Now that Thanksgiving is over my mind immediately jumps right over to Christmas. As I have gotten older my view of the holidays in general have changed, and Christmas is no different. Where it used to be more about material things, now I appreciate handmade or homemade gifts instead. Let’s face it, we all have more than enough of most things and more of something doesn’t do anything, but make our footprints bigger and give us more stuff to have to keep up with. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather not. Why not make the holidays a little simpler, and a lot more heartfelt. Isn’t that what the season is all about?

A few years ago I decided that edible gifts were the perfect way to go. They are simple, yet still show someone you care and are thinking about them during the holiday season. You could package the gifts in a reusable container or something that could be easily recycled and you have a gift that is thoughtful, yet could easily be consumed without a lot of superfluous extras. People appreciate the personal touch, and you’re giving a gift that can be enjoyed and not have to be stored or kept up with.

So how do you get started? Take a look at my archives from last December for ideas on everything from jarred gifts, to bread, to homemade cookies and/or ornaments, to candy. These ideas are simple, budget friendly and low impact. How can you get better than that?

Happy Holiday everyone!