Homemade Gift Giving

First of all, I want to start by saying -

Hooray for Christmas break!

I took a bit longer of a hiatus than I had intended, but I forget how busy school gets right before the break. I really try to get everything done so I won't have a lick to bring home. I managed - but it didn't leave me much time to do anything else. Besides, that is, my gift baskets!

At holiday time, I always make gift baskets for friends and family. In years past, they have included (primarily) edible goods. But this year, I went more so in the direction of useful goods as well. Goods that won't add anything to your waistline. Candy Cane Sugar Scrub - this has been a HUGE hint for 2 years now. NEVER again will I buy the high-priced variety in the stores. All natural, and effective, for clean and exfoliated hands.

Sugar in the Raw
Extra Light Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Peppermint essential oil
Vanilla Essential oil

Pour sugar into a bowl. Add olive oil until the sugar is well saturated, and then add a little more. You want it to be mostly sugar, but enough oil to coat the hands well.

Add oils to desired power. I also love to make one with clove and cinnamon, but had mint on hand this year. To use, lather on, rinse, and pat dry.

Holidays in a Jar (from the Publix Greenwise Magazine)

To do this, I highly recommend hitting up your local wholesale warehouse (BJ's, Costco, or Sam's). You can also check out the Latino section of your grocery store - where they have the commonly used spices (Badia). They are far cheaper than the ones in the baking isle!

1 part ground nutmeg
1 part anise seed
2 parts whole cloves
3 parts ground or stick cinnamon
1/3 part ground ginger

Mix together and pour into containers. To use, mix 1/2 cup to a quart of water, bring to a boil, and then let simmer. The scent will fill your home.

Also in the baskets this year - fudge, layered bars (will post soon), popcorn seasoning, minty powdered coffee creamer, and sugar cookie mixes with sprinkles. Hopefully my friends and family will enjoy using these as much as I enjoy making them!