UPDATE: The Associated Press had an article on this very topic that ran in today’s Durango Herald. Here’s the link.

 I think one positive effect of the Great Recession is it has moved us away from a strictly consumerist model of giving. Gifts, it seems, are becoming more modest but more heartfelt. I know that I’m late in the game, but I haven’t given up on the idea of giving homemade gifts, most likely something edible, for Christmas. I’d love suggestions from you, dear readers. What have you given and people loved? Or thoughts on giving in general is these hard economic times?

The Durango Community Recreation Center is accepting letters to Santa.  Kids are invited to write a letter to Santa and drop it in Santa’s mailbox at the front desk of the rec center. 

“Santa’s elves will check the box on a daily basis and deliver the letters to Santa!” a news release from the city states. ”Remember to include a return address on the letter, so Santa can send a response.”

Letters must be placed in the mailbox by Friday, Dec. 20. For additional information, contact the rec center front desk  at 375-7300.