Hey! Unto you a child is born!

{your presence} the greatest present

There is without question a fleeting happiness in unwrapping special goodies on Christmas Day, but I think we all look back and find deep-seeded joy in sharing memories with those dear to us. 

My Dad recently asked me what some of my favorite Christmas memories were.  Special gifts made the list (like in grade school when my hip Aunt sent me the "cool" purse all the other girls were carrying or in junior high when my big Brother sent me the most unique sterling silver ring from his travels to Alaska), but stealing the spotlight were definitely memories of activities and traditions with family and friends.

During the next week, enjoy and bring joy by gifting friends and family with your time building memories and traditions together.  Recently, I wanted to gift some friends and their families holiday cookies.  Rather than just picking up a variety of treats and dropping them off, I invited the ladies over to bake and decorate Christmas cookies.  It was such a fun time catching up, laughing and working together.  At the end of the evening, we all got to take home goodies for our families. 

Your time, your presence, is truly a gift!  And giving of ourselves and being present with our friends and family continues to prepare our hearts to celebrate Jesus, the true gift that fulfills our fleeting longings.
 

homespun magic at corrieberrypie

As we continue our countdown to Christmas, the Lunchbox Buddies know you are finishing up your shopping for all those special somebodies.  Last week we featured international gift ideas that give back.  This week we wanted to highlight stateside artisan's handcrafted goods.  

We are thrilled to introduce you to the homespun magic of corrieberrypie.  

We discovered Corrie's etsy site through a co-worker and immediately swooned over her whimsical jewelry pieces.  Whether you are looking for that perfect, unique present or for personal creative inspiration, trust us, you will *love* Corrie!  She has a gift of turning overlooked items into surprising tokens of celebration. 

How did you get started with jewelry?

I've always had the need to create (something...anything!) as far back as I can remember. I've made my own jewelry for years, but when my first child was born it seemed like a fun and easy thing to do from home during all those newborn naps. I've taken breaks from it from time to time to focus on sewing, painting, and drawing. But keep coming back to jewelry making.

How would you describe the style of corrieberrypie items and from where do you draw inspiration?

I make one of a kind (or few of a kind) pieces, incorporating vintage and reclaimed materials as much as possible. I'm inspired by the nuances of nature and romance, the juxtaposition of textures, beauty and function, old and new, etc.

Do you have a favorite item to create?

My favorite thing to do is take apart old pieces and remake them. A bag full of old broken jewelry is like Christmas morning for me. I love a good mixed up necklace, made from a collection of sundries that separately may have been forgettable, but when linked together form a balanced and interesting piece.

Where can we read more about corrieberrypie?

blog: http://corrieberrypie.tumblr.com/

instagram: http://instagram.com/corriealvaro

twitter: @corrieberrypie

shop: http://www.corrieberrypie.etsy.com/

the gift that keeps on giving

December is here, our friends!  While out running errands tonight,  one of the stops had an official "21 days till Christmas" countdown sign right at the entrance.  Like we needed the reminder...

As you brainstorm present ideas, consider gifts with a lasting impact.

Lunchbox Buddies knew exactly where to turn for ideas on gifts that keep on giving.  Our friend and co-worker, Kerbi, has helped launch some pretty phenomenal social enterprises for some wonderful organizations.  Most recently, she is working with Penh Lenh, a jewelry partnership between the Nashville-based anti-trafficking organization Abolition International and Cambodia-based after-care program for girls Transitions Global.  Transitions discovered a need to offer sustainable income opportunities for their high risk girls who have gone through their trafficking rehab program.  And a social enterprise was born!  Penh Lenh's mission is "to empower young women rescued from sex trafficking in Cambodia to pursue their life goals through quality education, vocational training, and advanced career opportunities."

We fell in love with this Watermelon Jade Pkah "Flower" Bracelet ($32.50).  The 2013 Collection includes earring, necklace and bracelet options.  The items are so complimentary, that you'll want to purchase multiple pieces for layering and stacking!  And not only are you gifting a unique present, but you also "support quality restorative care, career opportunities, and a hopeful future for survivors of sex trafficking in Cambodia."

In addition to her recent work with Pehn Lenh, Kerbi also worked to launch Red Earth Trading Company, which partners with Nashville-based Global Support Mission, to empower small businesses in East Africa.  In addition to jewelry, you will also find some accessories and home goods, all artisan-made.  Every purchase from Red Earth creates a "double dose of good."  Not only do the artisan families involved benefit, but the organization gives 5% of every purchase to sustain the community development work of Know Think Act.

For a peek behind the scenes, check out this sound clip

from our interview with Kerbi.

 

HAPPY gifting...and giving!