Come September I start to tell the kids we aren't buying anymore toys, fads, or movies....its time to start that list.....YUP, that list for Santa!! I feel that some things can get way out of CONTROL...Josh wants this, Katie really wants that and Alex moans for something or other. Its also during these months leading up to the BIG DAY, that I start to buy things, keeping the receipt and hiding them, hoping that I remember where I put them. I know as a parent, we want to see those HUGE SMILES, the BIG EYES, the HOLLERS and just the EXCITEMENT for waking on Christmas morning. We can go overboard trying to please the recipient. Being a Mom for six years I have fallen into that trap and realized(sadly) after they have opened the gift, that a few days later it is broken, cracked, fallen apart or just no longer loved. And in a way, I feel like I wasted money on that particular present.
I now shop with a different view....I take their lists or listen to the latest urgency of a new toy....and weigh the pros and cons...do they really need this? I am also putting a budget on each child, family members and my Hubby.
Talking of family members...its funny, we are always down to the last minute on what to get Grandpa and Grandma or Aunt Jane and Cousin Jimmy. Everybody has everything and really no one is in need of something. This is where I get creative. I have started, and will continue to do a Family Calendar. Everyone needs a Calendar, especially of MY BABIES ......and at Walmart there are various ones to chose from, adding as many photos as your like. All this for roughly twenty dollars. I do know that some large families, draw names...which can be heaven sent, if you are trying to save here and there.....all the more power to you!
I also start to shop when things go on sale, certain toys or movies that I know will be released on SALE. I also take advantage of online shopping. Most stores have online prices and sometimes, if you subscribe to them, they will email you discounts. THEY want your business and at this time of the year, they do many things. Just recently, I got an email from Old Navy, offering me 30% OFF my entire purchase....HECK YEAH, I took advantage and just saved over $60...all from the comforts of my home.....talk about relaxing!! Getting closer to the date, I found out last year at Michaels, that they have a section of Stocking Stuffers...all for $1.50 each!! To me, I felt like I hit the JACKPOT!! I got crayons, markers, note books, lots of little things...great for STOCKINGS!! I'll be back this YEAR!!
All in all...it can be a hard time of the year, trying to please everyone on your list. Dinners can, and mostly are potluck in my family, which is great and sometimes hassle free...especially if you don't like to make that all important Christmas Pudding. I just remind my kids that its about spending time with your family and friends. Yes, its nice to give and receive, but its also nice to give that extra-tight hug, a kiss, a talk to your Grandparents about this or that, remembering the olden days and perhaps having a moment to shed a tear over those that are no longer with us. Its the one time of the year, that we can ALL really get together, forget the spats and just enjoy each others company.
So get ready....the clocks are ticking, sales are to be had, kids are talking and BUDGETS are made. Just remember where you hide those presents!
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