Almost ready to throw in the towel!

A few weeks ago, I was almost ready to throw in the towel and say “ya know what? I haven’t bought anything new for almost 8 months. Isn’t that close enough to a year? I mean, really, what is 4 months?” The thing that I was having trouble with was what to do about gifts and cards. I know I said that right when we started, but I really thought I would be a little more on the ball and have knitted some things to give as gifts or have sat down and made a bunch of cards to have on hand. But I did not do either of those things.

In the past month, I have been invited to two baby showers-one, two days before the actual event. I have had 2 birthdays and also 2 friends each lose a parent. This was also a very crazy month for me (when isn’t it crazy) because we had all of our kids home visiting most of the month. So, needless to say, I didn’t have a lot of extra time to sit and make cards or come up with creative gifts. So… I bought gift cards. What does anyone think about that? I have had discussions with friends and most think “of course that is ok.” I, however, am not sold on it. First off, I don’t really like giving gift cards, though most people seem to enjoy getting them. And secondly, I think it is an excuse for my lack of organization and forsight. I am still struggling with this issue, however, a wonderful friend of mine sure helped me out in the card making department.

I am not a stamper, nor do I have any special cardmaking supplies. At least up to this point. A few weeks ago, Michelle, a good friend of mine from college, gave me this box filled with extra stamping things that she had. There was paper, envelopes, ink pads, ribbon, tape (special card making tape) along with instructions for making cards. It was one of the most thoughtful surprises I have had in a long time. My daughter and I sat down right away and starting making some cards (which I was able to use for the two birthdays) and had a great time. Though she didn’t realize it at the time, Michelle gave me the extra little boost to keep me from throwing in the towel.

If I never bought another new thing for me, I think I would be ok. Should I continue to do this beyond a year, I think I will make gift-giving an exception to the rule.