Do you need nice, but inexpensive gifts for your neighbors, but don’t have a clue what to give them? This Christmas, don’t stress yourself out by shopping for hours on end. Instead, make your own homemade holiday gifts. Try these ideas that your neighbors are sure to love.
Gift Idea #1: Layered Cookie and Drink Mixes
Buy a box of Mason jar and lids at your local grocery store. These are usually available year-round. Purchase a small amount of fabric, to decorate the lids with. Using your favorite cookie and drink recipes, layer the dry ingredients inside the jar. Print your recipe on a small card, punch a hole in the top corner, and tie it around the lid.
Gift Idea #2: Homemade Jams and Jellies
If you grow your own fruit or veggies, jams and jellies (or pickled veggies) are wonderful gifts to give your neighbors. Make sure to can/jar extras during the summer months when you harvest. Then you’ll have ready-made gifts on hand at the end of the year! You can “pretty” the jars with your own decorations, if you wish.
Gift Idea #3: Inspiration Jar
This is a nice gift for neighborhood kids, as well. Write special, inspiring or motivational messages on small slips of paper. Fold them in half and drop them into a small, clear jar or bowl. Then write a special message on a card to go outside the jar, telling your friend or neighbor that the next time she’s feeling down or sad, take a message out of her “Inspiration jar” to help cheer her up.
Gift Idea #4: Homemade Goodies
Who doesn’t love homemade cookies, candy or bread? Plan a special day just for baking. Create all your favorite treats, including your famous homemade bread. Prepare trays of treats for everyone in your neighborhood. (You can find inexpensive plastic trays at most dollar or department stores.