We have tried to live both generously and thriftily all our adult lives. But in today's society it can be hard to resist the pressure of consumerism and the drive for 'more, more more', especially as we approach the festive season. We trust that family and friends value our time, care and concern more than expensive gifts and cards and have often given handmade gifts and 'virtual' presents from charities. Still it is good to find encouragment and ideas from others following a similar path.

For some time now we have been members of the Living Generously community - see their website for news and sugegsitons of how you can be generous in wasy that don't cost the earth. Browsing their Christmas suggestions I found this great website set up by the Canadian Mennonites - how to have a Buy Nothing Christmas. This has renewed our determination to do so this year, either making presents or if we want to get the grandchildren something special beyond our capacity to create, ensuring it is fairly-traded, locally-sourced or ecologically friendly - preferably all three!

So why don't you try the same challenge this Christmas? We'll have lots of ideas to help you on this site. There'll be handmade crafts for sale soon in our new shop, along with a small sample of fair traded goods. On our Creativity pages there'll be ideas for how to make your own cards, decorations and presents - please add your own ideas through the forum. Come to our Tree of Life event in November for more creative ideas, or treat yourself or a friend to our December retreat for a time of peace, reflection and quiet in the business of the preperations.