::Last-Minute Christmas Gift Idea::

Okaaay, so it's more like a last-SECOND gift idea.  :)
So, if you're anything like me, Christmas shopping kills you because you want to find that perfect something for your special sister or father, and you haven't seen that something anywhere!!
By now, Christmas Eve day, you are nigh unto pulling your hair out because of this lack-of-gift.

Usually, it's around this time that I remember a gift I used to give as a child.  Something that everyone loved...and always used within 3-4 minutes of receiving.
A coupon book.  But not just any coupon book!

It's when I can't find anything "good enough" that I remember time is the most precious of all gifts.  We are given one life...that is all.  The Lord appoints us a certain number of days with those we love.  We choose how to spend those days.
I want to give all my hours to the Lord's work in loving those He has so graciously given me. 
What better way to "gift the hours" than to give special coupon books for unique activities with the ones you love most?

Here's what to do:

Firstly, you must ban all recipients of these gifts to other quarters while working. 
(Yes, Dad naturally falls into the "hard-to-buy-for" category by simple virtue of his manhood. :)


Personalize!!  I chose some fancy paper colors that I know Olivia loves.


Next, I wrote down some activities that I knew Livie and I would enjoy together.  Just brain-storm for a little bit.


Then, I wrote each thing on an individual slip, taped them to the colored paper, and punched holes in the corners.


This is the cover card.  I embellished the front with some coordinating buttons...easy.


Cut tiny slits in the holes on all the "coupons" (NOT the cover card though). 
This will help them tear off easier when Livie wants to redeem them.  :)


Here's the list of coupons I ended up with, as they appear on the cards:
-A free bike ride...
-One thrifting date together...
-Good for one sleepover in my room...you and me!
-A movie night together.  Let's make popcorn!
-I'll meet you in the back yard for a wrestling match!  :)
-Let's play one afternoon!
-A long hug...whenever you need it.
(Yes, we do wrestle.)


Ta-Daaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!   Just tie it together with some ribbon and there you have it.  A nice little coupon book with personalized activities.  I can't wait to do all these things with Livia.  I really hope she likes it.  :)
I'll be working on Dad's book too...that's gonna be a bit of a challenge.  :)

Speaking of little hand-crafted gifts...CHECK THIS OUT!

My dear friend Mandy MADE this for me, can you believe it?!?!?  She is so incredibly talented!  The whole entire thing is about the same size as a little match box.  It's so beatiful I just had to share it.  I've got it on a little shelf in my room, looks perfect right there.  :)  Thank you Mandy...I LOVE IT!!! 
Christmas is almost here!! 
Blessings!

~Anna  :)