Every year brings financial challenges, but this year is possibly more significant than others. While the holidays bring joy, they can also bring sadness, and anxiety. Especially when it comes to gift giving. I am not going to debate the pros and cons of gift giving. However, it shouldn’t be the only tradition that is emphasized during the Christmas season. In my opinion, the best gifts are the thoughtful ones, the ones that surprise you. Because it comes from someone truly knowing who you are and paying attention to the little things.

I thought it would be helpful to outline some gift giving ideas that are little to no cost, but impactful. Ways to say to say you were thinking of someone, without having to put yourself in a financial struggle. Truthfully, close friends and family will probably be happier to know that your gift giving didn’t bring you strife. I know I personally prefer knowing there was no burden at all. Meaning, I would be happy with a homemade card, rather than a gift where I knew it put someone in distress. Also, I would hate to know someone opting out of a gathering because they could not bring a gift.

THE NOT SO GIFT GUIDE

-       Finally take the family picture your mom or grandma has been asking for. Better yet, frame it!!! It doesn’t have to be fancy. Take note of the décor in their house, look at the color of the other frames, and work off of that when choosing a frame. Honestly, I have found plain gold or silver frames at the dollar store. If you are crafty, you could also DIY a beautiful frame.

-       Make your own devotional or encouragement guide. Make a PDF or even hand write inspiration quotes, and phrases for every day/week.  Or maybe a series of your favorite bible verses. You can format them into a calendar or just put them into a document. Not only are these encouraging words but they hold even more meaning because they came from you, specifically thinking of them!

-       A lot of think of Chore cards, which is a great idea. However, what about those offbeat, truly annoying ones. Like, convert all of our home movies to dvds. Or organize the files on someones computer. Think of truly obnoxious tasks haha!

-       Spotify List- an updated version of a mix tape.

-       Record yourself reading your niece of nephews favorite book, whether video or just audio, they can treasure it forever!

-       Family Recipe Care Packages- So this one may cost a little bit of money . Pick a family recipe, maybe it is associated with a relative, or a special occasion. Maybe it is just a weeknight favorite. Write out the recipe card and make a basket with the ingredients. Or make a shopping list for them to follow. Then set a zoom date where you make and eat the dish together!

-       Do a secret santa regift! Everyone exchanges something that they shopped within in their home for!

-       Video tributes or photo montages. Have a screening night and show people how much you value them and the memories you share. It is bound to have people crying tears of sentimental joy!

-Do you have the gift of organization? Tackle their closet for them or that messy pantry. I would be so gratefuif I came home one day to find even one cabinet rearranged as if I was on the home edit

-Make infused olive oils, or simple syrups, then put them in mason jars. All you need is some sugar, water, cinnamon sticks and to find glass jars at the dollar or craft store. People can use it in their Christmas morning coffee. My recipe for cinnamon simple syrup is super easy!

Whatever you choose to do know that people close to you just want you to be there. Those who love you do not want presents from you but rather your PRESENCE. For you to be happy, and enjoying each others company. Because that is what makes the memory and fosters that Christmas feeling.