Buying into a Christmas without presents

I'm not a Scrooge, really. I embrace almost all of Christmas. Except for one time-honored tradition that brings so much stress and expense that eliminating it has made the holiday even more magical.

[Ohmigosh]

Nice plan. An alternative my siblings (and their significant others) have adopted the past several years is the following: In lieu of exchanging names and purchasing gifts, usually from a list that's been provided by each person, we pool money to adopt a needy family in one of our communities. We purchase gifts for the family members, and usually include gift cards to grocery or other necessity-based store. Cuts down on the stress of shopping for more gifts, and helps a family who might not otherwise be able to celebrate the holidays.

[Indie]

Ohmigosh wrote:

Nice plan. An alternative my siblings (and their significant others) have adopted the past several years is the following: In lieu of exchanging names and purchasing gifts, usually from a list that's been provided by each person, we pool money to adopt a needy family in one of our communities. We purchase gifts for the family members, and usually include gift cards to grocery or other necessity-based store. Cuts down on the stress of shopping for more gifts, and helps a family who might not otherwise be able to celebrate the holidays.

We did the same thing. Well except the little kids still get gifts. Trying to get Grandma not to buy a gift for the grandkids is like splitting an atom. But we include the kids doing the shopping etc. It's a great experience for all the reasons you mentioned.

[Send a Cow]

A couple of great stories! If you're looking at doing the same sort of thing this year but in a slightly different way you should have a look at our Christmas catalogue - http://bit.ly/6eOJ7n - We've got loads of great ideas and you'll be helping real people create better, sustainable & more enriching futures for themselves. Every gift will be passed on and on in Africa, so why not have a look around and let us know what you think! Cheers, Send a Cow :-)