Tuesday Tip

Last minute gifts.  Many people keep items on hand for last minute gifts. I rarely seem to have more than two or three things I would consider gifting. Often, I have nothing.  I love giving gifts, but tend to shop in the moment specifically for the person/occasion. Unless, I find myself in that lucky and somewhat rare situation that I know I've found something that's just perfect for someone special. Then I buy and save it for an opportunity to surprise them. I've heard of people having entire closets of gifts! Do you?

Today, I needed to figure out a gift for a friend. The fact I have been under the weather is not an excuse. I won't be able give it to her in person. Even though it will be my husband or daughter dropping it by, I want her to know I'm thinking of her on her special day. I avoid doing anything belated because I think it's sends a message that I'm too busy or don't care enough to be on time.


Pepper jar, glass tube leftover from a school project, and vanilla bottle with stopper.
All saved to be repurposed.



I buy bath salts from time to time. Usually, for myself to try or maybe for use in a client's bathroom. I've accumulated a few different varieties and scents that are unopened.


I don't like giving things in plastic containers and screw caps are ugly!


I love freshly ground pepper. The mill is always close at hand when I cook and during dinner for salad or vegetables. I try to always have an extra supply on hand. My plan was to save enough jars to sort and store all the random buttons that accumulate at the A&A house...by color.


This one will eventually be used to store buttons, paperclips, rubberbands, etc....



So what do you get when you combine a pepper jar and bath salts? The perfect gift last minute gift!


My friend loves to soak in her big bath tub...so I think she will enjoy this little gift.


In addition to birthdays, I think this would make a great Mother's Day, hostess or teacher's gift too. It also occurred to me that they would make great party favors for a bridal shower or luncheon for friends, especially if you're looking to do something nice on a tight budget!

I am loving the combination of aubergine and blue right now. The ribbon and metal heart I had with my wrapping supplies. I have a few miscellaneous charms that I saved from things like candles and cards that make the perfect little embellishments, although beautiful ribbon is really all that's needed.

So next time you get ready to toss or recycle that glass jar or bottle, instead wash it out and save it to reuse for the perfect last minute gift...or to contain something that's creating clutter or just needs to look better!

Tiny Tip: To refresh the cork, I took a scented dryer sheet, wrapped the cork in it and secured it with a rubber band so it wouldn't smell like pepper. Leave it that way until you're ready to use it. Works like a charm!