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If you read my blog you know that I was able to get 2 liter bottles of Sierra Mist at Albertson for only .37 cents. I bought a bunch of them to use for Christmas gifts for friends and neighbors. Being that I need to make 40 of these I needed to keep them simple, but I think they turned out cute! If you wanted to jazz it up a bit you could add a gift card, put in a gift basket…. but this gives you an idea of what you can do.
Start out with any 2 liter bottle of soda
I used wrapping paper to use as the bottle wrap, cut to 14 X 6 1/2 inches.
I used a Stampin Up rubber stamp to put the wording on…but you could just print it off your computer too.
I then cut out the wording and backed it on red paper, then cut it out.
I then used another StampIn Up stamp, to stamp out the word Enjoy
I then used the Stampin Up Scallop punch to cut it out
I then used a die cut from the Big Shot ( sold by Stampin up, thanks Leslie for letting me barrow yours to cut these out)
I then glued the stamped images to the die cut
Glue the Die Cut to the center of the Pre-cut wrapping paper, glue it good since it is going on a bottle it tends to want to lift off the curved bottle.
Then I wrapped the bottle and used a tape runner to tack down the wrapping paper, for a nice clean edge.
I then used some curling ribbon on the top.
Soda cost me .37 cents, supplies were about .10 cents ( most the stuff I already had on hand)….a cute Christmas gift for under .50 cents!
Here is one done in a rustic look, used a brown paper bag as the back ground.
Same idea, just different colors.
Both my girls were helping me make these….My little Maleeya who is two, kept putting her feet on the desk… she was not much of a help. Silly little girl…all part of being a Mom!
Update*** I was lucky enough to have one bloggy friends who writes a wonderful blog, share this post with her readers. I was so excited till I started to read the comments….People said things like this
- “I would be pretty insulted. It’s a tacky gift.”
- ” I know we can do cheap but this is way to cheap”
- “I would be embarassed to give one as an actual gift (soda, and sorta generic soda at that??? come on! this is just plain CHEAP!) and horrified to receive one!”
I felt awful, How is this so different from a plate of cookies? I have to admit I was very hurt….but this was my response to her readers.
I just wanted to say that I know this may not be the best gift on earth, yes it is Thrifty. But this is a gift that will be given to church friends and neighbors…..people who I want to extend a warm Christmas greeting too. We will hand deliver these, with a Christmas card and a cute song from my little ones.
It may not be a lot… but my friends now we do not have a lot to give…I guess it goes to back to the saying it is the thought that counts.
That is one of the reasons I started my blog to show others that is is ok to be thrifty and live with what little you have. If we had more we would give more…
I want to teach my Children to look for ways to give to others, even if it is small, it is the fact that we care enough to try.
As the little drummer boy said” I have no gift to give” But playing his drums he gave all he had…..and in the spirit of Christmas that was enough.
These are adorable!!! The would make a great pre-teen/ teenager gift and you could do it with a birthday theme!!!
I think you did a wonderful job!
I thought this was a wonderful idea, I was taken back when I read your update about what others had said, I even bookmarked it just to come back to it today. Without your cute and frugal gift idea I wouldn’t be able to reach out and give a gift of any kind to my neighbors and friends. Thanks Sarah for sharing this one!
Ok, so some people may have thought it would be the only gift…I think it is just like cookies, very cute and homemade and the thought there is better than any gift card! You did a great job and I love the idea and would love to get such a gift!
i love these! when you first posted about them and said you would be making them into gifts, i had NO idea how you were going to do it. i was so giddy when i saw your post of the finished product! they are beyond adorable! you did a fantastic job, and anyone would be happy to receive this. it’s always fun to receive a small token and know someone was thinking of you.
i’m so irritated by the negative comments…so rude and inappropriate. i hope you didn’t let them get to you…you did an amazing job, and i hope they didn’t ruin it for you. can’t wait to see more of your great ideas in the future!!
I love the idea and think it is a great idea, especially when you have a lot of people to get things for. Thanks for the ideas. Some people are just rude and should keep their opinions to their self.
I really love this idea! You are my Hero!!
I’m so sorry about what those people had to say. You seem to be a very thoughtful & sweet person. The people who left those hurtful comments were quite rude! You gave from the heart and THAT is the TRUE spirit of Christmas =-)
Hello!! I think that this is a great idea, and if somebody is wanting to add just a little bit more, they can attach a package of kool-aid and 3/4c. of sugar with instructions to mix kool-aid and sugar, then add the pop, and now they have simple holiday punch!!! (maybe you could even add a plastic ladel {sp?} to it too!)
Just wanted to throw in my 2 cents worth.
How neat… I have been saving free stuff from Walgreens for months. I made up a ton of gift baskets for friends and family who haven’t quite caught the disease I call couponing. I have saves so much couponing this year that we are nto feeling that holiday pinch. Allowing us to be more generous than ever. This is such a cute idea and could be adapted to any inexpensive item. I too love to give just a little something to neighbors and church friends but when you are blessed with so many who can afford it. This is cute and says that you care. Besides gives you a great excuse to say hello and that is the true meaning of christmas. Chin up & Merry CHRISTmas!!
This is my very first time to your site and I think these are really cute to make for parties and family events! I’m a very crafty person and love to make nothing into something so these caught my eye! My family would go nuts over these and think they were just out of this world cute! To the mean people who took the time to write nasty comments…shame on them! They obviously are just being rude and must have all the money in the world to go put on Christmas presents for dozens of people! Thanks again for taking the time to show us all how to make these. Just know that there are A LOT of people who really do appreciate your work and thoughts! Thanks
I think it’s a VERY sad thing that people are sooo materialistic that they worry so much about the cost or perception of cost of a gift! I think this is an amazing idea and when you have 40 people to buy something for you’d have to be a millionaire to buy expensive gifts for all of them! I think this is a wonderful gift and exhibits the true meaning of Christmas! I love your site Sarah, please don’t take these rude and entirely too blunt people’s comments to heart! Man some people are sooo rude!! Thanks for the idea on these, I plan to use it next year for gifts!
I am very ticked off that people have left hurtful comments about this but yes I love hiptodave but there are ALOT of negative people on there. I have only been couponing seriously since May but this is the 1st year I am able to get anything for anyone other than my daughter in a long time. We have a BIG family but I am giving out the glade impressions and a candle to everyone. Thanks to blogs like this I am able to do this now. I will probably throw in some toothpaste and toothbrushes also. These are all things people use and less money they have to spend on buying it. I never bought the sodas becuase I don’t like 2 iiters but NOW I willdefinately buy them to do this idea throughout the year. THANKS!!
I have been reading your blog daily for the last few months. What keeps me reading is that you practice what you preach. You personally show us how you use talents. I love all of your recipes and ways to freeze veggies or make jam. Please keep up the good work and keep including your recipes and personal ideas on how to save money. Anyone can put coupon links on line but you show us what you do. Thank You!!
I wanted to add my voice to those of praise. You do a fabulous job with your blog!!! Earlier in the year I won the give away for the small cards and envelopes in the tin. They looked very professional. You are very talented and obviously there are a lot of us that love you!!!
I don’t think these folks realize the amount of people that you probably buy presents for. These cute “soda” gifts are for the neighbor, mailman, garbage pick up guy, church friends, and many people that are not expecting a gift. Those mean spirited comments are probably from people who don’t give a lot of gifts. Maybe they are thinking that those are your “big” gifts, to your close family; Mother, Sister, etc.
I appreciate all the info you take the time to share with the bargain hunters of the world. Thanks. You are Great!
This was a really cute and sweet neighbor gift idea. Thank you for putting yourself out there each day with your ideas on your blog. It’s unfortunate that a critical comment can hurt more then a positive one can uplift. But I wanted to add the list…I think you’re great!!!
I think this is a great idea. We add a ba of microwave popcorn to our 2 litter bottles as atatch a note that reads. Pop Pop Fizz Fizz oh what a good neighbor you is. You can also substitue teacher, friend, ect.
I’m sorry some people can be so mean. I recently started my own blog and that is actually one thing I am afraid of. I don’t know if I can handle criticism. I think it is a great gift and was completely impressed with the effort you put into sprucing it up! It’s a useful and clutter free gift that will be appreciated!!
Well, I think that is just adorable! You are so creative to jazz it up like that. I would have never thought of that.
Whatever happened to “If you can’t say anything nice, say nothing at all”?? I’m sorry for those hurtful comments. Personally I am thrilled to receive any gift at all. And, we have stopped buying soda–even if it’s a good deal. So, this would be a real treat for us.
I think this is great! I plan to make some with the Dr Pepper I got for free at Giant Eagle last week. I had 11 .55 off coupons and they were on sale 5/$5 and with my coupon doubled at Giant Eagle they were free. Who can’t use something to drink for the holidays or whenever. I also liked the fact that you are showing me how to make use of my Stampin Up stuff and extra craft paper. Great JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So glad I found your blog! I live in southern Idaho and am always looking for more localized deals and bargains. I grew up going out around Christmas time giving treats to neighbors and church friends and I think this is perfect! I am sorry that others feel the need to voice their opinions in such a hurtful way. Keep up the good work and Happy Holidays!
First of all, I love your site!
Second –
Those mean-spirited comment-makers out there should evaluate how they celebrate Christmas. Do they give a gift to every person they are acquainted with, from places like church or the neighborhood? I guarantee they don’t. So how is giving a bottle of decorated soda worse than NOTHING?
Plus, if they really are going out and buying expensive gifts for the forty or so acquaintances they have, they are probably going broke and in credit card debt because they think that only expensive gifts are good enough. And hey, you want to be in debt forever, then fine. But for the rest of us who understand the true meaning of Christmas (and stories like the ‘Little Drummer Boy’) we would be delighted to receive such a special treat.
Also, these are great ideas for kids, who most likely are not allowed to have soda very often. It’s just like candy…that people give all the time during the holidays. What’s the difference? Geez.
Sorry about the rant…
Merry Christmas! Even to the scrooges who post nasty comments.
May the spirit of the season soften your Scrooge-like hearts!
I love these. What a cute idea to remind those around you that they are being thought of this holiday season! I wish I would of thought of it. It would be a nice change from baking cookies! I will be keeping it in mind for next time I need a cute party favor. Love your blog and all the creative ideas. Keep up the good work!
I was surprised as well by those comments! What a thoughtful, cute idea this was. I totally agree that it can be hard to find something to give many church and friends; many of us our on very tight budgets/limited income but still want to show a token of our love and appreciation to those around us. I think that is EXACTLY what you have done with this. And I would think it was so darling and thoughtful if I got one of these from a friend as a Christmas treat/gift. Makes me wonder about people’s expectations and judgments…how sad for commenters like these…I can’t imagine living life not seeing offerings for what they symbolize and represent rather than there cost. I am impressed with the ways you seek to serve and “dress” stuff up so cute. It’s inspiring to me.
I think everyone who posted before me pretty much said it all
I do have to add that I think it is sweet you’re taking the time to let so many people know you care about them! That’s what Christmas is about – love not the gifts.
I love this gift. We have been looking for little items that this to put together for teacher gifts. My daughter has 3 teachers, these are great ideas for them. The people we choose to give gifts to would never be insulted or repulsed by such a thoughtful gift of love. It’s unfortunate that others can’t see the beauty of a handmade gift!
IF YOU CAN’T SAY ANYTHING NICE, ZIP IT!
Check out this article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20091215/us_time/08599194759000
It’s about reducing the commercialism of Christmas and giving more thought about the Season. You’re thoughtfulness and creativity imbodies the movement that there is more to Chrismas than expensive gifts. Here’s my favorite part:
“So McKinley and his friends decided to try a radical experiment. They urged congregants to spend less on presents for friends and family, and to consider donating some of the money they saved as a result. At first, church members weren’t quite sure how to react. “Some people were terrified,” remembers McKinley. “They said, ‘My gosh, you’re ruining Christmas. What do we tell our kids?’” The pastors had to reassure people that they weren’t advocating a Grinchy no-gifts kind of Christmas, but rather one in which people spent a little less and thought a little more, expressing their love through something more meaningful than a gift card. Once church members adjusted to this new conception of Christmas, they found that they loved it. Many, in fact, seemed relieved to be given permission to slow down and buy less.”
First, please forgive me for my writing because I am not American. I started couponing just a few months ago and I love your blogs. I have saved a lot with all your help and ideas. In the past, I could buy the only toys that my nieces/nephews have on their wish list. This year, with the same amount of money, I can buy items on their wish list plus some other thoughtful gifts that I think they will be surprised. I know that I could not do this without all your help. After reading about your soda bottle idea, I just said “why I could not think about this?” Well, maybe because I am not that talent or not that thoughtful. I always wanted to make a Christmas gift for my co-workers but I could not spend a lot of money for the gifts. I can do a few $ for each person but it is hard to find a nice gift for less than $5 without any coupon. Last night, I went home and get all the stuff that I get either free or less than $1 with the coupons in the past such as M&M candies, a pack of cookies, small jar of Glade candles. I don’t have the craft tools that you used but I do have access to a computer to make a simple Christmas card. While making all the gifts, I know that I put my heart, my thought in it. It is not the content of the gift; it is the love in it. Now I have nice gifts for my co-workers that I can afford. If I ever had your bottle, I would not drink the soda. I would keep it because I want to keep the love that you give me. Again, thanks for all your work.
I LOVE the idea!! I think its great to hand out to people you arent as close to.
Or when you throw a party these would be great on each table.
Maybe even at a pre-teens bday party for party favors!
Hey, I’m visiting from hip2save. I have several co-workers that I didn’t know what to get for Christmas, but this would be perfect. All of my collegues love pop so this will definitely hit the spot. I’d like to add my 2 cents too, maybe not every idea that’s posted on the blogs like this or hip2save is for everyone, but the 99.9% majority of us appreciate all the hours of work you pour into this. Sorry about the negativity and spite. I don’t understand the need to bring someone down like that. Oh, and yesterday we had young men and women from our ward stop by to carol for us and drop off a sack with a couple fruits. We didn’t care what they dropped off. We LOVED the fact that we were remembered.
people are dumb! I thought these were sooooooo clever and cute. Anyone who disses this is jealous!!!
mean people suck! These soda bottles are so cute! I love them. You are so talented. Don’t let what dumb people say ruin it for you, everyone that you give one to will love them!
I received a 2-liter of soda with a little poem that had the soda name in the poem and I thought it was the cutest and creative gift I received last year. It is just nice to be thought of, that is what Christmas is all about and it is sad when people lose sight of that. I think you are doing a great job and I really appreciate all that you do to help us save money. Merry Christmas!
please dont take that to heart. It seems as if the hip to save comment section is full of people that just want to leave nasty and hurtful comments. A few weeks ago she posted about the cutest croc wedge shoes and people were just writing nasty comments. Her blog more than others are full of hateful people and I dont understand why. I dont think they get that they are reading THRIFTY blogs. Maybe they just visit there for the 20% off coupons from coach handbags. Anyways, just wanted to say that I love your site and your soda bottle idea. It was great and so cute! My husband lost his job last week and I am a stay at home mom so now, more than ever, am I looking for thrifty finds.
THank you for what you do!!!
I can’t believe all these people who said those rude comments, personally I thought this was a great idea, very nice and creative. Soda is getting more and more expensive too. I think the people who are saying this wouldn’t be a good gift are being ungrateful, would they rather get nothing, than something someone hand made that you spent time and effort on? Don’t listen to the people telling you this is a bad idea, this is a wonderful idea that many of us really like. You are so creative, I would’ve never thought of this idea, maybe those people saying the negative stuff are just jealous of your creativity.
Re Jadyn: You can have your opinion about this, but what do you gain by posting negative comments?
Sarah, I think this is a cute gift! I’m saving this for next year’s Christmas. Such a thoughtful gift! If someone doesn’t appreciate it, then they can be marked of my list.
Thanks for all you do!
Those people are scrooges who have forgotten the meaning of Christmas. You & your family do so much and this is an adorable gift idea! Merry Christmas!
I think it’s WONDERFUL! You put so much thought and love into your gifts by personalizing them. My jaw completely dropped when I read those hurtful comments. You are always thinking of others and how to give back to your community and that is what makes you a truly amazing human being. There needs to be more people like you in this world!
These are so cute! I love your blog and your whole outlook on things! (There will always be negative people who are never happy with anything. The just want to wallow in their own misery and try to suck everyone else in.) The good thing is, the really thankful, positive people won’t fall for it.
Don’t let the rude comments get you down! I think your dressed up soda bottles are cute and I would not be offended to receive one! People forget to calculate the added expense/value of the personal touch you put on each bottle!
You go girl!!!!!!! God knows your heart !!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow. The amazing things that people say. Mean and hurtful things seem to flow out of some people because they speak before they think. Obviously some have never lived in a more humble lifestyle and HAD to learn to be thrifty on a daily basis. Coming up with ideas to be able to give birthday gifts or Christmas gifts with little to no money was my life growing up. Some of the littlest things that I thought were not worthy of a gift, turned out to mean the most to some because they knew my circumstances.
I think it is wonderful, not matter how small the price. Would it have made a difference if the soda cost $5 each.
Sheesh!
I’m visiting from H2S as well and I think this is a really cute idea! I’m sitting here trying to think of who I could give it to. And I love some of the reader comments – Merry and Sprite! What a cute idea. Now that I think about it, I have friends moving in to a house soon, maybe I’ll twist this around and make one for them! Thanks!
Sarah, in today’s economy who has the money to buy even $5-10 gifts for EVERYONE they know. If I were your neighbor, I would seriously be touched to tears if you simply showed up on my doorstep with your kids and sang to us! And I’m being HONEST! Unfortunately for me…I am BEYOND uncrafty and could NEVER even pull off these sodas! haha….so my neighbors get nothing…I guess I’ll be the Scrooge neighbor! =)
I think that this is an absolutely fabulous idea
If others want to go into debt spending an arm and a leg on everyone they know, they can go right ahead. Don’t listen to them. Not only is a something that the receiver can actually use during the holidays but you took the time to make it look beautiful. I’ve never seen a more beautiful bottle of soda!
Hello,
I missed this when it was on Hip2Saves site, but read that people are looking for it on there and someone put a link to your site so the ones who missed it could see what it is. I think this is such a wonderful, cute gift idea, especially for people you weren’t planning on getting a gift for, but would like to just give a little something to show you appreciate them. I also think these are great to do as a hostess gift or in a gift basket. I don’t know why people have to be so hurtful! Don’t let those rude comments get to you. I would love to get one of these as well as give them. I don’t hink mine would come out as cute as yours though!!
Hi Sarah! I love them, I think they are super cute. I am so sorry that people have hurt your feelings. Please know that I read your blog every day and appreciate your hard work.
I’m also visiting from Hip to Save and clicked the link to find out about your super-cute idea for decorating the soda bottles. I just love the idea and would love to receive a gift that shows the creativeness it took you to think of the idea and the kindness, thoughtfulness, and time it took you to do something for so many people. I love that you’re getting your kids to help you on a family holiday project that teaches them about the gift of giving. I like your site and really appreciate that you take the time to show step-by-step how to do your projects – really nice and helpful! Thanks for sharing!
Jadyn probably throws away the macaroni necklace her kids make her for Christmas too – “This isn’t a gift, this is so dumb!”
Love, Love, Love this gift idea. And it IS the thought that counts. This gift, to me, has A LOT of thought in it.Rather than give something that is quickly picked up on a shopping errand, you took time and thought on each present. I am a teacher, and last year, my students, knowing how much I LOVED my Dr. Pepper, all decided to get me some for Christmas! From 1 can, 2 liters, to a 24 pack, Students all couldn’t wait for me to open the gift, THEY ALL KNEW I would love! I was overwhelmed with the THOUGHT they put into my gift! Just one example where a 2 liter might make a PERFECT GIFT!!!!!
Sarah,
This is such a perfect idea and I know that your friends and neighbors will love them! You put a lot of work into them and did a fantastic job! This would be a wonderful gift to receive. Thanks for sharing!
Jaydn, The homemade card is attatched to the bottle of soda.
I’m going to be honest and I’m sure you won’t post my comment since you seem to remove all the one who might not agree with your view of things but this is freakin dumb! I would much rather get a homemade card then a wrapped bottle of soda. Dumb. Dumb. Dumb.
I am glad you shared your ideal with the readers of the other blog because im one of them. Your ideal will be a big hit for Christmas as well as New Years Eve Parties and yes Birthday parties etc. Please overlook the uncalled for negative comments on the other blog and dont let a couple of rotten eggs spoil your day. Your ideal came from your heart and we loved it.
LOVE IT! Since my husband is a youth pastor we are alway looking for fun gifts for prizes so this is top on the list for our party! I am also giving them at our Cookie Exchange Thursday night! I needed 10 prizes to go along with our cookies so this is it! GREAT JOB!
I want to let you know that I just copy your idea and make 6 gifts for my co-workers tonight. Thanks a lot!
I only just today found your blog. I saw the cute bottle picture and comment on the “other” blog earlier today and went back tonight to read it more closely. I was disappointed when I couldn’t find it. After a search, I found it here. Thanks for the cute idea! I have also recently bought several of these Sierra Mist bottles. I think it is a great idea. When it comes to neighbors and church, we end up with a long list of people we love. It is nice to share something with them-even if it is just a small token of appreciation.
After I saw this idea I totally wanted to go out and purchase the scrapbook stuff you used (but that wouldn’t be thrifty)….I think I’ll try to make do with the things I have, but I LOVE it!!! I am sorry that people were so rude! I loved it! If you LOVED it! then that is all that really matters!!! Read the book Stephanie’s Ponytail by Robert Munch!
Sarah,
Your response to the rude comments is exactly why I choose to read your blog everyday over the thousands of others out there! Your humility, honesty and compassion is truly what makes you stand out among the rest! This season should not be about the material gifts that we receive or give, it should be about the spirit and compassion in which they are given. You show people that you can still live a very full life without many worldly possessions, and for that you will be and are truly blessed! I love all of your ideas, and never once have I ever thought any idea was cheap (in a bad way)!
The people that left those comments obviously are missing the spirit of Christmas and all that it stands for. I think it was a brilliant idea for those little extra gifts to friends. I just feel badly that you even had to hear those comments to begin with. Merry Christmas!
May your Christmas be merry & SPRITE! I love the idea. The first time someone gave me a bottle of sprite with the above saying I was totally impressed by their cleverness! And of course I’ve had to steal that idea!
I love this idea. As a mater of fact, my family and I are invited to a holiday party and I was wondering what I could take. I now have my answer and it is something that can by used right away, if needed.
Don’t worry about the others comments. It is the thought that counts. I have made a lot of homemade gifts this year and plan to continue my efforts with “homemade” items. Our family is cutting back on all of the excessive spending and this is one heck of an idea. “YOU GO GIRL”!!!!! SMILE!!!!!
Sarah, you are one of the MOST WONDERFUL AND GIFTED PERSONS, please don’t waste your time with people like that, your time is so precious cause you need to bring us all these great ideas and bargains!! It’s sad that some people do not understand the real meaning of giving. Christmas is all about giving cause Jesus Christ gave His life for us, please don’t forget that people !!
I think this is an excellent idea for neighbors and church friends! All the time you put into decorating each one would mean more to me than the amount you paid for the gift. Homemade gifts are always more meaningful. Ignore the nay-sayers. Those are the kind of people who rack up credit card bills to keep up with the Joneses, which, since I see you are a church-goer, you know is not what Jesus would want of us. You are honoring God with these gifts, and people WILL appreciate them so, so much!
I hope you know that all of us readers at Hip2Save aren’t awful!!! I thought it was adorable. Not something I would prob give as a gift. BUT to each their own. I think the main message here is it’s something impersonal that you took the time to make more personal. Yes it’s a bottle of soda BUT you took the extra time from your day to hand decorate that. It was very very beautiful. I think people miss the main idea of Christmas. It’s not about who can buy the most expensive gift, Christmas isn’t meant to make you go broke. Which I think too many people spend more than they can afford so they “appear” to have more money than others. Which is very pathetic, and those are the types of people who gave rude comments on your post. Don’t let those people discourage you. I hadn’t read your blog before but now i’m going to add you to my favorites. Keep up the good work
Sarah, from a fellow crafter, I KNOW how much time/effort you put into decorating these bottles. That only makes the gift PRICELESS! Knowing that your kids helped only makes it that much more sweet. I did not see the post on H2S, but I agree that that particular site seems to be a breeding ground for haters. People will say a lot of crap under the disguise of a computer monitor! I personally LOVE when someone gives me a gift that shows resourcefulness and creativity! Plus I LOVE soda!
Sarah, I love this wonderful idea. I just can’t believe people said stuff like that. Well we know who has the Christmas spirit. Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family. We still love you!!!! Just remember he is the reason for the season.
I thought the soda bottle idea was adorable! Don’t worry about the negative comments b/c those people exist no matter what you post or do! Unfortunately, the comments were enought to warrant the WHOLE idea to be taken off, which I was a little surprised. Anyway, you seem to definitely have the Right spirit about giving and what this season is about. Obviously the whiners and small-minded folks were not thinking about just being thoughtful and not having to spend a ton of money for each and every person you deem special in your life. It is the thought that counts and I will Definitely be back to this blog! God Bless you and your sweet family and I am sure all those folks will love their decorative drinks! I know I would!
I want you to know that I think I am a reader to the blog you were referring to and for the most part, there are decent people and comments but from time to time, even the ‘author’ has to remove comments (yes from her own readers)due to the nature of them and their unpleasantry…not to say it is or was ‘just’ for them to say what they did about your idea with the soda, which, by the way, I thought was adorable and would be Very touched to receive! And what the readers that left rude comments REALLY do not understand is that their comments were also a reflection on and to the person who has the blog b/c she thought it was cute enough and good enough on her own. Now, unfortunately she had to make a decision based on her ‘readers’ and their biased opinions. Anyway, don’t be offended! Or try not to! You seem to have a wonderful spirit and the right attitude! So God Bless you and your giving, loving and helpful family! I WILL be back to this blog!
OH MY GOSH!! Where do people like that come from or I should say what planet!! I think they are geat gifts and thank you for sharing the idea!!
Seriously? Has anyone been to a website called Hostess with the Mostest? They always put custom labels on soda for a party – usually they pay to do Jones Soda custom labels! Can you imagine what that would cost???? I’m doing these cuties at my next party for my daughters! And I know I will get dozens of compliments. You’re brilliant!
I think you are so awesome! I love your response. You have captured the spirit of Christmas! Thank you for this crafty inspiration to friend gifts!
Oh yeah, and we need a girls night out, it has been way too long!
that’s so cute! People are so mean! We don’t buy pop very often so getting this as a gift would be a real treat for us!:)
HI- Im an avid Hip2save reader, and when I saw this post on her site I just smiled! What a crafty, neat, thoughtful idea.. Im new to all these couponing/money saving sites.. I love all the ideas and deals I get from you all.. But I have come to see some of the readers of these sites are stingy and selfish (like the ones that clear shelves or the ones that leave rude comments for no reason)..
You, Colin, and all the other wonderful people that take time out of your life to help others (like me) I thank you. Your ideas are FAB and please do not be hurt, saddened, or anything else by rude comments..
Just go with what mom always told us, ONLY JEALOUS PEOPLE MAKE RUDE COMMENTS!
Sarah ~ I read your blog everyday and have been wondering what you had planned for the bottles of pop. Thank you for sharing your idea with us. I want you to know that if you and your family delivered one of those absolutely adorably decorated bottles to my house, we would LOVE it. I would invite you and your family inside, pop some corn and offer you all a glass of pop or cup of hot chocolate. {{Hugs}}
I don’t think everyone does the whole neighbors and church friends gift! When I saw your idea I knew immediately that’s what it was. I think it is really cute and took a lot of your time to make. We give and receive lots of fun little gifts like these with our friends from church and on our block. Thanks for sharing the simple, but cute idea.
I love this idea! How creative — they look professionally done — really. I would love a thoughtful gift like this. You have inspired me.
I’m from H2S too — keep up the great work — I’m glad I’ve found your site. Another great resource.
Dear Thrifty Mom,
Thank you so much for all the ideas. From recipes to crafts. I hope you won’t left those nasty comments detere you from future posts. I love, love, love the ideas on what we can do on the stuff we’re getting. And yes, so many of us have numerous people we need to give a “little something” to, but not able (or would rather not) spend a lot. So…very cute! I think the VERY BEST part of it is the memories you’re making with your kids! So please keep it up!!!
I mean especially…..
I think it’s a great idea. Wish I would of thought about it and picked up about 40 for my office. We all hand out little things at Christmas time and they would have just loved it, expecially with all the fancy decor. They would have been so impressed with me being so crafty. This day in age, it is so nice to get something made from the heart. Hang you head up high Sarah and be proud of what you are teaching your children and enjoy the gift of giving! I know you will!
This is such an awesome idea for a gift. Who cares that it was inexpensive! You made it into something that was personalized. If someone looks down at a person for the cost of a gift then they don’t deserve to get a gift. Keep up the good work!
I am also visiting from It’s Hip To save, and I have to tell you that you truely have the right spirit of Christmas in your heart! I am a mother of 3 and a pre-k teacher. It always makes me sad to see how materialistic some of my children in my room are. Even though my own children have no money, they are required to think of something that they can do for their other brothers and sisters and mom and dad and write it down, put it in a box and wrap it themselves. The joy that THEY experience on Christmas day is awesome. You are taking the time to remember others around you, that most people wouldn’t give to and you are involving your children in the precess. What an awesome thing, and I promise you when your children grow up to be adults, this is what they will remember about Christmas! God bless you!!
I would be thrilled to death to receive one of these. The love that goes in to making the item is the true gift. The people that criticize are the ones that need the gift the most!
How cute!! Your labels look so professional. I would love to receive one of these as a gift!
I think this is a fantastic idea. Don’t let those who called this idea cheap bring you down. You are taking the time out of your busy day to sit down and create something special and unique for someone. I never hear anyone say giving someone a jar full of hot cocoa mix is cheap, when it is the same thing. It’s nice to just be remembered
I personally think these are absolutely adorable!! ~Amber
Ditto to All of the ABOVE!!! Visiting from Hip2Save. And all I can say is -”Why didn’t I think of that?!” I love it. It is perfect! Now I only wish I knew of this sooner and had some sodas. I can’t add anything more than what’s been said….other than “God Bless You & Your Family & MERRY CHRISTMAS!”
Thank you for the great idea. I follow you daily and appreciate all that you do for the rest of us. You make our lives better and you have no idea the positive impact you make on other’s lives. THANK YOU!!!
I think this gift is very cute! Don’t let others get you down.
I love this idea!! What a great gift! You made them look so fabulous!!
I like the idea, it’s cute. Especially since you will be adding a song. Have you thought about adding a cute saying that incorporates the word soda? For example – “Here’s hoping your Christmas is soda-licious!”
Love, love, love it!
What a fun gift, especially if the kids in the families you’re giving to aren’t often allowed the treat of soda. What fun!
So Sarah I have been anxiously awaiting to see what you were going to do with these. Now I am worried about how I am going to pull this off. I am NOT crafty! You are inspiring me though.
Once again try not to take these attacks on you personally, you are a dear, sweet person to be so thoughtful. I understand where you are coming from.
I feel so sad for you. Words can hurt. Makes you wonder what those mean peoples live are like at home. Your an extremely generous person. And most important, your children learn from your example.
I am going to be completely honest here. If it was me who was getting this gift, I would think it was absolutely adorable, and would most likely leave it on my table as a decoration. I would take a home made gift, a small box of cookies, whatever graciously! How many people can honestly afford to give –40– people small tokens for Christmas? I don’t know anyone personally. For a small token I think it is just perfect. I wish someone would make me one!
I think its a fantastic idea. I bought a bunch of those same sodas and then got the bags at Walgreens for 8 for $1. I plan on decorating them up and giving them out to the nieces and nephews. Thanks so much for the idea, I would never have thought of it.