Show appreciation

• Go over your holiday card list to ensure that you haven't left off any friends. Personalize each card, whether it's a sentence or just one or two words, "Have a great new year," or "I'm so glad we're friends."

• If you friend lives or works nearby, and you're both super busy this time of year, consider spending time together as you accomplish your holiday tasks. Shop for gifts for family members with your friend. Wrap presents with one or more of your friends.

• Entertaining is another way to show your friends that you care about them. Have a holiday dinner or party with friends, or include your friends in some of your family holiday plans.

• Be sensitive to what your friends are going through at this time of year. Is a friend single and alone? Invite her to join you for a holiday party or meal. Has a friend lost a job and money is a concern? Be sensitive to how that might impact whether or not you exchange gifts this year or even your friend's mood during the holidays.

• Whether your friends live far away or nearby, find a way to spend time together over the holidays, whether the visit is on the phone, over the Internet or you get together.

• Don't let the economic downturn stop you from enjoying the holidays or your friends. Scaling down on expenses does not mean cutting out completely.

• Give your friends the greatest gift of all, your time and your appreciation of them and your friendship.