The average child gets about 70 toys a year.

Surprised? It's not just children who are dealing with incoming things. Many adults feel that they are suffering from "possession overload," the problem of dealing with too much stuff--where they feel their life is taken up by maintaining and caring for things instead of people. Do you feel that way, too? (stats from Affluenza: The All-Consuming Epidemic)

The majority of people say they'd like less emphasis on holiday spending and gift giving. We have a confession to make. This year, as the Major Mom Liberators helped our clients de-clutter and organize, we hauled countless carloads of items from our client's homes to donation drop off centers and non-profits. Do you know what was donated? Among many things, there were several items that our clients received as gifts that they NEVER USED! We told them it was okay to let them go. How many items do you have in your home right now that you're holding on to because you received it as a gift, yet you don't need or really even want it?

One of the first steps to getting organized is to Stop The Incoming!

So, how do you give a special gift when you don't really know what someone would want?

1. Ask.
   "But then they'll already know what they're getting!" Would you rather receive something that you would love and use or receive a "surprise" that isn't anything you're interested in or needing. Personalize the gift with a special note, an accessory, or a unique wrapping method.
    
2. Give consumables.
   Fresh flowers. Fresh Fruit.
   Homemade goodies (include the recipe!).
   "Gifts in a Jar": cookies, breads, soups.
   Wine. Hot chocolate. Coffee. Tea.
   Stationery & Stamps. Art & craft supplies.
   Quality soaps & lotions.
   Box of frozen steaks.
   Potted fresh herbs. Bulbs. Plants. Veggie seeds.
    
3. Give experiences.
   Tickets: Athletic event, Concert, Movies, Symphony, Miniature Golf.
   Memberships: Zoo, Garden Club, Amusement Park, Museum, National Park Pass, Netflix.
   Classes: Cooking, Fitness, Art, Foreign Language
   Camps/Lessons: Sports, Gymnastics, Piano Lessons.
   Time: Coupons for cleaning, massages, babysitting, lunch date, breakfast in bed, help with household projects.
    
4. Give donations in honor of the recipient.
    Charity.  Animal shelter. Church. Missionary.
    
5. Give gift cards or gift certificates.
   Car washes. Car detailing. Fuel gift cards.
   iTunes.
    Restaurants. Grocery stores.
   Garden/nursery.
   Massages. Spa treatments.