For the people in your life that have way too many “things” consider giving sensibly this year. Americans love to spend money and buy “things”. They enjoy buying for themselves, as well as others. Even though it is a very generous and thoughtful characteristic to have, it is not practical. Over time these “things” add up and you either have to donate to charity frequently, throw things away or store them away just in case you “may need it someday”.
Even though it is very cute, your mother does not need another knick-knack. She probably also does not need another pair of slippers, a bathrobe, new clothes or anything else for that matter really. However, she probably could use extra help once a month. She would also probably enjoy a free housecleaning, car wash or errand running trip.
Most of us have way more than we need or even want. We are fine. Once a person reaches the age of 30 or even younger we are doing pretty good in the “stuff” department. Consider instead giving an older person a free chore coupon, such as a car wash or a housecleaning. Other things to give that cost money are a grocery gift card, a department store gift card or a restaurant coupon. You may want to make it super special and give a gift certificate for some place that your recipient would never consider going to, as it would be out of the ordinary. I recently gave my niece a coupon to go to a wine & chocolate bar with her fiance. She was very happy and “could not wait to go”.
The elderly are particularly difficult to buy for so do not try. Instead, give them a financial break by paying for their newspaper subscription, their discount store membership fee or their gasoline. Outside of pictures of the “little ones”, they will enjoy these so much more than a new pin or a wallet.
Be a sensible gift giver this year and say no to more “things”.