This past weekend my sister surprised me with a little gift. It was something she made to support a treat I have been getting for myself.
I have become a fan of the cold “refresher” drinks that many restaurants are tempting us with this Summer. I love the ones at Starbucks, but admit that at $6.25 for a 16oz drink, I’m limiting the number of these that I order. The strawberry Acai Lemonade Energy Refresher at 150 calories is my favorite there.
I somewhat accidentally found out that good old McDonald’s offered Refreshers as well and have become a fan of their Strawberry Watermelon Refresher. It sells for $3.25 for 21 ounces and “costs” my daily diet 210 calories.
Although it’s a little less than half of the cost of the Starbucks refreshers, there’s no tipping at McDonalds, and therefore the difference tends to be from $4 to $5 which is not insignificant.
I try not to get these more than a couple times a week, as my doctor has counseled me not to “drink my calories” AND they’re not really that nutritious.
Delicious, yes! Nutritious, not so much.
The photo at the very top of this post shows my latest McCafe refresher purchase, sporting a very handy cup sleeve that is not only reusable, BUT has cotton terrycloth on the inside to absorb the condensation that is inevitable this time of year (Summer). It’s the PERFECT accessory for these treats, and it rolls up into a small piece that I can attach to my key chain with the iintegral clip.
Interesting note – my sister gets the quality terrycloth for these and similar projects from Ollie’s !! Apparently their towels are top quality and are the best deal on terrycloth fabric.
Who knew!?!
Social media has a tendency to suggest that gifts need to be grand and lavish, but I disagree. Across my life, some of the most meaningful gifts I’ve received have been the little, handmade, thoughtful gifts that were given to me “just because“.
This happy little gift has also reinspired me to get back to making “just because” gifts for people once again. I have stepped back from it (no particular reason) and was reminded today how much JOY can be found in a small gift, made with love, and delivered with a smile.
I surely don’t think these acts of random niceness will change the world overnight, but I know that we could use a lot more goodness and smiles right now, and that’s something I think we can ALL get behind!
Happy stitching and gifting to all!
(C) 2026 Stitch ‘n Dish
Similar patterns:
- The Perfect Coffee Cozy pattern (video tutorial)
- Free Coffee Cozy pattern (written)
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