Previously Enjoyed Gifts Not every gift needs to be brand-new. Browse vintage and antique shops, estate sales, auctions and consign- ment stores for amazing treasures. Keep an open mind or go hunting for that certain something for that spe- cial someone. Online sources such as EstateSales.net, and gsalr.com can help locate garage, yard and estate sales in communities across the country. Look for items that are unusual or hold special significance.


n A childhood reminder—perhaps a favorite toy or comic book


n Vintage jewelry n A silk scarf, unusual hat or fun bag n Classic books, movies and music n Unique housewares, from vases and candleholders to platters and tea- cups (Replacements.com can help find missing pieces for sets)


For the Family For large families or families with grown children, it can be expensive and time-consuming shopping for a gift for every relative. Try one of these ideas to take the pressure off.


n Instead of giving gifts to each member of a family or a couple, think in terms of a single gift for the household.


n Draw names. Have everyone in the family put his or her name into a hat and ask each family member to draw one name, so that each person needs to buy only one or two gifts.


n Set a limit. In his book, Hundred Dollar Holiday: The Case for a More Joyful Christmas, author Bill McKibben suggests that families limit the amount they spend and instead, make the holidays as much fun as possible, filled with song and food, creativity and connection.


With a little planning and a lot of love and care, we can fill the whole holi- day season with less stuff and more satisfying joy.


Beth Davis is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings magazines. natural awakenings December 2011 25


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