Let’s be honest… a girl can only use so many pairs of slippers and scented bath products. And if I find the “Magic Brownie Pan” under my tree, the sugarplums in my head won’t be doing the happy dance.
Here are some ideas for gifts that don’t have to be shoved into already crowded cupboards.
- For families with children, a season pass to the zoo or children’s museum is always a treat.
- Membership to an online movie service such as NetFlix will provide hours of entertainment on long winter nights.
- Those with an interest in cooking or crafts might enjoy a class to learn a new skill.
- A book of coupons for various services such as snow-shoveling, yard work or child care is a gift from the heart.
- A platter of baked treats and homemade jams is always a hit during the holidays.
- There’s nothing like a basket of prime fruit delivered on a cold winter morning to take away the chill. Some companies even offer a “fruit of the month” to extend the gift all year long.
- A home cooked meal, packaged for the freezer is a much appreciated time-saver for busy moms.
- For teachers, make a donation to a scholarship fund or school project instead of wrapping up another apple-shaped ornament.
- People of faith will appreciate a gift to their local church.
- For the outdoorsmen, send a gift to Ducks Unlimited or the Sierra Club.
- For the book lover, donate a book to the local library in his or her name. An added bonus is that the recipient has the option to check out the book to read and then return it for others to enjoy.
- For the cook, send a donation to a food pantry or shelter to provide meals for the needy.
Posted by Cyndy Salzmann 
CYNDY SALZMANN 