1) All the crappy catalogs you get in the mail, in spite of your attempts to be taken off the mailing lists, make great wrapping paper.

The best thing I've gotten out of Sharper Image is free paper to wrap gifts. And if you pick the pages like all the Hummer-associated crap, you can get a good laugh out of it too.

2) Donate in someone's name. Sure we all like stuff, but really, how much junk do you need? Why not do something really good instead? Heifer International has been donating cows to needy people for 60 years now. The people get a milking cow that can give birth, and when it does, they in turn pass that cow on to someone else, multiplying the benefits within a local group of people.

They've now expanded past just heifers to seeds, goats, bees, trees and the like. From $20 chickens to $500 heifers, people lives are improved in simple, direct, long-lasting ways. Even in the US. And Heifer International has is one of Forbes Magazines top charities in impact from donations recieved.

3) Step back, take a deep breath, and remember what the holidays are really about. It's not about stuff, or extravagant food preparation. It's about family and friends, goodwill and happiness. So don't make that rushed trip to the mall for bargains after Christmas, and don't panic that the turkey isn't just right. Spend some time with your loved ones, turn off the TV, and do a little bonding for a change. Relax and enjoy what little time off you have, and appreciate the chance to be with the people who matter to you the most.