Homemade Gifts

Each Christmas I have the dream of making every gift that is given from me or my family. I have visions of scarves and scones, picture frames painted and cards drawn with care. Wouldn't it mean more to my grandma if the ornament I give her is molded by tiny hands and sloppily yet lovingly painted by her great-grandchildren? How about my mother and mother-in-law? For them, every year now, I think of making a scrapbook. The last scrapbook I made was with pictures of our honeymoon I made the first year we were married. I have seven blank scrapbooks in my room waiting for pictures. And I know my mother gave me a few with the idea of getting them back filled with photos of her smiling grandkids. But alas, this too has not happened.

I've read the secret to homemade/handmade gifts is to start early. I know this. Does anyone do it? Is there such a person out there who begins making presents in January and is finished well before December 25? Does this person have friends, a family and a life outside of Christmas preperation?

I did make a few rounds of biscotti this year. Turned out quite nicely, I think. But only four people on my list will find out exactly how nice.

Merry Christmas and happy store-bought and homemade gift giving!