This time of year—affectionately known as the “holidays”— is a frenzy of really annoying sales ads and clever marketing speak, sung to the same tune as holiday songs. By now, I’ve learned to tune that out and just try to hone in on the spirit of giving, the people I love (who they really are), and get them gifts that they’ll truly use and appreciate, year after year.
But some people who subscribe to gift-giving in late December, wait until the very last minute to get their gifts, and end up buying sample size gift sets in the colors no one else wanted or Rudolph sequined sweaters that they’ll wear for one day. Basically, things no one really needs.
Here are a few ideas you can steal from me, in an easy to read format because I know you need to get back to scrolling through Facebook/Instagram/Twitter:
- Spend Christmas Day doing all of their favorite holiday things, even if it’s watching Frosty The Snowman on repeat for 8 hours. Sometimes the tradition and holiday spirit itself is enough to warm someone’s cold heart.
- Cook a meal for them, like an actual meal.
- Make a munchies kit with their favorite snacks like candies and cookies you have laying around the house.
- Who doesn’t love homemade chocolate chip cookies?!?!
- Write them a thoughtful letter about why you love them and maybe a few of your favorite memories from another holiday season or the year. It might seem like you’re skimping but odds are, it’ll be heart-warning if you’re really honest.
- An evening together drinking and playing board games.
- A massage.
- Go volunteer together. Local food banks or Salvation Army or your local religious congregation may have activities they could use volunteers for. Extend the spirit of giving beyond your home and give together to families in need.
- When all else fails, as my dad always says, “CASH IS KING”
My idea of gift giving is giving something that my loved one/friend/family/acquaintance is something they can love for longer than that (like a memory or an experience), and really show them you love them. The holiday is more than just buying useless gifts.
Happy holidays and cheers to a new year!
Becca Risa Luna 