Gift Giving Ideas that are (Virtually) Free

Today's topic is something we've been thinking about for quite a while and over many holiday seasons..

For someone who doesn't have very much money or just prefers to celebrate the spirit of Christmas without buying from the local mall, what are some alternative gift giving options?

Here's some ideas we've come up with..  They may not perhaps be 'original' ideas but when given to a person with a good heart and spirit, will be well appreciated.

1)  The Gift of Self i.e. One's Time

People are pretty stingy with their time which is a major reason for the popularity of texting, tweeting and whatever Facebook is supposed to be.

Much easier to type a few short words and send out to all at one finger click than to actually God Forbid write or call each person directly to keep in touch..

That is why giving the gift of time would be so appreciated.

If its a grandparent or someone elderly, perhaps offer your services to take them to a couple doctor appointments, or offer to shop for their groceries or to just sit and talk or play board games..

We're pretty sure they'd appreciate that more than a CD

Or if its a neighbor or someone close by,  perhaps offer to help shovel their driveway as a gift.  Or an IOU for spring time that you will mow their lawn once or twice..  Or help that person with their gardening..

And IOU 'coupons' are fun things for the recipient to have..  Perhaps its to go see a movie or show or to make dinner or to do light repair work around another's home if that person is not capable.

2)  Make a Gift from Scratch..

Anyone who would sneer at something you make because it was not store bought is not worth your time to know...

Anyone can go in a store and buy something from China..  Uniqueness however is special.

If you have artistic ability, paint a painting or draw a picture..  Or work on a craft like building a coo-coo clock or jewelry box like the art stores sell..

Or record you singing or playing a piece of music for the other to enjoy...

If your talent is writing, compose a personalized short story or a poem

Often its the gifts one makes and takes time to create with love and care which are the most appreciated by the receiver..

3)  The Gift of A Kind Word

Sometimes the best gift can be found inside a Christmas card and not always money (though of course we admit money is great)

Most people pick out a Hallmark card, sign it..add a couple words then out it goes to the recipient with really no thought or effort whatsoever...

Why not make a card using your PC and card software or create one from scratch and decorate with designs and glitter and stickers..

Or use the card to really take the time to personally express what the recipient means to you..  How wonderful a friend or lover or family member they are.. Why they are so special and important..

If a card is created from the heart, it can bring more joy to the receiver than a wrapped gift.

In this world people just aren't told how valuable and what they mean to others.  Everyone tends to be so busy or want to short-circuit the process with garbage like e-cards or generic Facebook holiday wishes..  

Personalized cards do matter to people..

4)  Gift Cards with Discounts

For those who simply do not have the time or desire to make a gift intimate or special to another, gift cards are a good idea.   They require minimal effort or thought and some give discounts or 'bonus cards' during the holiday season.

For instance iTunes card tend to often be on sale, saving the purchaser 10-20% off the value on the face of the card.

Many restaurants are also offering deals where if you buy $X in cards, you get a bonus card for yourself to be used at certain times and/or for certain meals

Only a week to go so now's the time to think of the perfect selfless gifts...

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