So, my loyal readers, by now you know I am in a couple of pen pal groups.
Oh, you didn't know...ok, well sorry...read on.
Anyway, these groups are attempting to bring back the old fashioned form of writing that many of us grew up with. I personally had many pen pals when I was growing up. I now have 5 new ones.
Yesterday, in an attempt to get all letters sent out to my pen pals, I got this crazy idea. I decided to make each of them their very own paper snowflake.
Side note to said pen pals: If you are following me, be surprised ok?
Anyway, I thought it would be fun to share with you not only how to make a paper snowflake but I actually made a video (which is following) as a fun way to show you how. It is great to do with kids or if you just want some snowy decor. Believe me, I do not think my paper snowflakes came out as good as these photos I am sharing with you but aren't all real snowflakes different? hee hee
Here is also a photo of how to make them simply.
I would love to see what you have done! Post them on your blog and link back. I'll go check them out. In fact, I will feature them here! Happy snowflake making!
Day 4: Tips/Tricks to a Budget Friendly holiday season
1. I think one of the main things you have to do is watch what you spend and only spend cash that you have to spend. Seriously, if you cannot afford it normally, don't buy it!
2. Get one main item that your family member may want and get a couple more smaller items. What you get this year is more than likely not even going to be used or wanted next year. Think practical!
3. Do not use expensive, over-the-top wrapping paper. In fact, save the bags, bows and paper from this year (or last) and reuse them. Paper can be shredded for stuffing in the bags. You can also use the bags or paper for tags. If you really want to do something different, use newspaper and tie a colorful bow around it. Or better yet, if you have kids, have them paint over white or reused paper for a one of the kind gift wrap.
4. While you are at it, you can make your own gifts. One of the best gifts I ever received was homemade fudge from my Aunt and Uncle. They were having a lean year budget wise but took the time to make this for everyone in our large family. I loved it!
Today's challenge is to tell of a gift that I received that was meaningful. There have been many gifts I have received over the years but none other than one that was given to my children and I collectively.
A few years back the kids and I were having an extremely hard year. We had lost our apartment and had to move back with my parents. We were stuck in their living room and slept on the floor. Although grateful for the roof over our heads it was not the best situation.
At this same time I was a volunteer youth minister at a local church. This is significant because what happened one evening ties in to this.
The kids and I had gone off somewhere for the evening. If nothing else I suppose, just to take a breather. We arrived back at my parents house to my Mother greeting us at the door. She said she had a surprise for us.
We walked in to a very dark house which was unusual considering it was Christmas and my parents decorate to the nines. We rounded the corner and noticed many candles lit and right there in the middle of the living room was...beds! Yes, beds!
There was a huge full size bed for me and bunk beds for the kids. They were all made with love linens as well. The kids and I were so stunned that we cried. Tied to the beds was a simple note that said, "Love Your Assumption Core Team".
It turned out the volunteer youth minister and the paid youth minister I worked with, called my Mom and told her what they were about to do. As we always got a stipend from the church at Christmas, they pooled together and bought the beds for us for Christmas. In fact, a little bit more money was needed to buy them and they gave even more money than the stipends.
I was totally speechless and was never so grateful in all my life. I called each and everyone of them personally and the kids made them notes to thank them.
It was one of the most meaningful and beautiful Christmases ever.
