4 | THURSDAY , NOVEMBER 12 , 2020 | THE RECORD
Budget-friendly tips for a safe and joyous holiday
Uncertainty continues into the 2020
holiday season , with limited travel , canceled events and strict budgets changing how Americans will celebrate this year . According to a recent Coinstar Holiday Survey , the majority of Americans said COVID-19 will influence how they celebrate the holidays .
Fortunately , by thinking outside the box and keeping a positive attitude , you can stay healthy , stretch funds and create merry moments .
Let the following tips inspire you to celebrate the holiday season safely and on budget :
Maintain traditions in new , safe ways . Traditions bring comfort and hope , so rather than forgoing beloved activities due to coronavirus concerns , get creative instead . Plan a car caravan to look at holiday lights and have everyone keep a scorecard of favorite houses including winners for most creative , brightest , funniest and overall best . Set up a video chat and bake favorite holiday treats in real time from afar . Relatives can virtually tuck kids into bed by reading classic holiday books through a free digital video platform . These activities are safer to enjoy and will create meaningful memories to make the season special .
Make gifts to save money . You can still have a wonderful holiday even on a tight budget . A budget-friendly option is to make it a homemade holiday this year . Face masks and hand sanitizer are great stocking stuffers that you can make and will be appreciated , especially this year . Patterns are readily available to make face masks and you can find recipes online for creating custom hand sanitizer .
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Another idea is to choose all handmade gifts from Etsy or local artists in your area , so you can give unique presents while supporting small businesses .
Cash in spare change . Even with fewer in-person gatherings and reduced gift giving this season , most people have increased expenses during the holiday season . Cashing in spare change is a good way to stretch your budget . Research shows Americans with spare change at home estimate that they have on average $ 113 in and around their homes . These funds can be used to buy gifts or apply to other holiday expenses . Coinstar kiosks found at most grocery stores are an easy way to convert loose change for cash , a no-fee eGift card or tax-deductible charity donation .
Plan a virtual gift exchange . According to the Coinstar Holiday Survey , two in five Americans who say their holiday will be different due to COVID-19 say they do not plan to travel or attend in-person gatherings . To enjoy the holidays safely , consider a virtual gift exchange with friends or family . Drop off or mail gifts and plan a time for everyone to video chat and open presents together . Get dressed in your favorite holiday attire to make the event feel special , whether that ’ s festive formal wear or ugly sweaters and sweats . Then , take turns opening gifts and feel the joy .
Give gifts with meaning . Rather than a traditional present , consider alternative gifts that show you care . Do you have a talent that would benefit others , such as tutoring a friend ’ s child who is studying remotely ? Could you drop off a meal for a senior who ’ s homebound ? Could you donate a snack basket for hard-working delivery personnel ? Lastly , instead of a present , you could make a donation in the recipient ’ s name to a charity close to that person ’ s heart .
Delay holiday celebrations . All of these ideas can help you maximize the holiday season , but if you still long to celebrate in person , consider planning a gathering for later in 2021 . According
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By thinking outside the box and keeping a positive attitude , families can stay healthy , stretch funds and create merry moments during a challenging holiday season .
the survey , about half said they would consider “ Christmas in July ” in 2021 for in-person celebrations . So , whether it ’ s a summer Christmas event , an early Friendsgiving or another winter holiday , it ’ s something to look forward to once it ’ s safe again . Send out “ save the date ” invitations and put your creative juices to work for a summer get-together . ( Brandpoint )
Send a thank you to those who go above and beyond
Those who go above and beyond
to make a difference in the lives of others are rarely in it for recognition . However , in this especially challenging year , the holiday season is a perfect time to not just show these selfless people your appreciation , but also take inspiration from their kindness . Here are four simple ways to thank the everyday heroes in your life .
Send a unique care package . Even if you can ’ t share your appreciation in person , you can still say thanks with a care package filled with goodies you know your recipient loves . Start with special holiday treats , then add personalized items . If your recipient enjoys cooking and baking , you might include a handwritten recipe card .
For those who love doodling or writing to-do lists , a lovely journal and a set of long-lasting G2 gel ink pens from Pilot are a great pair .
Make a donation in their honor . Consider thanking those often unsung heroes doing the hard work of keeping our communities strong by making a donation to a charity close to their heart . In these uncertain times , many such organizations are in particular need of
financial support .
Whether it ’ s an animal shelter in a region affected by natural disaster , a food bank or a nonprofit that offers support to essential workers , take a cue from the giving folks around you .
Give the gift of relaxation . Give those always in the service of others an excuse to practice some self-care . Whether it ’ s an at-home spa kit , a new book to curl up with or a nice bottle of wine , some of the most welcome gifts are those that give someone a chance to unwind .
Write a thank you note . There is something so personal about putting pen to paper .
In this digital age of emails and texts , a heartfelt , handwritten letter or card can become a true keepsake . With the right tools , it ’ s easy to let your feelings flow and craft a meaningful message . So , pick up some nice stationery and a smooth , vibrant G2 gel ink pen to let your loved ones know just how much you appreciate them .
For those who kept our communities strong during this difficult year , let the holiday season be your opportunity to give thanks and give back . ( StatePoint Media )