It's Christmas Eve and you still haven't found the perfect gift for those on your list. The following ideas are designed to be quick and thoughtful.  Mix Tape  Alright, so maybe you haven't resorted to this idea since you were in seventh grade but really, who doesn't love music? You could give a mix of your favorite holiday carols, or make it more personal. You can give them a sample of music that you think they might enjoy, or give them an array of the now embarrassing tunes that you used to listen to together. They may not listen to your gift everyday, but it'll almost guarantee a smile …

Stop starring at empty gift boxes and wrapping paper, and stop racking your brain trying to think outside the box for the perfect gift idea. Instead, hop into the box with these not so square ideas that can be created with the blank supplies in front of you. All you need to complete any of the following is an empty box, scraps of gift wrap, a writing utensil, and a little creativity. Consider recycling a box that you received a shipment in and cover the outside with the gift wrap. You can also substitute card stock scraps for something sturdier. Family Bonding Box Whether for your family or …

No gift? No time? No idea? No problem! No matter what your reason for being unable to finish your holiday list, there is no reason to fret. You can still give a wonderful gift without having to leave the house, access the Internet or use the charge card. Coupon Books Custom-made coupon books can be a fun idea as a present or stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. They also allow you the liberty to spread your holiday investments over a longer period of time, depending on when people "cash in" the coupons. Below are some ides – try to cater to the recipients interests or needs. Children: …

The countdown is officially on and you only have one shopping weekend left before Christmas. Still have those one or two people that drive you crazy every year because you don't know what to get them? This year, give them a "gift" that might have them making a list for you next year. Gift Card Game I've never really liked giving gift cards because it feels a bit impersonal, but really they're a great gift to receive. Gift cards just lack the thrill of paper to tear open and a big surprise inside, and for some people that's all I can ever think to get them. To remedy my dissatisfaction with …

Have you ever been guilty of making a New Year's resolution that you didn't keep? Does, "I want to spend more time with my friends and family," sound familiar, but never really happened? The problem with resolutions is that we say them without the proper tools set up to actually help us do them. This year, if you really mean it and you want it to happen, commit your devotion to paper, and literally give that time to the person you want to spend it with. Commitment Calendars  Whether it's for a spouse who gets upset at the amount of work you do at home and the office, or a child that seems to …

Today's gift idea can be done for anyone on your list and can be adapted to any budget. It doesn't require much energy or creativity, making it an easy last-minute gift. Movie Basket  I have yet to meet someone who hates movies, so I'm using that personal factoid as the crux for this gift idea. DVD's can be purchased very cheap, many for just $5 (Walmart has a large selection), and blu-rays are also beginning to be released affordably. This year, give the fixings for a great movie night with a basket containing some of the recipient's favorite snacks and goodies. If you're selecting this …

We live in a technology-driven age with a constant focus on doing things faster and more efficient. However, how is this hyper-electronic fascination going to impact the tangible history that we leave for future generations? People are willing to brave hours in the cold outside stores to pick up the latest video games, TV's, and music players, but something honest and from the heart can be just as well received and doesn't go out-of-date from season-to-season. Today's gift ideas encourage going "old school" and busting out the pen and paper to create some heartfelt gifts that don't require …

Today's gift idea breaks from the previous pack of crafty artistry, and utilizes a different mode of creative genius: audio visual savvy. I always take way more photos than I ever print and frame, and video compilations are a great way to use all those extra photos that you can't justify deleting. Simple Slideshow This suggestion requires minimal effort and skills, but makes for a great gift. These days, many computers come with movie making software. If yours does not, download a free trial version online. Muvee Reveal is a great option and provides 15 days to try it out for free. Simply …

A classic gift, that I consider a safe bet for anyone on your shopping list, is a framed photo. However, this year try putting a simple spin on your framework to add a little something extra. Stubs I have this tendency to retain ticket stubs and programs from events that I go to with the intention of one day having this lovely scrapbook to look back upon. The problem is, the scrapbook doesn't create itself and eventually I end up with a box of stubs that I've forgotten the story behind. To remedy this dilemma I have begun to include movie stubs, sporting event stubs, event programs and other …

Young or old we all enjoy a good story and especially one where we can relate to the characters. This year, give some quality reading material that can't be bought in stores. Do you have a favorite family story that you cannot resist retelling at every family get together? Does your child have a favorite story that they would love to be the lead character of? Did your mom or dad ever do something so funny, or silly, or kind that you want them to remember forever? Create your own storybook for that special someone this year so that it can be read and remembered for years to come. Use personal …

Today's idea goes to back to basics and puts a custom twist on a common household item that everybody can find a use for. My True Love Gave to Me: Glasses of Cheer For the following gifts I picked up glasses at a local dollar store like the Dollar Tree. This alleviates the pressure of messing up or breaking it, and any imperfections in the glass itself can be covered up with decoration. I also use nontoxic, 3D or "puffy" paint because the fine point makes it convenient to use straight from the bottle, and I also had a lot around from previous crafts. It adheres to glass and ceramic, but for …

The season of giving is officially upon us. This time of year can be a wonderful experience with all the sights and sounds, and friends and family. However, sometimes the financial burden of gift giving can be overwhelming and bring a feeling of dread to the season.  To help ease this burden I have put together "My True Love Gave to Me," 12-part series that offers a new gift idea every Monday, Wednesday and Friday up until Christmas. Each idea offers a dose of creative inspiration that is sure to make your gifts a hit and keep your budget happy. Keep in mind that the key to my ideas is …