by Aleta Kay
This time of year can be very stressful with cards to mail, presents to buy, and finances tight. How in the world can you come up with the money to meet everyone’s expectations? Here are some suggestions:
1) Take some of the children’s toys that they haven’t played with in months. Put them away where they won’t be seen. Wrap them and put them under the tree for Christmas. They will have forgotten about them (depending on their ages) and will think they have new toys. Little children mostly just enjoy opening presents anyway.
2) Make a book of coupons for adult family members: one for a back rub, one for a favorite dinner or dessert, one for babysitting, etc. Use your imagination.
3) Make a book of your favorite poetry or love songs for that special someone in your life.
4) Make a card with an encouraging message.
5) Make a plate of cookies or a pie. I used to make mini loaves of pumpkin bread to give to my neighbors.
6) Make a paper chain for the Christmas tree or string popcorn. Let the kids help.
7) Remember this is a time for rejoicing. Make it a family project to go caroling at a nursing home where a relative resides or a hospital. Be sure to call the facility and make arrangements ahead of time with the staff.
8) Do something for someone who has less than you.
9) Bury all grudges. Jesus did.
10) Play or sing happy music. It will lift your spirits.
11) Only do what you have time to do. Don’t stress over what doesn’t get done. Fretting over things makes those around you uncomfortable and unhappy. It is futile.
12) Have a very merry Christmas, and remember to keep Christ in it. He really is the reason for the season.
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