Many people dread the arrival of December, knowing that the money they’ve worked hard for all year now needs to be thrown away on presents that nobody really wants. There is no joy in giving a gift that is given for the wrong reason, because it is expected. There is no joy in trying to look happy about receiving an item that you already have five of stashed away in a cupboard. To many people Christmas means more clutter, less money.

What is important to you at Christmas? Spending time with family and friends, or receiving gifts to prove your popularity? Christmas is a drain on your bank balance. Not only are you expected to buy presents for a number of people, you are also expected to entertain. Food is no longer cheap. Most of us value this time of year as a chance to spend time with family and friends. It’s a time when people have the time and make the effort to keep contact. If only it didn’t cost so much.

There is a solution. Many families now are adopting a simple idea for adult gift giving. It doesn’t cost a lot of money and it can even make the rest of the year more economical. Why not try this idea yourself – all presents for adult family members should be something that can be eaten, drunk or planted. The rule is, if it can’t be consumed or planted, don’t buy it.

Eat It: At this time of the year you feed more than the usual number of mouths. Friends and family drop in, and you hope there’s enough in the pantry to entertain or feed them. What a treat if you can pull out a plate of special homemade cookies, pate for the crackers, a frozen or packaged snack meal that you normally wouldn’t buy, or a few cans to throw a quick tasty meal together. Initially these things take up storage space, but not for long. And they certainly save the weekly food budget. It gives you time to enjoy your guests company without wondering if you’ll eat bread and butter for the rest of the week.

Drink It: Again, drinks are in demand at this time of year, not only alcoholic drinks. Sure, a bottle of wine and a few beers never go astray when visitors call. But how about buying something a bit different, a different brand of tea, coffee or drinking chocolate that you normally wouldn’t buy. Maybe a sparkling water in a nice shaped bottle. These are things that can be shared with others, and so the enjoyment is extended further.

Plant It: Plants give pleasure for a long time. Why not pot a cutting from your garden and tie a ribbon around it. Or make a miniature herb garden that someone can enjoy using for a long time. Maybe a packet of seeds. Whether flowers or food, plants are always welcome.

Simple gifts such as these give so much pleasure and show the recipient you’ve thought of them. Family members will no longer have to find more room in their cupboards for things that may never see the light of day. Keep your gifts simple, practical and economical. They’ll be appreciated.