One of my favorite parts of this time of year is taking the time to acknowledge those who have meant a lot this year. Around here, that can mean giving a lot of neighbor gifts. Unfortunately, my heart is full of more gratitude than my wallet is so the challenge is coming up with a gift that meets the cute quota and is also budget friendly.

While in Michael’s the other day I saw these darling apothecary jars.

jars

Guess what, they are only $1 each! They would be really cute to store smaller craft supplies in (hint). So I picked up a few and got to work on thinking of what I could fill them with for my neighbors. And that’s when I remembered the reindeer food my friend had given me a few years back. The reindeer food is so easy to make:

  • 1/2 cup oatmeal
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup red and/or green sugar crystals (I use sugar crystals in lieu of glitter – it still catches the light and is safer for any animals that may eat it)

After I filled the bottles with the reindeer food, I got to work decorating the bottles using our ultra-fabulous All Is Bright collection. The decorative tape quickly adds a designer touch to the bottles. I printed and cut out the cute tags (download here) and layered and embellished to my hearts content. I love the way it turned out and hope my neighbors like it as much!

2012 12 09_0009a 2012 12 09_0010a

2012 12 09_0017 2012 12 09_0013a

I have created instructions you can download here:  GTU_2012_12_10_Reindeer Food

I am also demonstrating this project on today’s Good Things Utah program. When the segment is available to share, I will post the video here:

(segment coming soon)

Although, with all the deer we have had around our houses this year, I probably should Amberhope they still like me after receiving this gift (wink).

I hope you are having a spectacular holiday season!

 

 

 

 

Posted in ,

Leave a comment