Practical "Local" Christmas Gifts

(by guest blogger Chris Brass)

With the US (and world) economy taking a turn for the worse, people may not be as willing to spend big bucks on luxury Christmas gifts this year. This may be the year to start to think about giving practical gifts, instead of that overpriced kitchen gadget that won't get used more than twice.

A practical gift may not be very sexy, but it may be very much appreciated. You could get someone a gift certificate for some heating oil, for their phone service or Internet, or even to get their car washed.

Gift certificates to Wegmans, Giant, or Weis may also be very much appreciated. Although, I know if I got a gift card to Wegmans, I'd waste it on one of their great caramel lattés.