So,  the local cities are getting all dolled up with their decorations and lights. Here’s a picture I snapped at Norfolk’s Grand Illumination Parade as it made its way down Granby Street downtown.

But now, for many of us, the stress is starting to sink in.

What are we going to give our loved ones for the holidays- especially now that the economy is so bad and money is really tight?

Some families are drawing names so one person can get a really good gift.  Everyone doesn’t agree with that way of scaling back.  So what can we do?   As I get older,  I really appreciate gifts that represent my family history- articles, pictures or programs matted and framed.  Even some of my own mementos.  I have a lot of stuff in files that would be great in a scrapbook. I love getting pictures of my friends and their children.

This is my best friend Stephanie with her son Jackson when they visited Santa a few years ago.  He’s growing so fast- I love looking back on pictures like this!

And this is my sister-in-law and niece and nephew from  a Christmas past- too cute!

Another girlfriend’s husband makes the best spice cake ever.  I always tell her to send me a cake for the holidays- that would be the perfect gift!

Maybe we can all think of things we want or need that don’t require a lot of money and let our friends and families know it’s okay.   How about baking, house cleaning, painting, babysitting, car washing, clothing alterations, or repairs around the house.  We all have those skills we could jot down in a card and offer as a gift.

Don’t rule out auction or selling sites such as Craigslist and Ebay or take your items to a local consignment store and make some extra cash.  If you have something you’re not using- list it… it could be a gem to someone else.  If you can’t afford to pay full price for something, search for it- you may be surprised at what you find.

This is supposed to be a glorious time, not a stressful one.   Don’t fall victim to all of the hype.  The season of giving is supposed to be just that.  Do what you can.

Please post your suggestions to my blog- I’d love to hear them!

Happy Thanksgiving, Happy Hannukah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year!