We know that personally our finances aren't great, we're making it but there's no surplus for extravagant gifts or spending, but that's not what the Holiday Spirit is about. It's about spending time with family and friends, about putting aside petty differences and helping our neighbors and those less fortunate, being thankful for what we have- our health, family, friends, love and those around us.
For those of us that find ourselves financially challenged this Holiday Season, I'd like to suggest making your presents. They may not be as fancy or perfect as mass produced gifts, but to me they are much more precious than a store bought sweater. It's those imperfections in a handmade gift or handwritten note in a card that make it perfect. It shows a thoughtfulness more valuable than a gift card. Yes, we have been guilty of giving gift cards in the past because we were stumped for gift ideas.
We'd also like to suggest doing something for someone instead of giving gifts. For those in colder climates that have that white stuff on the ground, shovel the driveway or walkway for an elderly neighbor, paint the barn for a neighbor who may not be capable of climbing ladders anymore, clean a neighbors gutters before winter rains. There are any number of things that you can do to show appreciation and respect for your fellow human beings. If you have some free time volunteer at a soup kitchen for the holidays or even at your local animal shelter. This we'd suggest is what the Holiday Season is about!!
Follow our Tweets, Google+ or Facebook posts for some gifting ideas and recipes for your holidays.
May the Holidays find you surrounded by family and friends, in good health and may 2015 bring prosperity to us all!!
Best wishes from all of us at Arid Acres Homestead to you and your family!!