Of course, you're all hustling and bustling about out there, so we'll try not to take up too much of your time with this newsletter. But if you're like the rest of us, you'd probably welcome a break!  

So, while the last batch of cookies is cooling, grab a cup of tea, eggnog or hot-buttered rum and put your feet up. Then catch your breath and catch up with the latest year-end news from The I.D.E.A. Store. We promise to keep it low-cal but idea-rich!

Speaking of ideas, while you sip and chill, check out these links to fun New Year's projects using materials you can typically find at the store:

* Visit this  web site for kid-friendly projects, from "resolution magnets" and festive banners to party hats and sparkly balls.

* Find even more kid-friendly crafts here.  

* Party decorations, courtesy of Martha herself ... always a "good thing."  

* By all means, make some noise while you're going green!  

* And when the party's over, plan your new year with a 2012 calendar you make yourself. 

Need some special wrappings or trims to complete your holiday packages? There's still time to make your own during the remaining open studios at The I.D.E.A. Store. No need to make a reservation - just stop by Friday, Dec. 15 and 16 from 4-7 p.m. or Thursday, Dec. 22 at the same time.

All materials, ideas and guidance will be supplied. The fee, which can be paid when you visit, is only $5.

Making eco-friendly purchases takes into consideration the needs of people around us and the impact on Earth's natural resources. Here are tips for conserving both natural and fiscal resources while also supporting local non-profit organizations and families in need.

More fun, less stuff

Adapt your traditions or start new ones that are in line with your economic reality, so you can avoid panic and regret when the bills arrive. Introducing new traditions in a positive way will help family members, friends and co-workers adjust their expectations.  

Avoid the "big boxes." Instead, package home-made   treats in decorative tins or boxes you make yourself.  One-of-a-kind, hand-made gifts from reused/recycled items, such as those found on The I.D.E.A. Store's "Wall of Intrigue," are sure to please recipients who appreciate the unexpected.

Set and honor your budget

Reduce spending as needed. Ask yourself whether each item you're considering is affordable and ideal for the recipient. If you are crafty, control costs by making gifts using materials from The I.D.E.A. Store!  

Embellish a gently used frame         with greeting-card cut-outs.

Shop at unique local stores

Buying locally grown and made gifts supports the hometown economy and invests in preservation of the uniqueness of the community. An exception would be supporting non-profit stores such as Ten Thousand Villages, which features sustainable products and helps craftspeople in developing countries earn a living wage.  

Give charitable gifts that honor

Making donations to local non-profit organizations in the names of people on your list helps important work continue during tough times. This year, consider supporting local men's and women's shelters and the food bank to help provide people with the basics this winter.

Katlyn, who served as our student intern last summer, has been volunteering at the store since fall 2010. Her volunteer duties have included a little bit of everything: from sorting and organizing to outreach and assisting with parties.

What does she like best about volunteering at the store?

"If I had to pick one thing, it would have to be the people," Katlyn said. "It just helps remind me there are awesome people out there who want to make a difference."  

Thank you, Katlyn, for all the awesome work you do!  

If you'd like to volunteer at The I.D.E.A. Store, we'd love to have you join us. We especially need folks who've previously been trained and can work even one- or two-hour shifts in December and January when so many people are out of town. We do, however, need at least 48 hours advance notice if you'd like to get on the schedule. If interested, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Claire Billing at claire@the-idea-store.org.  

The Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation saw a need in the community to accomplish several things: 1.  Support the arts and arts education, 2.  Support environmental education in our communities, 3. Impact the environment by reducing the rate of waste disposal, 4. create a place for everyone to have access to quality materials and 5. Support itself in light of the difficult economic times.  So donate your discards and shop re-use.  Its about making a difference!

 www.cuSchoolsFoundation.org