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| Image: Danilo Rizzuti / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
Christmas is such a joyful time of year, but many people end up in debt because they spend more than they can afford on gifts. I have been trying to focus more on the meaning of Christmas and less on the aspects that don't really matter. I still struggle with this, but have been striving over the past few weeks to have a more simple Christmas season.
Spend Less Money, Spend More Time
If money is tight, or if you are just a saver like me, you need to make some tweaks to how you celebrate. I completed most of the Christmas shopping for my kids in September. My local twins club had a used clothing and equipment sale, and I took advantage of that to pick up toys and books to give to the kids for Christmas. I spent less than $70 and was able to get all the presents for my three girls. They are still young and will have no idea that the toys are used. I bought items that were in great condition and some still in the original packaging. I know they are going to love getting their "new" toys.
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| Image: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
For the adults in my family we draw names and just buy a present for one person. We also have a limit of a certain price so no one is tempted to go overboard. Not only does this eliminate the financial strain for having to shop for lots of people, but it is one less thing to worry about.
We give homemade gifts to teachers, friends, etc... This is a great one because not only will you save money, but you can recruit the kids to help you. You will make some wonderful memories while you are baking or crafting. It always means so much to the recipient that you took the time to make them something.
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| Image: Jeroen van Oostrom / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
Speaking of homemade gifts, I have made stockings the place for homemade gifts. Whether it is some freshly baked cookies, homemade chocolate lollipops or a knitted cap, these are simple gifts that are appreciated by all.
I am hoping that all of these things will help us focus less on the "stuff" and more on the love. What are some ways your family spends less money at Christmas?
Hello Vicky,
ReplyDeleteI love this blog post, such great advice for the Christmas season. In our home we enjoy making most of our Christmas gifts. We have four children and the youngest is the only one still living at home. It is very hard to keep my hubby on budget. He runs out and buys gift for his little princess. Happy Holidays.
Smiles, Paula
I just love this post. I'm getting ready to bake Christmas cookies to give my kids teachers. Thanks for visiting Miss Maggie's Place & commenting :)
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I am with you on this. I don't have much but I make what I could give like crafts!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Myric
I would LOVE the recipe for those beautiful cookies you posted! I am a HORRIBLE baker and I try not to force anyone into eating my baked goods--they usually look MUCH worse than they taste! I try to get other parents to contribute money toward a gas card or a gift card for groceries or something the teachers enjoy doing (skiing, knitting, biking...). This way we are each spending just a little to get something that is worth a lot. I am not very creative, but love finding new ideas...thanks for hosting!
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Hi, great article, thanks for visiting me at Cottage-Wishes...a new follower. Di
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I shop the clearance aisles all year long, and I'm able to get most birthday and Christmas items inexpensively this way well before the holidays! Doing this means I also avoid the last minute splurges and "forgotten" gifts, if I'm preparing all year.
ReplyDeleteI also love to sneak in educational toys this way. When the bookstore closed, I was able to get some fun books and educational toys for my little one at a deeply discounted price! Our educational toys and games get much more love than regular toys, so it's worth it to me!
Brittney
www.moms-heart.blogspot.com
I love all your ideas! It seems like it's always a struggle to not get carried away at Christmas and keep the focus where it should be. Our little guy is not quite 2 years old yet, so we're enjoying this time when he's clueless :) Next year I think we'll stick to the gift guidelines: something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read. Thanks for the great tips!
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