Mele kalikimaka is the thing to say around this time year when the crazies begin shopping and decorating before Thanksgiving even shows itself. But with the economy still in recovery mode, will Christmas 2009 be a less festive event than in past years? Poinsettia farmers in Hawaii say so, as:
This year’s seasonal crop of the so-called Christmas flower has sunk to a 13-year low of 273,000 plants, according to a survey by the Hawaii field office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service.
So it’s safe to say that the islands may be a little less cheery in the form of red flowers this year, and my allergies say thanks. Maybe we can switch to Gerber daisies and roses?
But besides decorative flowers, it seems that toys are also in short supply:
Robotic toy hamsters, the latest Barbie dolls and stylish boots are disappearing from store shelves as holiday shoppers start to get serious.
Toy companies and manufacturers, similarly to flower farmers, are producing less to ensure an economically safe holiday season despite the recession. What will we do? We can buy all of our presents now. We could not give any presents at all. Or we could turn to the age-old solution that fits now more than ever: alternative gift giving.
During an economic recession where we are trying to save, imagine the lives of people less fortunate than us and the struggles they face. While we are worried about poinsettia flowers and Barbie dolls, others are worried about food, shelter, and clothing. Let’s continue the spirit of giving and aloha during this Christmas season and consider alternative gift giving!
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