After years of being a Secret Santa, Secret Sister, Secret Buddy, and a Secret Friend at work, at church, and in various groups of which I have been a part over the years, I can attest to the difficulty of finding a unique gift to suit the person whose name you have drawn. If you don't know that person at all well, it can be downright frustrating to find the perfect personalized Secret Santa gift for the man or woman on your Christmas gift list.

Being on the receiving end of someone's well-meaning but inappropriate gifts is no less frustrating. I have a small collection of very nice odds and ends - cute little knick-knacks that serve no discernibly useful purpose beyond gathering dust.

At the risk of sounding unappreciative of their efforts, I must say that I don't like dusting. I have better ideas for how to spend my time than polishing a shelf full of dust-collectors, no matter how adorable they might be. With that in mind, I offer this list of items that won't hang around long enough to collect dust, that won't require you to develop an annual de-cluttering routine, but that will show your thoughtfulness and your desire to give from the heart - the kind of gift that would make Secret Santa's everywhere proud.

First on my list, certainly in terms of popularity, is the gift card. You can buy a gift card for almost anything, in any denomination, it seems.

You can purchase re-loadable gift cards from many specialty coffee outlets such as Tim Horton's, Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, and Second Cup.

Almost every major department and online store, such as Amazon, Chapters/Indigo, and Barnes & Nobles, also offer gift cards redeemable for goods from books to all manner of amazing goodies.

Spa cards are also very popular, and some offer introductory a wide range of services from manicures, pedicures, and massage sessions.

Restaurants like The Olive Garden, and Red Lobster offer gift certificates for lunches which are more in the price range for a Secret Santa gift.

Another of my favorite places for gift cards is Cookies by George. The George franchises specialize in delectable gourmet cookies that can be purchased singly or in gift boxes, or by gift card.

Who could resist a gift of chocolates or nuts.

Check for allergies first, of course, but be reassured that these traditional favorites are always appreciated.

Truffles are sinfully delightful, and many makers of fine chocolates offer decadent morsels to suit anyone's taste.

The delicate fragrance of exotic teas is enhanced by the delicate floral "blossom" that opens as the tea is steeped.

Viewed through the clear glass of the pot, this unusual gift is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

A most thoughtful gift is a donation to charity in the name of your Secret Santa giftee. Your recipient will be sent a gift card detailing whatever has been donated in their name.

Many charities offer a wide range of items that can be purchased from a laying hern to help feed a family, to a well that will provide fresh water for an entire village.

While this is often far beyond the price range of most Secret Santa gifts, a modest gift tis still appreciated by any charitable agency. What a great way to celebrate the meaning of the Christmas season by brightening someone's life in the name of another.

Another great idea for a personalized Xmas gift is a certificate for cleaning services. Whether you are springing for a post-party clean-up, vacuum cleaning, or a couple of hours of free snow shoveling, this thoughtful gift will be most appreciated by any busy homemaker - gal or guy.

When all is said and done, there are few things quite as useful for creating a calming atmosphere as aromatherapy candles and essential oils - always a welcome gift for the relaxed and romantic ambiance they create.

Here's to success in finding your Secret Santa gifts this year!