Christmas Eve is just three months away.

Yikes.

That means just three months to save up and do all the shopping for my four kids, husband, extended family and friends. It’s about this time of year that I start wondering if there might be a better way to celebrate the holidays. Something other than over spending and over giving.

Part of me loves the tradition of giving and I can’t say I don’t like the getting part, but I often feel it’s gotten out of hand. I know there are other options out there.

Over the years I’ve heard stories of how other people put a cinch on the materialism without being a Grinch. Rules like only home made gifts, setting dollar limits and drawing names are a few ideas.

If you have an unique way to celebrate the holidays without breaking the bank, we would love to hear about it.

Please write up what your family does and e-mail it to me at bstein@patuxent.com. We may use your idea in a future story.