Christmas can be a very stressful time for many people. Some people become consumed with shopping, party planning, decorating and getting everything to be just so. And if you have the time, and effort, and the money, all these things together may not seem like such a strain. But for those who have some time and plenty of effort, but very little money, these ideas for carolling and inexpensive gift giving can help ease the stress and bring on the joy.
Carolling
It does not matter whether you can carry a tune or not to sing carols. Carolling is not about showing off a beautiful voice. Carols are about Christmas; consider the lyrics or just listen carefully. They are not about the materialistic aspect of the holiday. Singing carols alone may be very enjoyable while, for instance, baking, or cleaning and decorating the house. But singing carols with a group is a wonderful way to connect with others.
Consider holding a carolling night at home with family, close friends or both. Many people would delight in the invitation and may even bring along hot chocolate, hot apple cider or good desserts. With a piano or a guitar, or any instrument that can accompany the group, and someone to play, the music adds a nice touch. Remember, as many carols do relate the story, Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. A great way to celebrate this is to read the story of Christmas in the Gospels (Luke may be your best choice). It may even be nice to take a break from singing during a carolling night and read it out loud with your guests.
Gift Giving
Gifts have become arguably the largest concern when it comes to Christmas and money. For some people, the gift giving and receiving is the best part of Christmas. Admittedly, it is nice to receive gifts and it is just as nice to give them. But gift giving is also usually the most taxing on the bank account and leaves little room for Christmas on a budget. However, there are ways to celebrate the tradition of Christmas giving without spending a fortune.
People have talents, and most have something that lets their creativity flow. There are artists, scientists, dancers, musicians, mathematicians, writers, etcetera, everywhere. A very personal and sweet way to give inexpensive gifts to loved ones is to make them. The expression “it’s the thought that counts” can hold true when that “thought” is expressed through the effort put into the gift. It may take a little time to think of an appropriate gift that can be made and then to make it, but it will be appreciated and well worth the effort.
Another way of giving a gift is to give Christmas gifts that are not material things. Your company can be a gift to someone who really needs it. Your help can be a gift to someone less fortunate. Accepting an invitation to Christmas dinner may be the best gift for certain friends or family members. And sometimes sharing a good Christmas movie is all it takes.
Christmas does not need to be expensive. Arguably, Christmas was never meant to be expensive. Jesus was born in a stable, not in the best hotel money can buy. Consider these ways to keep Christmas simple, inexpensive and stress-free.
Michelle Wright - Michelle is an avid reader and writer, with a focus on book, film and music reviews, gluten free recipes, and fiction writing "how-tos."
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