If you're like me and live in a blue state but have family in a red state, don't send them money or a gift certificate. Send them a gift. When you ship those gifts, stay away from Fedex and UPS (both big supporters of the GOP) and use the good old United States Post Office, instead. Spend your money in the blue states, if possible.

This isn't just about targeting GOP sponsors. It's about not giving the GOP the headlines that "the economy is roaring" or "best Christmas ever!" Don't buy your gifts. Make them, or if you can't make them, buy them from a used book store, a thrift shop, one connected to a charity you approve of perhaps. And if all else fails, purchase locally made hand crafted goods, ESPECIALLY if you live in a blue state.. Another suggestion could be IOUs given to people in lieu of a gift, walk someone's dog, or mow their lawn or other chores that you can do for someone who lives close by. You can print those on your computer and personalize them as well and someone may appreciate having you do something for them instead of giving them a bottle of wine that they will never drink, or a box of chocolates that they'll never eat.

As always, a boycott is most effective if you tell the people and companies you're boycotting that you ARE boycotting them, and why. Give them a chance to change and come back from the dark side.