Jazz up a gift card

Gift cards will be opened millions of times come Christmas morning. So chances are you are giving one or three or seven. But instead of just tucking the card into an envelope, consider this fun way to add a little surprise to what is a totally predictable gift. Unravel a ball of yarn all over the house, and I mean ALL over. Hide the end with the gift card, then attach this note to the end under the tree: "Follow me and a gift you'll see." For a gift card to a pet store, tuck the card into a box of dog bones or kitty treats, creating a gift that is for the furry friend and their owner.

For more tips on gift cards and three stores where you can find versatile gifts at the last-minute, check out my story tomorrow in the Daily News.