3 Cheap and Easy Ways to Give this Holiday

Is it just me or does it seem like every year, the holidays come a little faster and with a lot more hoopla. The kids have barely begun their Halloween sugar crash when visions of sugarplums are already being forced into our heads (which is always a little odd for this Massachusetts girl living in 97 degree southern California).

But this year, something feels different. I'm actually giddy with excitement and ready for the holidays to begin! My kids are now at ages where they really "get it" (6, 5 and 3.5) and can enthusiastically take part in the planning, baking and decorating. School will be off for three weeks so we can take day trips to the snow and spend evenings munching on popcorn as we partake in some holiday classics. I plan to appreciate the moments, instead of wishing them away or stressing over getting it all done.

But most of all, I am looking forward to the season of giving. No, I haven't hit the lottery (my bank account is far from ready for the expense of it all), but I'm not talking about the kind of giving that requires a second mortgage. I'm talking about giving in a way that brings holiday cheer not only to my friends and family, but to my community and beyond. Giving is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. Giving time -- Whether it's stopping to admire the neighborhood lights, sharing a cup of eggnog with a friend or singing along to Christmas carols with the kids, I'm going to stop the insane pressure I usually put on myself and enjoy the journey. Plus, time makes a fantastic gift! Have a sister who loves shopping? Give her a gift card to her favorite store and offer to go with her for the "oohs" and "aahs" as she tries on her potential purchase. Does your significant other love to bowl... play poker... go to the movies? How 'bout wrapping up a little something along with a note that promises you'll join him next time. Time is the one thing we struggle to find, yet the most important to those we love.

2. Giving back -- Whether you help feed the homeless, sponsor a family or buy Toys for Tots, there's no shortage of opportunities to help provide for others during the holidays. Last year, I took my 5-year-old to the toy store to pick out something for a child who might not have toys like he does. He loved shopping and knowing he was making another child's holiday bright. Plus, it helped me discover what was really on my son's wish list and made playing Santa a bit easier.

3. Giving perspective -- Sure, kids love presents -- who doesn't? But don't underestimate the compassion of your children. Spend a little time talking about the true meaning of the holidays, help them understand how fortunate we are and how their actions alone can make another person feel special during this magical time. There are lessons to be learned all year long, but the holidays is a perfect time to share your own experiences and help create new traditions as a family.

Throughout November and December, I'm looking forward to sharing my holiday plans with you, exchanging tips and tricks to saving our sanity (as well as time and money)! Plus, I'll be sharing Family.com's gift-giving "cheat sheet" and trying out some cool stuff from their jam-packed Holiday Guide and offering up some fun ideas for activities, recipes, and crafts we can all do with our families. Check it out... the guide is like a go-to round up of all things holiday!

Coming up next week, it's all about holiday decorations!