Dear Universe,

I’m not a fan of wrapping.  I’m not sure I know anyone who is.

In theory, I like giving loved ones beautifully wrapped presents that look like a professional handled them.  In reality, I don’t always have the patience or the time (often getting to it at the last minute).

More often than not, it’s a gift bag and tissue paper (thoughtfully picked out!)

Not this year, I vowed.  I decided that this year I would go back to the days of old—the days when I used to spend a lot of time wrapping and making presents look, well presentable.

I had a plan.

First, I picked wrapping paper I liked.  I decided if I was handling pretty paper that it might make me enjoy the process more.

Next, I picked out matching ribbon, some boxes and a couple of gift bags—just in case!

Finally, I decided I would make an activity out of it—a Holiday Wrap Party if you will.  Well, except I’d be the only one at the party.  After all, no one can see their gifts ahead of time.

I thought for the Wrap Party I would pour a glass of wine and put on a holiday movie or holiday music—depending on what type of sappy mood I was in—and then I would wrap presents I’d be proud to give.

I am tired of the sloppy tape job, cutting the paper too short with edges of the gift showing, recoiling as I hand the gift over, afraid the receiver will also get a paper cut.  Nope.  Not this year.  This year presents would have smooth edges, invisible tape lines, curled ribbon and receive oohs and aahs.

So I did it.  And you know what?  It wasn’t so bad.  As I watched the gifts pile up, I was proud of my pretty little things.  I can’t wait to present them—no cringing this time.

‘Tis the season of giving, so why not give everything a personal touch?  I know there are a lot of last minute wrappings going on, so try it.

An extra bit of love always goes a long way—for you and them.

With Gratitude,

A