Summer for me brings a spattering of birthdays and celebrations. Being in the middle of this time again got me to thinking about presents. Most people love giving and receiving a good gift - it truly warms the heart to realise someone has considered what you would love and who you are. At the same time there is something wonderful about watching a friend or family member get that feeling after opening something you gave.
I've been thinking about what really makes a great gift - is it having something you really wanted or is it knowing that someone put in some time to make or choose that gift rather than grabbing it at the end of a weekly food shop?
One of the best gifts my parents got me was my sewing machine - 15years old I think and over a decade later it's still with me! They knew I would love it - I think I actually asked for one - and it has truly been a useful gift :-). At the same time other much smaller gifts have left great impressions on me - knowing that person really knows me well.
A few years ago I was flat broke and started making presents. I wanted to still be able to give things but really couldn't afford great shop bought gifts. I have to admit that some of my early attempts at gifts have probably been discarded at the back of a cupboard somewhere. I like to think that my home made gifts have improved in their quality but the heart intention is still the same- to make that individual aware that I have been thinking of them and how special they are. Home made presents do have the risk of being useless and tacky- things you would actually never pay money for.
Spending a bit more money and heading to the shops doesn't of course guarantee you won't be still giving something useless and tacky but the risk is probably reduced somewhat!
All that considered I think my moto now is if I'm inspired to make something then that's what I go with - if not I head to the shops and hope I find some inspiration there. I am trying not to automatically make everything for the sake of it instead trying to maintain some authenticity to my crafting.
So what do you prefer to give/receive?
Is it home made or shop bought?
Let me know :-)
