One of my favorite Christmas gifts that I get every year from my mother-in-law is a beautiful tin of her homemade short bread cookies. She brought them one year to share with the family and after tasting the perfect buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, they instantly became a “must have” on my wish list! They are yummy, can’t be replaced by store bought cookies and are made with love.
Here are some other gift ideas that are from the heart.
10. A BUTTERFLY GARDEN - A single butterfly milkweed bush attracts so many butterflies. It's a simple pleasure that will grow in your friend's garden for years to come.
9. A COMPLIMENT JAR - Fill a decorated mason jar with words of affirmation for the one you love. Have your kids participate in this project. They’ll have fun coming up with nice things to say about daddy, nana or a close friend.
8. A PHOTO BOOK - Do you love scrap-booking but don’t have the time? There are so many computer programs now that allow you to create a photo album quickly and at a reasonable price. These are especially great for loved ones that live far away.
7. BABYSITTING/COOKING SERVICE - Who couldn’t use a night out with free babysitting or a home cooked dinner delivered.
6. A LOVE LETTER – Tell your spouse why after all these years he’s still the one or send a letter to a friend listing all the things you admire and love about her. Include a coupon for coffee or her favorite dessert shop.
5. A COOKBOOK - Your friends are always asking you for your latest recipes. Compile a list of your best dishes and pass it on.
4. THE GIFT OF TIME - Tell your daughter-in-law that you’ll babysit for an hour once a week. Get on the floor and play with your kids for an hour every day. Give your husband an hour every night to unwind without asking him do anything. Call your Grandmother once a week and have a nice chat.
3. A CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT - My best friend and I give each other a Christmas ornament every year. We try to find ornaments that reflect the year our friend has had. When my husband and I bought our first home, my friend sent an ornament that said “home sweet home” and when she opened a music school I sent her an ornament shaped like a musical note. Every year when I decorate my tree I think of my friend and the memories we have shared.
2. LESSONS – Have you ever heard a friend say: “I wish I hadn’t quit...fill in the blank”. Do you have a talent for photography, tennis, playing the piano? Give the gift of free lessons.
1. A SPIRITUAL MAKEOVER – Enroll a friend in a bible study with you. An hour at an ACF bible study is like a facial for the soul. Bonus…babysitting is often included! Check out women’s ministry main webpage for a list of upcoming studies.
I would love to hear from YOU! Share your creative gift ideas along with your email address in the comments box. The most creative idea will win a gift certificate to STARBUCKS!
It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)
