scared re: xmas - homemade gift ideas help!

**perSue** · 08-29-2008, 11:04 AM

i have no job, i have no money of my own.
i might have about 50$ i can spend on dh & ds this year. a LOT less than normal.

they both enjoy electronics, dvd's etc.

but i dont have the funds.

and I'm seriously feeling guilty, extremely sad and upset all around.
i have NO ideas for them.

i've made scarves, pillows, hats, some clothing (sewn)...

I have NO idea what to do... that a guy will like/appreciate and USE!!!

I'm trying my best to try to get a job so I can try to buy a few things this year... it'll be a 'thin' year anyway since money all around is tight...

but ds is 15... he's got a few more "family at home" xmas's left...
he's got no specific hobbies or interests. easy going kid w/out that "label" (which I condone... as I think labels can be detrimental to one who doesnt necessarily understand them.) (my disclaimer!

)

dh likes pricey electronics... but I can't give both all fudgies and cookies for xmas... "I" am in charge of their health... and cannot in good conscience make all these sweets! LOL

i've been in fear for the past 2 weeks trying to scrounge the internet for ideas... and all i get are the usual "guy" gifts: a sweater, a scarf, a hat.

BORING! especially since i've already done these.

HELP!!!!

**JanieD** · 08-29-2008, 11:21 AM

Have you considered selling crafts to make some money for a few of the items they would really like? I sure others can give advise on selling online not real familiar here, but wanted to throw it out there. What about reward programs or things like Coke points where you get stuff for free? Are there any secondhand stores where you could get cds, dvds or games for less? I think planning ahead now will really help! There's lots of ways to have a good Christmas without spending a ton of money, just look out side the "box" store/mall. Best of luck!

**fernykins** · 08-29-2008, 11:38 AM

Where I'm at I can get used games and DVD's off of Craigs list for about 2.50 each.......
Fern

**perSue** · 08-29-2008, 11:41 AM

here's the thing, and i probly should'a mentioned it before.
they dont like 'already used' things.... except video games.
and many times at garage sales or places like craig's list... you don't get a chance to see if something works or check the quality...

i'd rather not waste time/money on a game, movie or music if it's scratched up or whatever.
there's nothing to protect me from buying something messed up... or in someone i know's case... buying a box of "nothing" filled with rocks.

i will check out some thrift stores when i get the chance... i can always find ideas there. i'm not great at wood working, but i might be able to find a shelf i could stain or something (but buying the stain and stuff is expensive

).

thanks so far!

**perSue** · 08-29-2008, 11:50 AM

oh and one more thing i'd like.... it's gotta be useful.
i dont like things that just set around w/out a reason. (so no snow globes, or figurines, etc.)
thanks!

**G'MaDebbie** · 08-29-2008, 12:03 PM

Lots of the larger retailers will start hiring next month for X-mas help. Is it possible that you can start putting your application in the retail stores now to get a jump start on it? Just a thought.

**joyofsix** · 08-29-2008, 12:23 PM

Do you have the ability to download music, etc. A $15 itunes card thrilled my kids at Christmas. Also, take what you have and get them a $10 amazon gc. Maybe they can add their own funds to get something?

**joyofsix** · 08-29-2008, 12:27 PM

Try this link too.
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf620379.tip.html

**elphie** · 08-29-2008, 12:33 PM

what about a three month membership to netflix, blockbuster online, or there's even a new one of these for video games, can't remember what its called but I'm sure google could help out w/ that. The lowest priced plans on these are super cheap- less than $10/ month and they would get a variety of the movies/games they enjoy and then just trade them in for something different when tired of them.

**elphie** · 08-29-2008, 12:38 PM

http://www.gameznflix.com/hello/default.htm

here's a link for a game site under $10/month

**Dancing Lotus** · 08-29-2008, 12:40 PM

Originally Posted by elphie

what about a three month membership to netflix, blockbuster online, or there's even a new one of these for video games, can't remember what its called but I'm sure google could help out w/ that. The lowest priced plans on these are super cheap- less than $10/ month and they would get a variety of the movies/games they enjoy and then just trade them in for something different when tired of them.

I second this idea, that's a great idea. Going to keep this in mind for my dh.
Or a magazine subscription.

**Dancing Lotus** · 08-29-2008, 12:42 PM

What about putting an add on your craigs list that you will trade sewing skills for giftcards.

**MommaStumpf** · 08-29-2008, 02:36 PM

One idea that requires a little wait is the day after thanksgivng sale at least one store will have dvd's for under $5 during the morning hours.

**MerMcE** · 08-29-2008, 02:41 PM

Start checking out freecycle.

**perSue** · 08-29-2008, 04:26 PM

freecycle is a good idea! thanks

the other ideas are good - but again, my funds are greatly limited, and will get so over the next few months. the likelyhood of a job, probly not. so much still going on w/family and personal ventures.

but good ideas everyone & thanks...
i'll see what i can do about the freecycle and stuff.

it's just so difficult to find things that 'guys' like and appreciate you putting time into...
that's not "go to the mall and buy a disc of some sort".