Shop At Home Ideas For Gifts

When I was a kid I was always on time. When it was time for a spelling test, never fear, I had studied and was ready.  My chores were done in the morning.  It was just who I was.  In fact, I often did things ahead of time. But somewhere between college and real life I have found I truly procrastinate.  So now, once again Christmas is almost here and I have not shopped for the people I love the most.  And the people I like most days but I should show appreciation to (like my boss, the mail man who puts up with our barking dog, and my neighbor who always has a friendly hello).  So what do I do?

After much research I have found that I can still get my shopping done, and get good deals as well, all without leaving home.  Here are some of my finds.  Next year I hope to do a better job but just in case I don’t I am relieved to know I can get it done-and even in time.

A gift basket is a great last minute gift Idea.  People love baskets. They can be filled with all sorts of stuff.  I was amazed at a site called Planet Gift Baskets.  They have thought of everything and anything. They even have a perfect basket full of dark chocolate for my hard to buy for father n law.

I also found you can get great last minute gifts at Overstock. What I like about them is that they ship almost immediately.  And they have everything.  Even baby stuff for my new grand niece who lives in Idaho.

Another favorite site is Amazon. I know, it sounds generic but I was able to really compare prices and I found my son a guitar. The price was a special and it was cheaper than the black Friday sale (the one I mean to go to but procrastinated and planned poorly). 

You really can find some great last minute gifts that will make you the most popular relative around. And don’t worry, there are stills sales and you can get in on the bargains. Just take your time and get going. Don’t put off tomorrow what you can do now. HA.  Have a blessed Christmas while at it.

Christmas Friendship Tea

Fast Christmas gifts

　

Christmas is in a few days and sometimes you need some last minute fast Christmas gifts. Just when you think you have something for everyone on your list, you member a few more people you need something for. Last minute fast Christmas gifts can be expensive. Be careful to not just buy something because you need a present.

A few years ago, my husband was still in college and we had very little money for the holidays. I worked full time and by the time I came home in the evening I was tired and certainly not in the mood to spend hours doing Christmas crafts. I needed a fast Christmas gift idea. My mother suggested this and I have used it over the years. Try your own variation, It is fun and fast and most important very inexpensive. But it lets your friends and family knows they are important to you and says Merry Christmas in a creative way.

CHRISTMAS FRIENDSHIP TEA

1 jars (18 oz.) Tang or any other orange drink

2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup red cinnamon candy (red hots work well)

1/3 cup instant tea mix

1 teaspoon ground cloves

Combine all ingredients and store in an airtight container. To serve, stir 1 1/2 tablespoons of mix into 1 cup hot water, stirring until the candies dissolve.

Buy small jars at the dollar store and put the tea mixture in w it a Christmas bow and add the following poem.

ON CHRISTMAS DAY AT HALF PAST THREE BREW YOURSELF A CUP OF TEA I'LL THINK OF YOU, YOU'LL THINK OF ME SITTING BESIDE THE CHRISTMAS TREE

　

Fast Christmas gifts can be some of the best. Money is not the important issue; it is the thought that says you cared enough to remember your friend at this special season. So be creative and come up with your own tea mixture and  smile because Christmas day will have a special meaning as you drink your tea  and think of all your friends and family who you gave this simple gift to. Merry Christmas and enjoy.

Last Minute Baby Gifts

Recently one of our family members had a baby. An adorable baby girl that can melt any heart. Those first few days of cuddling the newborn with her little baby whimpers and noises keep everyone oohing and awing.
What kind of gift could you bring to such a newborn? Something just as special as she is?

This oh so adorable pink cuddly blanket was a perfect choice for our little niece. Embroidered with her name and birthday it makes a beautiful keepsake for mom or baby and is super soft and cuddly with it's plush covering. A little one's first teddy comes with this adorable gift. Personalized and cuddly, it's just a perfect last minute gift.

You can find this gift too at Planet Gifts

Lots of colors to choose from for the little ones in your family.

Gift for the Gluten Free Chocolate Lover

Gluten Free Chocolate Cravings

Don't know how to pick out gluten free foods, especially ones that taste good? Planet Gifts is here to help. We have tested and tried lots of gluten free products and have picked out the very best. Served up in a beautiful gluten free gift basket full and overflowing with gluten free delectable goodies.
All foods are safe for those who are gluten intolerant and make a great treat to give.

This gift includes : 

• Lucy's Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chocolate Wafer Cookies
• Gluten Free Chocolate Covered Pretzels
• Cary's Of Oregon English Chocolate Toffee Box
• Honey & Chocolate Bar
• Gluten Free Chocolate Truffle Brownie Mix

Check it out because for a limited time we will even ship it for free! It doesn't get much better then that.

Order the Gluten Free Chocolate Cravings Basket today!

Perfect Gift for the Teen

This year my twins turned 13. Some friends of ours gave them a unique gift that they talked about for weeks. It really was a simple gift, $13.00 to be exact, however they wrapped it in such a way that the kids had a blast opening it.

First they took every dollar bill and rolled them as tight as they could. Once they were tight they wrapped it in foil and plastic wrap. Then each dollar bill was wrapped with layers and layers of duct tape.
If that wasn't enough, each dollar bill that was securely wrapped was then placed inside another wrap of foil and plastic and wrapped again with duct tape. Then they were placed in a small box and wrapped with more duct tape. On the top was an origami folded dollar bill as good luck for their 14th year.

Such a simple gift, easy and last minute, but they had so much fun with it!

Need a Last Minute Baby Shower Gift?

These perfect little security blankets are a great last minute gift. Personalized with baby's name you won't have to worry that it will be the same gift someone else brought.

Little Bear Personalized Security Blanket-Blue

Little Bear Personalized Security Blanket-Pink

Spunky Puppy Personalized Security Blanket

Minky Monkey Personalized Security Blanket

Personalized Blanket Buddy Teddy Bear-Blue

Leaping Frog Personalized Security Blanket

Lullaby Lamb Personalized Security Blanket

Jungle Giraffe Personalized Security Blanket

Baby's love these cuddly blankets, a plush animal to cuddle and love with a soft blanket attached to the top. What could be more perfect for baby? With all the styles and colors available your sure to find one you will love to give.

Last Minute Quality Fattamano Diaper Bag set

Fattamano Diaper Bag Gift Set

Make your last minute gift look like you've spent weeks finding it. This gift is ready to impress. Made with 100% cotton shearling these Fattamano products are imported from Germany and are a favorite among celebrities.Fattamano is known for it's quality.
Not only is it a fabulous gift but it can come personalized with baby's name, birth date and the diaper bag can be monogrammed.

If you've waited until the last minute to get a gift for the new mom, this one is sure to bring lots of compliments and make you look good.

Baby Einstein Gifts for the Little Einstein in Your Family

What better way to celebrate the birth of a new baby then to welcome them with these beautiful wagons filled with quality Baby Einstein products and fun engaging toys. Bright colors as well as interactive toys provide engaging and stimulating hours of play. Each gift comes with it's own unique set of Baby Einstein products. Your only problem is going to be deciding which one to give. Any one of these fantastic gifts will be enjoyed by the family as they interact with their new little one.

Father's Day Is Just Around the Corner

Mother's Day is easy, flowers, candy, coupon cards for chores mom's are easy to bless. However I always have a harder time finding a gift for dad. Sure there is colonge, watches, wallets and sports paraphillina.

Making dad feel extra special and giving him something that is maybe a little less practical is always what I am looking for. Now that I am married I understand what father's want more then anything. Food! Gourmet treats, savory snacks and delicious drinks that are not the normal every day fare really make men happy.
In our town we have a World Market. Mini bite size delectables from all over the world make putting a gift basket together easy. Dipping mustard, crackers, unique sauces and meats from all corners of the globe paired with old fashion candies from dad's childhood  will make any gift desirable. Of course it does take a little time and effort but what a gift!

If you don't have the time to put a gift basket together there are plenty of online stores just waiting to get your gift sent out to dad in time for Father's Day. Planet Gift Baskets will even personalized your Ribbon to let Dad know just how you feel.

A Personalized Gift Basket

When you give a gift making it personalized is the best. It tells the person that you know a lot about them and have taken the time to give them a special gift tailored to them.  One of the most fun and exciting gifts to receive is a personalized gift basket.

How do you get a personalized gift basket?  There are many way to create or purchase one.  Most of us are busy, and by the time you pay the gas, put in the time, and find just what you want, oh and don’t forget you have to get the basket, it can really add up.  If you enjoy shopping and looking for nice quality things then making your own personalized gift basket is an excellent choice for you.   But if you are like most people, meaning you are short on time and don’t like going from place to place and actually have no idea how to personalize a gift basket, don’t worry.  There are many websites devoted to selling these gift baskets.

If you decide to make your own, get creative. Think about what the recipient likes best.  I once got a basket when my first child was born that included a magazine. I thought that was the sweetest gift. I didn’t have money to buy magazines so that was a luxury for me. The lady from our church who brought it said she once got a get well gift with a magazine and she liked the idea so much, she decided to add it to mine. It was much appreciated!

You can give personalized gift baskets to just about anyone.  Young or old, an acquaintance or a bosom buddy, everyone enjoys a gift that is personalized.  Some gift basket businesses can personalize just about anything.  Can you imagine the new mom opening a personalized baby blanket with her new little ones name on it?  Or a beach themed basket with the families name on each towel.  How about a lap blanket that says “Grammy” on it?  She will love seeing her grandma’s name each time she is a little cold and snuggles up to the gift you took time to pick out.

Go outside of the box when it is time to give a gift of love to someone you appreciate or care about.   Gifting a personalized gift basket filled with items you know your special someone will love is a fantastic gift idea…………for anytime or anyone.

How To Build A Baby Shower In A Box

Sitting in the doctor’s office waiting for what felt like an eternity, I glanced through parenting magazines passing the time.  As I sat there with a room full of strangers, I couldn’t help but imagine what life was going to be like with our new little one.  We had tried to be pregnant for three years. The time had come and I was at my final appointment, when another young mom to be caught my eye. We started a conversation about pregnancy and due dates.  Once I talked with her it became clear our lives were very different.  I had just had a baby shower that was large and we received more than I could even use.  I learned she did not have family support and there was no dad involved. She hadn't been blessed by a shower of gifts from friends and family. We both were having boys. What could I do for this girl I had just met?

I left that day knowing I had to do something for her.  I only had a few days left before our own blessed event. I wanted to focus on my own needs,  but how could I let her be alone?  I decided to give her a baby shower in a box! I had read about it once and thought I could add my own special touch to it.

Here is what I did:

I found a huge box:  I wrapped it in baby paper and left the top open

Inside I made a large diaper cake.  This was one of my most favorite gifts I had received.  A diaper cake is not only cute, it is fun.  If you don’t think you can make a diaper cake order one online. You won’t regret it.

• A Diaper Cake
• A magazine about parenting
• A pacifier
• Baby Booties
  
• Add slippers.  Every new mom needs slippers
• Make sure to include a swaddling blanket for the new baby
• Include the essentials:  Baby shampoo, baby lotion, and baby diaper rash ointment
• Baby wash cloths are often forgotten and can serve both at bath time and as a great spit-up rag
• A gift certificate to a local coffee house is always a special treat

To Read More. Check out this page on Baby Shower Gift Ideas

How To Say Thank You To Your Pastor

October is officially pastor appreciation month. Most people don’t realize it.  It is a great chance for the congregation to pause and let their pastor know that they are valued and appreciated.  While no pastor is perfect I think we can all agree it is a tough, wonderful, difficult, and rewarding job.  Hours are never ending and as soon as you take on that calling someone will almost always be disappointed with you.  But words or acts of encouragement can go a long way.  So why not do something wonderful and special for your pastor and better yet for your pastor’s spouse as well?

A thank you gift basket can be created in many ways.  Ask different groups in the church to help out.  Place a huge basket in a hidden spot and have members fill the basket with coffees, teas, cookies, muffins, books, really the list is endless.   A gift certificate for a night away is an often wonderful treat for a pastor and their spouse.  Have the kids wing color thank you pictures.  The kids could even create their own thank you gift basket.  And if you are worried about perishable items and want to really surprise your pastor order a beautiful personalized thank you gift basket. 

They can be filled with all sorts of wonderful non perishable items.  Nothing is more memorable than a unique gift.  Order personalized items or messages that are designed just for your pastor.  You can order a basket personalized with your pastors favorite verse.  You can even have a frame with a message from your church congregation placed on it.  The possibilities are endless.  No matter how you decide to create it, make sure you take the time to bless this special person for the role they serve.

 A thank you gift basket can be from a family or an entire church body.  The important thing is that you do something to let your pastor know that the role they serve makes a huge difference in your and others lives.  So get started……….the blessings will be overwhelming and it can be a barrel of fun too.

Top Five Valentine’s Day Gifts

What do women really want for Valentine’s Day? Now that is a question I bet every man wishes he knew the answer to.

Most men run to the store and grab the first thing they see. Price really isn’t an issue. It is a fact that men spend almost twice as much on Valentine’s gifts as women. So what is the deal? Are our guys spending their money wisely or are they just buying a gift because they need to get something for the woman in their life.

Men here are the list of the top five gifts for women on Valentines. So check it out and see if you agree.

FLOWERS All women love flowers and so you can’t go wrong with this one. A plant is also included in this idea. Add a little note or card. A plant is extra fun because it last longer.

JEWELRY Take your time and think about what kind of jewelry she wears. If she does not have pierced ears, don’t buy pierced ear rings. Does she like classical type jewelry such as a strand of pearls or is she more of the trendy type. Just because it looks good on the sales lady does not mean it will look good on her.

GIFT CERTIFICATES How about a day at the local spa? A facial or a pedicure is things most women enjoy. A massage could be wonderful and you might consider joining her.

DINNER AND A MOVIE The trick here is that you need to think of a restaurant that you know she enjoys. If you love Mexican and you know she is on a diet, then think of somewhere she can find something on the menu she would like.  Remember it is Valentine’s Day and this is a gift, so when you choose a movie, make sure it is a girly type romantic and not a Rambo flick.

WEEKEND GET AWAY who would not love this idea. Again the trick is to think of what she might like. Just because you are a back packer who can hike half way up the pacific trail in one afternoon does not mean she would love doing this. How about a get away to the ocean in a bed and breakfast. Talk to her mom or close friends and ask for ideas.

　

The important thing is that you think of what she would want. Maybe a pound of SEE'S candy is at the top of your list, but not every woman would enjoy that.  So go ahead. Think out of the box and be creative. Happy Valentine’s Day.

Growing Your Family: Great 2011 Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Kids!

Growing Your Family: Great 2011 Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Kids!: "While Valentine's Day gifts for kids use to be cards they received in their school class exchange now a days it is a great opportunity for ..."