prompter: I am having trouble coming up with a present idea for my friend. He is much richer than me and he can buy whatever he likes, whereas my finances are very limited. He's been very kind to me, and generally a great friend, so I still want to give him something to make him feel happy and appreciated.

assistant: Money isn't everything, and gifts don't have to be expensive to show someone that you care. Here are a few thoughtful and inexpensive gift ideas for your friend:

1. A heartfelt letter or card that expresses your gratitude and friendship. This is something your friend can keep and treasure for a long time.

2. A small plant or succulent, along with a cute pot to put it in. This is a thoughtful and low-cost gift that can brighten up his home or office.

3. A customized photo album or scrapbook filled with pictures and memories of the two of you together.

4. A hand-made coupon book filled with thoughtful gestures like cooking dinner, doing the grocery shopping, or other errands he might appreciate.

5. A handmade piece of jewelry or craft. Something unique that you made yourself with care and thoughtfulness can be a truly special gift.

Remember, it's the thought that counts, and a simple but heartfelt gesture can often mean more to someone than an expensive gift.

prompter: What could I write in the card? How should I express his importance in my life and how much of a kind a great friend he is? I also think just a card isn't enough, what else could I give him alongside the card?

assistant: 1 - "Dear [friend's name], I just wanted to take a moment to express how much I appreciate our friendship. You have been there for me through thick and thin, and I am so grateful to have you in my life. Your kindness and generosity know no bounds, and I feel lucky to call you my friend. Thank you for everything."
2 - "Happy birthday to my amazing friend! You bring so much joy and laughter into my life, and I am so grateful to have you in my world. You have been a constant source of support and encouragement, and I can't imagine my life without you. Here's to many more years of friendship and making amazing memories together!"

Along with the card, you could consider adding a small token of appreciation like a treat or a small item that he may find useful or enjoy, like a new book or a coffee mug. You could also suggest doing something together that you both enjoy, like having lunch or watching a movie, as a way to spend quality time and make the occasion extra special.

assistant: Given I don't know your history with your friend, I can't tell you specifically what to write in your card. I already suggested a bunch of gifts to accompany your card. So more information would be helpful. What did you dislike about my proposed gifts?

assistant: No problem, there are many thoughtful and meaningful gifts that don't have to be expensive. Here are a few ideas that you could consider:

A customized gift: You can personalize a gift for your friend, such as a photo album, a custom-made keychain, or a hand-painted picture frame.

An experience: Give your friend the gift of an experience, such as a concert, a cooking class, or a spa day. You could also plan a fun day out together, like a picnic, a hike, or a museum visit.

A thoughtful gesture: You can do something thoughtful for your friend, such as cooking a meal for them, offering to help with a task, or just spending time together.

A handmade gift: Consider using your creativity to make a unique and personalized gift, such as a piece of artwork, a knitted scarf, or a scrapbook.

prompter: Those are pretty good optios

assistant: There is no need to worry in a such situation. If your budget is limited you should generally pick one of the bellows mentioned ways of dealing with this problem:

- Try to think about something in your price range that would help in the everyday life of your friend. Perhaps he doesn't know yet such a thing exists or constantly postpones buying one.

- If you are skilled enough there are a lot of DIY projects with tutorials on the internet, that don't require a lot of money to complete. People generally enjoy, if someone puts effort into their gift, so if you are not in a hurry it may be a good option.

Lastly, always keep in mind your friend's needs and interests, because a personal gift will have a much bigger value for them than something that is just expensive.

prompter: Well, part of the reason I'm asking you is that I don't know what to give him.  Can you give me some actual ideas?  Not just "go look elsewhere on the internet."

assistant: Perhaps you could bake him a very nice, personal cake? However, if baking is not your jam, you could also consider making a painting or artwork about your friendship or his hobbies.

If you would prefer not making something yourself, you could also consider planning a fun day of activities with your friend. This could range from something more expensive, like going to an event or concert, to something cheaper like a day at the park or a museum.

Could you tell me a little more about the shared interests you have with your friend? That way I can maybe suggest some specific ideas.

assistant: That sounds like a thoughtful gift!
If you have a craft skill you are good at you could make him something personal or find a personalisation service for an object he might use every day, 
you could also take him out to an interesting place as an unexpected gift, find a place that he has talked about going to but has not visited yet.

prompter: That's a great idea, thanks! I'm really good a baking, and he always said he likes my cakes and muffins. What can I do to make the cakes or muffins more special for his birthday?