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As a younger couple we spent a lot of time (and money) buying each individual member of our family a gift. We got each of our brothers a gift. When they added wives - a gift, kids - each a gift. As you can imagine, it got to be pretty expensive. So, we got a little smarter and started to work out a new plan with each family. Some we exchange names and others we purchase a family gift.
So, I thought I would share some of those ideas with you from over the years.
Family Movie Night:
This can be a couple ways.
- Give them a DVD of family movie that they haven't seen yet - include some microwave popcorn or Jiffy Pop and candy in a basket and you've got Family Movie Night.
- Purchase DVD sets of your favorite old shows like The Brady Bunch, Gilligan's Island and The Lone Ranger. They can have several movie nights with so many shows.
- This year I actually purchased movie tickets to the theater in my brother and sister in law's town ahead of time. After I received the tickets, I added boxes of movie candy for each member (4 in this case), wrapped it all up in a little cute basket and shipped it off with a note that said, "Enjoy a Family Movie Night Out on us!" Movies are expensive so I think this is a nice treat. I know I'd love to get it!
- You can also do this with local skating rinks, bowling, concerts and sporting events.
Family Game Night:
- Last year, I had so much fun with this one. I bought a couple of our favorite games and just like the movie night included some goodies like popcorn, candy, homemade treats. Wrapped it all up for Family Game Night! I thought about this later but how fun would it have been to include a blanket in this basket or slippers for each family member?!?
Our favorite games are Apples to Apples (they even have versions for younger kids), Sequence (also has a younger version) and Clue. I am sure you have a favorite or two you could put in a basket. Obviously, you want to base this on their age.
- Wii games are great family fun games. We have a blast with the bowling and Guitar Hero. If they don't have those games and have a Wii, these would be fun.
Webcams:
This is a bit pricey (because you have to buy 2) and not a gift I have actually done, but my in-laws happen to have the same webcam as we do and we recently thought about connecting with each other on them. My friend recently told me how she gave them to her family members when they moved away. Great idea! I love my Logitech and you can get free shipping on orders over $75 right now. What a great way to stay in touch with long distance relatives.
Photo Album:
How about a photo album full of photos your family with their family? Find pictures from over the years and put together a special keepsake for them to show how much you enjoy your time with them.
How about you? What family gift ideas do you have? And yes, I am fresh out, so I will be borrowing them! ;)
Stuff I gotta tell you:
*I did receive a Logitech webcam a few months ago from Logitech via MomSelect. I have not received any other compensation from Logitech or MomSelect for talking about my experience with my webcam. I'm just sharing my opinion and the offers that are posted on the Logitech website. I have not received any compensation for mentioning the games above. I just like them.
