The Christmas holidays are just around the corner. Everyone on a budget is starting to brainstorm frugal gift ideas to get through the holidays without ringing up more debt.

Here are some money-saving tips for cheap, homemade Christmas gifts you might consider.

Bake a large batch of your favorite cookies. Set the cookies on a lovely plate, and use color cellophane to cover the entire package. Tie the cellophane at the top, using ribbon, and make a large bow. Homemade cookies are a great present anyone would enjoy, and the cost to you is minimal.

If you enjoy making jam, why not give this as a Christmas gift? Buy a small wicker basket, and fill the basket with jars of homemade jam. Decorate the jars with bows or ribbon. Put the jars in the basket and either decorate the basket with ribbon, or cover the basket with color cellophane and tie the cellophane at the top with ribbon. You may choose to add a small box of special crackers as well.

Candles are a great gift for anyone, and are inexpensive as well. Purchase about a dozen small scented candles and one or two candle holders. Put the candles and candle holders in a small basket. Cover the basket with colored cellophane, and tie the package at the top with different color ribbons.

With the winter approaching, a hat and glove set is also a popular gift. These sets come in a variety of colors, fabrics, and styles. Hat and glove sets are sure to be a welcomed gift by your friends or family members, and are inexpensive as well.

Why not purchase picture frames? For instance, buy two each of a 3-1/2 by 5 inch; 4×5 inch and 5×5 inch picture frames. Decorate them with a bow at the top center of the frame, or in the center of the frame. This makes a simple craft idea for christmas presents

Here is another easy, cheap, homemade Christmas gift idea. Take a Christmas stocking and stuff it will incidentals that most people need, but never buy. For example, nail files; nail polish remover; q-tips; cotton balls; samples of hair shampoo; conditioner; body lotion; shower caps; shower gel; hand creams, etc.

Christmas isn’t about expensive gift giving. It is the thought behind the gift that counts.

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© Kerry Beck, 2007
You have permission to reprint this article, as long as you don’t make any changes and include the bio below.
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Kerry Beck wants to offer you a free Advent Countdown to use in your Christmas & Advent celebration this year. Her package will also include daily free Advent activites.

I copied some questions that were submitted to me awhile back. I hope these help some of you. About how much time a week/day do your students spend writing? My kids are 13, 16, 18 and they write each day. Sometime they write on a formal writing project and other times they are writing in their reading journal, copybook or commonplace book. They usually spend 15-30 minutes/day writing. The older ones may spend more time. When they were younger, they spent about 15 minutes/day writing. How much time did it take you at the beginning to work with them on IEW? I realize this is one of my weaker areas and don’t mind spending the time to get us up to speed; I just need to know how to set up our schedule if we decide to use it. Right now I allow 1-1½ hours for a language arts block each day for my 4th grader. (This includes grammar, spelling and writing.) We all spent more time together when we first started IEW so we could learn the process. It probably took about 4-5 months for the kids to learn the process and work independently. Even before that time, they had some assignments where they could work on their own. The biggest skills they had to learn include key word outlines, writing a rough draft from an outline, what the dress-ups are and how to do them, editing their piece. If you spend 30 minutes a day on writing, you should be fine. Do your children write every day? YES At what age would you start using IEW? (I have a five year old who has walked around with a pencil since she was about 18 months and she is constantly writing. She has my husband’s very quick mind, and is already reading on a 2nd/3rd grade level.) My youngest began around 7 years old. We wrote an outline together (I did the writing). He dictated a sentence for each part of the outline (I typed his sentences). We printed the paragraph and we edited it together, adding dress-ups. We followed this pattern until he was 8 or 9 years old. Then, he started writing his own rough drafts. At this younger age, we did not do a formal writing assignment each day. We alternated with copy work and dictation. Would I be able to teach both of the girls simultaneously and just expect more from my 9 year old? Your five year old might listen and do what she could. Until she is old enough to read fairly well, I wouldn’t worry about these types of writing assignments. I would have her copying words and sentences from good books she is reading or you are reading to her. I don’t encourage writing assignments until a child is reading and spelling on their own, usually around 7 or 8 years old. I would gear your writing assignments to your 9yo and let your 5 yo “catch” what she can from the discussions. I hope this helps a little more. If you have any further questions, post a comment or check out our website, www.CurriculumConnection.net/teachingwriting.htm. Better yet, subscribe to our free newsletter at http://www.curriculumconnection.net Kerry

Looking for the perfect gift for a special woman in your life? In the process of gift buying for women, keep in mind the woman’s taste and style. Not sure of the woman’s taste, or style preferences? Don’t panic. There are some popular gift items displayed in stores at this time of year including a variety of layered necklaces every woman will love, plaid tote bags and accessories for the more conservative lady, and chic hand knit sweaters that can compliment jeans, or even a pair of leggings.

You can find most of those items at moderate prices and not worry about over- spending. Traditionally, apparel makes a great gift for women and the best places to shop are outlets and department stores. Let your fingers do the walking and call ahead to learn about deals and special coupons, so you don’t miss out.

In terms of purchasing pampering products such as lotions and perfumes, remember that some women may be allergic to some fragrances and dyes. Instead of buying a product that may irritate her skin, consider taking a look at the many natural cosmetics lines on the market. When in doubt, purchase a gift card from the merchant, so the lady on your gift list can make the selection herself. The $25 denomination is generally the most popular.

If you are willing to splurge, electronics and computer accessories are always a big hit. How about an iPod, a digital camera, cell phone or a new lap top?

Don’t forget about the eye-catching jewelry sparkling in store windows- from crystal tennis bracelets to cultured pearls, or layers of pearl and beaded necklaces that will entice the most discriminating woman.

For an extra boost, just give her some cash. She’ll love you for it! Is the lady in your life (maybe your sister) a high-octane diva? Cash makes the ideal gift for women who have definite ideas on what they want for Christmas. Be creative! Maybe you can’t afford to tuck a pair of airline tickets to Las Vegas in her Christmas stocking, but what woman wouldn’t fall in love with a pair of Victoria Secret pajamas in flannel- $49.50?

Still not sure? How about the ultimate gift? Breakfast at Tiffany’s(if you know what I mean)?

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© Kerry Beck, 2007
You have permission to reprint this article, as long as you don’t make any changes and include the bio below.
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Kerry Beck wants to give you her free Advent Countdown for your family’s Christmas & Advent celebration this year. Her package also includes Christmas holiday gift ideas to make.

Here are 2 ways you can turn your notecards or flashcards into something really cool.

Tag Book 1

Tag Book 2

ideas from scrapbook-crazy.com

Does the guy on your gift list love to be pampered? Before you schedule an appointment for him at Elizabeth Arden, or book your local masseuse, consider an Art of Shaving gift set. For $100, it may be too pricey for the budget conscious person, but does come with some wonderful products: a natural badger hair shave brush, pre-shave oil, shaving cream, after shave balm, and a delightful book Bringing Art and Passion to a Daily Routine. He’ll definitely feel spoiled by you.

If $100 is too steep, you can still get him an Ingrown Hair Kit (seriously!) with a CD that will teach him how to get rid of unsightly ingrown hair on the face. Some men because they use poor quality shaving accessories and products containing alcohol, have a problem with ingrown hair on the face, but don’t know how to get rid of it. Definitely a guy thing. For $50, you can help him out and feel like his fairy godmother at the same time (even if you’re his girlfriend, wife, or sister) Incidentally, don’t forget to let him know that the Ingrown hair night cream was voted Best Men’s skin care product in 2006.

So maybe he only shaves with an electric razor. Electronics such as electric razors make popular gifts and are certainly more affordable and practical. You can also consider watches, wallets, scarf and gloves set; all which can be purchased at your local outlet. Once you have made your selection at the store, purchase a $25 gift card to make your gift even bigger and better.

Just for fun, you can head down to your nearest car dealer with your favorite man in tow, and test drive a Honda, or better yet, a Hummer. You can both dream and he’ll appreciate the quality time you’ll be spending with him. If you go to the local Harley-Davidson retailer, you can also find everything from Harley t-shirts to mugs.

When in doubt, simplify your gift choice by tucking a wad of cash into his boot, or just get him a Cashmere sweater in a bright color; very popular this season. Most guys may not feel confident about their sense of color to choose one themselves and he’ll be appreciative of your thoughtfulness and good taste.

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© Kerry Beck, 2007
You have permission to reprint this article, as long as you don’t make any changes and include the bio below.
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Kerry Beck wants to give you her free Advent Countdown for your family’s Christmas & Advent celebration this year. Her package also includes free Advent activities.

Searching for the right gift for grandparents can lead you down memory lane, in terms of the many product ideas geared towards treasuring memories. We all can understand why our grandparents are sentimental. Children grow up very quickly and grandparent’s have a need to record all their grand children’s milestones from the first steps to the first Christmas and more.

One of the most affordable Christmas holiday gift ideas to make for grandparents will always be a beautifully designed scrapbook of all of their favorite memories: weddings, birthdays, baby showers, graduations, vacations and other special moments. You and your children can get involved in selecting the photos and designing the scrapbook layouts. Be creative and let your imagination run wild. You can purchase affordably to moderately priced embellishments, or a scrapbook set that includes everything. What grandparent would not be overjoyed to get a scrapbook of favorite family photos?

Another option is to create a hardbound book of family photos. You can find online stores where you simply upload the photos, and captions and order. You are sent a completed leather-bound book. Order several copies and give them all as gifts.

If you want to give grandparents a really great gift for Christmas, consider splurging a little and purchasing a digital camcorder, or camera so they can capture all your family’s treasured times during the holidays. Sometimes seniors depend on living on a fixed income, so a pricey gift will really be appreciated. In addition, they will enjoy sending their family digital photos to their relatives and friends. Remember, grandparents enjoy bragging rights!

One of the most creative gift ideas for grandparents, are gifts created for them by family and especially grandchildren of all ages. Consider purchasing some moderately priced craft kits, so your children can hand paint a set of tote bags, or even design jewelry for Grandma! The whole family can get involved in the hand made gift endeavor and have a creative time together. Why not make Grandpa a new wallet you design yourself? Imagine the pride he will feel as he shows it off!

If the grandparents live out of town, or abroad, you might consider sending them a pair of airline tickets to make the holiday visit. Not only will they feel gloriously welcome, but also greatly appreciated by family. You can search for affordable airline flights, or splurge on first class- if your budget permits.

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© Kerry Beck, 2007
You have permission to reprint this article, as long as you don’t make any changes and include the bio below.
—————————————-
Kerry Beck desires to give you her free Advent Countdown for your family’s Christmas & Advent celebration this year. Her package also includes easy cheap homemade Christmas gift ideas.

You can serve these for lunch or dinner. Whichever you choose, your family will love them.

Chicken Quesadilla Pinwheels

The best part of this recipe is you are finished in 10 minutes - really!

To see what is right and not to do it is cowardice. It is never a question of who is right but what is right.
John Buchan (1875-1940)
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This past spring I started writing an ezine about doing what is right. Unfortunately, I never finished the article. When I saw this quote, I knew I had to post it here because our children need to learn to do what is right to be Christian leaders.

Give your children small opportunitites in your home to do the right thing. When they can do right in small situations, they are more likely to do what is right when it matters.

Kerry

Do not say, I am a youth,
For you shall go to all to whom I send.
And whatever I command you, you shall speak.
Do not be araid of their faces,
For I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.

Therefore, prepare yourself and arise,
And speak to them all that I command you.
Do not be dismayed before their faces,
Lest I dismay you before them.
Jeremiah 1:7,8,17

God is with us when we speak His Words, even when we speak to other Christians.  We live in a time when Christians do not follow the principles of God’s Word and brave leaders need to speak boldly and unafraid of their hearer’s faces.  God will deliver.

Kerry

You might wonder why I’m writing about the holidays when it is just the beginning of October. I have a really good reason. I just found the coolest helper for you to be ready for the holidays and actually ENJOY THEM.

That’s right, I want to tell you about a book I just finished reviewing that will help you be prepared for Thanksgiving and Christmas so you can enjoy your family and minister to those around you.

I don’t know about you, but the holidays can be a hectic time. So hectic that you don’t really enjoy yourselves. I don’t want that to happen to you this year and I found a way to avoid being too busy to have a peaceful holiday season.

Well, Sheri Graham put together a 12-week planner for her own family so she would be ready for the holidays and truly celebrate them. After she put it together, she thought other families might benefit from them, also. I know I will benefit from all her organization and hard work….and I’m a naturally organized person. Whether you are organized or not, you will profit from the details included in The 12-Week Holiday Planner.

Let me tell you what I like about The 12-Week Holiday Planner for the Christian Family, So You can Keep Your Focus on Jesus this Holiday Season!

Sheri provides you a hands-on plan to prepare for your holidays!

Why???

So Your Holidays will be Enjoyed by YOU and Your Family!

So Your Holidays will be Less Stressful!

So Your Holidays will be More Filled with the Things that Really Matter!

So Your Christmas Centers around Christ - - - the Real Reason for Christmas!

So Your Family will have Special Memories of their Holidays

Use The 12-Week Holiday Planner, starting this week and you will:

	Have Your Christmas Gifts planned, bought and wrapped by the first of December
	Have Your Christmas Letter written and ready to mail around Thanksgiving
	Plan Your Holiday Menus so you don’t even think about it when Thanksgiving rolls around
	Have Enough Time to give Homemade Gifts to your friends and family
	Have all Your Baking Supplies on Hand when You Need Them
	Have Your Gifts Shipped In Time for Christmas
	And Much More!

What is included in The 12-Week Holiday Planner???

	Blank Monthly and Weekly Calendar pages for Planning Your Holidays
	Weekly “To Do” Lists – Shows You exactly what needs to be Done Each Week
	Thanksgiving and Christmas Menus Forms
	Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Recipe Card Forms
	A Holiday Self-Evaluation Form – Prioritize So You Celebrate Your Ideal Christmas
	Shopping Lists
	Items to Do This Week – From the First Week of October til Christmas, You have a Ready Made Plan (yea!!!)
	Christmas Craft and Gift Ideas
	Memory Making Ideas for the Family
	Holiday Journal Pages
	USER-FRIENDLY Forms, Plans, Pages and Tips!

But Wait!!! There’s More!!!

Sheri’s Tips – In addition to the weekly Items to Do This Week, Sheri gives fantastic, practical ways to implement the “To Do List”. She shares stories from her family to make planning and preparation that much easier. I know I learn better from Real Life Examples and I’m sure You Do Too!!!

Forms, Forms, Forms - You will have so many forms you can print, you will always be ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas for many years to come. Here are just a few:

Christmas Gift Shopping List
Gift Making Checklist
Christmas Card Checklist
List of Baked Items to Share/Give Away
Favorite Meals to Freeze for Later
Decoration Ideas
Needed Supplies to Purchase This Week
Holiday Baking Schedule
Kids’ Gift Idea List
Christmas Gifts to be Shipped

Jesse Tree Devotionals - One of the BEST parts of the Holiday Planner! You really get two books in one.

Jesse Tree Devotionals is your free bonus when you reserve your copy of the Holiday Planner. In the Jesse Tree Devotionals ($15.95/paperback), Ann Voskamp provides you devotions to use with your family as you celebrate Advent and prepare for Christmas. This Saves You Time because Scripture is given, a short devotion is provided and ornaments for a Jesse Tree are available. Spend the weeks leading up to Christmas focused on Jesus Christ, celebrating Advent as the real preparation for Christmas.

Favorite Holiday Recipes – Sheri compiled over 30 favorite recipes for Your Holidays. These are not just dinner recipes. You receive recipes for breakfast, baking, leftovers, parties and of course, Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinner.

DON’T wait until the Last Minute to prepare for the holidays. Start This Week (Right Now) so you can truly celebrate Christ’s birth and the Joy of Celebrations with family & friends.

Click here to Reserve Your Copy of The 12-Week Holiday Planner

When you use my special link, you will also receive my report about schooling through the holidays - - - my Christmas gift to You!

In other words,

You receive Books & Reports valued over $35 when you claim your copy!

AND you pay only $12.95! What a great deal.

Reserve your copy of The 12-Week Holiday Planner for Christian Families right now. You will be glad you did.

BTW, tell your friends and families about this offer.

Kerry