I just LOVE giving gifts at Christmas! It is such fun to find the perfect gift or to help someone else who is less fortunate. Nothing brings more joy or satisfaction.
This year, my desire to give is being frustrated by a series of unexpected very costly expenses. In the span of a month, we’ve had to pay for the following: a car door ($500), dental work ($200), college class ($400), dishwasher (haven’t got it yet but guessing it will be at least $600), and a new furnace ($2300). Needless to say, this has put a damper on the holiday spending plans!
So, in case some of you are in my situation or worse, I thought it would be helpful to come up with some inexpensive ways to keep the joy of giving in the holidays without the painful hangover that can follow. I’d love to hear your ideas too! Feel free to comment and share!
Holiday Giving Ideas
Barter
Have a skill you can share? Why not barter for gift certificates or products for your loved ones? While this probably won’t work at the major stores, it may with those in the service professions. It doesn’t hurt to ask!
Re-Gift
We all have things in our home that we bought and then didn’t use or were given but didn’t feel drawn to. Those same things might be just what someone else would love to have. Even gently used items can be a delight to someone else. Do you have a favorite CD or book that you are through with? Be creative and look at your possessions through new eyes. I bet you’ll find some unexpected treasures to share!
Give Your Time
My third grade students often make coupon books to give their parents at Christmas. What about the same idea for those you love? How could you give the gift of your time and energy this year? Do you have a talent you can share? My brother in law spent four hours fixing my computers. That was the best gift I could have been given (and saved me from another couple thousand in expenses!). Think about what you have to offer. Be creative!
Make Something
Are you a talented cook? Do you like to create crafts? Look for unique recipes to include with a favorite food item. Visit a local craft store for unique and fun ideas that you can make inexpensively. One of my favorites is to make cinnamon or salt dough ornaments. One year, my son and I made gingerbread people ornaments with names for all of our family members. My parents still have them on their tree.
Choose Smaller Quantity Gifts
Another option is to purchase a helpful service or gift for a shorter time or in a smaller quantity. This year, the Sanctuary members are offering a whole collection of holistic gifts, all for under $20 (Sanctuary Marketplace). Many businesses are offering specials with this approach in mind. Look for samples that you can include in a small Christmas stocking!
Any other ideas? I’d love to hear them! Please comment below and help us all enjoy giving this holiday season!
Blessings to you and yours!
Nancy
Spirit Earth Coaching 