(Family Features) - Of the many hats I've worn over the years, my favorite is Cookie Jar Lady.

It's a sweet story: When my daughter Caty was in first grade, I organized her class in making Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar as holiday gifts. Each of her classmates then had a sweet gift for a family member. What I remember most is the fun and laughter of that afternoon. And the enthusiastic feedback after the holidays was a gift itself-these kids were so inspired they wanted to do it again!

You, too, can be a Cookie Jar Lady! Making these gift jars in quantity can be a great holiday gift project for a club, committee, family, or any group. Kids, especially, enjoy the measuring, bagging, and assembling:

• Determine how many jars to assemble; make a list of ingredients needed.
  
  
• Collect or purchase attractive glass jars, one- or two-quart depending upon the recipes you're using.
  
  
• Arrange all ingredients on the counter or table, in the order they'll be used. Remember measuring cups and spoons.
  
  
• Assign kids to one particular task:
  o measuring ingredients
  o adding ingredients to jars
  o writing out recipes to attach to jars
  o decorating jars with a festive ribbon or bow
  
  
• Don't forget to make extra jars for last minute gifts!

Start with these two popular, sweet jar gifts, and be sure to check out the ideas galore for sweet-gifts-in-a-jar at www.VeryBestBaking.com