Money is No Object!

The limp, tan, fella in the photo set me back about six bucks. He’s a 5-squeaker dog toy I picked up for my sister’s terrier. They live in New England so we won’t get to celebrate the holidays together but we share them as much as we can. She held her phone out so I could listen to her pup’s response to the present. Hearing the dog’s excited growls and yaps of delight, and my sister’s giggles was a real treat. A lot of holiday joy for little expense.

It always saddens me to see folks tied up in knots this time of year over gift-giving; Overspending, overthinking, overdoing. It’s easy to get so caught up the process of procurement we forget what the ‘giving’ is all about.

If there’s any blessing in the economic downturn perhaps it’s made us all try to do a little more with a little less. With more limited resources maybe we’re all a little more judicious and thoughtful in our giving.

Sad to say, I don’t remember that many presents I’ve given or received for Christmas’ over the years. I remember the ones that had heart behind them, like the drugstore journal with puppies on the cover and a purple bic pen.

Most of what I remember from Christmases past? The memories – the giggling and laughter and moments celebrated with others. Driving aroung looking at Christmas lights, caroling, staying up late and talking by a fireplace. Further evidence that money is no object or not the object, and sometimes the very best gifts are free.