Xmas Gift Ideas #3 The No New Gifts Challenge (Zen Habits.net)

http://zenhabits.net/humbug/

No new gifts! That's right! In this anti-consumerist challenge, gifts can only be the following:

• "Make gifts, like crafts or construction type gifts.
• Bake or cook consumable gifts like cookies.
• Give the gift of your service — wash cars, give a massage, babysit, clean a house, mow lawns, etc.
• Buy used gifts at thrift stores.
• Donate to charity, as a group.
• Volunteer at a charity together.
• Have a shared experience together.
• Create something, together, instead of consuming.
• Give to others things you don’t need (a good sewing machine, etc.).
• Find gratitude for what we already have."

Of course, you probably need a rather understanding family to give this one a go. And you probably should mention it beforehand, so they don't get you some expensive gift and end up with a birdhouse or cookies. Anyway, it's something to think about. Maybe for other holidays...