Treasures

Mary Ann

It is that time of year when you must begin thinking about graduation gifts or wedding gifts!  I have a simple and meaningful gift that I have given on numerous times over the years.  It just takes some thought about the person you are giving the gift to for whatever the occasion.  I called the gift – Treasures I Wish for You!

It all started one Christmas when I was looking for favors to grace the Christmas table.  I happened to be in Pier 1– remember Pier 1?  What a great store to escape and see all the pretty things and great ideas for holiday decorating.  I wish the stores would come back. Another victim of Covid.  I digress. 

 I found little brightly colored satin boxes that were shaped like treasure chests and others were star shaped.  I ended up buying several of each and thought I would fill that them with representational things that I wished for the recipient.  For example, I would use a penny to wish them wealth, an apple for health, a happy face button for happiness, and so on.   Everyone enjoyed their treasures. 

I then began to make Treasure Boxes for graduations, birthdays, and weddings.  It is a personal expression of love.  I would buy little boxes when I found them.  Sometimes I bought unfinished boxes at Michaels and stained them. Other times, I would buy bone, metal, or finished wooden boxes to give. What is funny is the boys loved these little treasures and what they represented just as much as the girls did – a surprise! 

Now, you may wonder where you get the treasures.  It can be as simple as a penny, or you can search for just the right the items at stores or online.  Stores like Michaels or other craft stores have miniatures sections, scrapbook materials, and doll house accessories. Look at novelty buttons – lots of cute treasures.  Dollar Tree also offer tiny items that be in their craft sections or wedding materials.  You can go on the Internet to find treasures.  Ganz has adorable miniature items to represent a large range of interests. If you want to upscale the gift, the Ganz charms and special boxes can create a classy gift, truly unique! 

I am providing you with a list of what the treasures represent, and you can mix and match for your needs.  I type a list and start the list off with – Treasures I Wish For You, _Name_. Then I list the treasures, and I end with – Dream, imagine, and believe in yourself! Live each day to the fullest. Life is a treasure!  Keeping adding to your box with the passing years.  Fill it to the brim! Once you make a list and fill the treasure box, roll the list up and tie it with a ribbon placing it in the box.

-Ideas for your Treasure Boxes-

A Heart – I wish you love.  Love your family, your friends, your country, your life, yourself

A Penny – I wish you wealth. If given much, share it.

An Apple – I wish you health. Eat right, exercise, and drink lots of water!

A Pocket Angel – to protect you

A Dove – There is always HOPE!

A Snowflake – You are unique, one of a kind!  Be yourself.

A Cross – Trust the Lord with all your heart (Proverbs 3:5) or have faith in something larger than you.

A Little Book – I wish you knowledge. Be a life-long learner.

A Little Gift – Be a gift to the world.

A GEM – Always Go the Extra Mile!

A Mirror – Take time to reflect. It is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

A Suitcase, Passport, or other travel items– Travel! The world is BIG and there for you to explore.

A Butterfly – Change is Good.  It makes you grow.

A Shamrock – Good Luck! When opportunity crosses preparation, it is luck.  Be prepared.

A Die – Risk! Take a chance! You won’t know unless your try.

A Shoe (for a young lady) – Be Sassy and wear Stilettos!!

A Basketball, a Football, Baseball, etc. – Always be a team player

A Star – Let your light shine through – Sparkle!

A Ballet Slipper – Stay on your toes. Twirl in endless wonder of the world. Leap for joy!

A Dog or Cat – Keep animals and nature in your life – they restore your soul.

A cupcake, golf ball, or other items that represent a hobby – Do things you love.

A phone – Stay in touch with friends and family.  Call your Mom!!

A Flag – Love your country

Magnifying Glass – Keep exploring and creating.

For Weddings – write treasures to both. An example – Snowflake – appreciate the uniqueness of each other.

A Wine Bottle (adults) – Remember to celebrate the big and little joys of life.

Ideas for the Treasure Boxes are endless.  Your own  creativity is your only limit.  Make a memorable, unique gift for your upcoming graduations, birthdays, and weddings.  It will be a treasured gift for years to come.