I’m starting a new series that hopefully I will see through. This year I am planning to make most of the girls’ gifts plus various gifts for friends and family.

I have been taking a hard look at what’s important to me and with every day that passes I am drawn less and less to things. It is more important to me that my kids are fed well, are warm, are learning to love and respect others and the what’s around them, and that they learn each day new ways that Jesus loves and impacts their lives and how to turn around and do the same. Now if I come across an item that can help me do that (for instance the 10 cup food processor that I bought myself with birthday money-yea for homemade apple sauce!) then I will ask for it or buy it with birthday money.

In the same way, if there is a particular item that I know someone would really enjoy or appreciate I am more than willing to get it for them. However, I don’t like just picking up something shiny and new for them just because. I would rather save them the hassle of returning it or finding a place for it and make them something they can use or something that I know will hold sentimental value for them.

Giving gifts is about showing someone how special they are to you and blessing them beyond expectation (don’t read $$, read thoughtfulness).

That’s enough of my ranting. Here’s a rough list of the gifts I am making my girls:

A winter scarf-I’m crocheting them

A bear bank–Made from recycled Animal cracker containers

Building blocks- made from recycled cardboard egg cartons

Baby doll clothes and diapers-made from old clothes I’ve kept because I liked the fabric

If I can get all of that done in the next month and a half I will be delighted.

Wish me luck!

Here’s a couple of links to gifts I’ve made or assembled in past years.