Last-Minute Christmas Shopping? Don't Panic

We know.

You said you weren’t going to wait until the last minute to finish your Christmas gift list. But here you are, stressing your brain on what to get at the last minute while not looking like you waited until the last minute.

Patch can help. We’ve compiled a list of five last-minute gift ideas (with some links to other places, too) that can help you fill out your list.

So, take a deep breath and consider the following:

Beat the Crowds: You really don’t have to fight the crowds of other procrastinators who are filling their gift lists at the mall or big-box retail stories. A quick trip to a local drug store, like , and can be fruitful. You should expect plenty of parking and a surprisingly good gift selection. Pick up some extra ibuprofen while you’re at it.

Get Charitable: A thoughtful gift that assures you’ll get a great holiday hug. Make a cash or other donation (such as food or clothing) to a local or national charity in your recipient’s name and include that information in a card. Want some ideas? http://www.charitygiftcertificates.org/

It’s Gift Card Time: OK, you may not really want to give a gift card, but it’s easy and will be appreciated. Most pharmacies and grocery stores (like and ) have a large selection of gifts cars from well-known retail and online stores. Locally, stop in at a favorite restaurant and inquire about a gift card. Many locally owned eateries will gladly accommodate a request for a gift card.

A Spirited Gift Basket: A bottle of wine with a selection of cheeses, crackers and other goodies (such as chocolate and candies) can be a tasteful gift and pretty easy to put together in a short time. Another idea: package a movie DVD or Blue Ray disk with popcorn, candies and beverage for a stay-at-home movie night gift basket.

Gadgets! Who doesn’t like gadgets? Flashlights, tool kits for the car, earbuds, charging stations for mobile devices, multi-tools, weather stations, portable DVD players are just a few ideas.

Want some more ideas? ChristmasGifts.com has lots of suggestions.

How about some gift ideas for men?

You can be creative, too.

SkinnyMom.com has some ideas, too.

Happy shopping!