I have done -
$1 bills taped together in a kleenex box, decent bottle of liquor, tools, gift cards, box of fishing flies, outdoor themed Christmas ornaments, knives, brown paper bag with $25 in quarters, bucket of pennies at the $ suggestion, box of animal crackers with 2x the gift value in it, picture frame with my photo in it and the full $ amount behind the photo, etc.
I prefer the humor factor, at full value + of the deal. Always hated when someone went cheap out on the game. Seems like it's always the guy who needs it most that gets screwed, so I try to be the "stealer" who leaves with the crap gift, or will go trade after the fact. I just enjoy the game and the laughs. I generally try to do the gift with hidden extras also, so there is a bonus after the game is over.
The year I did animal crackers, there was a $20 taped to the outside of the box, and another $50 inside for a $30 game. Not bragging, but I knew the audience, and I knew some folks could barely meet the suggested amount. I "stole" the worst gift there, and left happy when my wife's uncle got "stuck" with the crackers. Mentioned to him after, that he might want to open the box before he gave it to his grandson.
Christmas is about being generous to folks who aren't as blessed, regardless of whether you make $30K per year, or are a millionaire. Always someone less fortunate.
there ya go.
