Originally Posted by ZMan8

Try not to look at Christmas as a time of obligations and stressing over lots of things such as to do lists and gifts. See it as an opportunity to reconnect with family or friends you have not spoken to in a while. There is this social obligation to bring gifts for everybody and I definitely am guilty of getting sucked in to that. At the end of the day realize that those who only want to see others for the gift are not worth your time to think about. If you want Little symbolic gifts are much better. Leave larger more thought out gifts for the closest in your life. People sometimes forget that holidays are about being together, laughing, having a good time with your family and friends. Gift are a by product of holidays/ special occasions that have become part of our culture.

Bring a bottle of wine to dinner and enjoy the moment.