When you want to give teacher a gift this holiday season, you will often find yourself with the same issue as the year before.  You will find the usual "favorite teacher" mugs and other related standards, and it's hard to find gifts that are both personal and affordable. Most teachers who have been teacher for more than a couple of years have a good amount of these gifts already.  Decorative crystal apples, picture frames and #1 Teacher mugs just aren't that unique. Wouldn't it be great to them something different this year? Here is what many very considerate teachers wish they could tell you - but never will:

1. I Don't Need Another Decorative Apple or "Favorite Teacher" Mug. I get a lot of these. In fact, I have so many at home I had to sell some at my last garage sale. I also have a lot of frames, pencils and school supplies. It's not that I don't appreciate it, it's just at some point there's nowhere to put it.

2. It's not All About Money. Christmas is not all about money, and personal gifts are very special.  I would rather have a handwritten note of appreciation or some personal artwork about the holidays than a gift you cannot afford (or something cheap and ugly). I love my students and handwritten letters are precious. They remind me why I still put up with my job.

3.  Group Gifts are GREAT. Let me repeat... I love group gifts. Group gifts from the entire classroom work out for me because it involves everyone and I usually end up with something actually want and can use. Voluntary donations allow for people to donate what they want and what they can afford. It also gives a means for the students who can't afford to participate to be included. Every student signs the card and it makes every student a part of the holiday.

4. I Love Gifts I can USE. If you are confused, read #1 and #3 again.

5. I Have a Life Outside of Sc