by Missy Bell

Created on: November 19, 2011

'Tis the season for giving, and boy do you give!  You have lists upon lists for family, friends, neighbors, coaches, teachers, and clergy.  It seems that every year there is someone forgotten, and so you have a stock of emergency gifts piled in the closet - just in case.  You save your gift wrapping and bows and bags.  You tag each present with care.  You are sure that every child receives an equal number.  You budget, you crunch numbers, you do the Door Busters...  and all of it seems... empty.

From the time we are children we are taught that giving and getting is a part of spreading holiday cheer.  We are taught that certain things are expected at the holidays, and that one of these things is spending.  Monday for gifts is just one small dent in a hideous pile that seems endless as we purchase new clothes for special outings, send cards, and stock the refrigerator with appropriately festive feasts. 

But what if we didn't have to do all that?

What if things could be simple?

What if we didn't just talk about cutting back - but we actually did it?

It seems impossible.  And somehow, parts of it even seem wrong - but here are five reasons you should consider cutting your holiday spending this very season:

1.  Giving is about LOVE.

When we give a gift, we hope it can express just how much we care, and how thankful we are to have that certain person in our lives.  The thing is, we're so wrapped up in going to the store and buying something, we forget about the truly important things that make that relationship special.  It's not about a wrapped up present with a fancy bow or a store-bought gift bag.  It's about relationship. 

It's about time, space, and being. 

Instead of buying a gift to wrap that will most likely be tossed to the side immediately, truly think through what will make each person happy.  Challenge yourself to skip the store.  Make a book of coupons for the person who appreciates help around the house or yard good for a few hours of your time.  Frame a few photos for grandparents.  Have a cup of coffee with an old friend at home.  Bake cookies together to give to other people.  Give of yourself, not of your wallet.

2.  Holiday dinners are lots of work and not so much reward.

Will you and yours truly miss the expensive dinner this holiday season?  Could you cut a few corners to keep some extra money for a rainy day?  Could

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