That's a wrap

Wrapping paper and keeping warm

Wrapping paper
I have always leaned towards the non-traditional when it comes to wrapping paper.  I don't like to waste money on something that is supposed to be torn apart.
Alternatives to wrapping paper:

Dish towels

They become part of the present (particularly good if the present is food/kitchen based)

Newspapers/Comic Strips

I like to collect international papers when ever I get the chance. I was working with a guy from China who's mother sent him over copies of his local paper he gave them all to me when he was finished and I wrapped all my Christmas presents -  my Brother's girlfriend actually thought I had bought it as legitimate wrapping paper.

I always save the comics section of any newspaper I come across - this is great gift wrap for Children (big and small) all year round.

Music Posters 

I use promotional posters for teenagers and twenty somethings. To be honest it doesn't really matter who the band/performer is. They usually love it anyway

Grease Proof Paper 

Some people don't always appreciate the more DIY approach to wrapping. It doesn't quite sit well with their home decor. Usually my opinion would be to leave them off my Christmas list. But there is always someone that is just too picky - My response use an even DIYier approach.

Wrap the gift in grease proof or baking paper that you have decorated yourself. A few holy leaves and some red ribbon can actually look quite designer!

Here's a link of a more upscale approach



Old maps 
Particularly useful for those who enjoy travelling or an outdoor lifestyle. Even if you don't have old maps lying around you can usually pick them up for pennies in a charity shop.

Wrapping up and keeping warm
One of the best things you can do is layer your clothing. If I know I will be working around the house, or more importantly sitting in front of my laptop or school work for any length of time I layer it up.

This might seem like a very simple thing to do, but I find it really helps. Tracksuit bottoms, t-shirt, vest and a cosy jumper (preferably a hoodie) usually does the trick.

*If you are sitting in the one place for a long time try and give yourself a 2-3 minute break every 30-45 minutes - get up and make yourself a cup of tea, or even just do a few laps of the house/room

If you are using central heating - USE YOUR TIMER 
There is no point in having the heat on full blast right until you go to bed. You should actually "power-down" your heating particularly at night, this will actually make it easier to fall asleep. The dropping temperature is one of the natural triggers to let your body know it is suppose to go to sleep


Gloves - fingerless gloves

I love gloves and sleeves - fingerless gloves let me work away unhindered on my laptop or at my corrections. Sleeves keep my wrists warm when I am working between in doors and out and still leave me without hindrance

Handwarmers

I don't get much use out of these myself, but they are great for people who have poor circulation. They are reusable, a very convenient size and a great thing for people to have when they are out and about.