Homemade Holiday Gifts

Homemade Holiday Gifts by Misty Humphrey in the December 2013 issue of CarbSmart Magazine.

Though I am personally in holiday denial, there’s no denying that we are almost through the end of the year! Yes, the older I get the faster time flies it seems.

Not only has this year flown by but those who celebrate Christmas are also on a reduced shopping schedule since Thanksgiving falls on the very last Thursday of November this year. For those who begin their shopping on Black Friday, this gives you only 26 shopping days until Christmas Day!

In 2013, Chanukah this year is November 27th through December 5th and Kwanza is always December 26th through January 1st. With the celebration of these Holidays, your over-burdened work schedule and limited spending money, what kind of gifts are on your list this year? If you’re anything like me, you wander the mall at the last minute, stressed, hungry and beating yourself up because you missed the opportunity to open a special holiday account, procrastinated or simply could not afford to shop early!

Don’t fret! Stay out of the mall, reject conventional shopping and let’s put together some healthy, homemade gifts that everyone will enjoy. These personal gifts made from the heart have greater meaning than any mass produced item you found in the clearance section. This also allows you to avoid that potential awkward conversation of a “gift receipt” to return the dreaded chachki that your recipient might suspect is a re-gift from the White Elephant party you attended this season.

Male or female, I have included some recipes and ideas for everyone!

Low Carb Chocolate Truffles Recipe

Low-Carb Spiced Nuts Recipe

This Keto Low-Carb Spiced Nuts Recipe is a healthy Low-Carb snack that’s also good for you! It is also a wonderful appetizer that you can serve every holiday, year after year.

Calming Bath Salts

2 cups Epsom salts (or 1½ cups Epsom and ½ cup bentonite clay)
2 teaspoons olive, grape seed, almond, or jojoba oil
10-15 drops essential oils, lavender, eucalyptus, orange, sandalwood (different oils will result in specific moods) (link: http://www.greenpergola.com/aromatherapychart.pdf)
16 oz. canning jar with lid
Ribbon

Directions
In a medium sized bowl, mix all ingredients together. Use a fork to break up large clumps. Spoon into jar and tie a ribbon with notecard of the above recipe for your recipient so they can make their own!
One of my favorite scents during the winter season is the sweet and spicy smell of mulling spices. I don’t use them in wine or apple juice as their history suggests rather I like to put the spices on a low simmer on the stove for an aromatic home that feels festive and cozy.

Low-Carb Mulling Spices Recipe

Mulling Spices Low-Carb, Keto, Gluten-Free Recipe