The 12 Days of Christmas

I found this idea a decade or more ago and had done it in a similar way for some close friends and co-workers (at separate times).  There was a Craft "Board" that I used to frequent on the internet that had some really great ideas which is where I first saw it.  Sadly, I've lost the link and I think it may have dissolved, but every once and a while I see reference to some of the ideas on Pinterest.

My good friend J reminded me recently about this and that reminder came at a most opportune time as I was wondering what to do for my office mate.  You need a little time to gather all the items and a little time to put things together so you can deliver it by December 12th.

It's based on the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" and each day there is a little poem and a simple gift item.  I was lucky to have found a sheet of wrapping paper with the 12 days illustrated in blocks which made my little attachment cards a breeze.

So you start with a note that says:

The song you've heard sung

12 days in a row

Won't get tiresome with treats

From a person you know.

But to keep up the mystery

And surely the fun,

Start on 12/12

With Bag Number 1.

I found bags at The Christmas Tree Shop this time, but you can use plain brown or white bags.

Day 1 (Can of Pears)

The partridge in a pear tree,

Now that sure would be sweet.

Alas, the bird, it flew away,

But left some pears to eat!

Day 2 (Turtle Candy and Dove Chocolate or Dove soap if you choose, but then change the poem)

Two turtle doves were hard to find.

At the pet store, they said "Nope!"

So these turtles are the chocolate kind

And the dove is not the soap.

Day 3 (Chicken Soup)

If you agree that hens are chickens,

Whether French or not,

You're sure to enjoy this chicken soup,

Just heat it in the pot!

Day 4 (Chapstick)

When calling birds cackle

Their mouths get all dry,

Their lips start to crackle,

So give this a try!

Day 5 (Can of Pineapple Rings)

Five golden rings?

There really are more

Of sweet golden pineapple,

Straight from the store!

Day 6 (Egg-shaped Candy)

Six geese-a-laying

And interesting sight.

One of them squawked

And they all took to flight.

I searched for the eggs,

There were none in the nest,

But these egg-shaped candies

Might be the best!

Day 7 (Goldfish Crackers)

On this 7th day of Christmas

How nice it would be

If 7 swans-a-swimming

Your family could see.

The pond was quite empty

Since the swans have gone south.

We only found goldfish

To put in your mouth!

Day 8 (Candy Kisses)

The 8 maids were milking

Filling pail after pail.

The cows were all mooing,

I heard not a wail.

I watched til' I tired,

And then walked away - 

Sending kisses to all - 

Have a great day!

Day 9 (Cozy Socks)

Nine ladies dancing,

They put on a show.

Their feet got so tired,

So wouldn't you know,

I got you some socks

For warming your feet.

They're comfy and cozy

And all tied up neat!

Day 10 (Popcorn - preferably Jiffy Pop, or adjust the poem for microwave)

Ten lords-a-leaping

Like popcorn they fly.

So heat up the stove

And give this a try!

Day 11 (Hot Chocolate)

Eleven pipers piping

We'll give this a shot -

You'll need a mug of water

And make it piping hot.

Be sure to fill your mug

With love and with care,

And mix up some hot chocolate

You just might like to share!

Day 12 (Sparkling Cider or Grape - or wine if you so choose)

Christmas Eve has arrived

On this, the last night.

One dozen drummers

Would be a grand sight

The noise would be loud

And might hurt your ears.

Instead, make a toast,

And be sure to say "Cheers!"!

I filled each bag and added the appropriate tag with ribbon.

And they all fit into a large gift bag that again, I found at the Christmas Tree Shop, but a box would do also.

I put a bow on the outside of the bag with the explanation poem on the handle and gave it to my co-worker.  

So all the items are useful and this hopefully brings a little fun.  I know that when I had done it in the past the recipients were happy with it, so I hope my co-worker enjoys it.  

I think I'll be doing this again in a couple of years when my grandson's get a little older so they can understand it.