As I sit at my desk, I hear the strains of a live steel band in the distance as revelers join a street march through town, part of our annual Christmas carnival. It's a festive happy time and the music makes me smile.
In my house, it's a less is more, cheap and cheerful Christmas. Rather than deck the halls to a faretheewell, I went for a more limited approach. At Thanksgiving I got out vintage Christmas linens, velvet chair covers, assorted candle holders that parade on my step cabinet and a few clear plastic snowflake ornaments for my outdoor Norfolk pine (2 years ago it was a 6 inch seedling in a tiny pot, now it's over 3 feet tall and too heavy to move). The table is set with Christmas china. Except for one new to me ornament - a $1.00 charity shop purchase - everything is from Christmases past.
Through the years my Christmas gift list has dwindled to none. So I've become Santa to myself. Last year a new car - and a blissful year of worry free driving. This year, in keeping with 1/2 pay and reducing my expenses to fit my income, Santa spending is substantially less. Food treats and trinkets. Charity shop treasures: a set of 6 matching stoneware ramekins for $5.00; a set of 3 never used vintage biscuit cutters (original price label still attached) for $2.00. Everything has gone into my Santa sack to be savored Christmas morning.
The best gift to myself was NOT spending and maintaining a healthy bank account. It warms me like a comforter on a chilly winter night.
However you celebrate the holidays, may it bring you joy; and to all, a New Year of peace and prosperity.
Penny Pincher
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