Christmas in a tough economy

I'm going to deviate from my regular format and not answer a specific question.  Many of my close friends have called me and expressed concern over the upcoming Holidays.  They are all parents who are caught up in the commercial side of Christmas, the shopping, the spending and the demands that are self-imposed.  They are parents who care for their children and do not want to disappointed them by not buying them what they want for Christmas.  But Christmas isn't about how much money you spend, is it?

Looking back at my childhood, my most cherished Christmas memories were not about gifts.  In fact, I honestly could not tell you any present that I got as child unless I really thought about it.  I could, however, tell you about the time that my Mom turned our kitchen into a bakery and we made cookies, fudge, brownies (you name it) all day long.  It was amazing.  There were these little thumb print cookies with mint jelly in them.  I didn't even know they made mint jelly.

Another great memory was the year we went to Texas.  We stopped at a Kmart on Christmas eve to go shopping.  I was six years old.  I got one gift that year and I can't even remember what it was.  But, I do remember going shopping with my Mom late at night.  It was fun and made me feel very close to my Mom, like I was an active part in the Holiday and not just the recipient of gifts.

This year, things are tough, the economy is bad and money is tight.  It may be a good time to think about giving a gift that last forever and won't break the bank.  The gift of a lasting Holiday memory.  Trust me, your kids would much rather have your attention than your money or gifts.  Look back at your childhood and think about what stands out to you the most.  Was it the memories or the presents?

Happy Holidays!
I miss you Mom, hope I make you proud of me.