Four Tips for a simpler, more meaningful Christmas

By Joan Fouhy

Choose gifts that give twice. Catholic Relief Services has teamed up with SERRV International to create Work of Human Hands, a 68-page catalog of quality gifts from 90 countries. The prices are incredible—and the artistry is superb. Your purchase helps provide a better life for artisans and their villages. For a catalog, call 1.800.685.7572 or visit www.catholicrelief.org/work

Donate an animal. Every Thanksgiving my grandchildren select an animal to be given in their name to a poor family in a poor country through Heifer International. Watch for information on how to donate through St. Mary’s, or call Corinne Hetzler at 508.842.2449.

Visit a Live Nativity. Mary arrives on a real donkey in a touching reenact- ment of the First Christmas at Heifer International’s Overlook Farm in Rutland on December 13 and 14. While you’re there, visit the global gift shop, sip hot cider, and take a sleigh ride. Watch for details.

Give the gift of time. Instead of shopping, focus on sharing time. Involve your family in making gifts. Bring cookies to an elderly relative or neighbor. Give coupons for anything from babysitting to cleaning the garage. Join others to decorate the church. Make your to-do list, then cross out half the items. Ditto for your gift list.