GIFT TIPS: Let’s face it: Christmas 2008 is no time to be going
hog-wild with holiday gifts. We’re all into having a frugal holiday
and so we pass along some tips from the Pennsylvania Institute of
Certified Public Accountants:

Make a list. Many people spend as they go, buying presents as
they see them, and are surprised by the bills in January. You can
avoid this problem by creating a list of who you plan to buy gifts
for in advance. Create a budget for each individual. Check this
total against your holiday savings to decide if you need to adjust
your spending.

Be creative. As you begin shopping, remember that thoughtfulness
counts. Instead of searching for one expensive present, you may be
able to save money – and give the perfect gift – by putting
together a number of small items that relate to a loved one’s
special interest. Someone who truly loves chocolate, for example,
might appreciate a basket of hand-picked treats.

Hit the kitchen. If you are a good cook – or you simply have a
foolproof recipe – gifts of food are inexpensive and very popular.
Whether you give a mixture of great holiday cookies or your
grandmother’s prize-winning banana bread, your friends and family
will welcome the effort.

Good deeds. Many of the people on your list may value a favor
done for them more than an expensive present. Couples with young
children would be delighted if you offered to babysit so they can
have some time together. You can surprise a friend with a busy
schedule by promising to do the weekly shopping for a month.
Present each recipient with a card describing the deed to be
performed. These gifts cost nothing but your time.

Check twice. First, plan and purchase all you need for
lower-cost presents. Then, when you move on to higher-priced
presents, keep an eye out for sales and comparison-shop to get the
best prices. You may find you can get the items on your list for
less money.