Wrapping
Photo by Ann Cook
What’s on my mind?
I hate wrapping Christmas presents, but I enjoy the preparation. It’s like making a statement about myself through my choices, especially with the paper. Am I a modern or traditional gal? Should I go funky-fun, or use newspaper to be eco-friendly? Store-bought or handmade bows? Even gift tags, should I handwrite them with serifs or not? And every year, I have to buy a new roll of Magic Scotch Tape because I can’t find last year’s.
After gathering my supplies and refreshing my coffee, I started wrapping in the quiet of the guest room. This year would be different, I told myself, as I have some pretty big shoes to fill.
Mom wrapped Christmas presents with the precision of an origami master. She measured each box and then the paper, cutting straight lines with sharp scissors. She always had pre-cut pieces of tape lined up on the edge of the table, ready to go. Her wrapping paper choices were sophisticated, like paisley. Her work was crisp, clean, and her seams disappeared. And when she finished, her presents were works of art. At least that’s how I remember them.
I started strong. I chose a fun forest-green wrapping paper with dogs in red sweaters and scarves, and the other, moose playing sports. Penny liked them. I found red 3-inch-wide ribbon for a dollar at Dollar General and bought every spool. Name tags were half price at Vons, and for once, I didn’t have to buy Magic Scotch Tape. I found the one from last year!
The first few presents I wrapped looked the best, they always do, probably because I took my time and channeled my mother. After that, my wrapping skills went downhill. By the fifth present, I was sawing at the paper with dull scissors and slapping on tape. Often, I cut the paper too short, so I had to patch it. And that cheap Dollar General ribbon had wires that poked my fingers until they bled. Toward the end of wrapping, I wondered if those old gift bags might still be in the back of my closet; sure would be a lot easier.
With all the presents wrapped and under the tree, my anxiety melted away. Everything was color-coordinated, just as I hoped, and the red bows were a bold and festive statement. I didn’t fuss with the gift tags this year; I just scribbled them. Then, I threw all the leftover wrapping paper, ribbon, and empty Amazon boxes into the big garbage can outside, only saving the Magic Scotch Tape. I’m not a wrapping paper saver.
To my family, if you’re reading this and your present looks a little wonky, I apologize. Obviously, your gift was toward the end. But just remember, I love you all, and it’s what’s on the inside that counts.
