Give More to Family and Friends

It is possible to spend less and give more. Sometimes shopping is the least effective way to truly give at Christmastime. Here are some suggestions for giving more this Christmas, or add your own ideas as a comment to this post.

• Express yourself. Write cards or letters to family members, and tell them how much they mean to you.
• Give photos, family mementos, or small items with symbolic significance. Many years ago I gave my wife 2 playing cards, a king and queen of hearts. She still has them.
• Give time instead of money or material goods. Make plans as a family to spend time together over the holidays. Give cards that say "free date night" or "Dad and son outing."
• Give interactive gifts. You can establish a rule in your family that gifts must be something the family can enjoy together. Board games and puzzles make for good family time over the holidays. Moives can be a good choice. If you go electronic, Wii sports, Guitar Hero, Rock Band, and Dance Dance Revolution are good options.