Posted by: Dennis Hinkamp on Dec 17, 2009
Economical Last Minute Gifts
ASK A SPECIALIST: DO YOU HAVE IDEAS FOR INEXPENSIVE HOLIDAY GIFTS?
Answer by: Joanne Roueche, Utah State University Extension family and consumer sciences agent, Davis County
According to a recent national poll, “creating a meaningful life” is important to a majority of Americans. Instead of giving gifts from the store this year, consider giving gifts of self, time or an enjoyable shared experience. Consider inviting a friend to your home for a special meal, followed by a concert or other activity in place of a gift exchange. Or invite a relative to join you in making gingerbread houses and enjoy the time together. Most often, we remember the time and experiences we have with others rather than things. Consider these additional ideas.
• Give a gift certificate for babysitting, raking leaves, mowing the lawn, washing the car or other services appropriate for the recipient.
• Create a CD of old family photos to share with siblings or children.
• Purchase a family pass to a museum or sporting event to help promote family time.
• Create a family cookbook with all the favorite family foods included.
• Make a booklet of your favorite memories related to a friend or loved one.
• Give the gift of art. For grandparents, a framed picture drawn by a grandchild is the perfect present.
• Make your own calendar with favorite family photos.
• Give gifts that create the values, memories or ideals that you hope to instill in those you love. For example, give a child a book every year to encourage him or her to develop a love for reading.
• A magazine subscription is a gift that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Many subscriptions are just a few dollars but provide a year of enjoyment.
• Donate to an animal shelter. Many shelters are in need of old towels and blankets for animals, and most shelters will accept home-baked dog treats as well. This can be a fun project that teaches children responsibility and cooking skills and also helps the animals.
• Involve your family in a Sub-for-Santa project.
• Take time to support our troops. The following address will reach wounded military men and women: A Recovering American Soldier, C/O Walter Reed Army Medical Center, 6900 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20307-5001.
• Set up a monthly lunch date or phone call with loved ones. This is especially important for elderly friends or relatives. Include them in family activities throughout the year.
This holiday, consider giving gifts of self, time or a shared experience. Pleasant memories don’t fade in the wash or go out of fashion.
*****
Direct column topics to: Julene Reese, Utah State University Extension writer, Logan, Utah, 84322-4900; 435-797-0810; julener@ext.usu.edu
Comments