A few years ago I decided I was going to make Christmas gifts for all my friends…in the kitchen. My husband calls me a "Gremlin" in the kitchen because, in general, after I cook the smoke alarm is screaming and there are ingredients on the ceiling, dogs, and doorknobs and the product is replaced by carry-out. I thought it was a great idea to make a "Peppermint Liquor" by putting Vodka and peppermint bark in decorated mason jars. It looked very cute and easy on Pinterest but my attempt looked like un-flushed toilet water with floating chocolate turds. Despite the epic fail in appearance, it tasted pretty good and brought thoughtful conversation and roaring laughter to each recipient proving it IS the thought that counts.

This year, I challenge you to put more thought into your holiday shopping. Genuine thought, not just random economy boosting. Some ideas:

Always try and shop local. The heart and soul of our little village and surrounding areas are fed from the marrow of all things local. Engage with one of the sales folk, let them help you find the perfect gift for the hard to buy for and present the story with the gift. It will be worth it down to the unique wrapping and hand-tied bow.

Give in themes. I'm not sure how yet, but this year I want to give back to Ma Earth through recycling, composting and awareness. Perhaps my gifts will include an organized trash pick up day to spend time in the fresh air, with the community and paying it forward. Or maybe a recycling and composting guide for DingDong's (because For Dummies is Trademarked) created in PDF form from articles on the internet including the best examples of unnecessary single-use plastics that are polluting our planet. Straw users have gotten a bad wrap while K-cup users fly under the radar while making enormous amounts of unnecessary waste.

Pay it forward and be involved. What better lesson for our children and refreshers for ourselves than a strong reminder in the reason for the season. Sing carols in retirement homes, write cards to our soldiers, visit hospitals and support not only the patients but the families, staff and caregivers who are there making a difference, and if possible donate time to help to feed others in need, it will make you that much more grateful for your Grandmother's mashed potatoes. It doesn't cost a thing, but it priceless.

Time. I have referenced this Walt Whitman quote before and shall do so again as, to me, it is always applicable this time of year. "When I give, I give myself." I think it is always a beautiful gift to spend time over dollars. It could be a dinner at the restaurant you've always wanted to try or a walk in the woods. You decide.

No matter what the occasion, offer sincerity and then the giving becomes as much of the gift than the present itself. Happy Holidays.