Holiday gifts under $25

Selecting gifts while on a budget isn’t difficult when you plan ahead. The key is to think about the recipient’s hobbies, tastes and interests. Here are some ideas for gifts under $25.

“A subscription to the recipient’s favorite magazine. Ask that the magazine send the gift subscription notification card to you. Wrap a copy of the current issue and tuck the card inside.

“Wind-up flashlight. Requires no batteries, and some even come with a flasher and alarm. This makes a great stocking stuffer. Give to a loved one to keep in the car.

“A scrapbook kit, complete with the special papers and stickers. Tuck in a few pictures to get started.

“Bucket of standard household tools with a tool belt for someone with a new house.

“Blank journal and fountain pen (don’t forget the ink) for a budding writer.

“A gift card to a bookstore. Your recipient can pick out whatever he or she would like to read.

“A Spokesman-Review subscription. Daily news, entertainment and advertising delivered to your favorite person’s doorstep – perfect for anyone.

“A stack of puzzle magazines, complete with mechanical pencil, for puzzle fans. Or consider an annual subscription to a puzzle magazine.

“Monogrammed coaster set.

“Insulated travel coffee mug for the commuter.

“”The A List: The National Society of Film Critics 100 Essential Films” or “2006 Zagat Movie Guide” books for film fans.

“Gift certificate to a poster or music store for a teen.

“A coffee mug imprinted with a photo of grandchildren for a grandparent.

“Page-A-Day calendar. They cover all interests: cats, dogs, facts, Bible verses, jokes, books, dream cars and more.

“Photo paper or tripod for the digital photographer. If you know the information, a larger memory card is always welcome.

“Specialty popcorn in a tub and a certificate for DVD or video rental from the local video store.

“Jumbo Egglings, tiny herb plants (such as basil, thyme and mint) that grow in egg-shaped containers, for the serious cook.

“Coffee-table books: “Post Secrets” (collection of anonymous confessions sent on postcards), “Seeds: Time Capsules of Life” (microphotography), or “Rainforest” (color photographs of the rainforest with a 70-minute sound CD).

“Dried flower or embossed note cards and envelopes.

“Telephone calling cards for college students.