Thoughtful Inexpensive Gifts from the Heart
It goes without saying that for most of us, today's economy puts a limit on our gift allowance for Christmas. Have you thought of giving a 'homeade gift certificate'? I'll explain. These work best for people you know fairly well, knowing their likes and dislikes, their favorite past times, coffee stops, hobbies, needs, etc. Consider these suggestions:
Babysitting. Do you now someone who needs a evening off from changing diapers or corraling little ones? I gave this gift one year to the pastor's wives of our church and you should have seen the response - joy! Sometimes we assume parents get out enough. That's not necessarily true. If it's a single parent, chances are they get out less. If you haven't babysat for a while, check out this website forideasof things to do with little ones. An additional enclosure with this gift could be coupons you've cut and saved for kids' items.
Detail' a vehicle. If you give this gift, do it yourself and the recipient will most likely stick around for some great 'bonding' time. This might include wash, dry, wax, vacuum, new scent, etc. Don't forget to bring the supplies!
Weekday Getaway. Pack a picnic lunch and go to the park with your friend/family member. This is especially a great gift if the recipient and you both have small children. If neither has children, it's a great time to just relax with one another and reconnect.
Housecleaning. Give a 2-4 hour (or whatever you feel) of housecleaning. This could range from the usual cleaning (dust/vacuum/etc), to a big project (ex: windows). Cleaning is always much more fun with a friend and won't feel like a chore.
Project Assistance. Does somebody you know have a huge project s/he is working on? Remodel? New engine?Give them a hand (or two!).
Homemade jams, jellies, soup mixes, brownie/cookie mixes. The possibilities are endless nowadays with so many 'food gift' idea/recipe books. Decorate the jar with a festive ribbon or raffia and include the recipe on a card so they can make it again. A delicious gift!
Cookie Tray. Like the gift above, food gifts are always a welcome treat, but they need to be baked/cooked. I've seen these gifts sit on the shelf for too long. Finish the project and deliver the gift, baked and wrapped. Why not make this a year long gift and give a tray ofcookiesonce a month? Yum, yum!
Dinner-In. Mondays are hectic for most families getting back in the weekly routine after having a weekend off. Single parents would particularly enjoy this treat. While you're making alasagna, spaghetti, etc., make two and give one away.Add a bag of salad mix and a loaf of bread.
Goody Basket. Find a basket at a thrift shop and fill it with goodies. This could be bath items, scrapbook items, kitchen, etc. If you'rea scrapbooker and have some spare items, throw them in. When you're in the thrift store, check out their items, too. They often have tons of fun things that are brand new that you could include in your gift (and the price is great!). Another goody basket version is an inexpensive bowl, a few bags of popcorn and a gift certificate for a movie rental.
Books. You might think this is an expensive gift but wait before leaving the thrift shop check out the book section. Looking for children's books? Besides the other book categories, you'llfind some great finds here and many of the books are brand new. Find a few (children's books usually run $.25 - $1) and wrap them together. Check them thoroughly as they can appear brand new and still have major flaws.
Whatever gifts you're still looking for, be creative. Check the clearance in your favorite department store. There are great bargains. Scan your newspaper/flyers for percent/dollar off coupons, often requiring no minimum purchase to use.
Make this season memorable by having peace of mind - skipping the agony over the coming credit card bill or empty pocket book. Deepen relationships by giving more of you and less of material gifts. Yourgiftee' will love it.
