Christmas Giving: A box full of letters.

My Grandma is notoriously difficult to buy for at Christmas. She is such a treasured member of the family that I always try to find something special for her. Most years, I end up failing in doing so. She claims to only need/want gift cards for eating out, but I tend to avoid gift cards as much as possible. As a result, I end up purchasing books or sweet treats for her. Some years, I make a gift for her.

This year, I was inspired by Design*Sponge to write a stack of letters to her. I scribbled some notes before I started the project, so I wouldn't get stuck trying to think of topics to write about along the way. I decided I would write one letter to open each day between Christmas and New Year's Day, making for a total of eight letters. I reminisced about visiting her when I was little, revealed some secrets and insecurities, told stories from recent travels and local adventures, and shared New Year's resolutions with her. I included photos and an article I thought she might find interesting.

I decided to go the extra mile with packaging these letters primarily because, as a stationery designer, I have a healthy stock of envelopes available. I stamped on both the envelopes and cards and tied everything together with baker's twine. I hope these letters will not only make her smile each day, but that they give her a glimpse of how much she is loved.

Are you creating any handmade gifts this Christmas? Happy Holidays!