Homemade Ideas for the Holidays

Did you ever imagine that within the ranks of Gold Medal Home Health, there are some talented craft enthusiasts hiding in plain sight?Well, we do, and they are constantly looking for opportunities to use their talent to brighten up holidays, seasons, and many other occasions throughout the year. They are strong advocates of the thought that anything homemade is special mainly because it’s one-of-a-kind. A positive aspect of this activity is that you can make this a group effort; the more the merrier!

As we approach the last holidays of this year we asked our crafters to offer some ideas that are simple to create, don’t cost a lot, will brighten up your home, or might remove an item from your gift list.

From the top of their lists are two items to display in your homes and two gift options. Here are their ideas and tips.

Autumn Leaf Luminaries

Are you in need a centerpiece or just special lights to place around your home on Thanksgiving? That is simple. All you need is a few 8oz Mason jars, artificial fall leaves, glue, raffia ribbon, and miniature battery-operated lights. Glue the leaves to the inside of the jar. Tie raffia ribbon around the lip of the jars, add the miniature lights and Voila! To make these luminaries part of a table centerpiece you can add greens from your yard, a variety of apples (Golden Delicious, Red Delicious and Granny Smith) and a couple of pears.

Snowy Day Toasty Treat (especially if you are a chocolate fan)
           

In a medium-sized (8oz) Mason Jar with a handle add 8 tablespoons (Tbsps) of Cocoa, 8Tbsps sugar, and a pinch of salt. If you prefer you can use a packet of premixed hot chocolate. For an extra shot before you twist on the cover add chocolate chips and a handful of mini marshmallows or peppermint shavings. To decorate your sweet gift tie with a holiday ribbon, add an artificial holly sprig, mini poinsettia flower, or a candy cane. To finish, don't forget to include a note (or use a label applied to the jar) that lists directions (e.g., for each Tbsp of cocoa mix add 1 cup of milk, half & half or cream, a dash of vanilla extract and heat). Lastly, add your personal holiday wishes. Easy and fun to assemble; make a few and keep on hand to give to holiday visitors (or even for Santa).

Menorah Centerpiece

For this centerpiece you’ll need nine square-shaped saltshakers, blue sand and nine thin candles/tapers. Fill each shaker with decorative blue sand and place a candle inside of each shaker. Align the shakers in a row on the tray and you are done. For a final flare dress the tray with greens and some pinecones. When the candles are done all you need to do is remove the wax with a tweezer and they’ll be ready to use next year. 

Your Own Cookie Jar

Instead of a cookie tin this year make your own winter scene cookie jar. With a fine-tipped brush dipped in white paint make little dots on the outside of the Mason jar. Fill the bottom of the jar with your favorite cookies (snowball cookies work best). Finally add small plastic trinkets inside to create a scene (available at any craft store). Add a gift tag tied with a ribbon and you are good to go!

No matter the group project you choose, working as a team creates fun memories. Last tip – don’t forget to take a few selfies to capture those memorable moments. Happy holidays!