Stay Connected

This past week, I have been asked on several occasions – Are you ready for Christmas? My response is – “do you mean the birth of Christ”. With that reply, they give me a blank stare and then I smile – “I am as ready as I can be”.  

I am as ready as I can be because I keep things simple and practical. The number one rule is that I do not spend more than I can afford. We do not want to enter the New Year stressed about bills that were incurred over the past year. Stress is not good for our health. Some of the most valuable gifts do not cost anything in terms of money.

If you are still wondering what to give your loved ones, here are some gift suggestions:

1. Gift cards/cash – This never gets old. The advantage of this gift is that the person can buy what they want. They can use it for anything. Often, I enjoy hearing what the person has used the gift to do.

• COVID survival kit – Unfortunately, COVID is still around. In a little party cellophane bag, I will put a pack of tissue paper, hand sanitizer, gloves and a mask. This can be put in a purse or left in the car.

• Baked goods – If you are really good at making a particular item that your family or friends love, you might choose to make that item and send it to them. I will be making applesauce cake soon to send to my siblings.

• Gift of time – There is so much that you can do. Volunteer to baby sit to give a mother time to run errands. Run errands for a friend. Do laundry. Take an elderly person to their doctor’s appointment. Spend time with an elderly person. The list is endless. Make yourself available.

• Words of wisdom – We all have a story of life’s lessons. Write them down and share them.

Wishing each of you and all who hold your affection all of God’s blessings – peace, love, happiness, and good health.

MERRY CHRISTMAS