Are you thinking of joining millions of people out there in the wonderful simplicity of a Christmas without presents this year? Welcome!
Has 2009 taught you anything? The economy downturn has taught me to live with less and maybe even live better that way.
There is nothing wrong with celebrating Christmas without exchanging Christmas presents. On the contrary, the time spent on shopping, wrapping and stressing out over gifts is the best present you could give each other.
I know of a family of five who haven’t exchanged Christmas gifts for a few years. On the first year of holiday shopping season when the father became jobless, the family had to stop going to shopping mall in order to save money.
They spent quiet evenings at home together, listening to holiday music and playing games. Money which was supposed to be spent on Christmas presents had been spent on a lavish Christmas dinner. Most important of all, they had a New Year free of holiday bills!
Even though the father has since been employed after a year, they still go on with their no Christmas gifts unless they are homemade.
Why not send free e-cards to your family members and friends asking them to skip the gifts and instead do something together?
Hi _____________,
2009 has been a tough year for everyone, so instead of buying Christmas gifts, let’s spend time together doing something like playing at the park/playing board games/volunteering for a charity/learning a new skill or your suggestion here.
Love,
_____________.