Meaningful and Free Christmas Gifts

Every Christmas you buy gifts and hope that people like them. Then you figure up the bill for Christmas shopping and those presents have put you in the hole for months to come. With the worsening economy for so many, maybe it is time to go for the meaningful present that is free or close to it. Maybe it will reinforce what Christmas was supposed to be about all those long years ago.

The gift of family heirlooms can be free.

When I have had no money for Christmas presents, I have given my family members heirlooms that were passed down by my grandparents. One year it was some of Grandma's dishes given to my niece. One year it was my grandfather's pipe and tobacco can. One year for my nephew, the present was that of my Grandparent's cookie jar. They were meaningful gifts for the next generation. They can enjoy them now instead of waiting for them. Sometimes I have given heirlooms to someone I think needs grounded or to feel like they matter to the family.

The gift of every day items can be free.

Have you ever had a friend or family member visit you and say " Wow, I love that! If you ever decide to get rid of it, I would sure love to have it." I bet that's happened to all of us. Well do you LOVE that object today or are you tired of it? Gift it to that person this year. What a meaningful and loving present it would be!

The gift of your time and effort can be free.

This is especially good for people who have time but no money. Someone in your family, friends or neighbors needs your time. Maybe its just the gift of your company to someone who is alone much of the time. Maybe its the gift of your effort to someone who needs some help around the house. Trust me, giving presents of this sort are the most meaningful and appreciated presents you could give!!

Gifts your kids can give for free.

We were farm kids. We weren't very rich, but we didn't know that. The other kids were in awe of the ponies we had. Could your child give another kid a day with the ponies as a gift? Could your child take the garbage out for an elderly neighbor? Have your kids draw and color a picture as a present for someone. These are all meaningful gifts. Why? Because the kids are giving of themselves and not just taking money and buying things for people.

Yes, its Christmas time again. But don't despair because you have no money for presents. There are gifts aplenty for the giving. Gifts from the heart with meaning behind them. They are free for the most part. Take the time to look around your home and see what you could give as a present. Once you start thinking in this mode, you can see all kinds of possibilities.

Meaningful and free gifts. Give it a try and enjoy the true meaning of Christmas.