I understand about getting too wrapped up in gift giving, but to me gift giving is part of the season. That is why I make things for people instead of buying stuff. My gifts are practical and usually inexpensive and I thoroughly enjoy making them, so far, and I will be 70 in November. Those who receive my gifts enjoy them and the uniqueness of them. Gifts can be made rather inexpensive if you are on a tight budget. Use Freecycle for obtaining fabric, or throughout the year buy only really good sales, shop at garage sales, resale shops, etc. We need to give of our time. My take on the whole thing. We only allocate $15 to each grandchild (18) for Christmas and that doesn't go very far if you shop at a store (other than gift certificates for iTunes that sometimes we give) so I try to be inventive. Love all you guys do and share.