Here’s a simple idea that’s ideal for those times when somebody close to you is suffering.
Perhaps they have just lost a loved one; been diagnosed with a serious illness; shifted to a different area; or their marriage has broken down. Your heart reaches out to them but you really don’t know just what you can do or say to help.
If you live in Redlands, you could always request that a Pink Pamper Pack be sent to them … or, do what I have done on more than one occasion: make a JOYBOX!
that you can use to fill a joybox!
It’s a simple as getting a shoebox, and covering it in a collage of pretty wrapping paper. Then it’s time to fill it with all sorts of inexpensive bits and pieces (think Crazy Clark’s, the Warehouse, Reject Shop, or similar) … here’s some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Pair of novelty socks
- Hair clips
- Notepad
- A cute fridge magnet
- Lollipop
- Pretty pen
- Bookmark
- Lip gloss
- Keyring
- Photo frame
- Earrings
- A packet of flower seeds
- Movie tickets or voucher for a facial (if you’re feeling more financial!)
Now for the all important freebie list! I had a pile of old magazines and clipped out any funny stories, photos, or cartoons – I found Take 5 and That’s Life particularly useful. Then, I pasted them onto cardboard backing and cut them all out – it just made them look a bit more substantial and better able to cope with wear and tear (If you have a laminator, you could laminate them instead). Don’t forget to add items like favourite recipes, poems, jokes, riddles, crosswords, photos, your children’s drawings, or a personal letter.
Finally, tie the Joybox with beautiful ribbon. When you present it to your friend, give them strict instructions that it is not to be “devoured” in one sitting (although they can if they really want!). Rather, the idea is to that whenever they are feeling down, they can delve for “treasure”.
So what are you waiting for? Show you care – not with a Hallmark card – but with a Joybox!