Many families thinking of creative ways to celebrate holiday
The precarious state of the economy has hit the Inland Northwest, including the folks in the Elk-Chattaroy area.
Many people are struggling, but still have holiday spirit. While asking people in the community if they are doing things differently for Christmas this year, they have shared some interesting ideas and innovative ways to celebrate the holiday.
Some families say they are drawing names and therefore, each person buys only one gift rather than everyone in the family buying gifts for each other. Some folks told me they are offering their skills or services as gifts. Some of the talents given as gifts people shared with me were cutting loads of wood, installing some carpeting, painting a room and, my favorite, an hour of therapeutic massage.
Of course, one of the best skills you can share as a gift would be fresh baked, frozen or home canned goods. It’s always nice to receive homemade cookies or breads, freezer jams or canned fruits or vegetables from the garden.
Some of the crafty folks are creating artistic gifts for friends and family. Some of the gift ideas they shared with me were framed photographs or photo collages, hand-made tree ornaments, crocheted or knitted items, wooden yard art, hand-made jewelry and paintings or drawings.
Some people said they were trying to be practical about gift giving this year. One couple said they were giving their kids gardening tools and seed packets. Several people said they were giving gift certificates for grocery stores, department stores and for gas.
Another idea was to make a donation to a worthy nonprofit organization in honor of a friend or family member. Most everyone agreed they were purchasing gifts for the kids in the family, though many said they were toning it down from previous years.
Even though people are suffering with the state of the economy, the generosity of the Elk-Chattaroy community is still very evident. People are still thoughtful and considerate and wish each other a Merry Christmas.
One way the caring was apparent was the response to the Teddy Bear Tree project that aids needy families in the Elk-Chattaroy at Christmas. For the past several years, the Teddy Bear Tree of Sharing in Elk was handled by Judi Shoemaker. Sadly, Judi passed away in November and will be greatly missed by the community.
As is typical in the Elk-Chattaroy community, Riverside Family Foods stepped up to take on the Teddy Bear Tree venture. Briana, employee and granddaughter of the owners Chuck and Becky Morefield, has done a great job managing a huge undertaking. There were more requests for help this year than years past. Most people asked for warm clothes and a toy for their children.
The community response was incredible. Some people adopted whole families and others took the requests of one child or person. Others donated money and boxes of toys and candy. Every family also gets a holiday meal, including a turkey, and some staple groceries. I am very proud to be a part of the Elk-Chattaroy community where the holiday spirit of giving is alive and well.