I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry

I just HATE when this happens: I go blog surfing, come across a fabulous idea that I decide to borrow, but can't remember whose blog it came from. I tried...I really, really tried to find the creative lady behind this wonderfully simple gift idea. After an hour of getting distracted by the other wonderfully simple gift ideas you all have come up with, I give! I simply cannot find the blog I was looking for, so I apologize to....?

She (who-shall...for now...remain-nameless) bought travel coffee mugs from the Dollar Tree store and transformed them...too cute! I ran down to my Dollar Tree & snatched the remaining mugs. The store manager, who knows me TOO well, said a woman had been in the day before and bought a case of the mugs. I wonder if she was inspired by the same beautiful blogger!

The project was SO easy, quick and budget-friendly. I removed the cup insert and used the template they included to trace the pattern onto scrapbook paper and wrapping paper. I added some ribbon to some of the cups, stickers to others...whatever I had on hand. The blogger, from whom I borrowed this idea, did monograms on her cups. I added a ribbon for wrapping and am going to pop Dunkin' Donuts or Starbucks gift cards inside and have my daughter give them to her teachers for Christmas.

***Sidenote: Having taught for 11 years, I feel confident in speaking for MOST teachers...every thoughtful gift, from a student, is a cherished memento. That said, one can only accumulate so many "#1 Teacher...Grade A Teacher...Head of the Class Teacher" mugs before they lose some of their sentimental value. I always felt a deep appreciation for homemade gifts. Pair that with a gift card for coffee and you're bound to have a happy teacher!

A Dollar Store Romance

Since I have taken a solemn oath to steer clear of any/ all species of men, I had to fill the gap in my heart with something equally powerful, enticing and challenging. Thank you, Lord, for finding me the perfect replacement in The Dollar Tree Store. For those of us who 1.) are addicted to the endorphin rush of uncovering a bargain, 2.) are restricted by a tight budget and 3.) are mathematically challenged to an embarrassing degree, the dollar store is truly the ideal mate! Since we were out of toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner, today's trip was a real necessity. After stocking up on basic hygiene supplies, I meandered down the home gadgets aisle and found these adorable light switch and electrical outlet covers. Yes ladies, I know...I have the crafting ability to decoupage or fabric cover my switches, but 1.) these decals are too cute and they match my bedroom, 2.) it took me all of 10 seconds for each revamp 3.) they can be easily removed when the mood to change decor hits (several times a year), 4.) they won't permanently alter the covers/ plates in my rental home....and 5.) the total cost was $1 for four coordinating sets. I grabbed 3 other sets to use as stocking stuffers.