It's a quick Sunday night post with no pictures because, well, I didn't take any.
For the last few years I've been a pretty big stickler on making Christmas gifts. Many things have been made over the years - pillows and bags, sweater vests, hats, quilts, potholders, napkins, dolls and stuffed animals. It has largely been a lot of fun. I'm glad that I make nearly all of my gifts - both for Christmas and for birthdays, but I don't think I'm doing so much of it this year. And I'm feeling a bit guilty about it, which is very silly.
I'm still going to buy handmade this year at Crafty Wonderland, from creative friends with small businesses, and if not handmade then from local independent shops. I think this year I'll give my family the gift of my sanity. I'll spend a bit more, but not much, given the cost of supplies and my time. Frankly, this year, I think I can do more good by spending money locally and with small business people who are struggling to make ends meet in this economic climate. I know they can't compete with Black Friday sales and deep discounts by huge retailers. I'd rather put my money into the pockets of that I know and talk to and see as I go about my days. I feel good about being able to do that.
I still have a few handmade gifts that have been in the works for a while, but I think I can do that without becoming a crazy person who sews until 2AM every night. I can relax and enjoy making those things. I can have time to make new stockings that all match and Christmas Tree Pants for my trees. We'll bake cookies. We'll hang out by the fire and read stories while drinking hot chocolate. I'll sneak in some crochet and knitting on quiet evenings. It'll all work out and all get done.
I feel like a big load has been lifted this year. I need a break (especially with that very busy 60 minute napping toddler). How about you? How are you tackling Christmas gifts this year. What do you have planned?
p.s. I would like to state for the record that I planned ahead for stuffing the Advent calendar this year for the first time ever. Maybe there's hope for me yet.
