I like to believe that nearly everyone has the capacity to give meaningful gifts that won’t break their banks. Today, I’m going to make a few suggestions to get you thinking outside of the box this holiday season. The good news; there is still plenty of time to brainstorm and come up with your own great and doable gift giving ideas.
1.) The gift of time. Pick something that you’re good at, or comfortable doing. and give the gift of time; organizing, snow shoveling, babysitting, pet walking, car washing, photography, handyman work, etc., and make a gift certificate for the gift recipient. To avoid confusion, make sure the certificate is job and time specific. It’s also a good idea to write your phone number on the certificate with the message; call and let’s set a date!
2.) Cook. For years, I have made it a habit to make homemade meals to give. They are always a huge hit. I like to prepare foods that can be frozen and reheated later. Trust me when I say that recipients of these gifts will gladly make room in their freezers for a batch of your homemade meatballs, lasagna, mac & cheese, meatloaf, quiche, or homemade soup.
3.) Bake. While cookies are one of the most popular treats to give during the holidays, try zeroing in on Christmas morning. I don’t know many people that would be disappointed with a big pan of homemade cinnamon rolls, a delicious breakfast casserole, or even a tasty breakfast pizza that they can enjoy while opening presents. Make sure your recipient knows in advance that you will be delivering a special treat.
4.) Craft or Create. I don’t know about you, but I love receiving handcrafted gifts. My mother in-law is a wonderful quilter. She produces some of the most beautiful quilted projects I’ve ever seen. I love receiving something she makes for a couple reasons. One, I’m a horribly impatient person when it comes to sewing and I know my limitations. And two, her work is so beautiful that if I wanted to purchase something similar, it would cost me a fortune. These quilts are now treasured heirlooms – just like the ones my mother made and I now cherish.
And while I’m not quite as creative as my mother was, or mother in-law is, I can come up with a few inexpensive gifts to make all on my own.
Sometimes a batch of homemade hot cocoa, a pretty little cup to serve it in, peppermint sticks to dip in the cocoa, and a handmade card make the perfect gift.
What are you asking for this holiday season? World peace, good health and prosperity, a spa day, gift cards, help around the house, clothes, a new car, or something else?
THE JOY OF CAKING 