Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas: Scented Candles, Baked Goods and More

Ready for Everything!

The holiday's coming, and you are set.
Your chores are finished, done, no sweat!
You've made your list, and checked it twice,
With gifts for folks, both naughty and nice.
You've wrapped each item with love and care.
Then people show up unaware!
With presents in hand, they ring your bell.
What will you give to them? Oh, swell!

Who hasn't faced this dilemma, particularly during the holidays? What can you do, when someone offers you a present, and you find yourself unprepared to reciprocate? If you are clever (and well-stocked), you can simply put on your best elfin smile and offer a clever present in return.

Here's how to make this work.

Have extras on hand!

Here's a little secret, if you promise not to tell my family and friends. I have an entire dresser drawer in my basement, filled with practical and useful gifts. Next to that, I keep a supply of gift wrap, decorative sacks, ribbons and bows. In other words, I can be ready-to-gift at a moment's notice, especially during the holiday season.

Often, when I find a clever and universally useful item, I will pick up a few sets. Bargain-hunters may be pleased to gather gift possibilities when great deals are available.

Here are several ready-to-gift items you might keep on hand:

Who ever has enough picture frames? If you are really clever, you can slip a special photo into the frame, right before you wrap it. Do you have digital photos of the recipient on your computer? Got a recent photo in an album or drawer? Put it in the frame, and you will have a wonderful personalized gift.

Nothing spells thoughtfulness more than home-baked goods. Perhaps, during the holidays, you make special breads, bars, cookies, or other delights in your kitchen. Why not package up a few extra sets and set them aside for surprise holiday visitors, who are sure to call!

Gourmet foods make delicious holidays gifts for nearly anyone. Jams, nuts, cheese trays, and even salamis are welcome gifts.