Month: December 2016

Donate Time

Though we’re all probably excited for Christmas day and receiving the gifts on our wish lists, the holiday season is also about giving. Donating your time is a great way to spread holiday cheer and help those in need, and it won’t take anything out of your pocket book. These three organizations allow locals to volunteer and do everything from wrap presents to roll burritos all over Salt Lake City.

The Burrito Project

This group, made up of all volunteers, was founded by Rico Brand back in April of 2012. Rico donates tortillas, beans, rice, and their facility space. Volunteers roll burritos and pass them out to the homeless around downtown Salt Lake City. This organization feeds up to 500 homeless people every single day, and they’re always looking for more volunteers to help the cause. Click here to learn more.

The Ronald McDonald House

This wonderful organization is a nationwide effort to help families who have a loved one in the hospital feel a little more at home. The Ronald McDonald House of Salt Lake City offers a temporary home-away-from-home for families of children receiving care at nearby hospitals. They feed them and give them a relaxing place to stay so they can focus on helping their loved ones heal. The Ronald McDonald House offers a variety of volunteer options, including special holiday events and donating a meal to the residents. Recently, our Director of Construction, Jon Southern donated his time and some supplies to help the local Ronald McDonald House (pictured below).

The Candy Cane Corner

Now in their 17th year of operation, the Candy Cane Corner offers a great way for low-income families of Utah to select new holiday gifts for their families. This organization is looking for volunteers to sort through, organize, and wrap gifts for families in need. These families can receive presents in a dignified shopping environment, and you can help make their holidays a little brighter if you donate some time. How are you getting involved in the local community this month? Let us know in the comments!

December is a very merry and bright month. But what makes it even more special is the décor that towns, businesses, and homeowners put up. Snowmen, Christmas trees, wreaths, and twinkle lights truly give us that holiday feeling. To get this feeling in your own home, why not try a few DIY projects? They’re easy, inexpensive, and most of all, festive!

Pine Cone Christmas Trees

Using simple terracotta pots, a few pine cones, and some paint, you can create an original Christmas tree look. Use these as table centerpieces, mantle decoration, or on shelves to add a little extra holiday magic to your home.  

Wrapping the Front Door

Give your front door a little personality with this DIY décor idea. Cut out construction paper into shapes for the eyes, mouth, nose, and button down coat. Add in some holiday ribbon, garland and Christmas lights to truly bring your door to life!  

Candles with Nature

If you’re looking for a classier holiday look while staying in budget, try this idea out. Tie holiday green leaves with a simple white ribbon around different sized candles. These are perfect for a dinner with friends or simply adding elegant cheer to your home.  

Paper Holiday Lights

This is a perfect family craft that the kids will love. All this craft requires is some twine and different colored construction paper. Use whatever colors most appeal to you and cut out light shapes. Tie them all together on a line of twine and you now have the cutest DIY lights that can go anywhere.  

Popsicle Christmas Trees

Here’s another kid-friendly DIY idea that will make a holiday keepsake you can use for years to come. Create your own unique popsicle Christmas tree ornaments with different bling and accessories. They can be hung on a tree, on the walls, or on twinkle lights for some extra pizzazz.  

Mantle Garland

Red and white garland is a timeless piece of holiday décor. Instead of buying pre-made garland at the store, try and make it yourself! Use construction paper, wire, and mini close-pins to spell out your own holiday message.   What do you think of our DIY decoration ideas? Tweet us your thoughts at @HamletHomesUtah!