It's no secret that money is tight for many. So what do you do about Christmas gifts? Have you purchased all of your presents? If you are among those who have waited until the last minute to do holiday shopping because you hope prices will go down, instead of wishful thinking, take a step back to your childhood and make your gifts this year.

Forget the colorful ashtrays or the sweet made-with-such-love slightly lopsided potholders you made when you were a child. Perhaps you have received one from your child. As a parent you love these small gifts that have been made with enthusiastic and loving hands, they are to be treasured. With technology at our finger tips, almost any craft is possible and your gift will be held in the same esteem. If you have someone on your Christmas list who is always plugged in to music, why not burn a CD of that person’s favorite music or songs. Yes, a CD could be considered old-fashioned, but that's the idea, everyone can listen to the music, not just the receiver of the CD. My brother is a master at this, I still have a cassette tape he made for me years ago. The cost was minimal, but I will always cherish this cassette because of the time he put in to make this tape, who knew he was aware of the music I liked. The fact that I am talking about a cassette tape, gives you an idea of how old this wonderful gift is and how much I cherish it.

A photo album is always a good thing. The album could contain photos of the family, a favorite vacation or all photos of the receiver. The photos can be copied on photographic paper, they will look like originals. Last year I received a photo of myself at age 20 or so, I was delighted; It's been a long time since I was 20 years old.

Has your loved one written a short story or has a collection of poems he or she has written? Or publish your own book, then give it as a present. Check out Amazon's free self-publishing ebook deal. You can even download their free Kindle for PC app.

Last year, my friend mentioned having a family calendar made, she chose twelve family photos. What a great idea. What about your own family calendar?

Whatever you decide, you only have a week to finish your Christmas shopping. However, most of these gift ideas will only take a couple of hours to a day or so from start to finish.