The holidays are quickly approaching which can bring a shiver of joy or shudder of dread. Buying gifts and entertaining can put a strain on an already over loaded budget. There are some ways to ease the pressure that the holiday season brings and reintroduce the joy of the season.

1. Buy gifts throughout the year on clearance or at sales. Often closeouts bring the best bargain. What would cost $25 Dec 10^th might be picked up in July for mere pennies on the dollar! Keep the gifts in a locked closet and avoid the temptation to give them early
   
2. Consider gift certificates and avoid costly wrap, ribbon and shipping costs. Often these costs exceed the price of the gift!
   
3. For friends and neighbors exchange baked items instead of gifts. This variety of items can bring a welcome relief to coming up with new holiday recipes.
   
4. Consider alternates to gift giving by making phone calls or writing a newsletter for friends and relatives you haven't seen in awhile Although we groan at the sight of another newsletter in the mail they can be a welcome read during the holiday evenings.
   
5. Instead of tradition buying think of creative ways to surprise your family. Write a letter of thankfulness or expressing your feelings of love toward them. Give away something you treasure with a note or card that explains why you are doing so. Change the normal way of giving.
   
6. Purchase fast food coupons, make up poems, do a craft, break out your humorous side and get creative for stocking stuffers.

Bring back the joy of the holiday season by singing songs, popping popcorn or roasting marshmallows over the fire and talking about Christmas' past. It will be simple things they remember.