When you think of showing someone you care, do you think of big expensive gifts?

Well, think again! People appreciate gifts from the heart just as much, if not more, than store-bought gifts.

What follows are some not-so-typical gift ideas. Because they are not typical, they can be given to anyone at any time. A reason is not necessary; all you need is a willingness to give.

Wash the car: Help your arthritic grandmother who can't reach over the top of the vehicle.

Buy a potted plant: Buy this for your aunt who loves flowers but doesn't have time to plant her own garden.

Run small errands: Save your mother another trip to the grocery store to get the one item she forgot yesterday.

Clean the house: Help the neighbor lady who has three toddlers and has another mess as soon as she cleans up one.

Make coupons: Give a coupon book full of assorted things from back rubs to baby-sitting to parents.

Do yard work: Save your dad from breaking his back every year trying to cut grass, rake leaves and shovel snow.

Fill the car with gas: Surprise your friend who has let you borrow his car by filling up his tank.

Make a video: Get quotes from friends, add pictures and music for a truly original gift that anyone will treasure.

Give/mend clothes: Mend clothes for a younger sibling who doesn't know how to, or give them some of yours to grow into.

Paint a room: Surprise a good friend by updating their room.

These are just a few ideas. Try these, or think of your own, then get busy! [[In-content Ad]]