How to Have a Thrifty Christmas

It's that time of the year again; the Christmas trees are up and adorned with ornaments, lights and all kinds of traditional yet timeless keepsakes. The streets and malls are donned with garlands and white lights. We are all hypnotized by the soothing sounds of Christmas carols that evoke emotions and memories of an (earlier time) or our childhood. Admittedly dreamy... There is a mood that seduces us all and puts us in a trance-like state. We're blessed with the most wonderful holiday at this time of year; Christmas. For many of us it's like a second thanksgiving. Instead of being reflective and sharing of our thankfulness openly - we instead give of ourselves. It's an age old tradition not only in America, but around the world. It somehow gives us permission to do what we wouldn't do ordinarily; at least for the mass population. There are lots of meaningful gifts that one can give without breaking the bank.

Putting an album or DVD compilation together of old photos or Videos, could possibly be one the most meaningful and cherished gifts that a person could give a loved one or a friend. It's a gift that has substance and heart.

Many people host dinner parties for the Christmas holiday. This can be a unique way to share great ideas about life, love and relationships. More so, one can create a theme and have everyone participate. One idea is to have your guests sit down and share their favorite Christmas memories.

As aforementioned, there isn't a person in the world who does not have a favorite Christmas movie or song which they have watched or listened at Christmas time. Why not inscribe your favorite Christmas movie, book or Christmas album and share this with your friends, family or someone special. This can most definitely be a most cherished and personable gift.

A unique thing to do would be to host an end of year award ceremony. You could write notes or poems to those that you are acknowledging, laminate and/or frame what you have written, and then award it to gift receiver as a show of appreciation.

One of the most selfless things to do is to volunteer one's time and effort to helping those who are less fortunate at a crisis homeless shelter. Additionally, for those who do not celebrate Christmas, volunteering is a great way to give those who do work all year 'round time off and a chance to be with their family. This experience is not only fulfilling, but it can put things into perspective.