Mix together all ingredients. Divide batter between 2 greased loaf pans. Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees (at times I have to bake loaves for 10 or 15 minutes more until they feel set when tapped).

Note: Batter will be stiff.

For kids: Children change so rapidly from year to year, that it's often hard to know what will hold their interest and keep them challenged. Make sure gift is age appropriate so he or she can play with it now. A pre-schooler will get much more use out of an activity center than an older child's toy like Merlin. Give them different types of toys so they have a variety of activities to choose from. In other words, don't give them all dolls or all trucks. Add some educational games to mix. And buy what child likes. If he prefers a train set to racing cars, train set will get used.

For mom and dad: You can pretty much follow For her/For him suggestions. But, depending on how old they are, you may have to age-up a little. An older woman would probably prefer a more traditional fragrance like Chanel No. 5 or Halston to Harley Davidson's Destiny. A string of pearls or a pretty brooch are always nice. If dad's a golfer, a fisherman or enjoys some other activity, find an item he can use or something related that's fun.

For friends and others: If you're close to person, gifts can be more personal: bath sets, clothing or accessories, a piece of jewelry. Give a business associate an organizer or a small travel case. Or you can give anyone a more generic present like a gourmet gift basket that may include candy, fruit, nuts or other food items. This kind of gift makes a lovely addition to any home.

And, it sure beats that stale fruitcake!

Copyright © 2001 L.A. Nelson

Save on holiday gifts - most items mentioned in this article can be found at The Art of Gifting http://www.artofgifting.com

Find this article at: http://www.artofgifting.com/giftgiving.html