If you have someone special to share the season with, that’s a gift in and of itself. Be sure to appreciate one another and enjoy every moment together—both this season as well as any and all to come. If you want to give him or her something really special this year but don’t have much money, here are a few ideas…

• Massages. Oh, the gift of a massage; need I say more? Use some heated towels and oil (soy candle oil is wonderful), soft music, and delicious candles to set an especially romantic mood. You can make it a sexy or relaxing massage; it’s up to you and your partner. I, for one, love to fall asleep after mine, and my husband knows this; but to each his or her own.
• A special meal or treats. Make his or her favorite dinner—or breakfast, if your partner is like mine and prefers this meal—or sweet treats for the holidays. My guy loves éclair cake, which is super easy to make as well as cheap, so that’s what I’ll be making him.
• Chore Duty. None of us like it, but it would be a welcome gift for anyone! Offer to take over on your loved one’s chores for a week, or simply give him or her a coupon to do so sometime during the year when life is especially hard for him or her. (Bonus if you simply notice the hardship and do it on your own anyway!)
• Holiday Stress. Absorb it for your sweetie if it’s all too much by taking over on something—maybe the shopping or wrapping, or the cookie baking—or organizing an aspect if he or she usually does it. Take care of the in-laws, set up the reservations, or just get the house ready while he or she takes a breather.
• A new pet! Adopt a shelter pet if and only if you are ready for the responsibility together. This may or may not be free, depending upon where you live; check with your local rescue centers.
• A new baby! I am not saying, “Go and get pregnant for Christmas!” But if you are now ready to make or adopt a baby and your partner has been all along, why not make it special and give him or her a gift commemorating your decision, like a handmade ornament in the shape of a rattle or buggy, or a card that says, “Let’s have a baby!” Of course, if you are already expecting, you could always make this a sweet Christmas surprise, too. (Note: this will be the most expensive item on the list! The free part is only the initial announcement.)