I had so much fun last year that I’m doing it again! John just loves my 12 days of Christmas gifts. I did it back in 2012, I think, and then again last year. The idea is to give your spouse (or child, relative, or friend) 12 little gifts between now and Christmas. You can go out and buy things, like candy, or do lots of homemade gifts like coupon books or hand-written letters. You just have to know your spouse and what he/she might appreciate. I’ve been doing a mixture of both, and you can make it as frugal as you like.
I’ll be updating this post every day for the next 12 days, as well as other ideas that go with each corresponding day. I like to make the gift match up with the number; for example, Day 2 could be a pair of socks, or Day 5 could be a $5.00 gift card. It does get a little more difficult with the higher numbers, but I know you’ll think of something creative that doesn’t have to be expensive!
Day 1
One box of tea. John’s a big tea drinker and doesn’t like coffee (WHAT??), so I always get him different kinds of tea to make his day. Here are some other ideas you can do:
- One stuffed animal
- Season 1 of a favorite TV series
- One bottle of soda
- A bottle of hot sauce
- A new coffee mug
Day 2
2 favorite snacks. I know John was (and still is) obsessed with the Smart Food White Cheddar Popcorn, and I totally don’t blame him; that stuff is like crack. M&Ms are always a favorite, and the peanut butter is an added bonus! Here are other things you could do:
- Pair of socks/gloves
- A craft with a set of handprints on it (if you have kids)
- Dinner for 2
Day 3
A very yummy dinner for 3 (Although really, 2, because Allie never eats my dinner). One of John’s favorite dinners is chicken fettuccine Alfredo, and Caesar salad. I don’t make it very often, so it was a nice surprise for him when he got home! Here are other ideas you could do:
- 3 bottles of lotion/soap
- 3 pairs of undershirts
Day 4
4 of his favorite pens. He keeps at least 2 of these in his pocket at all times, and it’s always nice to have extras! Other ideas:
- “Coupon” to do 4 of his chores (He did that for me!)
- 4 favorite candy bars
Day 5
5 useful things for John’s office desk! It includes 2 bottles of lotion, 2 bottles of sanitizer, and a package of tissues. I went to Meijer and bought their trial-sized items when they were on the 10 for $10 sale; perfect to bring to work! Here are other ideas:
- $5.00 gift card to a favorite restaurant
- 5 love notes
- 5 sticks of gum
Day 6
A 6-pack of his favorite soda. Day 6 is pretty easy, especially if your spouse has a favorite soda or beer. I had to steal one, though. =)
Day 7
7 inspiring Bible verses. It was nice to see him come home and look for each one in random places around the house!
Day 8
8 coupons for a back massage. For those that don’t know, I did massage therapy before Allison was born and John misses his regular massages. =)
Day 9
9 silly gingerbread men. Allison had fun helping me cut out and decorate them… and of course, eat them too. =)
Day 10
A $10 gift card for Coldstone Creamery, and a coupon to go with it. Maybe he’ll be nice and treat us to ice cream soon!
Come back tomorrow to see what the next day brings!
Jaime is a Nutrition Coach through the ISSA and professional writer. She has 4 years experience coaching and 9 years experience in writing. She enjoys cooking easy meals, running, and learning more about food.
Jaime specializes in helping women with ADHD learn to meal plan and cook healthier meals without getting overwhelmed.