I just quit celebrating x-mas entirely. I'm not Christian, I don't give a fuck about gifts, and I can barely tolerate the other holidays that I'm forced to spend with my extended family as it is.
I like Jarhead's plan. Let's all just give each other our company, and something to contribute to the dinner. Of course, you really have to convince everyone in your family to go along all at the same time. Otherwise, you'll just be the hippie cousin who hates Christmas.
Also, FHTBT, I wanted to cheer when I read your comment. What's with non-christians (including me) celebrating Christmas in the first place? Is it the ham? I do like a good ham.
Because I was forced to participate myself spending $25 on someone who may or may not like my gift, I bought with practicality off my grocery list. Laundry soup, dish soap, a pack of new sponges, fabreze, Bounty two ply paper towels, a pack of condoms, and a 6 pack of PBR. I have a bet with my date regarding how many times mines gets traded. (I say two times.)
Torgo - Technically it's Solstice and Jesus was supposed to have been born in spring. The only way the Christians could get rid of pagan solstice was to appropriate it.
http://www.redefinechristmas.org/
..and CharityNavigator helps pick good charities:
http://www.charitynavigator.org/
Also, FHTBT, I wanted to cheer when I read your comment. What's with non-christians (including me) celebrating Christmas in the first place? Is it the ham? I do like a good ham.
I just get belligerently merry and burn shit.