Gifts don’t have to be monetary

Do you have one of those hard to buy for people in your family? And now it’s last minute and you still don’t know what to do?

What about sharing some good memories of this person? Or fun stories that you enjoy telling about them (obviously not “put down” stories). Write them up; put them in letter format or make a small booklet, which could include snapshots. Or do a list format, such as “25 great things about . . . “ If you have children, this latter is a great project to get them involved in. If you have a video camera or a way to record sound, you could make a video or audio recording of these stories or memories for them.

Another idea is “service” coupons. Make a gift certificate for something you know they need or enjoy. For some of my family and friends I could give “2 hours of computer help” or “I’ll put 50 of your pictures in a photo album.” I’d personally enjoy gifts like “2 hours of housecleaning” or “afternoon tea with . . .”

Do you have digital photos or videos they’d enjoy, but don’t have? Make a CD or DVD. I’d love to have copies of home movies my in-laws took of my husband when he was little.

Have technical skills? What about downloading podcasts in a format they can enjoy. There are great podcasts out there, but many aren’t even aware of them. (This one might take more time to find those good ones than you have this year before Christmas, but save the idea for a birthday gift.)

Perhaps they'd like personalized stationery. Or calling cards.

Be creative! Your gift of time may be treasured and remembered longer than any other gift.