TCH: Christmas Time's A Comin' (May)

Christmas time's a comin'... Well, maybe it will be a while. But this swap is for those of you, who like me, love to have a full stocking or maybe two for Christmas.

My plan is to host a stocking stuffer swap each month, so that we may have a full stocking by Christmas. Each month will have it's own theme, so we will have a variety of little presents. And there's a creative part to the swap, so that we may remember the real reason for the season.

The theme for May will be something for the kitchen. The item may be homemade or store bought. It should cost a minimum of $1. The gift must be wrapped. It can be wrapped in any way you wish (newspaper, gift wrap, a paper bag, cloth...). Do not send any food items for this swap.

I also believe we need to remember that Jesus is the reason for the season. This is the creative part of the swap. You will make 2 cards for your partner. Both will be on 3 x 5 index cards. Decorate your cards in a Christmas theme any way you wish. I glue decorative paper on mine and use stickers, lace, pictures and things. Just be creative.

On one card you will write or type something to help your partner reflect on the real reason for the season. This is sender's choice and can be a Bible verse, a quote, a few questions to reflect on. Anything you can think of. Put this on the side of the card that is not decorated.

On the second card, write a couple of ways to celebrate Christmas and keep Jesus as the focus of the season. Also, put this on the side of the card without decorations.

Please do not staple your cards together or attach them in any way. Your partner may join several of these swaps and may plan to make a little book or something with all the cards she receives.

You will be sending-

• 1 wrapped gift to your partner. The gift must be something for their kitchen.

• 2 decorated 3 x 5 index cards. One with a reflection about the season and one with ideas of how to celebrate the season with Jesus being the focus.