Christmas Eve is one week from today! That slide is finishing up fast...are you ready?
Looking at the economic reports, it looks like folks spent around the same amount of money as last year but for far fewer items. So things are still tight for the majority of us. And for a lot of us, there's very little if any money for non-essential items like presents or special holiday meals.
So how can holidays still be celebrated? Well, first of all, remembering what the holiday is all about is important. As I said yesterday most holidays celebrate the entry of love and light into our world giving all of us hope for our future.
If you can, continue to check with thrift and/or discount stores to find gifts. But have you thought about shopping at home. Can you put together a craft box (A sewing kit for instance; or a crochet kit with yarn, a hook and instructions)? There's still time to make things, maybe a stuffed animal or a stuffed doll with a bed made out of a decorated cardboard box.
Remember the home made coupon books? For instance, a coupon to read a favorite book, play a favorite game, color together or teach something like sewing to a child. For adults, a favorite meal or a massage, etc. Cut pieces of paper the same size (i.e. 2 inches by 5 inches), decorate them with colors or markers. Write down what each coupon is for. Add a cover and staple together.
To create a holiday atmosphere, play music associated with the holiday, watch favorite holiday movies, pop popcorn to eat while watching as well as stringing to use as a decoration. Making other handmade decorations. Simmer the smells of the winter holidays with spices and oranges in water (Be sure to watch so the pot does not dry out.).
Find free activities in your community to go to like tree lightings, or looking at the neighborhood outdoor holiday decorations.
Make a holiday meal special, even simple ones, by setting the table nicely even adding placemats (something children can make), a simple centerpiece and candles if possible. And talk during the meal, sharing memories and no electronics.
The gift of time with loved ones is very special so be sure to add that to you list. Visiting someone? Bring them a sample of your home made cookies and/or candy.
If you put your mind to it, you will probably think of many other things to make this time of celebration special.
Have a great day...
Talk with you tomorrow...