Christmas Can Still Be Merry Without All the Spending
by Nancy Twigg |
| Nancy Twigg is a speaker and author who loves inspiring others to live more
simply. Adapted from Nancy’s newly revised book, Celebrate Simply: Your
Guide to Simpler, More Meaningful Holidays and Special Occasions (www.celebratesimply.com).
Visit Nancy online at www.countingthecost.com
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The other day I heard something that surprised
me. A recent nationwide study showed that 70% of those polled planned to spend
the same amount or even more this Christmas than they did last year. When I read
this, I couldn’t help but wonder who the pollsters talked to when they did their
poll.
They must not have talked to my friends, Chuck
and Melinda, who were both downsized from their jobs a few months ago. They
couldn’t have contacted Mike and Faye, a single-income family struggling since
Mike lost his job. The survey surely didn’t include input from my friends Sarah
or Rachel, both of whom have been laid off for close to a year. Maybe someone,
somewhere is planning to spend more at Christmas, but certainly not anyone I
know.
The truth is that many Americans are facing the
challenge of celebrating the holidays this year on limited budgets due to
cutbacks and downsizing. This prospect can be both discouraging and unnerving
for those who have always done Christmas in a big way. Even families who
normally celebrate rather simply are looking to simplify even more during these
tight economic times.
Unfortunately, most Christmas traditions involve
spending. Just think about all the dollars each year that go for gifts, wrapping
paper, live trees, decorations, greeting cards and traditional meals with all
the trimmings. But for those experiencing layoffs this year, spending a small
fortune or charging up the credit cards for these things is not a prudent
option.
Are there ways to enjoy the holiday season
without all the spending? Thankfully the answer to this question is, "Yes." Here
are some ideas for keeping the celebration simple, yet meaningful for your
family.
Handcrafted gifts and decorations
Experience the joy of giving something made with your
own two hands. Handmade gifts are not only unique but they also show you care
enough to invest time and energy into your giving. Check out library books
containing homemade gift ideas or use Yahoo.com or Google.com to do an Internet
search. The same goes for decorating your home. Instead of buying decorations,
use your creative abilities plus things you already have on hand to give your
home a festive look and feel.
Electronic Season’s Greetings
Sending Christmas cards instead of gifts is a great
way to save money, but the cost of store-bought cards adds up quickly. Even if
you make your own, the cost of postage can be restrictive for those on a tight
budget. For friends and relatives who use email, consider sending electronic
Christmas cards instead. Many websites send e-cards for free, and they offer a
wide variety of cards from which to choose. Visit Gcards.com or 123greetings.com
or do an Internet search for other free greeting card sites.
Free family activities
When cutting corners, don’t cut out all the fun. Look
for ways your family can enjoy quality time together without spending. Check
your newspaper’s community calendar for free church programs, musicals or
community events. Just driving around looking at Christmas lights while sipping
homemade hot cocoa can be great fun when you do it together.
Focus on giving rather than receiving
Instead of moaning about what you can’t afford this
year, why not focus on how you can give of yourself? Many non-profit
organizations need extra helping hands during the holiday season. Contact your
local Volunteer Center or United Way office to inquire about opportunities for
service in your area. Volunteering together allows family members to experience
the joy of giving without expecting anything in return.
Low-cost or no-cost gift giving
Rather than exchanging gifts with extended family
members and friends, plan a special evening together with each family during the
holiday season. Enjoy a simple meal and then watch a favorite holiday movie or
do a giant jigsaw puzzle together while munching on popcorn and snacks. Another
option is to give gifts of time or service such as free babysitting,
housecleaning, cooking, etc., to those on your gift list. Look for ways to give
meaningfully instead of materially.
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