Ten Creative Gift Ideas that Won't Hurt Your Pocket

Every year, millions of Americans spend an average of nine hundred dollars on Christmas gifts. It's that time of year again, however many of us would like to find a different way to celebrate the holiday and focus on the true meaning of the Christmas season. Currently, we are in a difficult economic time and many of us will be looking for less costly gifts than in previous years. For that reason, it's important and necessary to be money smart. There are many great gifts one can give that won't cost much at all, or only require some time and a little effort. It is very easy to walk into a store and simply choose the hottest toy, gadget or accessory. Then again, there are those who put a lot of thought and time into buying the 'right' gift for that special someone. Yet, many of these items may lack that flair of creativity and heart. Often times, it's the gift that reflects our heart and appreciation for that special someone, that is more rewarding to both the giver and the receiver.

One of the most powerful things that one can do for those that are in need, is to give of their time and of themselves. There are many organizations that welcome this kind of service, not only during the Christmas season, but throughout the year. Some of these foundations include: The Make-A-Wish Foundation, Toys for Tots, Operations Christmas Child, My Two Front Teeth, Angel Tree and many more. These are some of the more prominent charities, foundations and organizations in North America and they welcome volunteers as well as monetary donations all throughout the year.

Most people believe in a higher power greater than themselves, and at this time of year, people from all walks of life reach out in an effort to connect with others or a higher force. This is what most of us refer to as God. Many people visit fspa.org, especially during the Christmas season, for prayer requests because they believe in the power of prayer. Thus, anyone can submit a prayer request for one's friends and/or family members; investigate and find out what some possible areas of need may be. Then submit a prayer request to your local church, synagogue, mosque, and/or temple or just do it yourself! This is truly a selfless and loving act.

One of the most thoughtful things to do for someone is to make their favorite meal or dessert for the holiday. Keep in mind that presentation is very important, so make sure that whatever dish or dessert you choose to make, whether it be a cake, cookies, fudge, or beef brisket, that it's well displayed in a corning ware or container.

Greeting cards are also great ways to show someone that you love and care about them. This is a fine way to get one's creative juices flowing. A person can express their sense of humor, wisdom, or thoughtfulness through a greeting card. It will make a positive impression on not only the receiver, but the giver also. These are wonderful keepsakes that one can cherish for life.

There are budget benefits in putting a gift basket together. One can customize a gift basket by shopping at The Dollar Store and creating an assortment of toys or a collection of favorite things. Some may or may not be in favor of shopping at the Dollar Store; however, it's a great place to shop, especially for children, and it carries lots of quality products and brand name items for great prices.

If you are an antique collector or an avid reader; why not put together a selection of vintage items or share a favorite book and personalize it with an inscription to the receiver. Most antique stores carry a wide selection of vintage items to choose from that won't hurt your pocket. There are first edition books, pottery, paintings and jewelries. One can shop at the local antique store or online at eBay or tias.com. The items purchased can become gifts that the receiver can treasure for generations.

There are certain businesses that thrive when the national economy is uncertain. Some of these include repair shops and second-hand stores. This is due in part to the fact that people, in general, become more money smart. They explore options that they otherwise would not have when the economy is good: They save more, and repair their possessions instead of buying new ones or throwing them out. Thus, having an old piece of furniture restored is a great gift idea. If you want to get really adventurous, you can do it yourself and really turn the gift into something special!

There are lots of other creative things one can do to display their love and appreciation for someone without spending a lot of money. This may include writing a poem, painting an abstract portrait, framing someone's favorite picture(s), or constructing a piece of art. The possibilities are endless, so allow your creative juices to flow this season.