Christmas 2011 — Birth of a New Tradition

A  friend of mine sent this to me and I wanted to share it with you and your friends.

As the Christmas & Hanukkah holidays approach (& other gift giving events), the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods — merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American jobs.  This year let’s make a difference.   This year, why don’t we Americans give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans.   There is no longer an excuse that at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. 

Yes, there is!  Join me this Christmas 2011 — Birth of a New Tradition

It’s time to think outside the box, people.  Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?

Everyone — yes, EVERYONE gets their hair cut.   How about gift certificates from your local American hair +/or nail salon or barber? Gym membership?   It’s appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.  How about a massage?  I would love that! Who wouldn’t appreciate getting their car detailed?   Small, American owned detail businesses and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

What teenager wouldn’t like a few certificates to the local pizzeria?

Does someone on your list want to learn how to play golf…tennis…horseback riding…sailing?? Think lessons.

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

There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants — all offering gift certificates.  And, if your intention 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 Americans 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, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom?   Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.  How about a few hours from a local handyman?

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.  Go to the Arts & Crafts & Street Fairs & Farmers Markets.

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 Chinese lights for the house?   When you buy a five dollar string of lights, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

Donate to your church, feed the homeless, or start any other tradition of giving during Christmas, but let’s keep it going throughout the entire year for we are blessed.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city.  Christmas is about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams.  And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn’t imagine.

Let’s make THIS the new American Christmas tradition.

This is a revolution of caring about each other, and isn’t that what Christmas is about?

beyond-the-headlines1

Tax Credits are Set to Expire!!

Many don’t realize that they can receive a free mortgage insurance policy if they purchase their home through a California licensed Realtor through the end of 2010.  This program will be in effect through the end of the year or until funds are exhausted.  There was $1,420,000 allocated to the program.  Under this program, first time home buyers who lose their jobs due to layoffs may be eligible to receive up to $1,500 per month, for up to six months, to help make their mortgage payments.  A qualified co-buyer can also participate in the program and receive a monthly benefit of $750 per month for up to six months.  To apply for the program you must request an application for the H.A.F. Mortgage Protection Program from your Realtor.

Nancy Puder is the real estate broker at Signature Properties, a prestigious real estate firm in Arroyo Grande, CA.  She may be reached (805)710-2415 or Nancy@SignatureProperties1.com www.SignatureProperties1.com

Many have lost jobs and their homes during this recession and our hearts go out to them and would not want to minimize their pain and suffering in any way.  We must not lose sight, however, of the other side of this current situation.  The opportunities that are here today that we thought were not possible a couple of years ago, are here for those who can see the benefit of taking action.

Most millionaires have been and, I believe still are being made, during a recession.  Current home prices are low and interest rates are also at record low….although not for long according to my sources.  Contrary to some myths that are circulating, mortgage loans are not only available, but are relatively easy to get with 3 ½ percent down payment and sometimes even 100% financing. 

It’s so easy to get on the bandwagon of negativity and doom and gloom and lose hope during this amazing period of opportunity.  A few, however, will recognize the incredible opportunity that could change their financial future in a dramatically beneficial way.

So, before we succumb to the sometimes loud and overwhelming message that we hear everyday that times are bad, why not look closely for the nugget that may be just waiting for you to pick up? 

Nancy Puder is the real estate broker at Signature Properties, a prestigious real estate firm in Arroyo Grande, CA.  She may be reached (805)710-2415 or Nancy@SignatureProperties1.com www.SignatureProperties1.com