I don't hate the Holidays, I enjoy them, but I agree, I was rather disgusted when I saw Christmas stuff before Halloween!
I send out Holiday cards because it's a way for me to say 'hi' in a more personal way. I'm not usually one for computer generated cards sent by emails.
As for buying gifts for people, I've become more orientated with knowing what the people I do buy for want or like.
I no longer buy separate gifts for couples, now they get 1 gift that will suit the both of them. A lot of people have come to expect t-shirts from me with funny sayings. Gawd I love the catalogs I get, my favorites are Wireless, Pyramid Collections, Gael Song, What on Earth.
I also buy during the year when I might have a little extra cash and there might be a sale on something not too expensive.
I also do not buy expensive things or stuff that just sits on a shelf and looks pretty. It's always something that can be used.
I also have the satisfaction that I make a lot of things, so I can always whip something up or check through what I have before spending money.
If all else fails, a gift card to a store is the best bet. For many years, my family has given me gift certificates to grocery stores. It's wonderful!
Otherwise they just write me a small check to spend as I wish.
This year however, I did spend a fair amount of money on my companion, I got him two books from our dear King's Pyrate here, that he gracefully signed. I found a fantastic leather embossed ship on an oval box made in Russia. He's also getting one other thing, the real expensive thing that at this time I am not saying what. But thank goodness I got a nice Hannukah check from my dad to cover what I spent. Whew!
Sometimes I just wish this holiday was like in August.....