Gifts, Gifts and More Gifts...It's so Overwhelming

Gifts--It’s so overwhelming to think about. Have you ever felt this way, never knowing exactly what you are going to do? Gift giving has become our number one major headache these days. With the economy still crawling, so many stores to shop within, and the malls…Oh, what does one do next?

Gift giving never used to feel this way, but it seems that the birthdays keep growing and showers and anniversaries make one feel overwhelmed. Then on top of all those “great occasions” you get to look forward to the Holidays!

I believe we all should stop, take a deep breath and say to ourselves, ok, there has to be a better way to do this on-going shopping. After all, what child, small or grownup really appreciates the time you spend searching for their perfect gift. Most grownups just appreciate that you have thought about them for a moment.

Many are watching the amount of money they spend for groceries so why not do the same when it comes to all the gifts we would like to purchase, without breaking the bank as well? There are so many new stores which have helped with search time and new shops opening, old ones closing, that one gets overwhelmed searching for the best deals.

Why not make craft items or knit or crochet a beautiful gift? Many often forget how wonderful these items are to receive, but what about us who are not so “gifted or talented”. Here are a few tips that may help with your gift giving dilemmas.

Ask a friend or perhaps stopping at the local nursing homes, after all, our grandparents were our best teachers and we all love and treasure those incredible items they make. The extra time it takes is so greatly appreciated by the elders of our communities; most are so happy to help when they can. So, if you want to give something made with love and care, take a moment to stop in and check out all the wonderful things our nursing home residents can still make!

When you just do not seem to have the extra time to get-away, make a batch of cookies or put together the dry mix for a batch. Place them in canning jars along with directions and list of wet ingredients still needed. Next, place a scrap of fabric tied with a beautiful ribbon. For pie lovers, mix ingredients together for the crust, include directions plus either a batch of homemade pudding mix—(dry ingredients only) or perhaps a can of fruit, then place in a lined basket for another perfect gift idea.

There are many great ways to show appreciation and affection for all your friends and family without stressing out about the cost of doing so. We have become such a commercial community that we have forgotten the basics of friendships. Just be yourself, after all, isn’t that what true friendship is all about?

It just takes a few moments to remember how to put a smile on faces without breaking the bank. Shop for great sales, the online shops offer great deals and everyone knows in-home shopping is a great idea. Remember, stop, breathe, and save…save time, save money and save your sanity.