Christmas Thoughts and Ideas

I don't know about you all, but I am finding it hard to believe it is almost Thanksgiving, with Christmas close on its heels! Talk about time flying as you get older--that has been amplified to me again and again as I watched this year slip by.

Each year I vow to get an early start on my Christmas shopping as some of my friends do (I really hate how they wreck the curve by doing that!!). And each year, I am still scrambling to complete my list right up until Christmas Eve. How do they do it?!?!

I have been hearing so much lately how a lot of folks are scaling back due to the economy. I know we have been forced to scale back and that just adds to the stress of making a list, trying to be creative in your gift giving and stay within a budget at the same time.

I get frustrated by all the commercialism that has built up around Christmas, thus obscuring the real "reason for the season". However, I still do believe in Santa (I'll never grow up!) and love to see the smiles on the faces of loved ones as they open a special gift from us.

So where do you find yourself? Any ideas, suggestions or thoughts on how to tackle Christmas this year? Feel free to post your ideas so others (and I) can take advantage of your creativity/suggestions.

Until next time...may smiles and sunshine fill your days!