A note on the Angel Tree or others like it, I run one of those types of programs at work and always have kids that want designer clothes and iPods...that's what their friends are asking for so why can't they (is their logic)?  Just because that's what they put down as what they want doesn't mean that's what they'll get.  I also don't buy explicit music that they request.  I buy fun clothes, on sale, and toys that don't require batteries or expensive add-on's.  Also, I'd steer clear of gift cards because who knows where that money will go.  I know kids always need shoes, coats, and socks, maybe jeans.  So go that route, and depending on their age maybe some inexpensive jewelry, nail polish, wallet, hat, toy, coloring books...get creative!  Just remember, just because they ask for it doesn't mean you have to buy it.  Merry Christmas!

I feel as if we are forgetting what Christmas is about.  It's not about the gimmie season as was said at our Thanksgiving service at church  It's about getting together as a family.  Being with family is one gift no one can take away.   I remembe when growing up if we had 1 present under our tree it was special.  This year my children all know I can not get them anything with the way our economy is.  I fight each payday now to get the bills paid.  Just being there for one another is the best present anyone can give.  I thank God each day for the Family I have.  Lets remember that Christmas is for our Lord and those who Believe in in him in these rough times.  Not for all those gimmie gifts to keep up with everyone else.

The Angel Tree at the community college where I teach for extra money also left me frustated.  An Ipod for a 6 year old!!!! NO way.   I sulked while we were shopping for shoes, underwear, school uniforms, board games and one modest toy, angry at the out of control parent.  I expect her/him to be mad that the expensive stuff isn't there, but when your hanging on by a thread...don't you still need the basics?  I pray the children are excited for the new things to wear and actually play with, not just sit an watch (DVDs also on the list for the 4 year old).

I agree that this year we all must be cautious of our spending...or choose an alternative to the usual gift giving.  However, I do not think eating "tuna fish" is a smart solution.  If everyone stays home and does that, the economy will suffer even more and more people will lose their jobs.  We need to cut out unnecessary spending and everything in moderation.  No need to eat out 5 times a week but once a week may be fine for most.  This is a difficult time for most but with proper planning and some spending savvy, the holiday can still feel the same.

I agree that this year we all must be cautious of our spending...or choose an alternative to the usual gift giving.  However, I do not think eating "tuna fish" is a smart solution.  If everyone stays home and does that, the economy will suffer even more and more people will lose their jobs.  We need to cut out unnecessary spending and everything in moderation.  No need to eat out 5 times a week but once a week may be fine for most.  This is a difficult time for most but with proper planning and some spending savvy, the holiday can still feel the same.

Christmas is about the birth of Jesus, not buying gifts for every Tom, Dick and Harry we know.  Buying for Christmas is way out of control,  especially when you realize that Tom, Dick and Harry have far more then they would ever need.  We live in the Unite States of America, we all have more then we need.   Why don't we concentrate on helping the needy of this world.  Instead of buying gifts for the niece or nephew who already is receiving more then he or she needs, give to those in need.  There are plenty of charities who help the needy.

I can't believe what some of you will spend and think you're frugal. Why should Christmas, a day to honor someone who stood for peace and charity, be about spending so much money at one time of the year to try to ensure that all you plan to give gifts to will be satisfied. You might be giving them things they probably won't really want or don't need if you've waited this long to shop. Maybe you'll have to put stuff on credit cards and pay later. Why not try this: All year long, when I see something (the cost within my monthly budget) for someone I want to give a Christmas gift to, I get it and store it in my Christmas saving space. My collection for family and angel tree gifts was complete by the end of October. I saved on sale and used wrap from last year and finished my wrapping already. Christmas shopping is one of my hobbies all through the year. I pay off my credit card every month in full,  carry no debt, and  I have a very Merry Christmas every year watching those I love open their little or big surprise gifts. I learned this from my mom by her example: never give a gift to impress anyone, just show, in your gift,appreciation for what you observed or heard about them over the year.  

Last year my husband and I started something new and found that actually a lot of other people felt the same way.  We decided with the exception of our parents and our children that we would not be giving gifts to anyone that cost anything.  I made a couple of cross-stiches and I also put together a family picture CD which cost only my time.  We budget a certain amount every month for Christmas so that when November comes around we don't even have to worry about the money being there.  We found that others were relieved because then they didn't feel that they had to give a gift just because someone else did.  It was really interesting.  We are doing the same this year but we decided to buy a large family gift instead of the individual gifts which the kids are happy to give up since we are getting a new TV.  I only have to buy stocking stuffers and a TV!  What a relief it is now and I can actually enjoy the Christmas spirit of giving of my talents and time instead of something meaningless.

We have been gradually slowing down the buying for a few years. Our beloved grandkids have more "stuff" than any child needs and we just felt we were throwing our money away while the true meaning of Christmas was getting lost in the process. We now buy one outfit and a dvd for each grandchild. For young nieces and nephews, we do candy and coloring books. The adults don't buy for each other anymore which is great. It is a more calmer and quiter holiday season now and we are much happier.

I never comment but just couldn't help myself this time.  I almost feel ashamed to admit that I have six grown children and all have siginificant others or spouses that I buy for each Christmas.  I spend close to $500 each on them and then buy gifts for my husband, parents, siblings and employees as well.  After reading some of the comments here, it hit me that I am out of control on Christmas gifts.  Thanks to everyone who posted a comment that helped put all of this in perspective for me.  What a relief to realize that people actually do get together, have fun and enjoy the true meaning of the season without going overboard.  Think I'll simplify things this year and save myself a lot of frustration, time and money.  Merry Christmas!