Do you struggle with what to give teachers? Sometimes I do. While I'd love to give big wads of cash, I don't really have big wads of cash to give away. And I'd love to give seasonal gifts and cute things, but I know a few teachers and their houses are full of that kind of thing.
Usually I make our teacher gifts. Last year, I did mocha mix, bread, pretty Christmas napkins, and a few other things--everything needed for a Christmas break breakfast by the Christmas tree. (And when it's eaten, there's nothing left to find a place for!)
This year I thought it would be nice if the girls helped make their gifts. And since they've been loving learning to embroider, I thought they could do zippies (because they are IMMENSELY practical and useful) for their teachers.
They chose the designs, did the embroidery, and I sewed them up.
(Sorry--I forgot to take pictures before they were wrapped up in cellophane bags!)
Audrey and Emma took them off to school this morning; I'm anxious to hear what their teachers thought!
What are zippies? They look adorable - what I can see! :)
Posted by: Rachel | December 17, 2008 at 01:51 PM
I think Caleb's teacher will get a gift after Christmas...schools were closed on Monday...reopened yesterday and now closed again and doubtful they will open again...so I believe we are going to have an extra long break...but I must say my older girls are already getting on each other's nerves which means they are getting on mine as well...Caleb on the other hand can't understand how school can be canceled because it is Wednesday..."I always go to school on Wednesday"...ha!
I hope the gifts go over well...I am sure they will.
Posted by: Helen at A Work of Heart | December 17, 2008 at 02:02 PM
I love them! I think handmade gifts mean so much more. I know their teachers will treasure them.
Posted by: Lisa | December 17, 2008 at 02:59 PM
Your zippies are the BEST! I love the sweet embroideries of your girl--handmade just for their teachers!! What a great idea.
Posted by: Holly @ Crownlaiddown | December 17, 2008 at 04:51 PM
That's a great idea! I make all my gifts for little girl birthday gifts but haven't found anything for teachers etc yet. I have a friend that makes a lot of neat things vgrdesigns.blogspot.com and we barter. (I make her little girl clothes and I get stuff for gifts or myself :) ) I got my sons teacher the Kneeling Santa ornament that is Santa kneeling at the manager and says "Every knee shall bow". I love it!!! Hopefully his teacher will too. Also, if you made your daughters Christmas dresses I'd love to see them.
Posted by: Stephanie | December 17, 2008 at 05:11 PM
I just started reading your blog and I don't know what zippies are? Handmade is wonderful :)
Posted by: Rebecca | December 17, 2008 at 07:25 PM
I just found your zippies! They are sure to be loved by the teachers :)
Posted by: Rebecca | December 17, 2008 at 07:27 PM
Ah...zippies are GREAT for so many things!
And I just have to tell you that I love, love, love clear cellophane bags.
I went in with some other moms on a gift for my girls' classroom teachers, but for all their other teachers (Will has 7!) and their office ladies, I bought recipe cards from the dollar bin at Michael's and wrapped them up really cute (cellophane bags, fun ribbon, etc). The male teachers got candy in theirs. It was cheap and cute, and hopefully useful. The recipe cards were red/green, but not necessarily Christmas-y so they can use them year-round.
Hey...love your new banner at the top of your blog. FUN!
Posted by: Meredith | December 17, 2008 at 08:13 PM
Dear Joanne-
The zippies are so cute and your girls did such a nice job!
Just to let you know, I made the clip board again and it turned out fine! My son's teacher loved it! Thanks for the idea!
Merry Christmas and thanks for a great blog! Missi
Posted by: missi | December 19, 2008 at 11:03 AM
Blessings Joanne...I've been here visiting all over because I want to join your Memory Meme and I told a friend who also is interested. I was going back in your posts to find out when you started blogging. In doing so, I discovered...you are an actual author. I'm so honored. I found this out when I went to check out ABC's...those are FABULOUS!!!An I only look at ATTITUDE!!!
Anyways, having been a teacher...I think your beautiful hand made embroidered gifts
are treasures!!! But I have a question, what are "zippies"? You have many very inspiring ideas! Thank you for sharing so well!
I will hopefully be starting the Monday Memory first Monday of the New Year! My problem is that I do a Blog Meme on Mondays but I so want to start this only in Spanish.
I probably will have to do both English & Spanish to refresh my mind & know so I will
have to do single verses. Not as able as you
WOW...the whole chapter or recently Mary's Song...how beautiful! I'm so encouraged & fired up!
Sorry so much in one comment but I couldn't leave without sharing how wonderful I found your blog! I appreciate you & your blog!
May you & yours enJOY a very Merry (Mary)
CHRISTmas! Your precious ones did so great!
Posted by: Peggy | December 19, 2008 at 05:23 PM
I got something in the mail today...
BLESS YOUR HEART.
I will formally thank you soon. Love you!!
Posted by: Marla Taviano | December 19, 2008 at 08:46 PM
WHat a super idea. I love that your girls could collaborate, too.
Posted by: Gretchen | December 21, 2008 at 02:53 PM