by Julie Sewell-Schmidt

Created on: November 17, 2008

Without fail, I'm scrambling the days leading up to Christmas, searching for inexpensive, yet practical stocking stuffers for the family. This year, I'm ahead of the game and have found great treats for Santa to put in the socks. For great deals on some of these little trinkets, find your nearest dollar store, head to the clearance aisle at your local grocery super store, and do comparison shopping online.

For the grown ups:

Travel size toiletries, such as anti-perspirant, perfume or cologne, hand lotion, toothbrush and toothpaste, hair brush and hairspray are great for the gym member (or the active teen).

For the family member that uses a 35mm camera, rolls of film make perfect stocking stuffers. Check out the photo processing sites online to find discount coupons and include those as well.

Mom, grandma, aunt and sister will enjoy silky hand and body lotion to hydrate that winter skin. Add decorative soaps, shower gels and bath beads and soon the holiday stresses will be washed down the tub drain.

Decks of playing cards for dad, grandpa, uncle and brother can be put to good use that afternoon while the younger kids are playing with new toys and the football game is on the TV.

Jewelry for the ladies. Need I say more?

Photo frame refrigerator magnets bring back warm memories of the holiday each time the recipient sees it throughout the year.

Fast food gift cards help the working man and woman take a little break from their desks without breaking their wallet. Most of the restaurants now have a great salad selection, so there are healthy alternatives to the usual burger and fries fare.

For the kids:

Head down to the local ice cream parlor and purchase gift certificates to stuff in the kiddies' stockings. Even in the middle of winter, it's never too cold for an ice cream treat.

Elementary school aged boys will appreciate toy cars such as Hot Wheels, and action figures. Throw in a package or two of baseball or football trading cards and an autographed picture of their favorite player (*visit players' official websites in plenty of time before the holiday to order this).

Young girls will like decorative headbands, hair clips, ribbons, and pony tail holders. Include some small bottles of bubble bath, lip gloss, and age appropriate finger nail polish to complete a pampering package.

Crayons, coloring books, colored pencils and crayons provide a quiet time activity and help the little ones wind down after all of the excitement.

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