It’s That Time Again…

  The Festive Season, Christmas, time to Deck the Halls with Boughs of Holly, the Season to be Jolly.

But it seems like every Christmas we do the same old, same old. So how can we be different this Christmas and make a difference at the same time? Here’s a few ideas from me. ;)

1. Make your own Christmas presents. – There’s nothing better than showing your love with something you’ve made yourself. Not only will the thought be appreciated, but it’s also a great way to save money at a time when there’s not so much of it going around!

2. Pick out something from the Smiles or Unwrapped catalogues. – We’ve got plenty of stuff already right (I know for one that I have way to much!!), so why not buy something for someone who really needs it?  Gifts start from $5, so there’s plenty for those with a tight budget as well as those who have plenty to give. :) If you’re interested, check out the websites below:

http://trans.worldvision.com.au/Smiles/GiftCatalogue/Default.aspx?source=1233

http://www.oxfamunwrapped.com.au/

3. Choose to celebrate a Buy Nothing Christmas. – If you really want to cut down on cost, why not buy nothing at all?  This sneaky concept began in Canada, but is now spreading all over the world! Beat consumerism and avoid the gifts that just sit on a shelf or in a drawer.

http://www.buynothingchristmas.org/

4. Fair trade Chocolate or Coffee. – Not only is is delicious, but it is food with a conscience. The fair trade label means that all workers are being paid fairly and farmers have also been paid fairly for their produce. Fair trade may be a tad more expensive, but it also tastes great and will definitely be gone long before it’s expiry date!

5. The 12 Days of Christmas with a difference. – Everyone’s heard the 12 days of Christmas (or at least most of us have), but most of us probably haven’t considered actually doing it. The idea is that for the 12 days leading up to Christmas you anonymously give a present to someone on your street, i.e. on day one 1 fruit cake, on day twelve, 12 bon-bons. Not only does it warm the hearts of those who receive the gifts, but it is also great fun to do with the family.

I hope you try one of these and enjoy it! Personally I’ve being doing #1 since I could cut and paste and it has always been great fun.

Peace Out Groovy Dudes!