This year, I'm getting serious about budgeting. I have my 'play' money budgeted. If I'm invited somewhere with enough time to plan, I'll save for it out of that money. If I can't pay for the activity without busting the bank, I won't go. Same for gifts that 'come up'. (Wedding, funeral, baby showers). I'll do the best I can for folks within my budget. $5 will buy an inexpensive baby outfit, or a nightie for the bride. $5 each, going in with 2-3 other people, will get a small appliance. A note card, written after everyone else has gone on with their lives is nearly free, but still a caring gesture toward the bereaved. (And gestures are all we can offer our acquaintances after a loss, anyway. With friends and family, physical and emotional support is required, rather than finanial.)