As we are entering a new season with fewer kids I've had to change my ways.
Fighting the mess around the house is doable. I just need a plan. These two ways keeps cleaning to a manageable chore
A story of Gratitude from Loss and Joy from Pain
Life2 CommentsWhat I think when my friends see my dirty house
Life1 Comment15 Homemade Christmas Gifts to make ahead
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Christmas REALLY? Yeah I know its not time yet. So how are we supposed to think about making Christmas gifts ahead . . . in July??
Well recently I walked through Hobby Lobby and they have the Christmas stuff out. It irritated me a bit.
It’s summer after all. I love summer. Growing things, swimming, lightening bugs?
All of it. Winter?
Nah. It’s cold. Staying inside isn’t my favorite. I like my hoodies but that’s about it. So how in the world can I be excited about Christmas in July?
Change in Attitude. Find the Blessing
I made a decision. I could gripe about the silly stores gearing up for a holiday that is 6 months away or I could take advantage of it and be smart. I'm researching homemade gifts and letting them sit in my brain for a while. Then when the weather turns cool I will decide which projects I can feasibly do or have my kids create for loved ones.
Homemade Gifts of Love
We used to make gifts for grandparents and friends to save a bit of money at holiday time. Not to mention that the gifts were WAY more meaningful to give and receive.
I have a whole Pinterest board that is dedicated to my Christmas DIY gift brainstorming. I'm very visual so pictures of projects or information is great! If you are interested in freezer cooking, THM, flowers, crafts, gardening and much more head over to see Day to Day Adventures boards!
But if you need some inspiration & don’t do Pinterest(you really should—it’s fun!) here are some of my favorites. DON'T MISS the new 2016 list of 15 Homemade Christmas Gifts!
Homemade Christmas Gifts
1. DIY Bless You Mason Jar Tissue Dispenser from Day to Day Adventures
Love Mason jars? I bet someone you love does too! Learn how to paint them and create some cute Bless You Jars to give as gifts! Perfect for making in the warmer weather of July.
2. Scrabble Tile Wall Art from Decor Chick
This looks like fun! Looks like a great puzzle for the kids. Work out the layout for words or names.
3. Deco Mesh Angel Tutorial from Day to Day Adventures
Want to personalize your gift? Make a few of these adorable angels and put names on them!
4. Stovetop Simmer Spices from Shaken Together Life
Another practical gift but one that works for a friend or family member. Great for hard to buy for folks!
5. Nativity Block Set from Creative Wood Crafts
Perfect small gift to give the remember the season. The kids could help paint the blocks of wood!
6. Scrap Fabric Christmas Tree from Live Laugh Rowe
This would be for a person who LOVES Christmas decorating. An unusual type of tree but great on a shelf or mantle. Maybe someone who lives in a small apartment!
7. Peppermint Scrub from the Idea Room
What Homemade Gifts list would be complete without a sugar body scrub? This one reminds me of a candy cane! I need this now to help with my sandal feet!
8. Giving Plate from DIY for Life
A gift that just keeps on giving. We often give sweet treats to friends and this would be an nice addition.
9. Ombre Monogram Letters from Catch My Party
10. Piece on Earth from How Does She
I see puzzles at garage sales all the time. Pick up a few easy ones and check to see if all the pieces are there. Inexpensive gift that is quick to put together(ha! get the pun!)
11. Let it Snow sign from Live Laugh Rowe
I love pallet signs. This one works for all of winter & the holiday season!
12. DIY Magnets from Sarah Ortega
These are great stocking stuffers and take very little time to put together. Use maps, old sheet music or even pretty scrapbook paper make these personalized to a friend or family member.
13. Bird Seed Ornaments from Eclectically Vintage
Practical gifts are so nice. You use them & often they are done. No storage & fun while they last. These Bird Seed Ornaments are great fun for the indoor and outdoor wildlife!
14. Homemade Apple Butter from Money Saving Mom. Always a hit! We made a ton of apple butter with apples from our trees last year. A great gift and I LOVE these labels!
15. How to make a personalized coir rug from Day to Day Adventures
Another fun personalized gift to give to ANYone but these are great for people who are hard to buy for! Everyone has a door and can use a rug!
Well there you have my list! I'm really excited to get to do some of these and have the kids help as we prepare for the Christmas Season early to keep it as easy & simple as possible. If you want to remember these ideas for later then go follow my Christmas DIY gifts board on Pinterest! DON'T forget to check out the 2016 Handmade Christmas Gift list!
What to read next
Painting mason jars is a wonderful way to add some DIY decor to your home! Plus mason jars are NOT expensive and you can find them anywhere! If you need a unique handmade gift then making mason jar tissue dispensers is a great choice! Painting jars can be tricky but the method I’m going to share has helped me not have chips or runs of paint!!