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Christmas isn't something one buys in a store. People complain about the commercialism of the holiday season, but seldom think about how to change that. Start by making changes in your own approach to Christmas.

It's sad to see the letters to Santa filled with requests for brand name toys. I think parents should try limiting the time spent watching television in December. All those heavily advertised toys create unrealistic expectations that only a lot of money can fulfill. Use that time for visiting, singing, reading aloud, attending performances or making things.

Does anyone have a homemade Christmas anymore? Maybe that is really old-fashioned, expecting something made with loving hands. I remember my mother secretively sewing doll clothes for my sister's doll. She gathered bits of material left from making curtains and traded fabric with neighbors. Keeping that secret added a wonderful expectancy to the holiday. Knowing the hours invested in creating one-of-a-kind presents made them extra special.

Our Christmas tree was a lopsided cedar tree that Dad cut down in the pasture. We decorated it with ornaments saved through the years and assembled paper chains to fill the gaps. It looked beautiful to us. Stashed under the tree were our homemade gifts wrapped in colorful paper.

Now I realize we made our presents because we didn't have the money to buy them. Six children and my dad's erratic job meant there were more pressing expenses than store-bought gifts. Despite that, our holiday was merry. Christmas morning was exciting and filled with happy sounds as we unwrapped the presents. It was special because of sharing and caring, not because of money.

Wealthy or poor, everyone can enjoy the satisfaction of making a unique gift for family or friends. The public library has plenty of craft books with ideas for projects. Some require expensive supplies, but others turn ordinary household items into new and special gifts. Look for projects that are quick and find ones the children can make for each other as well. Start early so you don't feel rushed making the gifts. Helping each child making a gift for a sibling or for a grandparent can be fun and becomes a time of bonding.

The good feelings they have from working with their parent to make a present make it a more memorable holiday. Long after that store-bought toy is broken or shoved aside, the memories of family togetherness remain. I don't think standing in long lines at crowded stores is the Christmas' custom we want our children to remember.

Learn more about this author, Virginia Allain.
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