<p>As for baking and knitting:</p>
<p>I have a hard time doing baking ahead so I usually get started around mid-December. I like to do mini coffeecakes, or some bread item. I also have a great recipe for dog treats that is fun to give to family members with dogs.</p>
<p>I am a knitter, and never seem to get started early enough. Last year I made several cotton shopper bags. They are easy and good gifts for people to keep in their car for having available for shopping trips, to avoid the plastic bags.</p>
<p>I also made some lace bookmarks. I have done some socks, but they take a long time, at least for me. I also did a nice thick scarf for a man.</p>
<p>Not quite sure what I am doing this year! I have been thinking about knitting some thick slipper socks and maybe more shopper bags. </p>
<p>Would love to hear other ideas!</p>