Local investments.

Let's face it...we're all broke.

Even if you make a lot of money you're still paying out more for the simple things than you ever have before so you're probably still broke. 

And Christmas is next month.

I'm not a religious person so I don't celebrate a religious Christmas.

I do celebrate the commercial side of Christmas.

More importantly I celebrate the wonderful traditions of Christmas. Family. Friends. Food. Love. Sharing. Food. Tree. Lights. Food.

To make a long story short...

The below post was floating around on Facebook today. It really struck a chord with me. Well, once I ignored all the blatant anti-foreign-country rants which I removed and only left the great ideas.

Since we are all broke and we still want to celebrate perhaps we could take some of these ideas and implement them this holiday season.

Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local hair salon or barber?

Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down the Benjamines on a flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.

There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift
certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or
motorcycle?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.

Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand lights for the house? If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

Do you celebrate Christmas?

Are you thinking about shopping locally this year?