By the way, there is no need to give gifts.

A few years ago, we started a new giftless tradition. Let me tell you that this is a money-saving method that can eliminate all the pressure of choosing the right gift. The thing is, we have been married for 27 years, and during that time, if we need something, we will get it, instead of waiting for the dramatic unfolding on a particular holiday.

When I hear from the side note that Jodi needs something, I will go to Amazon and it will appear in a few days. She did the same to me. We are relatively frugal and keep our material requirements fairly low, so nothing will go bankrupt.

Now that the children have grown up and walked out of the house, Christmas morning is a little easier. Don't get me wrong, we love having children and all the joy, excitement and anticipation of Christmas morning. We also like this stage of life. Hope this is the calm before the storm, and one day we will welcome our grandchildren to join the family.

Back to me and my wife. I told a friend of mine the story of our "no gift" holiday. He is a leading lawyer and one of the best Democrats in the state. We call him "Bill" because that is his name. He was very interested in this idea and said that he would take this discussion home to his wife. A few days later, I saw him and asked how he was. He said that not only should he start buying gifts earlier, but he also needs to add an extra gift to show his apologies, and he doesn't even recommend giving gifts!

How about you? Have you continued the gift-giving tradition and emphasized the need to figure out what to buy every holiday? Or have you joined the common sense of those of us who have said enough! We use food and time to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries, and give gifts when you need them. How about you? Is it time to give up the gift exchange? Or do you think I'm crazy?

<em>The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of Bill Spade, the host of the New Jersey 101.5 talk show. Any opinions expressed are Bill's own. Bill Spadea is broadcast every Sunday from 6 am to 10 am, talking about Jersey, dial 1-800-283-1015 to answer your call. </em>