3 Easy and Simple Gifts when Finances are Tight

3 Easy and Simple Gifts when Finances are Tight

Easy and simple gifts? Giving gifts together – what’s your strategy as husband and wife?

Sure, you’d delight to give your loved ones their hearts’ desires with money as no barrier… Rob and I would like to do that too. However, your finances as a husband and wife team might not support what you’d wish to give as Christmas or a birthday approaches.

In truth, those who you love don’t care what you give them – your presence would be gift enough. But what if you can’t even give that? The holidays can be a bittersweet event when we’re feeling bound by circumstance. What can you do to make these days more sweet than bitter?

There are still easy and simple gifts you can give as a husband and wife team, even if you’re in a tight spot.

3 easy and simple gifts when finances are tight.

Rob and I have had to do a bit of brainstorming this season. The way we would choose to celebrate with our loved ones isn’t the way it’ll work out. (Unless our loving God changes circumstances.) Here are three of the easy and simple gifts we came up with:

1 – Pray as a husband & wife team for those you love.

We forget sometimes what a beautiful gift praying for one another can be. No matter age or stage, those we love have needs where only God can make a difference. There’s still time to ask those you love about their needs, and then spend time each day, as husband and wife, praying for them. Start now.

Prayer has no cost. And the gift of intercession for your loved ones lasts into eternity.

Begin simply if you’ve never prayed together before. Here’s a post on how to easily do that. And if you need help remembering to fit prayer into your day (because we’re all busy right now), then try some of these ideas!

2 – Use technology to visit those you love. Make a date.

And as the special day comes closer, whether it’s Christmas or a birthday or some other occasion, arrange a time to connect. If you can visit in person that’s perfect. Otherwise draw close to each other via a Facetime, Zoom or Skype video call. Even a telephone call with that person can be valuable. Talking and sharing are easy and simple gifts.

When you’re together – pray together. And share a cup of tea or coffee and a cookie or cake on both ends. Do those things you’d do if you were together. Share photos. Tell a story. Talk about how much you value and appreciate your loved one. Play a game. Be creative.

As an aside: Our son just purchased a Virtual Reality headset – the technology is still new, but when we tried it Rob and I could see the possibilities… Maybe within a few years, we’ll be able to use this VR technology to “sit” with those far away, as though we’re in the same room. I can’t explain the extraordinarily immersive experience of VR. You really need to try it to understand. It’s truly amazing!

3 – Share a warm gift delivered to their door.

When distance separates you and your loved ones, there is still the opportunity to mail or ship a little something. However, if finances are a challenge then you also need to be aware of shipping/mailing costs. Rob and I need to mail items across the US border, so the costs skyrocket if we’re not careful.

As I mentioned, we did some brainstorming and came up with something those we love will appreciate, we can “share” the experience with them, and the shipping costs will be minimal. See? Easy and simple gifts. Guess what it is?

TEA!

I ordered a variety of tea flavors from Stash Tea and made little easy and simple gifts to open. 

Tea bags are light, and if they’re packaged correctly they’ll easily fit into an envelope. The mailing costs will be minimal, but the enjoyment will last for days! And behind every tea bag in their own little envelope, I added a Scripture verse to encourage and surprise. God is faithful.  All things work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. These are good reminders for all of us!

Now we can have our long-distance visit via technology, while all of us sip our tea!

Below the image are the instructions if you want to try your hand at these easy and simple gifts! Keep Scrolling!

Christmas Gift to Share - 3 Easy and Simple Gifts to Give when finances and distance are a barrier - Encourage Your Spouse

Here’s a craft to try – even for those who aren’t “crafty”. 😉

You’ll need one 12×12 cardstock, three pieces of 8.5×11 decorative paper, 6 Scripture verses printed (see below for 2 PDFs to download), glue, scissors, a decorative punch for the embellishment and little sticky foam dots.

  1. Cut the 12×12 cardstock to 8.5×11. Use the leftover strip to cut out 6 embellishments to put on the outside of each envelope.
  2. Cut each of the 8.5×11 decorative paper pieces (not cardstock) into two 5.5inchx5.5inch pieces. With the leftover strips punch out 4 embellishments – you’ll be gluing two embellishments into the inside of each envelope.
  3. Fold a 5.5×5.5 inch piece of decorative paper around one tea bag to begin making the envelope. (You’ll eventually glue each envelope onto the cardstock.) Turn the 5.5×5.5 paper like a diamond, fold the sides first, then the top and bottom. See the photo below. Do this with all 6 pieces of 5.5×5.5 decorative paper you’ve cut out.Easy and simple gifts - how to make a surprise tea envelope
  4. In the middle of each 5.5×5.5 envelope glue on two embellishments and a scripture verse. Place the tea bag into the envelope and refold it with the Tea bag inside. Use one of the cardstock embellishments (the same as the cardstock you will be gluing the envelope onto) and use the little sticky foam circles to secure the envelope closed. One foam circle at the top of the circle and one at the bottom so they secure the top and bottom fold closed. Do this with all 6 envelopes. I found it’s easier to open the envelope with these foam circles than using glue.
  5. Glue the 6 envelopes to the 8.5×11 cardstock. You’re done!Surprise Tea Gift - Easy and Simple Gifts to make when finances are tight.

When your recipient opens the envelope they find a different tea bag every time,

and a difference Scripture verse to encourage them!

Click to download the first 6 Scripture

and click AGAIN HERE for the second page of 6 Scripture options

 

Here’s the embellishment punch I used – It’s called the Fiskars X-Large Squeeze Punch, Seal of Approval

and a paper cutter/trimmer is handy to use instead of scissors if you’re at all like me and can’t seem to cut a straight line!

AND

Take a look at STASH TEA

So many varieties of tea – something for everyone! (Even those who say they don’t like tea!)



This post contains affiliate links – this means that should you choose to purchase any items, then Rob and I would receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support! 

 

Make Memories in 2018 – Don’t add to your stuff!

Make Memories in 2018 – Don’t add to your stuff!

Make memories – don’t add to your stuff. Living in 282 square feet for more than three years has taught Robert and me that we don’t need as much stuff as we might believe we do…  but the memories we’ve made over the last years are priceless.

I encourage you and your spouse to think about what you could give to each other, your family and friends that would increase their “memory bank” – not their clutter.

Make Memories in 2018

What gifts could you give to your family, spouse, and friends that are designed to make memories? Try these!

1 – Classes or lessons to learn a new skill.

Ask a few questions to determine if there are any skills your spouse has always wanted to learn but hasn’t taken the time to explore. Consider:

  • horse-back riding
  • gourmet cooking
  • scuba diving, sailing or paddle boarding
  • rock climbing or parachuting
  • chocolate making
  • photography or videography
  • flower arranging or pottery making
  • yarn or fabric work – knitting, crochet, sewing, weaving, etc.
  • sports – golf, tennis, racketball, swimming, kick-boxing etc.
  • dance – swing, ballroom, line-dancing, etc.
  • computer skills – html, css, website design, etc.
  • writing – fiction stories or a book, or a children’s picture book
  • gardening – raising vegetables, nurturing orchids or succulents, herbs, etc.
  • landscaping – adding a pond, or rock walls, a putting green or orchard to your space
  • music – learning an instrument or joining an ensemble, or group to sing
  • health and fitness – tai chi, heart-healthy cooking, yoga, lifestyle makeover, etc.

Instead of adding stuff to your space, why not make some memories together while taking a class? You could attend something local or use YouTube or a streaming service!

Grokker is a valuable site with lessons in some of the above areas. Get unlimited Grokker Videos for 14 Days to try it out!
Free Basic Membership Available

Use the 1 to 10 Test!

When Rob and I want to see how the other feels about a certain activity, we ask each other…

“On a scale of 1 to 10, how do you feel about ______”

If you use the 1-10 Test to determine how your spouse feels about a certain activity, you’ll be much more likely to hone in on a winner!

Take it one step further – ask if your children & friends want to join you in making memories!

You don’t need to do these things with only you and your spouse. (Although that’s always fun, too!)  Invite others to join you! We’ve had some really fun times with other couples and their children.

2 – Memberships

What about the gift of regular explorations? Consider memberships at:

  • museums, and art galleries
  • sports, historical or theme parks
  • national or state parks

Having a family membership for a year at a park or museum means you can gather with your family and friends on a regular basis for a low-cost memory-making event. It takes the planning and cost off the table, and just allows you and those you love to explore!

One of the best things we ever did with our children when they were pre-teens was to have a membership to the Ontario Science Center. Another family also bought their year-round membership and though it was an hour away, we’d go exploring monthly. Our children (and the other family’s children) are now adults, but it remains one of their favorite memories. When our son and family visited Canada he even added an excursion to the Science Center to share those memories with his wife and baby boy. Memories are priceless and continue to add to the legacy you leave as parents!

3 – Gift Cards

Now, I’m not talking about the generic Walmart or Target or Amazon gift card… (although everyone does appreciate receiving those too!)

What about a gift card to a movie or a favorite ice cream shop, or to play a round of mini-golf, or bowling? Think about a favorite restaurant or a symphony experience. Make a memory with an event!

Groupon is often a great resource when looking for an event style gift card.

We love to make memories with our adult children and grandboy!making memories - ferguson 6

4 – Subscription service for consumable delights!

With this kind of gift think about the five senses – and you can arrange for gifts for more than the holiday season…

  • monthly flowers  – delight your spouse with a bouquet of flowers from Bouq’s 

Bouqs 728x90

 

  • Wine! Rob and I have tried a new startup called Bright Cellars. It’s a wine subscription that helps you learn what kind of wines you like. It alleviates that deer-in-the-headlights feeling when looking at aisles and aisles of wine in the store – we wrote about the idea here.

Take the Bright Cellars quiz and discover wine you love!

Here’s a video of our daughter-in-love unboxing our first order!

Increase your memories – not your stuff!

These are just a few ideas for things to give to your loved ones to make memories in 2018. Some of them are affiliate links, which mean Rob and I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Do you have any other suggestions?

Have you tried any other “memory making” experiences that had a great impact?  Leave a comment and share!

ideas to make memories with your spouse and family - not clutter

 

Words Matter – What words surround you and those you love?

Words Matter – What words surround you and those you love?

Words Matter – your words, the words you read, and those you hear. Words matter to your spouse, to your children, to your guests and everyone you love. The message you give to those in your home shapes their day – their view of life and their understanding of what is important.

Words Matter – What are you doing to make a positive impact?

Is Facebook and social media the prevailing force in your life or the lives of those you love?  

We have a friend who is being deliberate about her words on Facebook. She is a mature lady, a Christ-honoring widow, and an example for me. She became specifically disturbed by all the negativity on her Facebook feed and decided she’d do something about it. Personally. Actively.

She began a deliberate campaign many months ago to post at least one positive thought each day.  Many people (online and in person) remark on her active choice to be optimistic. Recently I overheard a friend speaking to her about all the positive posts and how much it means to this friend…

We all can change our Facebook, Instagram, and other social media channels to reflect what is good, true, and positive. I’m joining my Christ-following, widowed friend in her online campaign… 

I challenge you too! 

Enjoy the moment - Item 2003725 - Great Big Canvas by Daphne Brissonnet Serene Moments IV Wall Art - Words MatterBut social media is only one way we consume words…

What words are in your home?

What forms of media are a part of your mental consumption?

Which shows do you watch or stream? Are they building you up — or pulling your mood down? How do you feel when you’ve finished watching these programs? Do you feel energized and positive about your life, world, and future?  If the television is on, it’s having an effect on everyone in the house – not just those who are actively watching.

What books or magazines are you reading?

Words Matter - This book is what is on the table beside my chair - you might guess where my thoughts are...

This book is what is on the table beside my chair – guess where my thoughts are…

Are you learning something new that will make a good impact on you, your spouse, your family and your community? Remember, even a book left sitting on the table influences everyone by the artwork on the cover. The influence might not even be conscious but it’s there. (Do you have a Bible? Does it have dust on it, or is it piled under every other book?)

What pictures are on your walls?  What’s on your ‘fridge?

Rob and I have been house/dog sitting in quite a few different environments over the last 3 years. Every home is unique and what is displayed is a choice they’ve made at a particular moment in their life. Is it still relevant for them at this time?

Rob and I have felt “at home” and comfortable in all the spaces we’ve stayed in… and we do take note of what’s displayed. (It’s hard not to!)  Some displays have even impacted what I write about here on Encourage Your Spouse or post on social media.

Are you in your house right now – as you read this post? 

If you’re not at home, think about your rooms.

What words/art would impact everyone in your home?Words Matter - Be Happy Wall Art by Jennifer Pugh Item 1988111 at Great Big Canvas

We’ve found a site with all kinds of art – including inspirational art with words. Click here to explore. Maybe this Christmas your “home” could have a gift under the tree with words to encourage, inspire, uplift and motivate! Words matter!

Or maybe for the upcoming Holidays including Thanksgiving, you want to gift your family, adult children, and friends with something that will inspire them? All the photos on this post are from GreatBigCanvas.com. This is one of the affiliates we’ve chosen to highlight for unique gift giving options. Other gifting options we’ve found are for wine and for tea! (It’s kinda humorous that a teapot I like has fun words.)

Below are a few other pieces of art from GreatBigCanvas.com we think would have a positive impact on you and your spouse.

I think it’s cool that they’re available in a few different forms, including, of course, framed and unframed of various sizes, but also as a wall peel, printed on a reusable vinyl with a special adhesive that sticks to walls without harming them. The wall peel format would be good for Rob and me in our little house-on-wheels. (Hanging photos and traveling don’t go well together!)

Words Matter - The Teaching of Kindness by Cherie Burbach at Great Big Canvas - item 2496431

Words Matter - Gratitude Changes Everything wall art at Great Big Canvas Item 2406109 by Stephanie Ryan

Words Matter - Guide Me Wall Art by Dennis Frates Item 1988082 at Great Big Canvas-

What are the favorite words you have on your walls?

Leave a comment with what you want to influence your spouse – your family – and guests! With your comment, you can impact us too! 😉 Words matter!

Words matter - what is hanging on your walls and is it impacting your family

 
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Chai Tea Comfort Date for you and your spouse.

Chai Tea Comfort Date for you and your spouse.

Chai Tea comfort date – it’s a comforting drink for you and your spouse in autumn and winter. (It’s comforting in spring and summer, too, of course!)   Have you ever tried STASH Chai tea? You’ll see it in the grocery store… but only one or maybe two varieties of Chai are available there. When I explored the STASH website, I was blown away by the variety of Chai teas!

Rob and I are fans of Chai Tea

To us, Chai tea tastes like Christmas in a cup!

I didn’t realize all the varieties available:

  • vanilla chai – it’s a rich and creamy, naturally decaffeinated chai tea. With a splash of milk and sugar, it feels (and tastes) like a delicious dessert – without the calories!
  • spice dragon red chai – it’s a herbal blend with Rooibos, a South African herb also known as red tea, combined with clove, ginger root, and sweet cinnamon to create a unique, caffeine-free sweet and spicy chai.
  • ginger fire chai – A touch of fiery ginger adds a kick, yerba mate provides an energizing element, and cinnamon lends a nice spicy finish. The subtle sweetness of vanilla balances out the overall flavors.
  • green chai – Chai Green blends green tea with cinnamon, whole cloves, cardamom, ginger root and sarsaparilla.
  • and more – including loose leaf Chai tea blends an K-cups!

When we want to have a quiet and simple date night (in our little-house-on-wheels, on the road, or while we’re house/dog sitting) it’s so easy to pull out two tea bags and brew a cup for each of us. 

Date night doesn’t have to be expensive – you just need to enjoy what you’re doing!

Give your spouse a gift of comfort – try some Chai!

Have you and your spouse ever tried Chai tea? Even die-hard coffee drinkers enjoy Chai tea because of its unique flavors. This is no namby-pamby, colorless experience! Our adult children also enjoy Chai – and we love to share a pot of the “flavor of Christmas” as the days grow shorter, and the nights get colder.

It makes a perfect gift — buy a new mug and add a few Chai Tea varieties as a gift for your spouse… along with a coupon to invite them on a “Chai Tea comfort date”! It’s unique. It’s tasty and warm… just like you! 😉

A Mug filled with Comfort – Invite your spouse for a Chai Tea Date!

A date doesn’t need to be expensive!

 

Chai Tea Comfort Date – give your spouse an invitation!

Is there a “Date Night” on your calendar? Now’s the time to schedule one!  

(There are some gorgeous Tea sets on Stash’s site! – click to see!)

Mugs From DaySpring – True-Noble-Lovely-Pure Mugs

This post has affiliate links – if you choose to buy we’ll receive a few pennies at no cost to you – thank you!

Need more date ideas for the autumn?  Try these!

 

New Experiences – Give a Gift of Wine

New Experiences – Give a Gift of Wine

New experiences (the Value of Discovery) have played a huge part in our 33+ years of marriage. Whether they’re small discoveries, like a new restaurant… Rob and Lori at Seaons52 in Raleigh - Values Drive Experiencesor big experiences like our time in the RV parked in beautiful places…

new experiences - like RVing - are part of a strong marriage - wine and other experiences

…they’ve all created good memories we reminisce about whenever we have a down moment or 2 or 10,080.

Good memories of things you’ve enjoyed together are part of a strong marriage.

What new experiences do you enjoy as a couple?

Some couples enjoy learning. Others love to travel. And some couples are passionate about entertainment, or sports or hiking, museums, shopping, cars, antiquing, and other activities.

What’s your newest discovery, passion or experience as a couple?Take the Bright Cellars Quiz and discover wine you love!

Are you wine aficionados

Rob and I have good friends who are wine enthusiasts. They take delight in traveling to the west coast of the USA for new experiences with wine-tasting excursions. They’ve shared some of their favorite wines with us, and we’ve loved the experience.

To be candid, we really don’t know what we like in wine… so we’d need to be guided if we were to have a “wine discovery experience” in our future. Are you like us?

Do you need help exploring to know what kind of wine you’d like?

We’ve just found a fun company of wine experts, Bright Cellars, who have a quiz that tells you what kind of wine you might enjoy! They’re a monthly wine club that finds unique, hidden gems from small vineyards from all over the world. Created by two MIT grads with a passion for wine, the Bright Points algorithm scores each wine by comparing 18 attributes to your preferences, matching you with your monthly experience.

Is someone on your gifting list interested in wine?

Anniversaries or birthdays or Christmas are all reasons we give gifts – what about the gift of a wine experience? Bright Cellars has a unique gift program where they send a certificate (or you can hand deliver it) to someone to try the experience of new wines!

Try the wine quiz!

Click the picture to begin – it’s fun!

Take the Bright Cellars quiz and discover wine you love!

If you’re at all like Rob and me, we stand in the store and look at the aisles of wine, wondering how to choose. This idea takes the pain of choosing away, and just leaves you with the fun of unwrapping a new experience!

Maybe your spouse would like a “wine experience”?

Here’s a creative way to share something with your spouse – a new memory to make! And have a special gift for her – or him!  Take Bright Cellars Quiz and discover wine you love!

This post is an affiliate post. If you purchase we’d receive a small commission at no cost to you – we appreciate your support.

Rob and I suggest this gift experience with caution. Many people enjoy wine and alcohol in moderation without any adverse impact. However, we are also aware of many who find alcohol a destructive poison for their life and marriage. Use wisdom in considering this idea.

If, for any reason you feel a gift of alcohol would not be a good idea, please, please, find another option. Maybe flowers? You could buy a Bouquet from Bouqs or set up a monthly gift there.

take away the pain of choosing and just enjoy unwrapping a new experiences