Remember the feeling of pride and happiness you had when you gave your parents or grandparents a handmade gift? How about the warmth you feel when your children make a special present for you?

Why do we now feel the need to spend, spend, spend with the holidays? Have we forgotten that it is the thought that counts?

You can save a little this Christmas and make something from your heart.

There are a plethora of ideas online at Pintrest, You Tube, Family Fun, HGTV, Martha Stewart, and the list goes on and on.

Some of my neighbors are getting a plateful of sweets that will be fun to make as well as to give. My niece is getting a handmade puzzle from a few special pictures of her and her cousins. My two children are making a really cute stepping stone for my mom.

How about a calendar full of pictures for the grandparents? Or an offer of babysitting to new parents? Even gifts like a basket full of popcorn, a special movie and Junior Mints say that you thought about the recipient. 

One of my favorite gifts is a tin full of hot chocolate and marshmallows. Think of how quickly you will use it with all those fun snow days! Think you are not creative?

I offer workshops to jumpstart your creativity. No experience necessary! My next workshop is Friday, December 7 from 6-9 pm. You will make a special ornament/photo album and card. Details are on my Facebook page – look for me at ‘Kristine.Tanase.CTMH’.

Do you have to make everything?  No – but you will be happier with your credit card statement if you try a little.  And remember that it is not how much a gift costs – what matters most is how much it means.

Next month, I will go over the basics of scrapbooking - a great activity to do during the winter months!