It's December first! How in the world did THAT sneak up on me so fast? Where did 2010 go? Why am I not wearing any underwear?!?!
Okay, just kidding. I'm wearing underwear.
As I mentioned a few months back, the Hydeberger clan will travel to Dublin this year rather than participating in holiday gift-giving. The rule is that since we're going to be spending our money in Ireland, we won't purchase gifts for one another - although that doesn't rule out handmade items, and Jay and I will still be gifting his parents. This is a big deal for us, as we've always been big gift-givers at the holidays, but so far I haven't spent a single penny on a gift for anyone. I've got some handmade things going and a short, inexpensive list of things to purchase. And I have to say, it's kind of awesome. It was so nice to relax over Thankgsiving and not freak out about whether or not to shop Black Friday. This month is much less stressful knowing that my holiday shopping is going to take about one hour in downtown Seattle to complete and will not break my bank. Funny how letting go of commercialism allows me to feel a lot more CHEER!
That said, Jay and I are staying home for Chrismakkah this year - it will be my first Christmas without my family. In an effort to make sure it's fun and cheery, I'm planning a few fun twists. For one, we're going to make a Moroccan feast rather than the traditional turkey. Because lamb and chicken, couscous, homemade pita and veggies sounds amazing to me, and super-festive! And even though we're laying off the gifting, we're each setting aside a little money to gift each other a couple of small items.
But despite our efforts to scale back, it's still fun to daydream! Last year I made a big, fun wish list. (I actually ended up getting items 4, 5 and 7 - not too shabby! And some other cool stuff that wasn't even on the list!) This year, I'm doing the same, but keeping each gift under $50. Because it's fun to make wish lists, and because awesome doesn't have to cost much.
SARIE'S 2010 UNDER $50 WISH LIST!
1. Signature Circular Knitting Needles
You might call these the "Rolls Royce of Knitting Needles." They're pricy, at $40/set, but they're lightweight, very pointy and have rotating cords, the better to knit with, my dear. I'd like the size 5, 6 and 7 in 40" length, please. Available at Signature Needle Arts.
2. M-Edge Prodigy Kindle Cover and Kandle Book Light
I already have the easel-style Kindle cover from M-Edge, and it's awesome. I'd love the book-style version. These covers are great because they're a bit padded and have interior pockets. The Kandle light is just cute. $19.99/$14.95.
3. The Nightmare Before Christmas 2-Disc Collectors Edition
This movie is the PERFECT way to celebrate a non-traditional Chrismakkah! Available at Amazon for $24.99.
4. Stonehedge Fiber Mills Shepherd's Worsted Yarn
This yarn from Stonehedge Fiber Mill is 100% wool, super duper soft, and extremely affordable at $10.50/250 yards. LOVE IT. Featured colorway: Beaches.
5. Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needle Organizer
These beautiful handmade needle organizers are available at the Sarahkincheloe Etsy shop. $42
6. Subversive Cross-Stitch Patterns
These. Are. Awesome. I'm actually really pissed off that I didn't think of them myself. Available at Subversive Cross Stitch dot com. $12.00
7. Cakebread Cellars 2008 Chardonnay
Most delicious chardonnay EVAH. Usually priced around $35/bottle, it would make a delightful holiday sip!
8. Amtrak trip to Vancouver, BC
This gift probably stretched the $50 allowance a bit, but you can get TO Vancouver from Seattle for that cost, so as long as I STAY THERE, I should be sweet.
9. Tickets to the Pacific Northwest Ballet's "The Nutcracker"
Because it's The Nutcracker, the tickets are a bit pricy for both Jay and I to attend...but it IS a super holiday treat! And the PNB is close enough to walk to!
10. Owl Cards
Just $10.50 at the Sweetharvey Etsy shop, these little cards are super cute. I already have the bag with the same print. LOVE!
What's on YOUR wish list this year?
