Black Friday is a week away leaving little doubt the buying season is here. Marketers and ads are coming out of the woodwork making me clutch my wallet a little tighter but still mesmerized by that splashy iPhone floating in the commercial like a new car.
Here’s the deal though; giving doesn’t have to cost a small fortune. Yes, we (ok, me) would like to drop over a thousand bucks on the latest technology but at the same time will it create a lasting impression? Am I the only one who can’t remember the random gifts from Christmas past? But I can remember the joy of receiving a hand made drawing from Miss R and reverently placing it on my fridge as we oohed and awwed over her AMAZING talent.
So before we launch ourselves into a frenzy I’m sharing a few gift ideas that won’t cost a cent but just may leave forever memories in hearts and minds.
Gifts that don’t cost a thing except a bit of creativity
The gift of time
- Surprise the busy mom with an offer to watch the kids for a few unscheduled hours. Let her decide what to do; maybe a nap or a long soak or catching up on laundry. She will love you for it.
- Spend an afternoon catching up with your friend. We get busy. Life gets in the way, making it hard to have those heart-to-heart meaningful connections. Spread holiday cheer by carving out a bit of time to reconnect, even on FaceTime. Bonus points if you wear a Santa hat.
The gift of service
- With tools in hand, help your neighbor hang those pesky holiday lights. Bask in the glow of a job well done.
- Elf yourself, quietly tackling your sweetie’s long over do honey do list or detailing milk stains, smudged windows from little (and not so little) finger prints, and long-lost Cheerios in the family taxi. It’s a gift the whole family will love.
The gift of sustenance
- It’s Even the least talented Betty Crocker can put together a simple meal to share. Surprise your aunt or grandfather or long lost brother from another mother (you get the idea) with an impromptu visit, a bag of salad, a loaf of bread and cans of soup pilfered from your pantry, in arm. Share the meal together or gift the meal with a hug… they’ll appreciate the love.
- The Holidays are packed with sweet treats just about everywhere you turn. Instead of diving into that plate of cookies your neighbor dropped off, portion them into ziplock baggies (add a bit of festive flare by tying some ribbon around them) and put the bags in your car within easy reach of the drivers seat. Next time you pull up to an intersection hand out the goodies to those in need. You’ll spread holiday cheer and never miss the extra calories.
With a little creativity, and a bit of thoughtfulness, the holidays can bring joy without breaking the bank. What’s your favorite freebie idea? Would love to hear all about it.
Sending you love and happiness. ❤️