may simply want to declutter. In all these cases, you will be eliminating excess packaging.
Buy in bulk! From a bulk food store or special area in your supermarket, select nuts, dried fruits, candy or other holiday treats. Bulk stores now weigh empty jars prior to filling them and may even offer a discount for supplying your own containers.
DIY individuals with access to a kitchen, sewing machine, workshop, fabrics, wool, art and craft supplies, paints, paper, computer or a camera can design gifts that are simple and inexpensive.
From the kitchen, Christmas cheer can take the form of homemade liqueurs. To make Baileys, for example, crack 3 eggs into a blender and add 3 tablespoons of chocolate powder mix. While that is blending, include a few drops of almond extract, 1 pint of whipping cream, 1 can of Eagle Brand milk, then top with 1 cup of inexpensive rye whiskey. Bottle, add a bow and refrigerate. Family cooks can bake cookies, mincemeat pies, chocolate squares and braided fruit breads.
Experienced knitters are able to create doll clothes, stuffed toys, clothing, slippers, mitts and finger puppets. A novice knitter can make a scarf or hot pad.
Children can have fun crafting personalized stationery or creating word search puzzles for grandparents.
If sourcing scented herbs or other ingredients, one can find recipes on how to make homemade lip balm, soaps, shampoos and other personal care products.
Your time can be a precious gift also. Just as much thought and effort can go into practicing a favourite song on a musical instrument. Library books can become a gift when accompanied by an offer to do more household chores so that your recipient has time to read them before their due date. Gifts also can include repairing or up-cycling.
Generally, eco-friendly gifts will allow people to stay within their budget. This year, have fun making your holiday season even greener.
~ Larraine writes children’s books that highlight the joy of composting and pollinating with the adventures of Pee Wee at Castle Compost. To order, postage free visit: www.castlecompost.com
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