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When was the last time you made Christmas cookies for all your relatives? I understand that time may be a problem, but I swear there’s nothing that says “I really care about you” then a batch of homemade cookies received in the mail.

They aren’t expensive, you can decorate them in unique ways, and they will be appreciated not only for their yumminess, but because you took the time to create them. Just a dozen cookies, decorated and presented in a cute little holiday tin (you can find them at the thrift store) makes a gift that can’t be beat. If you’re trying to cut down on your holiday spending, this might be the way to go.

Just a little old fashioned creative genius!

Posted November 29, 2008 Comments(0)

I realize I can be a real stickler when it comes to encouraging you to be the artist you know you are. And yes, I feel strongly that all of us have that potential.

Still, sometimes you just plain run out of time and need a special Christmas gift that you can only find online or in a store somewhere (preferably an artist’s gallery). When those times occur, don’t feel bad. After all, if artists aren’t supported, how can they go on creating their beautiful works of art?

One thing I do encourage is bartering. You have a skill (making Christmas cookies, perhaps) and your friend makes gorgeous wreaths. Get the idea? This is a wonderful way to collect gift items for special people. I’ve always done a lot of bartering. Besides, it’s awfully fun!

One of the most precious gifts I’ve ever received was a card created by someone I loved dearly. She spent hours conceiving the design, thinking up the message and then putting it all together for me. It meant more to me than any store-bought gift ever could, and to this day I keep it with my most treasured possessions.

We all have a lot of “stuff”, I’d wager to say a lot more than we’ll ever really need. This holiday season think about either making your own gifts to give, or, like my wonderful young friend, crafting a card that has a message you’re beloved friend or family member will hold dear throughout the coming season and beyond.

With the threat of economic hard times looming, this is a good time to reevaluate the important things and rediscover the inner artist longing for expression. Creating has many benefits on so many levels.

Posted November 6, 2008 Comments(0)