David has an interview today! He’s feeling pretty good. His arthritis isn’t in remission yet, but he’s significantly better. Thank you God for Humira!

Since David’s contract is ending December 31, we completely changed what we were giving most of the people on our Christmas list. Although we anticipate he will find another job quickly (Lord willing) we just felt better putting our Christmas spending money into savings. I had already purchased most of my mother’s 12 Days of Christmas gifts, and a few little things for co-workers.

I decided to make coasters for a few people. Tip Junkie has several examples of how to do this. My parents have lots of tile (If you know me in real life, you know why.) so that was free. The rest of the supplies cost less than $10, and I have plenty left over to make more coasters next year. I forgot to take the picture of the acrylic sealant, but I used that, too. And I think it’s perfectly acceptable to use your husband’s poker table as a craft table when he hasn’t played poker in over a year, don’t you?

If you’re short on cash then there’s the gift of time. Brother #3 is a busy man, so this year I volunteered to take his dog, Grizzly, to the vet for his shots and then get him registered with the city. In Brother #3′s city, you actually have to go to Animal Control’s office to register your pet. They don’t let you mail in your paper work. And guess what? Sometimes Animal Control has to leave the building to catch animals so you have to sit around and wait. I lucked out though. They were there, and there wasn’t even a line. Grizzly was really good at the vet’s office.

Raising Olives made these pretty pillows. I want one! I’ve got to learn how to sew. After I finish teaching myself to knit.

IF YOU ARE MY IN-LAWS STOP READING THIS POST NOW.

I DON’T WANT TO SPOIL YOUR CHRISTMAS.

THE NEXT PARAGRAPH IS NOT FOR YOUR EYES.

Lots of companies offer rewards points. Swagbucks, My Coke Rewards and even our city’s recycling program offers reward points. The best bang for your buck with these programs, in my opinion, is magazine subscriptions. I got Wired and Popular Mechanics for David’s brothers-in-law and Family Fun and Everyday Food for my sisters-in-law. Didn’t have to spend a dime!

Speaking of rewards, if you’re collecting stickers from Albertson’s for cookware, don’t forget the last day to earn stickers is December 22 and they must be redeemed by January 5. My mother and I have been collecting these stickers and it looks like we’ll be getting three pans.

Do you have any ideas for inexpensive Christmas gifts?

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• Christmas in Dallas