Another Gift Idea

As you know school is back in session...which means my life is crazy! Don't get me wrong...I LOVE being back at work...but every year I wish that we could ease into things a bit...just a bit. With that being said, there are several things that I have procrastinated on...one of which...a Back to School gift.

 Each year I like to get the girls in my grade level a little something to celebrate the start of a new year. Of course I love something that is personal, crafty, cute, and let's be honest...pretty inexpensive. It may be a month late...but hopefully it is worth the wait! :o)

I started by getting 5 of these...I had to make one for me, too!

Then I used this...which I am in love with!

And I created these:

I used the adhesive vinyl, wrapped them up with some cello and polka dot ribbon...and they are ready...four weeks late and all!

I hope that the girls love them as much as me. A Monday morning gift always makes the day better...right?

Flippy Floppies!

I have another cute and easy gift idea for everyone. I gave these to the parents in my classroom that had so generously donated their time to help in our classroom.

All you need is a pair of Old Navy flip flops, cello wrap, fun ribbon, cardstock, and flip flop stickers. Who doesn't love a pair of flip flops for the summer? Another good thing is that you can kind of guess on the size since flip flops are pretty forgiving.

I cannot take credit for the idea...a former teacher gave me the idea...but I have used it ever since! This would also be a great favor for any kind of shower or party. I also think that it would be really fun to get a bunch of pairs in different colors, arrange them in a cute bucket, and give a "birthday girl" a bouquet of flippy floppies...you know that you would love it!

For the Bride to Be!

This weekend I had the joy of celebrating a "Bride-to-Be!" My sister's dear friend, Brittnee, is getting married in just a few, short weeks. She and my sister have been friends since elementary schoo,l so Brittnee has kind of been like my second little sister. As many of you know, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to make gifts personal and one of a kind. So, I spent a long time racking my brain to figure out what I could do for Brittnee that would be something personal, fun, and practical. Here's what I created:

 It was so fun to let my "creative juices" go to work! I started by getting a set of kitchen towels from my favorite store in the entire world...Target. I knew that Brittnee's kitchen was done in black and white...which I love by the way...so, I picked up this fun set. Next, I used my A-MAZ-ING Silhouette craft cutter to design and cut out Brittnee's new monogram in a coordinating black and white fabric. Then, I simply ironed on the applique, stiched around the edges...and voila...a darling set of kitchen towels!

 I think I am going to have to make myself a set...since they go perfectly in my kitchen, too! :o)

 Being a fan of anything monogramed or personalized, I wanted to add something to Brittnee's gift that would represent this amazing journey that she is about to embark on. So, while I was at my favorite store, Target, I picked up an 8 x 10 frame. Once again, I used my A-MAZ-ING Silhouette craft cutter and designed an "established" monogram. Instead of using fabric or paper, I used vinyl! Side note...I'm addicted...watch out house...I have a feeling there may be a vinyl explosion! I transferred the vinyl design onto the front of the glass part of the frame and then added a piece of black and white fabric to the inside...the same fabric that I used for the monogram on her towels...because I have to be "matchy-matchy" like that. :o) Now, Brittnee has a cute little sign to hang in her kitchen, family room, dining room, wherever...and it has her monogram and the year they will be married.

And, if Brittnee decides that she wants to change up her color scheme...or put it in a room that isn't black and white...all she had to do is switch out the fabric in the frame and it is ready for the new room/decor! Ooohh...she could even switch it out with different scrapbook papers to coordinate with different holidays, seasons, events, etc...can you feel my excitement about that little idea...LOVE IT! So, there you have it...a fun, personalized, and practical bridal shower gift! :)