Do you think you’ll be spending as much this year as you did last year?

Dolly Tate, Interlaken & Helen Hansen, Asbury Park – Dolly: No. I don’t spend that much. I give money. I don’t buy gifts. I’ll be giving the same amount this year as last. Helen: I’ve already spent more. There’s more to give to, I have a large family. I have 26 nieces and nephews – plus.

Nancy & Doug Hill, Rumson – We won’t be spending as much this year – for sure. We have twins in college. This is their first year. Rutgers and Seton Hall are getting our Christmas funds.

Reg Hogan, Groovy Graveyard – Probably the same. The same people to buy for, the same as every year. I shop all year round for people. If I see it and I like it, I get it – no matter when. I’m not a last minute shopper.

Kim Lawlor, Avon – Yes, Probably. I spend about the same every year. I like all the local little shops in Avon, Manasquan and Spring Lake.

Shannon Whitledge & Janet Mills, Asbury Park – Janet: I’m going to go with yes. This has been a very short year. It went by so fast, I think I will celebrate it by buying gifts for those that I love. Shannon: Yes, God willing, yes. This year I’m in a better position than I was last year. I want to give to those who I love and to those who need love. Times have changed so drastically. I’m just glad I have a chance to show my appreciation once a year.

Katie O’Connor-Hill w/Tyler, Kathleen & Teagan, Wanamasa – As you can see, I have more to buy for, so I’ll definitely be spending more. My brother got married.The family grew.

Eleni Passes, Eyes of the World, Asbury Park – We don’t do gifts in our family anymore. We donate to local families. How much stuff do you need, really?