Over on the MeWe, one of my groups had a pretty lively discussion going regarding Christmas gifts. One person had A LOT of people to get gifts for, and she was looking for some some homemade gift ideas.

Now, my first thought was: “Nope. Not gonna happen. Stop giving so many gifts to so many different aged kids.” I mean, she has A LOT to give. I’m from a large family; my oldest cousin turned 60 this year, and the youngest turned 10 (and this is just one side of the family). At one point, we decided to just stop with all the gifts. We started doing a White Elephant with a swap for the kids and a swap for the adults; it was always a hoot to see who got the craziest gift. We have also done Secret Santa, which makes things SUPER easy to do when you get a list of 3 or 4 items to choose from.

Another idea I suggested: Coupons for small outings throughout the year (picnic, zoo/park outing, sleepover, home spa days, tea party, etc.). Give a coupon to each kid, and they get to choose what they do with their aunt on their special day throughout the year.

I also suggested making a ton of cookies and giving each kid a variety. Start with a basic sugar cookie dough. Roll some in sugar and cinnamon and you’ve got snickerdoodles. Form in a log and roll over Christmas Sprinkles, then cut into rounds and bake. Some can be made simple into rounds and frosted with some sprinkles. Place an M&M or Hershey Kiss in the center and bake. Do a thumbprint with jam. So many options (I’m actually going to do this for my husband’s cousins).

You see, I’m a fan of experiences, making memories. I don’t remember who got me what gift over the years, but I sure do remember the memories we have made. I can feel the emotions and smell the kitchen as I baked with Gramma; sometimes, if I really try hard enough, I can remember her voice.

Squatch and I believe in the 4 gift plan: Something they Want, Something they Need, Something to Wear, and Something to Read. Keep it simple. We also think it is ridiculous have a set amount to spend for each person/family. I may spend $25 on this kid, but only $15 on this one, and $50 on another. I’m not going to pick up additional items to hit a certain dollar total. Nor am I a fan of the “Everyone needs to get X number of gifts, so they are all the same.” That’s just nuts.

If you really insist on spending a ton of money on a family, then give them an experience. Maybe they would like a subscription to Netflix or Disney+. Check out the Zoo or local children’s museum; some museums have special passes that allow for entry to multiples. Even theme parks are a good idea to get a season pass or a few tickets.

The last thing I have to say, is that if you are asked to NOT give gifts, or to keep it simple, or to stick with the Amazon Wishlist, please respect their wishes. I know for me, I find it offensive when Little Man has everything he needs or wants, and I’m given a ton of clothes or toys. 1. I don’t have the space to store it all. 2. We are trying to keep things as simple as possible, and are minimalists when it comes to physical things.

I also personally feel that it’s offensive of others to buy clothes for kids unless they’ve been asked for; I can clothe my child, and entertain him as well, thank you very much. For me, if you insist on getting him a gift, I want books. I want as many books as I can get my hands on for Little Man. He LOVES to just sit and read through all of his books. The more books, the better.

Now, with the holidays coming up, I hope you all have a great time visiting with family, and making new memories. I hope I gave you some ideas for gifts. I didn’t cover the various homemade options that are out there; trust me, there are SO MANY of them!

Seed Start Update: Dill still going strong. Only one seed pod has germinated for the Lemon Balm. Both Chamomile are still going. No germination for the Echinacea or Lavender; here’s hoping it will happen this week.