There are 5 shopping days until Christmas and you want to avoid stores like the plague. I can't say that I blame you. This weekend stores will be crowded with short-tempered impatient people. That's why I'll be home with a cup of cocoa and a sappy Christmas movie.

But if you still have gifts left to buy, here are some ideas that will keep you out of the malls:

• Consider giving an experience rather than a thing.  Experiences create memories rather than clutter so they are extra valuable. But it's important to match the gift to the person. An athletic niece may like a pass to an indoor rock-climbing center. An outdoorsy couple may like an America the Beautiful pass to the national parks. A young family may like an annual membership to a local children's museum.  Most of these things can be purchased online and a print out is ready for wrapping in 5 minutes (or less).
• Consider giving your time. Most older folks I know don't really need more stuff. In fact, many of them are trying to downsize their belongings. Instead of things, give them an evening out — to a movie or a local concert or just to dinner at your house. If someone doesn't drive, offer an afternoon of driving to appointments or errands. Or offer your help doing chores that require many hands, such as yard clearing, putting in screens, changing furnance filters, clearing storage areas. Trust me – they'll like it better than the big bottle of Jean Nate.
• Most grocery stores and drug stores offer a variety of gift cards.  Plus they are open long hours and aren't as crowded as other stores.
• Many online stores will allow you to purchase and print out a gift certificate.
• You can get a magazine subscription.  Stop at a convenience store and get the current issue.  Use one of the cards inside to order a subscription and place this month's issue under the tree.

What are your last minute go-to gifts?