It is autumn in the Northeast and the mountains are ablaze with the colors of fall. If you allow yourself the moment to stop and take in the view, it is quite breathtaking. As October is quickly passing us by, many people are thinking beyond the fall foliage and forward to the upcoming holidays.

Many people will face a significantly different and difficult holiday season this year due to the current economic climate. It is harder to worry about getting the “gift” of the year when you are struggling to just get by.

One classic lesson that can be re-learned this year is that the holiday can be just as or even more enjoyable when you take the pressure off of “buying” and remember the purpose of these special days.

Get back to the basics. Whether you are celebrating a religious or cultural holiday the real purpose of the event may sometimes become overwhelmed or lost in the monetary aspect our country has embraced for several years. This is a good year to gather your friends and family and be grateful for what you have and remember the true purpose or significance of the holiday.

Spend time not money. There are several ways you can enjoy the upcoming months celebrating with your family that do not involve you going broke to have fun. You have heard it over and over through the years, “It is the thought that counts”. When it comes to giving a good gift and in the case of those near and dear to you, it still holds true. So put your wallet away and come up with some classic ways to make everyone happy.

• Food- let’s face it everyone loves to eat. Get out your apron and bake some cookies, or special treats that can be packaged in a decorative cookie tin or wrapped up in a basket with a bow. Many holiday celebrations revolve around a big dinner, so gather your family and cook at home together. Instead of thinking of all you have to get done, make it more about getting together and really reconnecting with people you see every day or only a few times a year.
• Get personal- If you are the crafty sort, you may want to make your own gifts, such as personalized picture frames (complete with a great photo) or a scrapbook showcasing fun times you have shared. If you are not naturally imaginative in this department, go to your local library or search the internet for more ideas to make fun, personal gifts that won’t break the bank.
• Get everyone involved- From young to old, everyone can enjoy helping get ready for a special day. Younger children have a blast decorating around the house and helping in the kitchen when you give them an age appropriate task. Contributing helps them feel involved and many times keeps them out of trouble. Our senior family members add something that is irreplaceable during a family event- their memories. Encourage story telling as it is beneficial to all involved to hear your family history and interesting to learn about times gone by.
• Traditions- Keep up the family traditions. It is comforting to have some of the same things to look forward to each year. And don’t forget to add some of your own. You may go caroling, volunteer at church or other functions, attend religious services, or track through the mountainside to pick the perfect Christmas tree. Whatever works for you and your family will be sure to add precious memories for each of you.

The true holiday spirit resides in each and every one of us. It is not necessary to worry yourself needlessly over gift giving. Spending quality time and remembering the real purpose of the season is a lesson many of us will benefit from greatly this year.