The Summerland Advocate-Messenger - Reliable, Trustworthy Reporting, Capturing The Heartbeat Of Our Community

Six Saturdays of shopping remain until Christmas morning, which falls on the seventh Saturday from today.

I haven't even started shopping.

One of our kids told us no toys for the grandkids this year, please.

"Get them something they need."

Well, if we grandparents believe the kiddos need a LEGO set to work on for next year's 4-H project, they will, more than likely, get it.

Or maybe they won't.

I'm all about practical gifts, a necessity, a replacement, something you know you need but wouldn't necessarily make the purchase for yourself.

I'm also all about realistic gifts. Gifts need to be affordable and something that will be put to use.

In our household, something practical and realistic would be a vacuum cleaner. I've been comparing models and debating between a robotic sweeper or an upright. Surprise me.

It's easy to get caught up with popular trends for gifts. But ... can you afford to shop from big box stores? Considering all the supply chain concerns, can you be guaranteed a gift your purchase from an online site will arrive in time to be perfectly wrapped and placed underneath the Christmas tree?

It's easy to equate an expensive gift as a sign of everlasting love and devotion, but can you really put a price tag on love? A heartfelt gift speaks volumes.

This Christmas, why not challenge yourself to support local:

• Buy from locally-owned shops.

• Buy handmade.

• Buy from people you know.

• Buy from self-employed.

When you make a purchase from an independent local business, you:

• Keep more money in your local economy.

• Celebrate the uniqueness of your community.

• Support local jobs.

• Help the environment.

• Encourage community.

• Conserve tax dollars.

• Benefit from a small business owner's expertise.

• Invest in entrepreneurship

• Make this community a destination.

This year, we're going to put our money behind small business.

During Vendors in the Village, held Oct. 23, at the Office, in Clearwater, we purchased an item from each small business owner and plan to host a 12 Days of Christmas giveaway, starting Small Business Saturday, Nov. 27. Stay tuned on the Advocate-Messenger and Sidebar social media channels for more information in the upcoming weeks.

Shopping locally is a win-win. We're challenging you to shop at businesses in your community this holiday season. Pur your money where your heart is. Buy local.