Opting Out of Christmas?

I usually love Christmas. I'm one of those people that can't wait to decorate my house, string the lights on the tree and wrap the presents. I remember there were many years that my mother would say "I don't want to put up a tree. I'm not in the mood for Christmas." I never understood how she could feel that way. I mean, how could anyone not want to celebrate Christmas when they had the means to do so? This year I understand how she felt all those times. It's been a rough year for the world. Already one of my good friends has said she and her family aren't doing Christmas this year. I was shocked because of the kids, but the economy and job losses don't allow them to afford presents and all the expense for the food. When I heard this, I felt terrible. 


Although we certainly aren't swimming in riches, because of my return to frugality we can afford presents. I'm simply not buying many. This year I'm choosing not to buy for anyone other than my daughter. My parents are trying to get rid of stuff, not put more crap in their house. My mother warns that anything tangible (other than clothing) will probably end up being sold at an auction by my father -- he's addicted to buying and selling anything he can get his hands on. No one in my family wants knick knacks or ornaments, and the only clothing safe enough to give anyone is pajamas. Other than me and my daughter, no one is a techie or a gamer. So every present to anyone other than my dear daughter will be handmade. I can bake like it came from the store, and sew, crochet and knit like it came from the sweat shop. My smart holiday shopping will begin in my kitchen with chocolate. That alone should cover everyone. 


My family has evolved into simply enjoying each other's company rather than worrying about presents. We all pretty much have everything we need, and we've never been a family prone to excess. My mantra has always been 'if I have to dust it, please don't give it to me.' 


After a recent trip to the mall with my daughter and her friends and already bathing in the excess, I feel sick to my stomach when I think about going "out" into all of that. This year, I handed my daughter a catalog. She highlighted everything she wanted, and most of her Christmas will be coming from her choices. That's smart shopping because I don't have to guess at what she wants, and I'm not spending time sitting in traffic or waiting for a parking space. I'll need the extra time for all that baking.