The holidays are right around the corner and as we make our own wish lists of gifts we hope to receive, we also make a list of gifts to give.  Homemade gifts are something special and even the littliest child grows accustomed to creating a work of art given to Mom and Dad from the heart.  Your time and thoughtfulness are part of the gift and carry special meaning to be cherished by the recipient for months or years to come.  A gift tag attached "Handmade by You" can be stenciled, painted or written up with colored markers.

Gifts of Food are easy to make and loved by all!  A batch of cookies, fudge, chocolate covered almonds or pretzels are gobbled up in no time or saved as goodies to savor and enjoy over time.  Canned tomatoes, pickles, or salsa from the garden are also treasured gifts and can be bundled in a basket with recipes attached.

                                                                              

You can purchase produce at your local farmer's market or grocery store when items are in season and bake or can for future gift giving.  Apples are a great example for making pies, breads and canned goods.

                                                                                                                   

Garlic oils and vinegars make a great gift for the cook on your list!  For Basic Garlic Oil you will need 1 head of garlic and about 3 cups olive oil.  Separate the garlic cloves from the head and peel.  Place in a container and fill with oil - cover.  Let stand overnight, remove the cloves, fill your decorative jars and store in the refrigerator.  For Garlic Vinegar you will need 1 head garlic and 4 cups white wine vinegar.  Separate the cloves once again and peel.  Heat the vinegar to a boil, pour over the garlic and let cool.  Pour into your decorative jars keeping a few of the cloves in the vinegar.  Store in the refrigerator until gift giving.
                                                                                                                              

Have some Fun and make your own Great Gifts!

Till next time,
the girl @ TheRunningGarlic