This holiday season is going to be thinner for more people – us included. We did some shopping over the year and thus after Rick lost his job I have not had to do anymore shopping.
While this economy is hurting all of us in one way or another. I think it is good for our imaginations. We are forced to be more creative while planning our gifts, dinners, and trips. My mother mentioned about something new this year, white elephant. A brother-in-law is making pumpkin bread from everyone. I tend to make at least one gift each year, because of requests or just desire to make something. This year it is a scarf request from a friend. I was going to make others however; money is non-existent so it will move to birthdays or next holiday season. Mother-in-law mentioned giving away things she already has to those whom would enjoy it most.
There are many food drives and gift drives being hosted by companies and people I know. My mother-in-law is a nurse and her office is doing a food drive. Since we are moving I am going through a lot of our things and decided that rather than moving those ten cans I have not used in the last year, I’ll give them away to people whom will use them. A few business associates “adopted” a family in need this season and provided gifts for the kids.
What have you done that is different this year versus previous years? Are you changing the types of gifts you give? Or the amount? Have you donated? Are you involving your kids in your plans?
Instead of focusing on hardships, focus on the quality time you will get to spend with friends and family. And if you have snow, make a snowman!
