[Magdalen] Quiet Pub

[ME Michaud]

I am not feeling well, so staying quiet. The cold hurts m'joints,

I gave up on gifts years ago. We've all got so much junk. So I crank up the
Advent music, light a candle, and write notes. And checks. I learned a long
time ago that it's just as good (or better even) to give gifts "in honor
of." And it takes a certain amount of thought&planning. So, rather than buy
gifts, I give the same money to charities. MSPCA in honor of a child who
loves dogs. The West End Organ Society in honor of a child who loves music.
The Boston Ballet for a child who dances. Friends of the Public Garden for
a child who loves ducklings.
http://www.boston-discovery-guide.com/image-files/400-make-way-ducklings-santa-hats.jpg

Little checks, to be sure, but every bit helps, they say.

This also helps weed the most viciously acquisitive from the gift list. And
may teach the others about alternative giving.
-M