Cross Ornament Exchange

(Cross I found on etsy)

I thought I'd do something a little out of the ordinary for this blog. Sometimes an unexpected interruption is just what's needed (especially if it's fun).

I am hosting my first ever exchange (swap). I've participated in a few over the years, but this is the first time I am playing hostess. I'm sure to make at least one mistake (*wink*), so thank you in advance for grace.

Christmas is a time for celebrating the birth of Jesus, but the cross reminds us of why He came. During the holidays, we often need help keeping the right perspective - our new cross ornament can serve as a visual reminder of Who, what and why.

Each participant will be responsible for mailing one cross ornament or an ornament with a cross on it and will receive one cross ornament or an ornament with a cross on it.

(Another cute etsy ornament)

Sound simple enough?

The exchange opens for sign-ups today, Monday, November 28 and will close this Friday, December 2 at 10:00 PM. After 10:00 PM Friday, no more participants may be added to the exchange. I will randomly select names and will send an email letting you know who you will be making an ornament for along with their favorites/preferences. You will not know who is sending an ornament to you until you receive it (this will not be the same person you are sending to). I thought this would add to the excitement. :)

Once you receive the name of the person you will be sending an ornament to, you will have one week to make or purchase your ornament. Cross ornaments must be mailed no later than Friday, December 16 (out of fairness to everyone, please do not sign up if you think you cannot make the deadline). If there are international participants, some ornaments may arrive after Christmas - but you'll have your first new ornament for next year plus a new friend in another country! :)  *You may specify whether or not you are willing to ship internationally (as this will be more expensive).

If you would like to participate, please email me at shellyafaust@gmail.com with the subject line Cross Ornament Exchange. In your email, include the following information:

1. Name
2. Address
3. Favorite color
4. Favorite metal (gold, silver, bronze etc)
5. Favorite finish (rustic, distressed, shiny, blingy, etc)
6. Theme (shabby chic, Victorian, western, vintage, animal print, etc)
(If you do not have a preference, simply state no preference.)
7. Are you willing to ship internationally? (yes or no)

Cross ornaments can be:

• Hand-made
• Store bought
• Your favorite cross ornament taken from your personal tree
• Wood
• Fabric
• Glass (just make sure you pack it tight)
• Metal
• You get the idea... :)

If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to ask. And if you see that I have left out some vital information in this post, please feel free to let me know :)

I love receiving packages in the mail!  Can't wait!

Let the exchange begin!
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Linking up with Jen and others for the Soli Deo Gloria Party: