Grandma B Simple Living: January 2013

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

GIFT IN A NUTSHELL

The walnuts after they were glued back together

While trying to figure out a fun way to present a money gift for Christmas for my grandkids an idea came to me that I think is pretty cool.

I thought, "What if I crack open an English walnut, and put the money inside, then close it back".

I didn't even have to buy any walnuts. While at a local retail store their nut display was pretty much empty accept for some nut shells. I picked up a handful and ask if I could have them. The cashier looked at me with a strange puzzled look and said "yes, as long as they're empty".

I folded the money into thirds lengthwise then rolled them up tightly. I cut a small piece of plastic and rolled each bill inside. (This was to protect the money from the next step).

I then used a strong glue, E-6000, to glue the shells together. I wrapped some masking tape around the shell until the glue dried. After it dried I removed the tape and voila, a gift in a nutshell. The kids liked their gift and their parents even wanted to know what tree I had picked these from since they wanted some too.

Pretty creative, if I do have to say so myself!
What are some creative ways you have given gifts of cash?

Blessings,
GrandmaB

SAVING - YOU CAN DO IT!

Saving money is hard for many of you. You want to but you barely make ends meet now! Here is a quick tip to help you. When you cash your check take a few dollars out for savings before you leave the bank. Put it away! Not in your wallet! You will find you don't even miss it. Even a few dollars a week will begin to add up over time.

Another fun way to save is to have a "My" jar. For me it was a secret place that only I knew about. I would add a dollar or more every now and then and I'd have $20 or $30 before I knew it. When you have enough, open a savings account and don't touch it. Turn it into a game and savings can become fun!