Last Minute Christmas Gifts — Things to Think About
For those of you who still believe there's a Santa Claus, you're in the wrong place. Adults know that he's a fictional character, but we still find it amusing to support the fantasy for the children. After all, it's the spirit of giving that counts and the character epitomizes that spirit. Now, knowing that there is no Santa, it's up to you to get those all-important Christmas gifts for the people you love.
It's the thought that counts.
I'm sure you've heard that phrase a million times, but not in the context that I'm going present it in. It's usually a response by someone who didn't get what they wanted or received something extremely cheap or inappropriate.
When you're thinking about what to give someone as a Christmas gift, you need to think about that person and what that person wants or needs. It's not about you and what you want to give them. I've got a whole closet full of sweaters and a bathroom vanity full of cologne. I don't need any more sweaters (especially here in the tropics) and I definitely don't need any more cologne or aftershave lotion. I probably have enough to last me for a hundred years or more.
Think about the recipient's needs, wants and hobbies. If the intended recipient is a computer geek, for example, and has mentioned something that he or she would like to have but doesn't have the time to track down or get for themselves, getting the perfect give is extremely easy. Of course, you have to think about modern technology as opposed to old technology. A geek wouldn't want a mouse that has to be plugged into the computer. An optical, wireless mouse would be more appropriate.
If a recipient is a music lover, and has an iPod or other mp3 player, consider items that would enhance their listening pleasure. I'm talking about things like an iPod screen protector or other mp3 accessories. Most accessories won't cost you a small fortune and will be greatly appreciated by the right people.
Cold, Hard Cash
If your intended recipient seems to have everything he or she needs or wants and you're having a hard time figuring out what get for Christmas gifts, consider giving something as simple as cold, hard cash. If you're too shy to give cash in person, I recommend giving (or even mailing) preloaded Visa or MasterCard gift cards. They can use them to make purchases and in most cases, they can pull the cash directly from an ATM.
You see, giving is something that comes from the heart, not from our own wants or needs. Gift recipients will always appreciate gifts that have them in mind instead of yourself. Don't take the easy way out and give what you want to give. That's just way too impersonal to be appreciated.
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Well, All I want for Christmas is to be with my old friends. I miss them so much. And how are you going to give that to me as a gift? eh?
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You'd be surprised. I hope you enjoy the holidays and see some of those old friends.
When Christmas becomes "you have to get this" or "it has to be this" the meaning is taken out of it. Of course I have more cologne and sweaters and clothing from my favorite sports team than I'll ever need but each gift is received with an enthusiastic THANK YOU. It IS the thought that counts. If we have to have this mandatory get me this or get me that it's not worth it. I have one relative with kids that hands out a list well before Christmas with what her kids want then asks everyone to pick one each. I decline everytime and give them something that I choose. So now I'm selfish?
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Each case is different, obviously. Been there, done that.
You're not selfish when you respond to selfishness in a like manner. I would respond exactly the same way if I was always told what they wanted or was handed a list. They're just wrong when they do that.
The perspective of this article is one in which you're not treated like that and that still happens.
These ideas are great, but what about all those photos you take during the year? Here is a great way to display them for all to enjoy!
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hi RT,
This may sound sappy but for me the best Christmas gift is the look on my two kids' faces when they come out on Christmas morning and look under the tree and see the gifts from Santa (yes RT, there is a Santa!). Yep, that would be my favorite gift, either that or a bottle of Glenlivet.
~ Steve, the Scotch-loving, no bah humbug here, trade show guru
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Thanks for the post RT.
I am headed out today in the rain to search for gifts for my wife. I think these are the hardest. They have to be something special and something she wants but it has to be exactly what she wants. She doesn't subscribe to the "it's the thought that counts" way of thinking.
The problem is if she wants something she gets it herself so I have to figure out what she wants but hasn't got.
Man, sometimes I hate Christmas,
Have a good one
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I've tired of receiving useless junk that clutters the house. My request to everyone this year is, buy me a gift card. I put them in my wallet and use them throughout the year as I need them. There is no better gift in my opinion.
Whatever, but I think that little present here and there will open some doors in life.
just to add, most prepaid credit cards can be used by under 16s, so very useful for that cousin/brother/son/daughter/friend/homie
Kids always do believe in Santa.Claus as traditionally every Christmas they are waiting to receive gifts. santa.Claus have been part of Christmas.
thanks for sharing this information. it is not the gift that counts it the reason of giving. I'm giving gifts to people I love and treasure. For me any gift is priceless as long as it is came from the heart.
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Unfortunately, the energy provider spoiled me a lot so, I'll ask cold hard cash this year – to pay the bill
Thanks for the info. This Christmas, I will spend every minute of the day with my loved ones. I know they'll longing for it. And I think this will be the best Christmas gift I can offer them.
Your time is one of the most cherished Christmas presents. Gift someone with your love and time.
I just love Christmas although coming up with gifts for everyone can sometimes seem like a chore!!!
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I enjoy shopping. I think christmas is even more special. i don't do a lot of shopping, but i when i do i like to do a bit of people watching. It is interesting to see how people react in crowds, when they really don't even care what they do or say even though the stores are crowded. Also, Visa gift cards are great. it is the new way to give money.
This was a lifesaver! I just wanted to stop by and say this was inspiring. I'm looking into getting gifts for my nieces and nephews last minute, as I was out of town before. This was perfect. Thanks for the advice.
Whole day drinking !! and gift would be also a wine bottle.
I'm not so lucky this Christmas because i don't have the money to buy gifts for my love ones. i just pray to give them a good health.
I bought my fiance a Beagle puppy for christmas, but nothing for my brother and sisters (rather than spending money on things we don't really need or particularly want for the past couple of years we have agreed not to buy each other presents). Instead we spend money on nice food and drink and have a good get together over the xmas period.
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Christmas gifts? I never know what to buy for anyone, ever. Yes I am a guy
Pulled it off just in time this year though.
Christmas has came and went, and everyone very happy with their gifts!!
Go me!
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