Gifts are part of almost every winter holiday tradition. Everyone likes to give and receive gifts that are carefully chosen. Too often, we give and receive gifts which are inappropriate, useless or just poorly thought out. But, isn't it the thought that counts?

Why do we think we can push our way into the crowded stores when we haven't a clue what we are looking for? Perhaps we feel that the perfect gift is some kind of magic thing that just happens.

How can we, in the rush of the season, choose gifts that are helpful, meaningful and that don't break our budget?

Next page: Find out how to give the best gifts of all (and it may not even involve a trip to the mall!)

1. Give the gift of you. The best gift is often the gift of your time. One year my mother-in-law took my sons on a Christmas vacation. It was more expensive than a lot of gifts, but it will also be remembered forever -- and no one has to put it away or clean it. You might choose tickets to a concert, a sporting event, movies or a play and then go together. You can also make a coupon book. Use your imagination. Coupons for babysitting are perfect in homes with young children. Coupons for hugs are welcome everywhere! Or, why not write a letter or poem to a special person to let them know just how special they are to you? You don't have to be Shakespeare to put words together that describe your feelings. Sometimes it's a simple note from the heart that is most precious.