Handmade Gifts

1Thessalonians 4:11

...and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands...

I absolutely love for my children and close friends to make me gifts for birthdays, Christmas, etc. I have saved a few of my children's handmade items over the years as well as special items that friends have made for me. As my children have gotten older, these types of gifts are fewer and far between. For my birthday this year I had asked my college-aged son who loves to work with his hands to draw something for me instead of buying a gift. He actually did both but I was so delighted when he gave me this lovely card and 3-dimensional glass/wood piece of art that he designed and built. He finished it yesterday while he was here visiting. I have it setting on my piano and continue to be touched by the time and effort that went into this project.

Handmade gifts are cherished far longer than any store-bought item. I encourage you (and myself) to start working with your hands again to create something beautiful for someone you love.

FAMILY & FRIENDS: Creative Gifts for Friends

Philippians 1:3-4

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you...

We all have friends and acquaintances other than family that we would like to give small gifts to on their birthdays, Christmas or other special occasion. Women and girls tend to do this more than men or boys. In order to not go into the family budget I try to give something creative or handmade, but not too time-consuming. I love to take photos and people often send me nice ones as well since they know I enjoy editing and framing them. Often I'll make a simple gift of an enlargement print in a tasteful frame as a gift. We have an Old Time Pottery store AND a Bed Bath and Beyond about 2 minutes from our home where I often pick up attractive frames at deeply discounted prices. Picture prints range from 13 cents to $1.50 at the Sam's Club Digital Photo Center which is also nearby. A lovely gift with a personal touch for $5.00 or much less. Don't forget the card (I usually make these on our computer as well).

If you have another skill such as baking, calligraphy or flower arranging, these are much appreciated "homemade" gifts as well. Gift giving does not have to add financial stress. A small, thoughtful gift tells your friend that you cherish and love them.