I’ll be the first to say it, I love the holidays. Even though Thanksgiving brings another inch to your waistline, it also brings togetherness, joy, and a whole lot of really good food. Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year. Something about the season brings you the feeling of generosity, and you want to shower your friends and family with the absolute perfect gift. However, sometimes your wallet doesn’t allow that.
Even if you can’t afford the most expensive and extravagant presents for those you love, there are still plenty of ways to show they how much you appreciate. The first gift is fun, thoughtful, and doesn’t cost a cent; your time. Just spending time with someone you care about makes them aware of what they mean to you. Drive around and look at Christmas lights, have a baking day, sit by the fire and have a board game night. Sometimes, just being with them is enough.
Even if you want to buy your friends and families gifts, they don’t have to be giant to show that you care. Often, it is enough that you thought of them. Put together a care package with some fuzzy socks, face masks, chapstick, and their favorite candy. Go to a used bookstore and pick out a book you think they would enjoy. Bake them cookies or any other holiday treat.
Feeling like you aren’t able to give those you love something in return for all they do for you can be hard, but if you stay in the holiday spirit and remember that your relationship with them is enough, you are bound to have an amazing time. Happy holidays!