Suggestions for “A Simple Christmas”

In Thursday’s news releases from the Associated Baptist Press, they shared a story called “Have Yourself a Simple Little Christmas” (see abpnews.com). Included was this “suggestion box” on how to reduce and reallocate Christmas spending habits:

-- Draw names instead of giving to everyone.
-- Let others help; tell them your intention to give less and ask them not to buy an expensive gift.
-- Give family gifts instead of individual gifts.
-- Give gifts only to children.
-- Don't give children money to give you a gift.
-- Design and make your own gifts.
-- Set a spending limit with spouse and family.
-- Don't buy a gift that simply will be returned.
-- Bake something.
-- Go caroling.
-- Create a homemade gift certificate for a favor or service.
-- Give to mission and benevolent projects in someone's honor.
-- Give and wrap gifts in a way that cares for the environment.
-- Give the gift of your time, talents and involvement: more presence, fewer presents!
-- Teach someone a skill you possess.
-- Make cards or postcards on your computer.
-- Send electronic cards; they're often free. [Like our own SDB E-cards to the left…]
-- Write a story or poem, make a song or create art as a gift.
-- Write a letter of love and/or appreciation.
-- Adopt a family in the community. Names are available through churches and community agencies.
-- Support church missions around the world.

Taken from www.simplechristmas.org, including suggestions from Unplug the Christmas Machine: A Complete Guide to Putting Love and Joy Back into the Season by Jo Robinson and Jean Coppock Staeheli.