Well......... This is a complicated question.
Given that MOST Americans are hurting financially....... and that ALL the "basics of living" are MORE expensive this year than last year..... Gas, elecricity, heating, medical care, food.... everything! So... people WILL be spending more.... before they even begin to buy Christmassy things!!!
For "gifts"... what REALLY helps me is... keeping my eyes open all year! One year.... the most popular gifts were 50 cent "whoopie cushions" for the kids. (Being "classy" is not a consideration in our family!!!) Giving the adults... just small "token" gifts... is a great relieft to both giver and recipient! Everyone wants to concentrate on the children... and having a relaxed, comfortable time!
I LOVE our Magical Holiday Home.... because I have such a wonderful time here.... all year!
And.... this year.... I realize that I have REALLY come to love our MHH Family! So.... I feel like I m celebrating WITH them! Sharing our daily lives... and also our Christmas prep..... that really makes my own life richer and happier!
And.... thanks to Gingerbug and to Jeff and to our Mods.... it doesn't cost me money that I can't afford! It is a gift.... from them.... to us! A precious gift!
Given that MOST Americans are hurting financially....... and that ALL the "basics of living" are MORE expensive this year than last year..... Gas, elecricity, heating, medical care, food.... everything! So... people WILL be spending more.... before they even begin to buy Christmassy things!!!
For "gifts"... what REALLY helps me is... keeping my eyes open all year! One year.... the most popular gifts were 50 cent "whoopie cushions" for the kids. (Being "classy" is not a consideration in our family!!!) Giving the adults... just small "token" gifts... is a great relieft to both giver and recipient! Everyone wants to concentrate on the children... and having a relaxed, comfortable time!
I LOVE our Magical Holiday Home.... because I have such a wonderful time here.... all year!
And.... this year.... I realize that I have REALLY come to love our MHH Family! So.... I feel like I m celebrating WITH them! Sharing our daily lives... and also our Christmas prep..... that really makes my own life richer and happier!
And.... thanks to Gingerbug and to Jeff and to our Mods.... it doesn't cost me money that I can't afford! It is a gift.... from them.... to us! A precious gift!