzy

Thanks to Brian Hathcock

…and other items. With little time to spare and minimum legal tender in hand — it’s time to get crackin’! As far as gifts go, if you’ve been following along with this series, you’re probably thinking we’re “bah humbug” big time, around here. Actually, that’s not quite the case — more minimalistic or simplistic would be an apt way to describe our approach when it comes to the holidays. It’s about getting back in touch with the true meaning of Christmas!

Now, as I’ve mentioned before we may give one big gift for the whole family or not. It could be small or none at all. It depends on if we need something or not. There are no hard set rules around here, when it comes to gifting. In the past I’ve made such things as cookies, a checkerboard, potted some plants to give, fruit baskets with mandarin oranges and apples to name a few items. Also, I like to give gift certificates of services I can do later, such as: washing cars, baking favorite bakery goods, etc. Dona- tions can be given in other’s name, too.

Thanks to Ali Edwards

Various sites in cyberspace were focusing on making gifts by hand for this year. Their winding down now. It’s a good idea, which is catching on in a big way with the economy being in such a slump. I’ve made cookies, as I mentioned before, and given them as gifts and potted plants, too. Although, when it comes to the needle arts I’m kind of all thumbs when it comes to the to do.

I have an old 1950′s, floor model, Singer sewing machine, that does the basics stitches, and I want to learn how to be more adapt with that. I make throw pillow covers, curtains, and hem things, but that’s as far as I’ve gone with it. I’ve dabbled in needlepoint, but when it comes to knitting I’m literally all thumbs. I feel like I’m tied up in a big ball of yarn!

Thanks to tsuacctnt

Getting a jump on next year — I’ve got myself a knitting kit, from the “Dummies” book series – received a few pointers from someone that dabbles in it – and next I plan to take some knitting classes. This is my declaration right here. It’s my commitment to learn how to knit! You’re my witnesses. It could be a resolution — if I made them. I’ll let it go at that and God willing, I’ll get to see what I make of it next year. Stay tuned. Do you have anything you’d like to learn next year?

Well, If you still need a gift idea — go to your local thrift store and get some baskets real cheap. (Baskets are some of my favorite decorative accessories or as containers for holding gifts.) Bring them home and clean them well — shred up some paper for the base — fill it up with fruit, tea, candies, anything you think the person would like. Add a bow or some form of decoration or not. It can have cellophane over it or not — it’s your gift to give. You could use containers other than baskets — let your imagination go…

Last minute gift ideas…

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