This is way off topic--although finances do pressure marital relationships.

Just looking for some ideas on how one might observe Christmas simply--keeping the true meaning of Christ's birth central and being frugal without being tacky. Also, how do you keep your chin up when you are hurting and going through the holidays alone or in a new circumstance?

This morning I had a bizarre experience. I went shopping--one of my stops was the Christian book store. I asked if they had any books on avoiding the materialism of Christmas--the clerk looked at me like I had gone bonkers. Then I told her something the Lord spoke to me about--and I'm sure she thinks I'm certifiable!! <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="images/icons/wink.gif" />

Then I made one more stop at a department store--the woman ahead of me got caught stealing a Christmas item. It escalated into a huge shouting match and was rather scary. She had a child in a stroller and the crowd around her were rocking the stroller precariously. Just a terrible mess.

I left nearly in tears. The first Christmas happened in a smelly stable with a humble manger for the King of Kings. Greed...hurt feelings..family fights...too much money spent or things taken away...why is that so often the "theme" of annual observing of the holidays?

Isn't the REAL meaning...LOVE...giving from the heart...giving within our means?

So, please jump in with your thoughts and ideas. I'd love to hear from you. Let me know if I have your permission--I'm seriously thinking of putting a book together on this topic! <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="images/icons/grin.gif" />

Hi Freshstart-
Isn't the REAL meaning...LOVE...giving from the heart...giving within our means?
Yes of course it is and I can't believe the response you got from the girl in the Christian bookshop- I'm sure I've seen books on that topic, but can't remeber any titles off top of my head!

I have always kept the present side of Christmas to a small amount, and even though H and I have been separated for nearly 2 years we still get our childrens present together. Also all his families presents we get from both of us as we know it pleases them.
Jante

Jante, thanks!

Yes, I bought a book from Chapters, I believe--called the Hundred Dollar Christmas a couple years ago but think it's still packed.

How neat that you and H buy the present together.

I have a friend who gave each child only 3 gifts each in honour of the tradition of the Magi bearing 3 gifts for the King.

Thanks again.

Poking around today, I found a website called www.stretcher.com--it helps you stretch a dollar. Not necessarily a spiritual perspective but hey, maybe it has some ideas for inexpensive dates! <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="images/icons/wink.gif" />