by D.S. Cox

Created on: December 06, 2008   Last Updated: December 19, 2008

Creative Gift Ideas

By Dana Cox

Is your Christmas list weighing you down this year because you are tight on funds? The anticipation of Christmas does create an overwhelming load of worry especially during these uncertain economic times, but you can't let the economy shake the true meaning of Christmas and the overwhelming joy you can find with being creative with your gifts.

One of the easiest and thrifitiest gifts on the list is to give of yourself. Everyone has something they can offer. Whether it is offering to walk Aunt Elsie's dogs, or cleaning Grandma Jo's house for a weekend. These are the gifts that are priceless both to the person giving and to the person receiving. With today's technology of computer software, you can dress up a coupon book with just a little creative imagination and some computer know how. However, if you are not computer savvy, every craft store has an overwhelming amount of decorative scrapbook paper, stickers, and pens that you can use to create custom coupons to give out to family members and friends.

Another nifty idea is to buy an inexpensive but decorative plate or platter. Then cook the item that would accomodate what you bought. For example, if you buy someone a pie dish, them make him or her homemade apple pie or better yet, customize the dish to something you know they really enjoy. If someone just can't get enough of your homemade chocolate cake, then make someone that special treat with the cake dish. Once the delicious treat is gone, the dish will be a reminder of your care and friendship for many years to come.

Another thrifty idea that shows people you care for them is to shop a secondhand store for items they collect. For instance, you heard your co-worker say they collect vintage salt and pepper shakers. Thrift stores are loaded with items like these. Now this recommendation would not accommodate a person that does not find value in vintage items. This gift would only work wonders for the person who treasures the time you would have spent to find the perfect gift.

Another great present idea is to look through photos you have accumulated through the year of family and friends. Buy an inexpensive collage frame at a local discount store and fill with items to commemorate all of the great times from the year. Also, buy stickers to customize. For example, arrange the numbers 2008 on the matting to customize the year. Other great items are to customize a scrapbook with all of the pages customized for the person. Then the

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