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Christmas is just around the corner and we all know what that means. Trying to find that ever elusive, perfect Christmas gift. Lets face it, the perfect gift does not exist, but practical, well thought out gifts do. This year, instead of purchasing that last minute, this will have to do gift, try a new approach.

Make it personal is a great theme to keep in mind when tyring to be practical this year. Spend the time compiling a list of you gift recipients. Next to each name write down their hobbies and interests. Choose a theme that applies to each person or couple then began assembling the contents to fill a gift basket. At first this task may seem a little overwhelming but the key to success is to take it one step, and gift, at a time. Below are listed some ideas to get you started.

For the readers and book lovers:

The newest release from their favorite Author

A cute yet functional book marker

A book light

A neck pillow or novelty pillow

A box of their favorite chocolates.

For the crafty person:

A personal journal

Scrap booking supplies

Gift certificate to your local craft store

An electric pencil sharpener

Home made cookies with a Christmas theme

For the sports watcher:

Subscription to Sports Illustrated, be sure to include the first issue

Remote control caddy

Lounge blanket or pillow

Headphones, for watching or listening in bed

Assorted nuts

For the cook:

A new recipe book

Measuring cups and spoons

Tea towels and dish cloths

A novelty apron

Oven mitts

A bottle of wine

For the outdoors man:

A magazine subscription, perhaps Field and stream, include the first issue

A compass

Warm gloves

Fishing supplies such as hooks and lures

Trail mix and nuts

For the couples:

Movie tickets or gift certificate

Gift certificate to their favorite restaurant

Perfume for her

Cologne for him

Bottle of wine and chocolate covered strawberries

For the family:

A board game suitable to the children’s ages

Pop corn

A new release animated movie

Gift certificate to your local pizza place

A tin of home made cookies

Gather all your basket contents together to determine the right size basket. You do not want your basket too stuffed to wrap or a large basket to look empty. Wrap with the appropriate color foil, tip with nice ribbon, and top with a big bow.

These baskets will be a big hit with your friends and family this year. Everyone will know you took the time to select items specifically for them. Looking for bargains, doing your own baking and decorating the baskets yourself will save you a few dollars and add that personal touch. Be creative, know your gift recipient, and remember, it is the thought that counts.