Giving gifts during the holiday can be a wonderful custom, full of fun and memories. But it can sometimes cause extreme stress due to lack of time and, in this economy, lack of money. But using a little imagination and maybe a little time, can turn this holiday tradition back into the thing it was meant to be: a true expression of your thoughtfulness and generosity. And better yet, there is no credit card hangover. So here are some free, or almost free, ideas for gifts this season. Please post your own ideas too!
For a single parent, create a “coupon” for free babysitting so the parent can enjoy a movie, take a walk, or just spend some quiet time alone. Put in a box with a bag of microwave popcorn and (kid-appropriate) DVD you have around the house to let them know the type of activity you can do with their child.
For an elderly friend or shut-in, offer to decorate their house for the season and even set up the tree if they have one. You can loan them some of your ornaments or decorations to make it seem “new” or use theirs – your fresh approach will make it just as new.
Collect some of your gently read and favorite books to pass along, tie them up in a bow with a hand written note about how much you enjoyed them and why they are selected for the recipient.
If you are a AAA member, collect maps, brochures and travel books for a friend who likes to take trips, especially from places you have visited and enjoyed. Use an extra map for wrapping paper around the box!
Pick 2-3 recipes from your collection of sure-fire hits and create pretty recipe cards on the computer. Research on-line recipes for meat “rubs” that use salts and spices and mix some up with staples from your kitchen, put in a Ziploc bag or container with a label.
If you garden and have mature plants that need thinning, create a coupon for a “Spring Garden Makeover” including transplants from your successful garden. Print out color photos and descriptions from sites to let them know what you will add to their garden. Include time for spring raking, pruning and TLC and give them a beautiful gift that will last into summer.
What ideas can you add?
