Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Last Minute Gift Idea

Ever find yourself at the last minute trying to come up with a holiday gift for a book-loving friend--and not knowing what to buy?  Or, if you're still in school (Sorry), do you need a way to thank those people who make your life a little easier?

I have lots of people at school who support me and help keep me sane. I was struggling to find enough thoughtful, meaningful, affordable gifts to celebrate each of these different but wonderful buddies... and then I had an idea that proved to be a reasonable solution.

I gave each friend a Starbucks gift certificate and a Barnes and Noble gift certificate, and then attached a note of explanation. My intent was to give them an afternoon of rest away from school, kids, and other responsibilities. Given that I couldn't afford a massage and a fancy lunch for each of them, this was best alternative I could think of.


I was delighted when a few of them said later, "I know just what I'm going to use this for..." and "I'm already planning my afternoon out..."  It tickled me to think that they might enjoy a bit of quiet time and a tasty beverage--time just for them!  It is also possible that they bought a cup of coffee for strength and stamina and used the gift certificate to help with holiday shopping... and that's absolutely fine with me too! 

Got a few last minute gifts to pick up?  Maybe the book-and-a-beverage offer would work for you too.  Our Barnes and Noble bookstore has a Starbucks IN THE STORE, so I can certainly picture myself checking out some new books while sipping a mocha.

With that in mind, I'm sending you warm wishes this holiday season...

8 comments :

  1. Hi Kim,
    I'm sending you warm wishes back!
    And I love your choice of gifts exactly what I would have given or loved to receive. :)
    Merry Christmas,
    Marcia :)

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  2. Hi Kim!

    That's such a sweet idea :) I know that it is something I'd like to get!

    Journey of a Substitute Teacher

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  3. Kim, it's a perfect gift!!!! Exactly what my kids get me every year!
    Since my middle schoolers have me for 3 years in a row they know me really well by now and get me starbucks & b&N cards!!! Best gift ever! VERT thoughful of you!

    Happy Holidays!

    ❤ Mor Zrihen ❤
    A Teacher's Treasure

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  4. I can tell you right now that you totally get me and we're speaking the same language.
    A Teeny Tiny Teacher

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  5. PeRfEcT! I am right there with you, caramel macchiato - no way, cinnamon dolce - in hand picking up my copy of The Gift Of Imperfection by Brene Brown. Have you seen her website? Ordinarycourage.com - she's AmAzInG! Thanks for sharing the fun gift card that you attached!

    Did you see my Deck The Cards post? I've made three sets of those and am about to do my fourth . . . I'm thinking that I could make a deck for our teachers' lounge with nice things I've noticed about each staff member? Just a thought . . . happy, happy!

    The Corner On Character

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  6. you are just a really great person!!!
    I am adoring you.

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  7. Cute idea!

    I also wanted to thank you for taking my Christmas tour and let you know that I am your newest follower.

    Merry Christmas :)
    Patti
    aseriesof3rdgradeevents.blogspot.com

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  8. Merry Christmas Eve, sweet friend -

    Thanks for spreading the gift of JOY all over the blogosphere!

    Barbara

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