This year I went a different route for our IT Radix team holiday gift and gifts to family and friends. What follows is the message that I shared with my team. I inserted a few headlines to emphasize what I considered some of the most important points…..I hope it resonates with you.

Even if it’s been used before, an item can still be useful.

This mug isn’t just for coffee! It’s a second-hand treasure (because the best gifts are kind to the planet) — paired with a vintage spoon that reflects my gratitude to you, and a few unique edible “treats” hand made by small business owners.  I selected each one intentionally for one reason or another that you might be able to guess. I’m hoping that at least one of these treats will strike your fancy and those that don’t, you’ll share with your friends and loved ones.

Being connected matters

After all, there’s something special about sitting down and sharing food and drink together—it nourishes not only our bodies but also our connections with one another. That’s why I enjoy our in-person potluck each year—it allows us to connect on a different level that we can over Teams.  But if sometimes you need a solitary moment like I do, cup it in your hands and feel the warmth of the mug. I’ve come to truly enjoy my morning tea in the wee hours with just the sounds of the house or nature (when I’m sitting outside) around me (aka silence or nature bathing).

Small changes and actions can make a difference!

A few things to also note—most of the items are consumable, meaning that (hopefully) very little will go to waste.  All the packaging is recycled and/or recyclable.  I believe everyone can make a difference by reusing, reducing and recycling with just a little bit of thought and often, no additional effort. 

Being flexible and adapting can lead to great results

Now, more about the mug.  Just like you, this mug is versatile, flexible, and ready for anything. At work, we all wear many hats and adapt to whatever the day brings — and this mug can do the same for you.  If you’ve seen my desk — you know I truly subscribe to the a “mug for everything” principle.   😉

It’s not just a mug—Here are a few ideas to get you started…

In the Kitchen

• Enjoy coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or soup.
• Whip up a quick microwave mug cake or scrambled eggs.
• Portion snacks or use as a single-serve bowl.

On Your Desk

• Keep pens, pencils, and highlighters tidy.
• Store paper clips or rubber bands.
• Add a touch of green with a desk plant.

In Your Home

• Use as a toothbrush or razor holder.
• Light up your space with a tea light candle.
• Rinse paintbrushes or hold craft supplies.
• Display a small bunch of flowers.

Other Handy Uses

• Warm your hands with hot water inside.
• Collect spare change or tiny parts.
• Scoop birdseed, flour, or rice.
• Fill with goodies to “re-gift” forward.

To my wonderful IT Radix team

So, I raise my mug filled with gratitude and say cheers to a season filled with warmth, joy, and care — for ourselves, each other, and the planet. Thank you for bringing your own flexibility, versatility, and heart to our team every day.

For my friends and family

I’m grateful to have you in my life—to share life’s ups and downs. I love you all.