I always feel like I have to preface my posts about children by saying that I'm not a mom yet, unless you count dogs and cats! However, I've heard from a number of parents that these three gifts are a must when you are purchasing things for your children each year. So, here are the three types of gifts you should include under the tree for your kids this year. SOMETHING THEY WANT
With that being said, sometime children will want something that is outrageously expensive and just kind of out of the question. This might include a new cellphone, laptop, gaming device, etc. Have them identify something they really want in different price ranges so that you and family members can give them at least one thing from their wish list. SOMETHING THEY NEEDI can tell you as someone who regularly received clothing items and necessities that I always loved wearing my new stuff as soon as possible. As an adult, I'm thrilled to receive things like socks, shoes, and clothing items. With that being said, it might not be clothes that your children need. Maybe they need something for school or work like a new bag or even a piece of technology! SOMETHING EDUCATIONALIf you don't know what that is, it is basically a word game that gives you a funny story. You have to ask your group for different types of words like nouns, verbs, adjectives, and more. You fill in the blanks and get to read a funny, custom story. These are always fun and are educational. Educational things could also include books or other educational games. That's it! Those are the three things that I think you should include under the tree this year for your child. Do you think I'm missing a category? Drop it in the comments below!
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Christmas is approaching, and stocking stuffers are usually the last thing that families purchase for the season. But, sometimes stocking stuffers can be some of the most difficult things to buy. These little gifts are usually very small and inexpensive. So today, I want to tell you the five type of stocking stuffers you should get for your family this year. 1: ESSENTIALS 2: MAKEUP
3: CANDY 4: LITTLE GADGETS
5: SMALL-AMOUNT GIFT CARDS
That’s it! So, what do you hope to find in your stocking? What are some of the things that you like to put into your family members’ stockings?
'Tis the season of giving. During this time of year, you may find yourself receiving a gift that doesn't fit your body or personality, you simply can't use, or you find that someone else could use more than you. Some people likely were taught growing up that re-gifting something is tacky or rude. However, today I want to share with you five reasons why I believe re-gifting is OK. Let's get into it: 1: IT'S NOT BECAUSE YOU'RE UNGRATEFUL
2: SOMEONE ELSE WILL TREASURE IT MORE
3: YOU'RE USUALLY NOT RE-GIFTING A GIFT THAT WAS |
Most of the time, if someone gave real thought and careful consideration into a gift for you, it won't be something you want to give away. In my experiences, re-gifting typically happens from office parties or when relatives you really have no relationship with always get you something you simply can't use. For example, I remember growing up that my dad's side of the family would almost always buy my brother and I |
We usually had friends or people at our church who would appreciate those as little gifts.
4: IT CAN HELP THE ENVIRONMENT
5: IT SAVES MONEY
Last but not least, re-gifting can help you save some money around the holidays. You won't have to invest in purchasing as many presents. As sort of mentioned previously, this should be done with gifts that you obviously can't use. However, if you have a holiday white elephant party to go to and you happen to have a gift that doesn't work for you, wrap it up and put it in the exchange! |
WAKE UP AND ENJOY SOME FOOD!
This morning, I make and enjoy some treats including sausage balls, one of my favorite things! We normally do stockings at my mom's house in the morning, as we are going to see Jonathan's family today and probably won't do Christmas presents at my family's house until tonight. I always love having Christmas breakfast and just enjoying the morning before heading out! |
HEAD TO JONATHAN'S GRANDPARENT'S HOUSE!
On Jonathan's side of the family, they get together on Christmas Eve at his mom's parents' house and meet up again the next day for some food and gifts for the little ones. It is a nice time to get together and hang out with cousins. Afterward, we will probably go to Jonathan's parents' house where we will exchange gifts with them! |
HOPEFULLY SEEING MY GRANDPA!
If you're a loyal reader, you may remember me mentioning that my grandpa has been in several hospitals and rehab facilities this year. I really would like to see him on Christmas, but I don't really know what the plan is. He may be able to come home on Christmas, or he might have to stay where he is and we may need to go and see him. Regardless, it wouldn't be Christmas if we didn't see him if we could, so I'm hoping we can go and be with him for a bit this year instead of leaving him wherever he is all by himself. I'm hoping that this will give him the strength he needs to work hard in rehab so he can come home, but it is all up to God! Please continue to pray for him! |
PRESENTS WITH MY FAMILY!
CHRISTMAS DINNER
My favorite Christmas film is probably How the Grinch Stole Christmas with Jim Carrey.
2. Have you ever had a White Christmas?
I can't remember, but I'm sure it happened at some point. I live in the United States in the south, so we don't get much snow around Christmas, but usually get some around January.
3. Where do you usually spend your holiday?
We usually spend holidays with our family in North Carolina
4. What is your favorite Christmas song?
I really like the Christmas song "So This is Christmas (The War is Over)" by John Lennon. It is really weird, but I like it because of the kids singing in the background because I just think it is so cute!
5. Do you open any presents on Christmas Eve?
When I was growing up, we would go to our family get-together and Santa would visit. He always brought my brother and I a present and that present was always a game that we could all play together before we went to bed. We also always received Christmas pajamas on Christmas Eve. Those are the only presents we opened!
6. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeer?
Yes! Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and Rudolph!
7. What holiday traditions are you looking forward to most this year?
I am looking forward to making some Christmas treats, watching Christmas movies, and enjoying time with my family and my husband's family!
8. Is your Christmas tree real or fake?
Fake. My mom always had terrible allergies, so we got a fake one. Now that I am married and have my own home, I still use a fake one. I worry my allergies will also flare up but, more importantly, I like that my fake tree is pre-lit so I don't have to bother testing Christmas lights every year.
My favorite holiday food is sausage balls. They are sausage mixed with cheese and flour. We traditionally have them the morning of and sometimes the night before Christmas. I really miss my brother, who is in Thailand right now, but his absence means more sausage balls for me!
10. Be honest: do you like giving gifts or receiving gifts better?
I LOVE to give gifts and sometimes I get sad when I can't give people exactly what I feel they deserve. You can ask my husband, I will go into all out tears! However, I love to show people I love them and know what they love and show them that I listen to their needs and hopes!
11. What is the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received?
I honestly don't know. I was really jazzed when I received an iPod touch when they first came out. I was kind of shocked my mom got me and my brother one because she is a single parent and they were quite expensive!
12. What would be your dream place to visit for the holiday season?
I would love to visit New York or somewhere similar during the holidays. I just think of all of the shops and lights and even snow would be so beautiful, even though I hate snow and ice (because it is slippery here)!
13. Are you a pro-present wrapper, or do you fail miserably?
I would say I have good days and bad days. I can wrap presents well, but I really struggle one some days and on some packages that are shaped strangely.
14. Most memorable Holiday moment?
Probably all of the baking and cooking with family!
15. What made you realize the truth about Santa?
My mom and grandparents told me! But, at that moment, I realized the truth about the Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy, and Leprechauns at that moment as well.
16. Do you make New Years resolutions? Do you stick to them?
I make them sometimes and I try to stick to them, but I don't beat myself up if I falter.
17. What makes the holidays special for you?
The holidays are special because everyone is so happy and cheerful and I get to see my family and friends. I love giving and receiving is always nice too!
But, it is the thought that counts, and you can actually make a ton of amazing gifts that anyone would love to receive. In today's post, I'll give you instructions on six DIY Christmas gifts that most people would be happy to receive! Enjoy:
1. CUP OF CHEER HOT CHOCOLATE MIX
It may seem a little cliche because hot chocolate mix is cheap. However, hot chocolate made from scratch is soooo much better, as I've recently discovered. In a baggie, container, or mason jar, layer 1/2 a cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of baking cocoa, and a dash of salt. In a separate baggie, and at the top of the container, add in some marshmallows. Then, you can simply print out this free label or make your own with the same instructions! I tried this hot chocolate out for myself and it was so delicious. I also added in a bit more cocoa and some chocolate chips. It really enhanced the chocolate flavor, so you can suggest that when you give them their gift. It is so simple and you can make a ton of these. Each container will make 5 cups of hot chocolate! |
2. DIY CANDLES
All you will need for this DIY are empty mason jars, essential oils of your choosing, candle wicks, and a big dollar store candle. First, glue your wick to the bottom of your jars and allow it to dry. Next, cut up or shred the candle and add the pieces into your empty jars. Melt the wax using the double boiler method and add in your essential oils. Let it sit over night to harden and make a custom label! |
3. SUGAR SCRUBS
Winter can take a toll on everyone's skin. Sugar scrubs can be use to rid the body of dead skin and moisturize it, keeping it safe and soft during the coldest months of the year. All you will need is a container, sugar, coconut or olive oil, and essential oils. Make a candy-cane inspired scrub by using a body-safe red food dye on half of your mixture and layering it with the white. To create the scrub, combine a cup of sugar with 1/2 a cup of oil and a few drops of peppermint essential oil. |
4. DOLLAR STORE GIFT BASKETS
If you know a coffee lover, fill your basket with coffee grinds and creamer. A movie lover? Add in a ton of snacks for a movie night! You can create a cheap yet full basket of items just by going to the dollar store! Other ideas include a makeup basket, a skincare basket, an automotive basket, a kitchen basket, toy basket, pet basket, or decor basket! Your options are limitless and you just need a basket and the items you'd like to gift them! |
5. A HOME-MADE HAT OR SCARF
My mom has been crocheting for years, and she has taught me how to do it. I'm a little rusty because I don't do it much in the spring and summer months, but you can easily look up a tutorial. All you will need is yarn and a crochet hook. You can make hats, scarves, socks, gloves, and even blankets if you choose to do this. It is time-consuming, so leave yourself enough time to work on it! |
6. HAND-MADE JEWELRY
Jewelry is always a big hit around the holidays and, if you get skilled enough at the craft, no one will even know that you were the one who made it. You will just need beads, clasps, and jewelry wire. This is an awesome way to give a one-of-a-kind necklace, ring, earrings, or bracelet to that special someone in your life without spending a fortune! |
So, sit back, grab a snack, and check out these five Christmas traditions you need to add to your Christmas celebrations this year!
1. ADDING A NEW ORNAMENT
When I was growing up, my mom and grandparents would always choose a new ornament for my brother and I each year. The ornament always reflected our year in some fashion. Jonathan and I now do this one. It is great as a young married couple as we can continue to grow our tree decor, and it would be so cute with children in the mix!! |
2. TREAT-MAKING
For me, and for anyone who loves baking or making things in the kitchen, this tradition will be loads of fun. Each year, we make a set of treats and finger foods the night before Christmas so that we have them to enjoy Christmas morning. My favorite are sausage balls and my chocolate oatmeal cookies! They aren't great for your waistline, but you have to treat yourself sometimes! We don't have egg nog though! |
3. READING THE CHRISTMAS STORIES
Jonathan's family on his mom's side gets together Christmas Eve and have breakfast for dinner. After eating, his grandpa reads the Christmas story in the Bible of Jesus' birth and then reads the traditional Christmas story poem. It is so great if you have smaller children because it shows the importance of both stories and gets everyone excited for the celebrations the next day! |
4. WHOLE FAMILY GET-TOGETHER
Both of our families do this, but my family does a potluck. This is my grandpa's side of the family. We get together each Christmas Eve and have a potluck. Santa makes a visit for the children and the children usually sing Christmas carols to everyone else at some point during the night. It is a great way to enjoy different foods and have a mini reunion with your family! |
5. GO SEE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
There are a ton of places around the U.S. and I believe in the UK where you can go and see Christmas lights. My family usually goes to Tanglewood Park's Festival of Lights, but I think we will all go somewhere different this year. Jonathan and I have already been to Tanglewood together this year. I highly recommend doing this to get into the Christmas spirit! |
CONCLUSION
But, I wanted to inspire you to try something that may be new to you: a different way to celebrate. I hope you enjoy these unique Christmas party ideas.
1. A PAINTING PARTY
Painting is a unique and fun way to spend time with friends and family this season. Simply choose a fairly easy scene or character to paint, have some food and drinks, and you've got yourself a great get together with a take away that you can either put in your home or give to a loved one for Christmas! You decide. |
2. A BAKING PARTY
My mom and our friends did this last year and it was so much fun. Each of us brought the ingredients for various treats and we made them together! At the end of the day, we put our creations into tins from the dollar store and took them to our respective homes to enjoy on Christmas with our family members. I absolutely love this idea because you may just stumble upon a new recipe that you and your family loves! |
3. A CAROL-AND-KARAOKE NIGHT
Honestly, who doesn't like singing Christmas songs at the top of their lungs? I know I do! Have a get together where you each perform a Christmas song. Make it extra festive by choosing one and teaching it to everyone. You can then take your karaoke on the road and fa-la-la your way throughout the neighborhood, spreading Christmas cheer to all who will hear. |
4. WHITE ELEPHANT GIFT EXCHANGE
I am actually set to do this next week with my coworkers. Set a price range for your gifts. The standard price range is normally $5 or $10 for these things, but set your own! Each person will bring a gift and you will draw numbers to see who will choose first. The gift can be stolen twice before the last person who has it can keep it. It is a fun and interesting gift exchange idea! |
5. A PJ PARTY
Nothing says the holidays like kicking back with some hot chocolate in your PJs for some Christmas fun! Have everyone wear festive pajamas and bring sleepover snacks. You can amp up the cheer by having a holiday movie marathon during your PJ party, or you can bake or craft various Christmas DIY gifts while you're all together. It is a cozy and fun way to spend time with your friends and family this year. |
6. CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD
This fun and educational party can help you learn and celebrate the ways people celebrate Christmas all around the world. You can do various activities that people in other countries do, or you can simply eat traditional Christmas foods from around the world. On WhyChristmas.com, you can click the flag of various countries to see how they celebrate Christmas each year. It is such a unique way to celebrate! |
CONCLUSION
But I've found that many adults, including myself this year, aren't too keen to get candy, as they are watching their waistline. So, keep reading to learn about 10 non-candy stocking stuffers ideas you probably didn't think of.
1. MAKEUP/SKINCARE ITEMS
For adult women, makeup is like toilet paper, you can always take more because you know you'll use up what you have and will need extra eventually. I suggest adding an eye shadow palette or maybe a new makeup brush to her stocking this year. For men, you can add skincare products like beard oil or lotions. |
2. STRESS BALLS
3. WIRELESS ACTIVITY TRACKERS
You don't have to purchase an Apple Watch or FitBit Tracker to give one for the holidays. There are a ton of super affordable versions of these at places like Walmart, Target, and several bargain stores like Ross or Roses. Many adults are hoping to lose weight in the new year, so this will help them keep track of their progress and their goals. |
4. NEW WALLETS
5. A BLUETOOTH TRACKER
Adults forget things. That's not a jab. I'm 25 and I forget where I've placed things often. Bluetooth trackers like the Tile tracker is a great way to keep track on them. Put them on or in whatever you tend to lose and connect them to your phone. You can easily pull up their location if you lose your items! |
6. REUSABLE ITEMS
7. PERSONAL CARE ITEMS
8. A TOY FROM THEIR GENERATION
9. MINI CANDLES
10. MINI TECHNOLOGY
CONCLUSION
In a time when candy is so easy to reach for, this list will feature NO CANDY whatsoever, so your coworkers or boss are sure to love any of these ideas! Keep reading for the full list of ideas!
1. CUSTOM OFFICE SUPPLIES
2. GIFT CARDS
Gift cards are an easy way to give to your coworkers this season. Give them a gift card they can use anywhere, at a shop like Target or Walmart, or to a coffee shop in your area. They will be so happy you thought of them and can use the gift cards to buy what they need or want from the store that you got it from! |
3. GIVE AN OFFICE GIFT
4. HANDMADE OUTERWEAR
5. NOVELTY DESK ITEMS
CONCLUSION
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