Simple Christmas Ideas

Lots of talk lately about simplifying Christmas, making gifts, etc. I wrote this for something else, but thought I'd post it to inspire some of you to make some gifts this year. Ian and I LOVE to give gifts, and these are some of the things we've done over the years for people we love.

Memory Jar: Write or type out as many memories as you want. Put each memory on a separate piece of paper. Put all of the memories in any kind of jar. Your recipient will enjoy reading them for years to come.

Picture Book: You can make an elaborate scrapbook, or simply gather meaningful photos and put them in a simple photo book. Add notes about each picture or let the picture speak for itself. What’s important is that you spend time finding pictures that are valuable to the recipient.

Handwritten Letter or Note: Handwrite (it’s more personal) a letter. Tell him why you are thankful for him, why she’s special to you, or simply record some of your favorite memories from the past year.

Empty Picture Frame with Note: Give someone an experience as a gift. Instead of just telling them about what you have planned, use a small frame and make a note to put inside. Tell him or her about your adventure and then promise a picture of it to remember it by.

Picture Calendar: This provides a year of smiles. You can make your own using your computer and printer or you can find websites to create and print them. They cost less than you think. Some programs let you personalize the dates as well so you can put a picture of your mom on her birthday and wish her a happy day!

Family Recipe Basket: Homemade treats are always fun around the holidays. Add a little extra touch by sharing family favorite treats along with the recipes. Again, this can be very elaborate with homemade boxes and handwritten recipes, or more simple with re-usable containers and a printed list of recipes. Either way, you are sharing something special with those around you.

New Tradition Gift: Develop your own new tradition to do with the recipient each year and make that part of her gift. Maybe you will fondue every December, or go for coffee on the Saturday before Christmas. Whatever it is, make it meaningful for the recipient and something that can be repeated year after year.

What do you do? I'm always looking for new ideas!