Ho Ho Ho! Guess what's right around the corner? The pumpkin's barely rotted and already we're inundated with Christmas decorations and sales pitches. Despite reports to the contrary, I don't hate Christmas (even though my husband calls me Scrooge this time of year), it's just the mindless spending, the glut of stuff and the bills that arrive in January that I hate. But, having said that although we resolve to cut back, eliminate some recipients, there are always some gifts that must be purchased. While, we don't want to spend a lot of time or money on certain gifts, we want them to look like we did, or at least look like some thought was put into them. So, I decided to go to my local drugstore and see what items could be picked up at the last minute, that are thoughtful gifts, without spending a fortune. Blank CD's can be purchased and burned with favorite songs, as a very personal gift. As Seen On TV items are for sale at reduced prices, if you go in for that kind of thing (Snuggie, anyone?) although these may fall into the "gag gift" kind of area. I am surprised at the quality of some of the wines available at local drug stores. Paired with a box of nice chocolates (Lindt Truffles) and tossed in a wine bag, this makes a nice hostess gift. If you have basket lying around the house, you can assemble specialty baskets from items purchased at CVS or Walgreens. A loofah, some bath bubbles and a candle, make a relaxing Spa Basket. Some slippers, a Christmas mug and hot chocolate make a cozy Winter Nesting Basket. I have always been a fan of the movie basket- Popcorn, movie candies and a great DVD. You get the idea- use your imagination. A classic gift, that shows thought and doesn't break the bank, is buying a frame and putting that perfect photo in it. Speaking of photos, most drugstores have amazing photo departments where you can make personalized gifts in minutes. Nothing says you care more than plastering your face onto a mug for your friends or family to drink out of. Burt's Bees has a Starter Kit in a pretty tin, for only $14.99. And if none of these gifts appeal, there are always gift cards (although read the fine print because some of them depreciate over time or expire.) The nicest gift my former sister-in-law gave me was pretty decorated box with a gift card to the movies and a card to Outback for a "night out on the town".