Project #2 of 78 Things to Do When You Are 78

Project #2 Make a Gift Basket

There is no better way to cheer someone (including oneself) up who may be temporarily under the weather than with a pretty basket bursting with tempting, healthful fresh fruit. Along with nature's ready-to-eat snack foods, with their bright colors and restorative powers, tuck in some fresh flowers and a good book. For someone convalescing or going through a rough patch, this basketful of good wishes may be just what s/he needs.

1. If you choose a basket with a handle, wrap ribbon around it, securing flowers to handle by tying them with bows.
2. Line basket with about 4 sheets of crumpled tissue to form soft bed to cradle fruit on bottom.
3. Place larger, firmer, or less fragile fruit on bottom of tissue-lined basket to avoid bruising more delicate fruit.
4. Wrap smaller or more delicate fruit such as grapes and strawberries in some tissue paper.
5. Arrange fruit in gift basket to take advantage of their colors and shapes for the most attractive presentation.
6. Carefully place book with gift card into basket so that it will not damage fruit. Wrap in cellophane to deliver.