Here are a few ideas that will help you keep your money in your wallet this season but still be truly giving and origianal:

Make something. It sounds hokey and you can't predict how it will be perceived but who cares. After all, unless the naysayers are offering to pay your credit card off in January, they should zip it. And some people will love it. Here are a few specific ideas:

1. Try recipes in a jar (find plenty of ideas/recipes online by typing "recipes in a jar").

2. Make candles or soaps, buy supplies at a craft store.

3. Bake something or make homemade candy, my Mom does this every year and it's a huge hit and nice to have on hand for those, "uh oh, another secret santa that I wasn't planning on" comes up and you'll be ready.

4. Write something thoughtful to your loved ones if you are writerly.

5. Frame a great picture that is meaningful.

6. Collage on a journal with pictures and words that mean something to the recipient.

7. If you have a digital video camera, make your own version of "a very special Chrristmas Special" and make copies for friends and fam.

8. Go to the dollar store for inspirational ideas.

9. Make a pictoral slideshow and burn it to a dvd.

10. If you are an artist, draw something and fram it...my sister in law draws portraits of people's kids and it's a huge hit.

Regift/Recycle I say! Designate a box in your home and go through things and see what you don't need that someone else might want, books are always good re-gifters or gifts you got but didn't open/need. If you can get over the urge to mention it's a re-gift you are in the clear and really it's like recycling and everyone thinks that's a good idea.

Buy on the Cheap. If you don't have a creative bone in your body you can consider buying something that's inexpensive. Start first with a definitive budget. For the purpose of this article let's say your budget is $10 per person. Here are a few ideas:

1. Starbucks gift card, that buys at least 3 cups of coffee! Or buy a bag of fancy coffee for the java joneser you love.

2. Peruse the dollar stores and Ross and Target for cheap ideas.

3. A bottle of wine is always appreciated by the vino lovers in your group and you can put it in a nice wine gift bag, makes a great hostess gift for all those holiday parties too.

4. McDonald's gift cards, I hate to say it because it's not the healthiest but this is a great gift for kids, at least they'll be into it, even if it's not good for their wait line.

5. Books, esp. used. Here in Portland, I recommend Powell's but if you shop the bargain shelves at B&N and Amazon online you'll find lots of choices under $10 and most people have some sort of book they might read.

6. Journals, you can buy one at Ross for $3.00 and it makes a great gift for the creative type.

7. Get your artist a brush or a small canvas.

8. Get a calendar, mug or other items with a photo on it. Snapfish does this online but Kinko's makes some of these items as well. It can go a bit over budget but if you get a calendar and give it to a couple you are still under budget.

9. Buy for the couples in your life with one "mutual" gift. It could be something for their household or one of the sentimental gifts but it will save some you some dough for sure.

10. Buy a CD on sale, one you know the person would love.

Well, there are so many great ideas out there, these are just a few of mine. I hope you have a lovely holiday season and wish you the very best on your road to financial control during this consumer-driven frenzy. Stay safe and avoid the mall at all costs!