It is time that people realize what Christmas really is. Doesn't it feel liberating to not have to be part of the greed & commercialism that overshadows the birth of Jesus Christ ? We don't do the hoopla with gifts. We gather together at our home, have a great meal, play games, talk, eat some more. I just want my family where I can love on them. As I get older, there are smiles and laughter missing from our group because those people have gone on ahead to wait for us who remain. Try to celebrate Christmas this way and you will see a difference. People will be relieved that the pressure is off to shop and spend money that is getting harder to come by. People survived the 1930's and so can we.

Merry Christmas! I am so happy that you found a treasure when you were down. That makes it so much more special. :D

Val, Congratulations on your find. Have fun with it. It's been said many times on this post and it's so true the true gift is the gift of love. I bet most people can't remember what they received last year for Christmas. But I am sure that they remember the happy time they spent with their loved ones. Many of us are having a hard time now. Let's go easy on ourselves and just be happy to still have loved ones here. So many of my loved ones are now gone, I am thankful for the ones that are here. Many good suggestions have been given by the good people on this board. May the LORD hold you in the palm of his hand. GOD Bless. BrendaK

Well done on your wonderful find. ENJOY.

good for you, now you can make more goodies for gifts!

I'm so happy for you & I know your family will understand. I do like the cookie idea that Betty62 gave.
Hang in there.

I'm sure you aren't the only parents and grandparents who are feeling "the Pinch" this year!! I'm sure your family will understand. Hope next year is betterfor you. God Bless!!

Every one I associate with is really cutting down on their gift giving this year. Our older grandkids(8) picked a name out of a bag this year. With the added increase in their college tuition (of course none of them qualify for aid-all working as many hours they can), it was decided that really do we all need anything else? A $ amount was put at $15. Thats it this year. My husband & I don't need anything but loving from our family members. Grandkids are all getting scarfs and hats (fleece) this year and a note telling them how much we love them.