Have a long list to shop for? Here’s some ideas for teachers and more

<p>Teachers, pastors, neighbors, babysitters, and friends —at Christmas time, we want to bless all the people with all of them significant gifts. However, our budgets and our time simply don’t allow for us to give something to everyone. And if we’re not careful, we end up purchasing items that only add to the clutter in someone else’s home.</p><p>Odds are good that these folks have way too many coffee cups and holiday ornaments already. This year, if you want to amp up the generosity but reduce the frivolous purchases for the people you appreciate, consider these gift ideas.</p><p>Subscribe</p><p>You may not be able to wrap it in a box, but a subscription could be the answer to your child’s teacher’s prayers. Whether it’s to a learning website to enhance the classroom or the delivery of books or even a music streaming platform, you can choose from a wide variety of options. Your gift will inspire the lives of both the teacher and her or his students.</p><p>Go homemade</p><p>While we typically associate homemade Christmas gifts with baked goods and hand crafted items, take another angle this year. Consider making a practical item such as homemade laundry detergent or a multipurpose cleaner. You can search for recipes of both on QueenofFree.net. Buy a durable container and be sure to include instructions for use with each item.</p><p>Books</p><p>Books of any variety are always a thoughtful gift. If you can pair the reading selection with a special memory or a passion of the recipient, you’ve hit that sweet spot. If the individual rarely has time to sit down, consider an audiobook instead. Whether you choose a volume with significance in your shared history or a practical read to encourage their jobs, you can give a gift that counts when you give the gift of reading. If you’re not sure which book to buy, a gift card for books is always great, too!</p><p>Practical classroom supplies</p><p>Lift the burden many educators face. Purchase an assortment of daily use items to stock up their classroom. Tissues, markers, crayons, pencils, hand sanitizer, paper towels — by mid year supplies of these items begin to dwindle. Arrange your collection in a basket or tote that can be easily stowed away until it’s time to use each item.</p><p>Gift cards</p><p>Do a little snooping to discover what gift cards would be the most useful and kind for the receiver. Whether you purchase a gift card from their favorite carryout restaurant, coffeehouse or even grocery store, you show how much they mean to you by getting specific. Even a small amount like $5 can make a big difference.</p><p>A shared meal</p><p>Rather than purchasing a gift, extend some hospitality. Invite your neighbor, teacher, babysitter or pastor over to share a meal or a cup of coffee. Perhaps you could even ask their entire family to join in the fun. Give the gift of truly listening. As you serve a delightful meal, ask great questions. Find out what makes the recipient come alive. Discover something you didn’t know about their childhood. Learn where you might be able to help and encourage them.</p><p>Since the holidays are a busy time of the year for everyone, you may need to schedule a date later in January or February. Don’t let this amazing opportunity slip by.</p><p>Car washes</p><p>Trekking back and forth in the snow causes cars to become a mess. Give the gift of a cleanly splurge. Look for car wash gift card or coupon booklets on sale. Don’t forget to check out a warehouse store like Sam’s Club where often gift cards like these are sold under face value.</p><p>This year, skip the predictable gifts and surprise the people in your life you couldn’t live without. Put together a gift that won’t end up hidden in a cabinet or donated at the end of the year. Make a difference by being considerate, kind and intentional. After all, the individuals dedicate their lives to serving. The least we can do is help make that job easier.</p>