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Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Send a Message

I  must admit that I have become a bit obsessed with these mugs! The idea is so simple and versatile that my brain has been coming up with all sorts of ways that it could be used - even when I try to turn it off! As a last attempt to get my mind re-focused I thought that I would make a list of these ideas in case they might be useful to someone else! Here goes...

Stand Alone Gift Item
Since this is such a clever idea and can be customized before gifting, it really can stand alone as a great present. Simply add a message or favorite quote that your friend will appreciate and you have a unique, yet useful gift item.

Gift Bundle
It just so happens that I have a few friends with a fondness for tea and coffee. For those with a little bigger gift budget, add a few beans or exotic tea leaves with some coordinating items (honey, flavored syrups, stain removal wipes for any beverage mishaps, etc) to your messaged mug to create a lovely little gift package.

Invitation Mug/ Party Favors
Event invitations and party favors have progressively become more and more creative in their selections. For the person with a fabulous party budget, these mugs could be a great invitation and/or favor item with personalized messages or event details added for customization. Forget the candied almonds that send people to the Dentist... this is a gift they may actually use again!

Gift for the Troops
It might be some residual emotion from the holiday season, but I also started thinking about the organizations that allow you to send care packages to the troops. (Disclaimer note: I have not yet investigated the do and do not list of items...) How fun would it be to send them a postcard mug with a message of thanks and maybe even your city and state so they know its city of origin?

Teacher Gifts
I realize that teachers have mug collections that could rival the shelves of Goodwill, but IF you know that your child's teacher enjoys their warm beverages, this might be an exception to the rule of "no more mugs". How could they resist a personal message from one of their students?!


I suspect that in spite of this idea download my brain will continue to come up with ideas. Anything useful or even mildly interesting will get added as an update... just in case you can use it! Of course, if you think of any ideas I would LOVE to hear them!


Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Tag It!

With Thanksgiving marked off the holiday check list, it's time to step up and prepare for the mother of all holidays... Christmas! As with most things, my DIY gene is waking up with renewed energy and I am constantly finding projects making my "I wish that I had time" list even longer. Fortunately, my practicality kicked in and I have been adjusting my list to pair creative projects with necessary gift giving items. 

This week's project... Gift Tags! 

Wanting a little more than the cute options in the shops, but a little less than a full blown craft project, I met in the middle and found some fun options that can be completed with three simple steps - 
1) Print 
2) Cut 
3) Add to Gift.

Since it is the season of giving, I thought perhaps it would be best to share these finds... Happy gifting!


Slightly Modern Version of Classic Tag

Contemporary Style for a Touch of Sass...
Perfect Tag for Edible Gifts!
Stylish and Sleek
Slightly odd, but still festive...

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

An Ornamental Occassion

'Tis the season to start thinking about holiday decorating which means that I have begun my annual search for this year's ornament addition to the tree. I realize that tree trimming can be a highly personalized event. Some people collect ornaments that each have a story relishing the act of recalling the memories as each is placed on the tree. Others seek a more stylish approach selecting color schemes that coordinate with their home decor ensuring a cohesive Christmas tree. Regardless of your selected approach, it is still fun to add a few new baubles to the tree each year... just to keep things fresh and interesting!

I tend to fall into the memory grouping, but also maintain a touch of whimsy with some ornaments added simply because they make me smile. Here are a few options contending for this year's designation as the new addition to the tree!
Cuddly Mr. Sock Monkey

Sweetly Singing Angel

It's a Bulldog... need I say more?

Joyful Elegance

The dogs need representation, too!

Silver Mistletoe - To ensure those holiday kisses!

Hand Crafted Snowman Head... just cute!