by Jezli Pacheco

Created on: December 16, 2009

Hands down, the best Christmas gift always shows up...in June. Just kidding, it's just that it seems nobody these days prepares that far ahead of time, and perhaps that would be a fine time to start thinking for the Christmas giving season.

You should consider bargain shopping on sales events. You don't need to wait for Christmas time to have the gifts ready. Some people take advantage of Black Friday, some are a bit more clever...and get those super nice sweaters? On discount during the summer. If you don't mind wearing clothes from last season's rack? Go to outlets. They keep and sell super cheap...in the $10 bucks or less sometimes range.

Starting with just ten ideas we will probably end up with so many more once we start thinking of creative ways of filling in the gaps. Here goes my attempt, keep in mind that am a fan of dime stores, and I don't mind buying...gasp...used.

Think hard and think long, but for heavens sake, don't hesitate if you find a bargain. They are always hard to find...good ones that is, so when you're lucky...you should get it.

Gift ideas here we go:

1. Movies. Have you seen racks and racks that stores now carry of DVD's galore? You could purchase 1 of them on our budget. They don't have to be the newest releases, or is that you believe the people you're thinking of...has seen absolutely everything there could possibly be out there? Not likely? Well there you go, nice gift idea. (And if you have any change, get a box of popcorn to add a bit of humor to the gift.)

2. Chocolate. Ok. Here's an idea, go to See's Candy. They sell by the pound correct? Well? What are you waiting for, they tend to sell nice gift boxed 1/2 pounders, full pounders, etc. You're sure to find something yummy, and keep your bottom line. This can be the sweetest gift for the boss's wife, for Mom or Wife.

3. Take a nice picture and have it framed. Sometimes the gift of thoughtfulness is way more valuable than mere money can buy. Getting a picture of someone you love in a frame can give quite an impact. Perhaps of you and your significant other. Of your parents on their wedding day. Of the family. The sky's the limit and as affordable as frames are today? You should have a nice piece ready to display.

4. Improvise. If you dare, and think the person you are gifting has a good humor, buy items at a dime store. That's right. Go in with an open mind. Don't think of these as merely a bit of a gag, but instead pull together items that are everyday, but together make a package.

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