I, too, get caught up in the ease of Amazon and big box stores. I’ve gotten a few things, but for the most part, I want to create different gift giving habits. I want my family to believe homemade gifts and exciting thrift store finds are the norm. I think sometimes homemade gifts are often thought of as cheap or weird in society, but in the end, they are the most special. One doesn’t always save money making homemade gifts, but they are infinitely more meaningful.

Homemade gifts, thrift store, and antique store finds are better for the environment. And that’s important too.

Everyone has a stroke of creativity in them. Another societal misconception is that art is frivolous or only for a select few, when really, we are all artists. Oh there’s lots of things to create for gifts.

• Canning jelly- try cranberry, wine, or other interesting combinations.
• Crocheting- it’s not hard to learn and one can make everything from candle and cup cozies to pot holders to blankets.
• Sewing- if you can sew blocks together, you can make quilted throw pillows or full out quilts! Or sew an apron, or simple toys.
• Painting- how about watercolors, or make stationary, or a full painted canvas?
• Photography- have you taken an outstanding photo this year? You could blow it up and frame it.
• Baking- folks love homemade bread or cookies!
• Candles- candles are pretty easy to make, especially made with essential oils.
• Soap- if you make soap or other body products, why not share the wealth!
• Write a poem or a song, or a letter for someone dear.

Other interesting gifts are seeds, plants, or vintage cookbooks, cool antique store finds, thrift store sweaters, aprons, records, paintings, or dishes.

You could always support a local artist as well. Gosh, I bet there’s tons of them around you! You could buy something special that the recipient will surely not receive from anyone else. It doesn’t have to be a $500 painting, most artists offer their crafts and goods for very affordable prices. (Myself included!)

Sweetly wrapped thoughtful gifts, sending out Christmas cards, drinking a cup of hot cider in front of a happily decorated Christmas tree, let’s bring back an old fashioned Christmas! I think I’ll put on a Christmas record right now. Have a joyful day everyone!