build it, draw it, write it, sing it! homemade holiday gifts the sequel

ssshh

i'm going to  let you in on a little secret

there is a way to avoid some of the frustration from the various holiday seasons and bring back what is really important.   it  isn't for everyone, but you may be just the right kind of person.  you are reading this blog after all. 

imagine a friend and close your eyes

(closed?)

ok

i don't know how you are reading this with your eyes closed, but stranger things have happened.  
now think about them.  what music do they like? what makes them smile? what are their favorite foods? 

now strap in for the tricky part...

what are the things you could make or do that would be special? they are friends or family, so i've given you a huge advantage as you know them.  make them laugh, make time smile, maybe even bring a happy tear is you are really lucky.

if you are stumped there is a way out.  still imagine the special, but maybe you can find someone to create what you might have problems with.  you can always try again next year.

if this gives you any great ideas, feel free to post comments.

the green team at 6footsix is all about recycling and zula thought it would be a good idea to repeat last year's posting.   she was right  

__________________________

 The  holidays are coming up soon and it is time to think about what to do for friends and family.  You can go out and buy things made in China in the mall, but what fun is that? 

Maybe it is better to give something that you or a local crafts person have made.  Something really special and from the heart.

Kids probably want the latest toys, but those of us who are a little more mature love the thought, the time and the love that go into something special.  Maybe you can sew. Maybe you can draw.  Maybe you are good at woodworking.  Maybe you can make amazing jams and jellies.  Maybe you can write a little story for someone.  Maybe you can tell stories and can make a recording.   Repair something special that is old and broken.  Teach them how to play volleyball or how to become more  fit.  Show them they are one of a kind by giving them something one of a kind.

You have to worry about the quality because it is you that is coming through. There are a lot of special touches you can use. If you draw or write something, you might want to use great paper.  

Smile and think of them while you do this.  Listen to the music that makes you think of them.  Don't choose too many so you have the time and maybe you can tell them ahead of time that it is homemade and suggest they do the same.

You can have a wonderful holiday and focus on love and friendship rather than racing around the mall looking for something.

Another great thing that can still be personal is to find local artisans.  People who make beautiful things.  Sometimes you can describe what you want and still find something very special.

and remember

Remember the dreamers and those who are doing impossible things.  The person doing amazing things in college.  That totally awesome athlete who may need a bit of help.  The person with a passion and a cause. Find a way to support them that may not be conventional.  Make them smile and make them stronger.

Remember the animals. Zula and Daisy Mae give so much as it is that they don't have to make anything special, but they enjoy getting special things and aren't very picky about neatness.

It may seem like a lot, but start out with a few people and spend a few weekends thinking and maybe writing, sketching, baking, sewing or building.  There will still be regular store-bought gifts, but just give this a try and see if it works.

Your time is a very special gift.  For many of us it is more special than money.  Give things that time rather than money buys to those who are close to you.

So what are you waiting for?  Go out an get started!!

Comments

[Jheri]

This is a very beautiful thing to do. Gifts of time and love are so wonderful.

[twitter.com/BikeShopGirlcom]

Hey there,

Your cousin steve sent me your blog, and I've been reading up! It is an amazing what you are doing with The Big Green.

If your ever interested in making a guest post or interview on my site BikeShopGirl.com let me know!

Great job!

[Patty Daugherty]

Nice post Coleen!!!

I agree that it is much more rewarding to receive a gift that someone made than those you can buy at the mall from China. So I will be working on making a few this season for the loved ones.

Miss you around here...hope to see you soon :)

[Robin Keyser]

Coleen, loved this post, a subject near and dear to my heart. I was told about your blog and mission by Steve Crandall. He was right, it is wonderful. I am launching a socially conscious, ethical fashion web portal in a few weeks called, projectartisan.com. Steve had some wonderful advice and encouraging words. I am in Laguna Beach every other week. I would love to see you in action, I will check your schedule! Good luck with your project!