i realized last night I didn't spend a thing at any "Major Chain" stores

[NMDemDist2]

for Christmas

Hubby got a specialty astromer's chair from a micro company in Maryland

Stepmom got a re-worked Carosel Horse bought at a thrift store and redone with paint from a locally owned Ace Hardware and things I had around the house. Pics here:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=287&topic_id=1518&mesg_id=1518

Everybody else got baked goods from flour etc from a small local Natural Foods store or coffee goodies from my local, family owned coffee roaster packed in tins and baskets from the thrift store

Total spent on Xmas, $300 (over half went for hubby's chair)

:woohoo:

[MADem]

1. I did toss money at a major gasoline outlet

...for gas cards for "peripheral" gifts, but other than that, I gave cash. Saves a load of headaches, and is always well received...!