Thankful Thursday: Season of Giving

For many of us, we've either just been through or are coming upon the season of giving.  It's a time to select presents for those most dear to our hearts to show how much we appreciate them.  But it's been a hard year for many.  A year where the phrase: "It's the thought that counts" applies full force.

So in the spirit of giving, I wanted to share some "frugal" gift ideas that show you care without breaking the bank.  (Hint: while these would work for Christmas, why not remember to show your gratitude for those around you all year long??)

These ideas come from Zenhabits, and some are simple and wonderful.

1. Frame a picture of you with them.
2. Lotions or bath oils.
3. Journal. A nice journal can be beautiful. It’s one of my favorite gifts.
4. Gourmet coffee with a personalized mug.
5. A nice pen.
6. Photo album or scrapbook, with memories already included.
7. Homemade cookies you bake yourself.
8. Or brownies.
9. Spice gift basket. Get some small jars and fill them with exotic spices.
10. Gift certificate for the person’s favorite hobby store.
11. A burned CD with all the person’s favorite songs.
12. A letter, hand-written on nice paper, from you. Make it heart-felt, with all the reasons you appreciate the person.
13. A small plant.
14. A movie pass and a small container of gourmet popcorn kernels.
15. Soup mixes or cookie mixes in nice clear jars.
16. Personalized T-shirt.
17. Stationery and stamps.
18. IOU booklets, with whatever services you are willing to perform. Obviously only good for someone you know really well.
19. Knit or crochet something for someone (I can’t do this, but I know people who can).
20. An “I appreciate you because” jar. Fill a nice jar with slips of different colored paper, each with a reason you appreciate (or love) someone.
21. Jams and jellies.
22. Good bread (home-made works great).
23. Books (my favorite).
24. A blank recipe book … write some of your favorite recipes on the first few pages.
25. A keepsake DVD with a video of special moments, edited (and captioned) by you. A slideshow presentation with music burned on a DVD works too.
26. Create your own art (and put it on nice stationery or in a frame). By “art”, I mean a sketch, painting, poem, short story, whatever.
27. Scented candles.
28. Make-up set.
29. Shaving kit.
30. Box of good tea and a teacup.

I know, I know, it's hard for many of us to think past Christmas right now.  But what about Valentine's Day?  An anniversary?  Or no reason at all, just to show your honey how much you care?  What would you do if you got an "I appreciate you because" jar?  I'm pretty sure I'd melt into a weeping puddle of gratitude at my hubby's feet.  So why not give that good feeling to someone else?