Sunday, November 30, 2008

Christmas Gift Baskets for Everyone

By Juliette Crane

Christmas gift food is a topic we all enjoy. Special food treats are fun to give and receive. Here are some ideas for themed Christmas gift food baskets you can make for family and friends. You may want to keep one for yourself! Personalizing your Christmas gift food basket makes a thoughtful message of care and love that is sure to be appreciated. A Christmas gift food basket for your grandmother is likely to be different than one for a child or your boss.

For families that have a history of being dysfunctional the holidays my mean sad memories and dread at getting together again. For families that do not celebrate the holidays due to their beliefs it may be a time of feeling excluded and even alienated. No matter where you fall in this continuum the holidays are quickly approaching and gift lists and shopping needs to begin.

I have been fortunate to have wonderful memories of Christmas' past. My family had many wonderful traditions involving gift giving, baking, visiting relatives and friends and of course attending religious services. Now that I am an adult I continue to see Christmas as a magical time.

First of all, you want to choose the containers for the Christmas food hampers. There are typically three kinds of containers available. One is a lovely box that looks like a wrapped present. There is a postal box that is quite plain and more utilitarian in looks. Then there is my personal favorite; the picnic basket.

Now I continue to give Christmas gift baskets because the recipients look forward to the homemade goodies they contain. Because not having funds is not longer a factor for me I use the best ingredients in my food items and high quality materials in the craft items.

Through the year I look for different containers to use for the Christmas gift baskets. Most times I do use baskets however depending upon the likes and personality of the recipient I may use another type of container. One year my nephew was just getting into fishing so I used a tackle box for his container.

Herbal seasonings and natural remedies are very popular now. Go to a bookstore or library and get a book of seasoning recipes. Visit an herb store to purchase your selected ingredients. The party store or craft shop can furnish attractive small bags or spice jars to contain your creations. Buy or make labels for each container, with a short description of compatible dishes. For example, "Excellent with potato salad, omelets or salad." Many common culinary herbs have medicinal value. Rosemary and garlic are good for your heart. Thyme is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic. Ask at the herb store to learn which of your selected herbs has medicinal value. Take notes. This Christmas gift food basket idea is a good choice for a cook or health-conscious recipient

The best way to find inspiration for your own Christmas food hampers is to go online and make some for your friends and family this year. By next holiday season you will be flying solo. - 15485

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