Creating a gift that is personal and from the heart is not only appreciated by our loved ones, but it brings wonderful mental health benefits including feelings of gratitude and an increased self-esteem, and therefore a reduction in depression and anxiety. Homemade gifts are also an excellent opportunity to take a break from work and shopping and spend some “me time” focusing our creative energy on something we enjoy.
The holidays are usually a time spent with close family eating delicious food using recipes that have lasted a century or more. A great handmade gift to give is a simple and unique family recipe book. With only a few materials and a hint of creativity, your great-grandmother’s mash potatoes or your uncle’s famous green beans are guaranteed to remain family traditions that last a lifetime.
Materials:
- Unlined journal
- Recipe cards
- Family photos
- Adhesive photo corners
- Ruler
- Alphabet stickers
- Ribbon
Directions:
- Type up or color-copy all recipe cards, photos, and labels if you want to preserve the originals or make more than one gift book.
- Compile the memorabilia by time period, family members or holiday
- Attach the items horizontally in the journal. Use photo corners for pictures and recipe cards. Use adhesive for labels and clippings.
- Stick a title on the front of the journal with alphabet stickers (using a ruler helps), and finish off with a ribbon.
