It’s the new year and I noticed that I have enough stuff in my life. Frankly I could do with less stuff - not more. I’m sure I’m not alone here. If you’re planning any gift-giving for birthdays and other occasions this year, a gift of time or something you made can mean so much more than one store-bought.

I've been given everything from banana bread and homemade jam, to certificates for dinners and even massages. On one occasion, my niece Keri wrote a letter to everyone in her family and shared her thoughts on why we were all special to her. This is a gift I still treasure today.

Here are some suggestions that won’t cost you or our planet too much. Please add any more you might have in the comments below:

• Offer to handle a huge cleaning project for your loved ones—How about organizing closets or cleaning the home for a new (and exhausted) mom?
• Create a gift certificate that promises to plant a garden, fix a home-cooked dinner, walk the dog, or provide a night of babysitting.
• Bake some healthy organic treats (and remember to include the recipe, too!).
• Write a poem or letter.
• Make a custom CD of your own music compilation for family and friends.
• Organize and make reservations for a camping trip.
• Create a family photo album.