I think I may love giving birthday gifts more than receiving them. I really like the process of thinking about the perfect gift, and always strive to give a gift that is relevant and meaningful and that shows them that I have spent time thinking about them. Knowing that someone has taken the time to think about you… is a gift in itself. I recently had fun picking out a gift for a girlfriend who had just started an Alex and Ani bracelet collection and I could hardly wait to go to the Paper Store to browse the selection. When I arrived, the woman behind the counter asked me if she could help and when I told her that this gift was for a lifelong friend, her eyes lit up and she said “We just got something in that you’ll love.” She was right. I loved everything about it. In addition to the bracelet I included a box of her favorite candy, it is one of those things that she loves but won’t buy for herself. That’s what friends are for!It reads: Two arrows with intersecting centers is a symbol of friendship. While each one points in its own direction, they meet at the middle touching their hearts. My friend and I are on polar opposites when it comes to some very important life choices, we have never once let that get in the way of our friendship. When I read this meaning, I knew it was perfect.

I’m addicted to wrapping paper. I have bolts and bolts of it, I simply cannot walk by a bin without tucking a roll under my arm. Here are the step by step photos and some gift wrapping tips. If you have ever struggled with making a bow, here is a link to make a beautiful bow via Martha Stewart.