Gina's Gift List

You have been invited to a baptism or christening. You have the card. You know you would like to give money. Then comes the awkward question: How much are you actually supposed to put in the envelope? The reassuring answer is that there is no official amount you have to give for a baptism or christening . For most U.S. guests, I would consider around $25 to $100 a perfectly reasonable range, with the amount depending much more on your relationship with the child and family than on any fixed etiquette rule. As a practical starting point: Casual friend, neighbor or acquaintance: around $20–$40 Family friend or extended relative: around $30–$75 Aunt, uncle or close relative: around $50–$100 Grandparent: around $50–$150 or more if that fits your family tradition and budget Godparent: around $50–$150 or more, depending on your relationship, denomination, family traditions and whether you are also giving a keepsake or paying for another part of the baptism Those are guid...

There is a special kind of crocheter whose answer to “What are you making?” changes every week. A cozy blanket is on the sofa, a tiny penguin is on the desk, and three irresistible ideas are waiting in the yarn basket. If that sounds like your favorite person, give them something that makes the next beginning more fun—and the last few stitches easier to finish. This guide mixes dependable everyday tools, fresh techniques, project-ready yarn, and clever ways to keep works in progress under control. Start with the early picks if you want an easy Amazon purchase; later gifts include a few specialty-shop finds for the crocheter who has already tried the basics. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Why These Gifts Were Chosen Every pick answers a real “new project” moment: choosing a hook, winding a fresh hank, keeping track of a stitch repeat, explo...