I thought my kids would enjoy having a set of large wooden blocks. So, I went to our workshop and asked my husband to help me cut some of our scrap lumber into sizes the kids would be able to use. I started sanding them by hand, but the wood shop class where my husband teaches graciously finished the project for me. We can always add to this set as necessary and with whatever scraps we have on hand.
I had posted a question on DSD’s for some ideas about gifts for my older two boys. Someone suggested a treasure map and skeleton key. I never did find two skeleton keys, but I haven’t given up hope that some family member may have some. What I did do was take 2 boxes (that vitamins came in) and spray painted them with paint we already had. Then I applied some vinyl name stickers a friend had made for the kids. I had some scrap pirate fabric from a pair of shorts I made for James this summer. I made two small drawstring bags from it and placed some golden coins we had gotten somewhere years ago. They aren’t worth anything, but the boys didn’t care. I also printed out treasure maps from a google image I found. I printed them on legal size paper and cut around the lines that were already on the map. Then I wadded up the paper and soaked it in very strong tea for a few minutes. I squeezed most of the water out and laid them flat to dry. Another free gift from things we had around the house. The boys love to pretend.
Lastly, I wanted to get the kids wooden letters of their names for their rooms. However, I didn’t like some of the prices I was seeing. I found some large unfinished letters for $0.99 each at Crafts, Etc. I ordered enough items to get free shipping, so that was a bonus. Then I gave each child their letters, some paint, a foam brush and foam mounting squares. We painted the letters a few days ago which was lots of fun. Now I just need to hang them up.
