General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsStressed about last minute shopping?
For many years, our extended family has had stressless end of year gatherings. Nobody needs or wants more stuff so we put money (sliding scale) in a hat along with the name of a progressive nonprofit. Before we draw a name, anybody can make an impassioned plea for their nonprofit. Once we have reached consensus on a name, the money is bundled and sent. The only exception is hand crafted items like hats or scarves.
underpants
(182,883 posts)I ventured out yesterday. We wrapped up our shopping weeks ago. Yikes. It was a mess out there.
central scrutinizer
(11,662 posts)With my 2023, 2024, shopping. Ive already bought my burial plot and headstone. Extra cash goes to DNC and local candidates.
FuzzyRabbit
(1,969 posts)Last year we decided to donate to charities instead of giving gifts to each other. We're doing it again this year. It makes Christmas much less stressful and more meaningful at the same time.
central scrutinizer
(11,662 posts)Pay it forward.
Pobeka
(4,999 posts)When the prices for a live cut tree were suddenly getting so high many years ago, we decided to give that money to a local food bank, and just get a small wreath for some scent and indoor greenery.
We still trade a few gifts, but not nearly so much as in the past.
Chainfire
(17,644 posts)Presents? Bah Humbug!
We only buy presents for our two adult children. We ask them what they want.
For about 20 years, my wife has bought a big Christmas for a child that she is assigned, by a local charity, knowing only the age and gender and sizes of the child she will be buying for. She does it up nicely with half toys and half clothes. The things that she buys are of the same quality that we gave our children. My wife enjoys it probably more than the child will.
We don't do last minute shopping, everything is bought by the first of December, then we sit back and have a relaxed holiday. We are breaking new ground this year; it will be the first time in 41 years that it will be just the two of us on Christmas.