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There were years that we were very poor, so for months before the holiday we would save the things we needed anyway, to have as Christmas gifts. We were no less appreciative of getting needed things than frivolous trinkets, in fact, I think we appreciated them more. Shoes, linens to replace threadbare ones, tools, or whatever, were something that received more appreciation at Christmas and felt like an indulgence.

You can reduce your exposure to the advertising and pressure to buy if you plan your gifts early, so that you do not need to go to shopping centers in late November and December. Some families make the choice of one small gift only, or of only handmade gifts. Giving your time is another option. It is often even more appreciated to get something repaired or fixed or a problem solved than it is to receive something wrapped.

Think of events you can do for December and Christmas to bring you and your family and friends closer together. Baking cookies or candies with a good friend is one of my favorite Christmas rituals. We bake them to give away as gifts, so it is often an all weekend activity like a tiny cookie factory. It takes more time than money. We always play the game of having "high standards" and not allowing any slightly imperfect cookie or candy leave the kitchen (we of course, eat the imperfect ones... funny how there are a lot of them). We put on music, we talk, make a complete and utter mess, wrap the gifts together to make them as pretty as possible but the best part is having a wonderful time together.

You can also plan a board game night or a music night when you invite friends in for a nice evening, or go caroling in the neighborhood. Some people like volunteering during this time of year to help the hungry or bring cheer to children in hospitals or visit the elderly in nursing homes and cheer them up.

Enjoying the seasonal weather is another way of having a less commercial holiday. When weather permits you can have a lovely bonfire and hot cider outdoors, go sledding or skating or hiking to see the natural wonders in your area. All of these things can be annual events with loved ones, like a late night walk on Christmas eve through your neighborhood watching the lights and kids playing around with snow.

For many, they wish to bring the spirit of the holiday back by observing their religious beliefs and making that central to their celebration. There are delightful church events in most Christian churches and you need only contact your church to find out more about them. There are also wonderful ethnic traditions centered around religious beliefs, and it can be a way of getting in touch with your roots to learn how to use a nacimiento (Mexico), advent calendar (Germany), a Santa Lucia wreath (Sweden) or traditions from your heritage or any other country. Celebrating Christmas the traditional and a less commercial way is the best way to enjoy the wonderful season.