Give More by Giving of Yourself

It only takes a bit of creative thinking to come up with alternatives to excessive consumerism. Time is often a bigger gift than money. Creating special homemade gifts can mean so much. Homemade gifts are treasures of the heart.

Handmade Recipe Books

A handmade recipe book or recipe cards in a decorative file would be a great idea for young adults just starting out on their own. Make a compilation of old family recipes, include favorites from their childhood, you can also add some of your friends' recipes. Make them nice and make sure they're sturdy (to withstand the heavy use!) - Brittany

Handmade Gift Baskets

I wrapped mini loaves of quick bread in colored plastic wrap and ribbon and placed them in small baskets that I picked up at yard sales and second hand stores. I added packets of instant spiced cider, cocoa, or tea, and festive napkins. I tied it up with a bow along with a recipe card for the bread. Another year I added key chains I made out of beads that matched the color of each persons car. Mix and match your own ideas to personalize baskets for each recipient. - Lisa
Calendars

A couple of years ago I did a calendar for the family with everyone's photos, birthdays and special occasions. They were a big hit! - Karen

Handmade Candles

We bought wax and made homemade candles. My husband carved stamps, we made our own paper for stationary and greeting cards. Best of all, we got the Christmas spending craziness under control and paid attention to our families and each other. 

- Emily

For your Spouse

Go to your favorite store or second hand shop and get a nice frame, find or make some beautiful paper. With your most creative writing, write your wedding vows. 

- Cindy

Handmade Soaps

Soap making has been a wonderful past time for centuries. It's an exciting hobby if you want lovely skin and it makes a great homemade gift for friends and family. You can also make homemade bath salts or add aromatherapy scents.- Mary

Handmade Garden Stones

These are great gifts kids can make! Many craft stores have kits that include the molds and all the supplies. It's a new twist to the cherished handprint and they're adorable in the garden. - Kathleen

Dress Up Trunk

Fill an old trunk, decorative box or suitcase with fun clothing, hats, gaudy jewelry, tool belts, boots, scarves, props, etc. from the second hand store for children to play dress-up. My grandchildren just love it! - Shelly

Treasured Memories

Look through your kids' old clothes, blankets, stuffed animals etc. Cut out squares of fabrics they will remember, and make a little wall hanging, pillow, stuffed toy or whatever. Pick a nice quote or scripture verse and write it up in calligraphy or in nice handwriting. - Gwen

Kitchen Herb Garden

Great for the chef on your list! Plant herbs in small decorative pots or paint your own. Herbs don't need a lot of direct sun, just a bright window. This is one way to always be present in your loved one's days for a while to come.  - Jean

Coupons

Make coupons for helping others such as babysitting, a massage, a romantic dinner prepared and delivered, cleaning, yard work, etc. If you are skilled in a particular area - offer a lesson or class. Be sure to follow through and provide the service you have offered. -Gayle

Doggone Good Dog Biscuits

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/3 cup margarine
• 1 cup boiling water
• 3/4 cup cornmeal
• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 2 teaspoons beef or chicken bouillon granules
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 cups whole wheat flour

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, margarine, and boiling water. Let stand 10 minutes. Grease cookie sheets.
2. Thoroughly stir in cornmeal, sugar, bouillon, milk, Cheddar cheese, and egg. Mix in flour, 1 cup at a time, until a stiff dough has formed.
3. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface, mixing in additional flour as necessary until dough is smooth and no longer sticky. Roll or pat out dough to 1/2" thickness. Cut with cookie cutter (I like bone or fire hydrant shapes), and place 1 inch apart onto the prepared cookie sheets.
4. Bake 35 to 45 minutes in the preheated oven, until golden brown. Cool before serving. Store in a covered container or freeze. Do not keep like store bought biscuits.
5. Variations: omit cheese and bouillon, replace with 1 cup peanut butter.

Check out our Great Holiday Appetizer Recipes!

Share  your ideas with us!

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