Dec. 17, 2006 - Save Those Christmas Cards!

Last year, I saved the fronts of all the Christmas cards for a "I don't know why but just in case and because they're pretty" reason.  Well, I found some fun ideas for those old cards.  A couple of the ideas will help develop acts of service for your kids.  The other ideas will anxiously hit the garbage can when Christmas is over (if not before) but it gets the kids directed on a fun activity or keeps them busy while working on studies with another child.

My personal favorites are the ornaments to give away and the placemats. 

Ornaments

For some of the smaller pictures, cut them out using some zig zag scissors (or some other fancy cut).  Use decorative ribbon, sequins, or glitter to glue on as a border / frame.  Glue a loop of ribbon on the back to hand the ornament from the tree (or hole punch and tie ribbon through).  As an added idea you could write the name of the person who sent you the card on the back.  Each day pray for a different "ornament" person then hang it on the tree. 

Or

Write a brief note of encouragement to an elderly or sick someone or just anyone.  Then deliver or mail.

Cards

Same as above except don't attach a ribbon for hanging.

Placemats(for younger kids)

Cut out pictures with fancy scissors.  Let children glue several pictures on a sheet of construction paper. Cover with contact paper, if desired.  Use a placemat.

Streamers/Garland

Cut out pictures. Decorate, if desired. Glue a loop of ribbon on back or hole punch and tie ribbon through.  Write the name of the person who sent the card on the back so you can pray for them.  Hang them on a string. Or make into a streamer by gluing the picture onto a wide ribbon to hang.

Gift Tags

Cut out pictures from the front of the card with fancy scissors.  Decorate, if desired

Use as gift tags on presents.

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Comments

Dec. 19, 2006 - Thank you :)

Posted by TrainingHearts

Thank you for your assignment suggestions! I will be using them soon. I have an assignment for this week already but thank you, thank you, thank you :)

I really appreciate your help.

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Dec. 20, 2006 - Great ideas!

Posted by jenn4him

For years and years, my grandma reused her cards by putting them on presents as decorations, instead of bows. I save my cards and recycle them the following year as cards, like you mentioned or use them like my grandma did. Thanks for all the other creative ways to use them. I think we will try making place mats. They would liven up the kiddie table.
Jenn

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Dec. 21, 2006 - Untitled Comment

Posted by ladyhawk82158

Thanks for these ideas Jill!!! I wouldn't have ever thought of them without someone saying "hold on to those Christmas cards." LOL

I just had to stop by to get a glimpse of your children...and of course, the twins. You have a beautiful family! I can't believe I didn't catch that you had twins too before when I visited either. All our children are such a wonderment, I know...but sometimes...twins can have such a fun relationship to watch blossom over the years. :)

Praying you have a wonderful holiday season with your family.

Blessings!
~ Christine ~

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