Bringing in gifts to share with your co-workers is a great way to develop a spirit of giving all year, so go right ahead. It doesn't need to be expensive, just the thought is something that they will appreciate. Here are some great ideas that have been done in my workplace which always brought a smile and warmed our hearts:

~ Gingerbread cookies. Personalized gingerbread cookies with the name of the person on each "girl" or "boy." It can be eaten or used as an ornament. In fact, for those watching their weight during the holidays, gingerbread cookie cutters can be tied with a festive ribbon and placed in a basket with a gift tag attached.

~ Small package of Kleenex tissues. I worked in a medical office and germs got passed around fairly quickly. Attached to the package of tissues was a pocket-sized Lysol spray bottle to clean our work space (along with instructions on how not to catch a cold!). It was a thoughtful gift that actually got a lot of laughs. They now make designer print tissues that come in a variety of "personalities."

~ Tree of hope. A small Christmas tree was set up in the lunchroom at my workplace with small envelopes attached. Inside we could put whatever amount we wanted. The money collected was given to a local charity. What better gift to give than the "gift of giving." That year started a new tradition that continues today.

~ Cinnamon Christmas tree ornaments. These are simple and fun to make. However, they are not for eating! Use cookie cutters in a variety of Christmas shapes. Make sure to place a hole at the top and string colorful ribbon through it. Bring them into the office in a Christmas basket and let everyone choose their favorite ornament. The recipe can be found at: http://www.mccormick.com/recipedetail.cfm?ID=1264.

~ Popcorn. Everyone loves popcorn! You can buy tins with several varieties and flavors or you can bring individual packets and place a personalized message on each. The Popcorn Factory has excellent gift ideas and some are quite reasonable in price (www.popcornfactory.com).

~ Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate! Did someone say, "Chocolate?" A box of chocolates is always a crowd pleaser. Watch how it disappears in the lunchroom once the box is opened. A nice alternative to that is toffee brittle or peanut brittle; either way, they will disappear quickly and you'll be the "star" for the day.

~ Tin of pretzels. These don't disappear as quickly, but if you bring a deli platter with cheese and salami from Hickory Farms, they will thank you forever. Be sure to bring along the mustard (hot, spicy, and sweet!), and you will actually receive a "thank-you" card in the mail!

~ Christmas cards. Let's not forget a handwritten Christmas card with a personalized message (don't just sign your name!), and add a tiny candy cane inside.

~ Potpourri. These can be found at the dollar store in small packages. These keep your drawers at work smelling fresh all year long and a personalized message on each one serves as a card and a gift. Each time you open up your drawer you'll be reminded of that person's kindness.

~ Mulled cider. This is a great gift and can be made in advance and reheated in a crock-pot. Bring some festive paper cups and it's a real treat, especially in cold weather. Place it in the lunchroom with a sign that reads, "Help yourself!"

Whatever you choose to share with your co-workers, they will appreciate the thought. Everyone is busy during the holidays and spreading a little holiday cheer won't be forgotten. It's not the cost of the gift; it's the meaning behind it. Have fun and enjoy sharing the joy!

Learn more about this author, C. Kay Rowley.
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