A Challenge to Readers: Give Thanks by Making Gifts

It’s that time of year again.

You know, that time when most people extend their hearts out in some shape or form to others. Whether it is through gifts or acts of kindness, this time of year seems to open people’s hearts. And the awesome thing about the holidays is the way everyone feels: It doesn’t matter if you do the giving or receiving, caring always feels good.

This year I have a challenge for you. If you are fairly handy or have ambitions to be handy, I challenge you to make gifts rather than buy them. I think we can all agree that there is something indescribable about putting your own sweat (and sometimes blood) into a gift for someone. I have been making gifts for family and friends since I can remember. And my parents still have all the gifts I have made them.

Some of the gifts I have made include: candy machines, earring holders, picture frames, mini-banks, jewelry boxes, outdoor sitting benches, picnic tables, coffee tables, greeting cards, 3D pictures, wine racks, wooden spoons, whistles and other odd items like a hockey stick lamp. 

I guarantee that you will be the talk of the season and your loved ones will be very grateful and impressed because of all the time you put into a gift for them. And on another note, homemade gifts can even have a funny way of improving relationships.

Now that Thanksgiving is here, it is a perfect time to start planning out what you are going to make. Since being on , this year I have received a lot of requests for Adirondack chairs. If you are looking for ideas or have an idea and need some more information, there are woodworking plans all over the Internet that you can buy or even get for free.

You can also contact me if you have questions or need some help.