Inexpensive Birthday Christmas Gifts

I love giving and receiving fresh flowers, especially those that grow before my eyes.   This is the time of year when boxed amaryllis and narcissus plants start showing up in Target, Wal-Mart, Lowe's and Home Depot.  They are very reasonably priced and make lovely gifts.

Narcissus 

Narcissus

Amaryllis

After they bloom and die down, you can plant them in the yard.  Be sure to NOT cut the green stems even though they start to look ugly.  The plant needs the stem for nourishment in its dormant stage.  If you have more than one plant of the same type in the yard, the next time they bloom you will have a few more than that.  :)

Check for sales even after the holidays if you want to get some just for your garden. I love watching these flowers bloom in the house. Click HERE for a previous post about these flowers.

Edible Arrangements Birthday Surprise

My sweet brother surprised me with this over the weekend for my birthday. Edible Arrangements. Mmmm.... My favorite are the chocolate dipped orange slices.

Edible Arrangements

Edible Arrangements

My brother and me last year.  Love him so much.  :)

FAMILY & FRIENDS: Creative Gifts for Friends

Philippians 1:3-4

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you...

We all have friends and acquaintances other than family that we would like to give small gifts to on their birthdays, Christmas or other special occasion. Women and girls tend to do this more than men or boys. In order to not go into the family budget I try to give something creative or handmade, but not too time-consuming. I love to take photos and people often send me nice ones as well since they know I enjoy editing and framing them. Often I'll make a simple gift of an enlargement print in a tasteful frame as a gift. We have an Old Time Pottery store AND a Bed Bath and Beyond about 2 minutes from our home where I often pick up attractive frames at deeply discounted prices. Picture prints range from 13 cents to $1.50 at the Sam's Club Digital Photo Center which is also nearby. A lovely gift with a personal touch for $5.00 or much less. Don't forget the card (I usually make these on our computer as well).

If you have another skill such as baking, calligraphy or flower arranging, these are much appreciated "homemade" gifts as well. Gift giving does not have to add financial stress. A small, thoughtful gift tells your friend that you cherish and love them.