Gifts, re-gifting and hostess gifts

First things first, get rid of everything that does not serve you or your loved ones. If your home is full of clutter, it clutters the mind. Everyone receives gifts that are not what we would keep in our homes or have nothing to do with anything we would be a part of or do. These gifts should be either re-gifted to someone who would use them or appreciate them. If you can’t think of anyone in your life who would like the Hummel doll your Aunt Sally gave you for Christmas, give it to charity. There is always someone who would benefit or appreciate what you have no need for. In the end, it is an act of kindness and not a slap in the face to the person in which the gift originated. Keep a wish list of things that you would really like and when asked by Aunt Sally what you’d like for your birthday, tell her! I once celebrated a birthday with a party and knew that there would be those who would be bringing gifts, even though I didn’t want them too. I asked for gift certificates to a prominent kitchen store so that I could buy the expensive cappuccino machine I wanted. I was given a machine and able to use the money for the very pretty cups and saucers. It was perfect and practical. If you have the room, a gift closet, or shelf, or bin, or cabinet is a great thing to have. You can put the things you receive and don’t want right in there. Also, if you see something that you know someone else may like, even if it’s not close to the holidays or their birthday, and you can get a good price, but it and store it. When an event like a party or holiday does roll around, make a list and consult your gift space first. It can save you so much money and time.
Hostess gifts are coming back as well. As we begin to gather together in each other’s homes more we can share something that we have found to be helpful with each other. Whether it’s a bottle of wine, a corn butterer, or a great cookbook, a hostess gift is a showing of gratitude for your friend or acquaintance for the meal and party. The gratitude feels good and is appreciated.