Alternate Gift Ideas

Many of us have everything we need in life…not everything we want…but everything we need.  Instead of giving your uncle another tie that lights up and plays music when you press Rudolph’s nose…what about making a donation in their honor to your local animal shelter? (Greater Birmingham Humane Society or the Shelby County Humane Society? There are also several other wonderful shelters in the area too!)  Animal shelters always need funds for food, toys, and medical expenses…why not donate some money in honor of a loved one?  Most shelters will print up a really cute card that says, “A donation has been made in your honor to _________”.  It’s a great way to keep the true meaning of Christmas close to your heart…and a great way to avoid the mall at all cost!!!  (I went to Costco yesterday and just driving by the mall made me a nervous wreck.)  The same goes for any local charity.  With the economy being in a rut, donations are down for most charitable organizations and they’d appreciate any amount you could give them.
Another great idea…donate your time.  Why not volunteer at a soup kitchen in honor of someone…visit a seniors center or nursing home…contact habitat for humanity…be a bell ringer for the Salvation Army.  These ideas will cost you nothing but your time.  Who knows?  Maybe you’ll continue volunteering throughout the year…make a new friend…find a new calling in life, to help others.  Christmas is the season for giving…but what does giving mean to you?