Stuff. Lots and lots of stuff. Or Christmas Conspiracy.

"What do you want for Christmas?"
"Nothing"

Can you believe that was the reply at our house?  Well, by two of my children.  One of them is still young and still wants things for Christmas.  But, my two boys are happy to get nothing.  Nick has a couple (real) small items.  Alex keeps saying he wants nothing.  Absolutely nothing.

Our church does this Advent Conspiracy every year.  We spend too much on presents and forget the true meaning of Christmas.  Our church says to spend less and if you have money left over to donate it to those in need.  Every year they pick an organization to donate to as a church.  (you don't have to donate to that particular organization, you can choose your own)  One year we donated money to build wells in Africa so the people in those towns could have fresh water.  Another year it was to Habitat for Humanity to build houses (in the US) for people. 

It really brings back the true meaning of Christmas.  Giving something to someone who is really happy to receive the gift.  And, it's something that the person needs.

You are giving a person or family fresh water or a house to live in, not a ugly Christmas sweater or another tie or hanky.  (do people still use hankies?)

I blame retailers. 

Retailers want you to buy, buy, buy so they can make a profit.  This idea that on Christmas you have to spend, spend, spend just to have a great holiday is ridiculous! Some people go into debt buying gifts because they have to have the latest gadget. They need the latest electronics, the new toys, cars, clothes and jewelry.    (then they have too much stuff, which leads to excess and storage lockers)

I'm happy to say that won't be our family. 

You can count us out (again) this year.   We celebrate Christmas and exchange gifts (within reason).  We don't go overboard in spending.  Everyone is happy.  

We, as a family, have chosen the organization Feed My Starving Children to help out this year.