We are down to the wire. The day is rapidly approaching and this is when all attention to detail gets thrown out the window. I say this as I sit with literally not a single present wrapped. Here are a few last minute tricks you can use to look like you went to a lot of thought and trouble. You won’t even have to leave your house for supplies. amen.
Husband/kids ripped jeans? Save them from the trash and rip them up more!
Nothing will be safe – old sheets? That’s what I used for the white on these bags. Scrounge around for anything with the right color and texture that says what you want your gift to say. Snippets of ribbon, shoelaces, twine, old clothes, blankets, newspaper. Bling it up or boy it down. Just layer 3 to 5 different things and there you have it…effortless beauty.
The tag is easy to cut and print on any paper on any printer. Handwrite it if you want to be real simple. I love other people’s handwriting. Have fun with it. For birthdays put since 1974 (whatever year they were born). For these party favor gift bags I put the year I met each friend. It was so much fun to think about each person, how I met them and all that has happened since then. Look for more gift wrap ideas here.
On to the table…I have two ideas for you to ponder…
Remember when they used to ask paper or plastic at the grocery store? I’m probably dating myself. Anyway, next time you have the option make sure to choose paper. Cut those bad boys up and you have instant placemats. Make them your own by writing out your favorite verse, one that applies to your guest or the holiday you are celebrating. Everyone’s could be the same, or different. There are no rules in placemats.
The holiday season is filled with opportunities to spend time with family and friends. It also brings heavy hearts when we can’t be with the ones we love for whatever reason…death, distance, time, disagreements, money, you name it. This tablescape is an easy way to honor the ones you miss. Just roll out some butcher paper, wrapping paper (even if you use the back side to have a plain white table), anything you have around that covers your space. Leave sharpies and ask everyone to write the name (or names) of those they wish were dining along side them. 
Rich conversation happens when you talk about who you miss and bring them to the table. We covered everyone from friends and family who have gone on to Heaven, to old dogs, even Elvis. My kids loved writing somewhere they usually aren’t allowed, I am pretty sure the adults did too. Hope this brings a small light of joy to your table this holiday. Gather a few more holiday table ideas here!
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So excited for you! I love your inspiration for our families, our homes & our faith. Thank you for inviting me to follow you on this journey.
My new fav blog!
Kim,
This is so cool! I’m excited for you & happy birthday!
So excited for you sweet friend! Can’t wait to see what’s to come!!
This is so exciting! I have a new favorite blog! 🙂
love this post. and loved seeing my Mom’s name on your table. that put a big lump in my throat. xoxo miss all of you. love your blog!
She was at the table with us. I know I can’t possibly miss her like you do, but I do just the same. love you
I love your idea for the butcher block paper , and writing name of missed loved ones. I want to do this for Thanksgiving and ask people at the table to write down what they are thankful for. I love reading your ideas, and scripture lessons. Thanks for sharing your gift.
I think that is a fabulous idea! We did it last year, with people and had relatives who lived far away, loved ones passed all the way down to Elvis! You never know what your crazy family will come up with!