Did you know that we spend $450 BILLION dollars each year on Christmas? With the current state of the economy, and many people out of work or fearing for security of their jobs, I think it's about time we all have a chit chat with our families about having a SIMPLE Christmas.It's been uncomfortable for them not to buy us gifts, especially my kids. I've stopped the speeches about "we have plenty, please save your money..." because I can't change their minds. I'll never forget the last year I bought my cousins' kids gifts. I shopped around, had a teeny budget for each child, and on Christmas Eve, as they tore off the wrapping paper and saw what was inside, each item was tossed away as they ripped open another gift...a bigger, better gift from other family members with different priorities. I doubt they've even noticed that I haven't bought them gifts for the last couple of years, but I know I've appreciated the money I've saved.
It's hard not to want to keep up with the Jones'. But let's be honest: have you looked at your kids toys lately? Have they!?!?!? They have enough toys, admit it. And I'm not peeking in your windows when I say this. You know I'm right. Be selective, encourage them to be selective, and encourage a spirit of thanksgiving, not one that is spoiled and needy.
For those of you tempted to wake up early for the best deals on Black Friday, plan ahead by checking out these sites. They each post Black Friday deals ahead of time, so you can spend less time flipping through ads on Thanksgiving.
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5 comments:
I totally agree with you on this point. I've tried talking to family about it and they all continue to spend way too much money on the kids. I've come to the realization that I just can't feel guilty for not being able to afford to buy my 11 nieces and nephews gifts each Christmas.
I am soooooo with you on the 'no gifts without a reason' thing! My family has always done the 'buy for one adult whose name you draw out of a hat' thing, but then we always buy for the kids. Having said that, we're very careful to ask the parents WHAT THEY WANT THE KIDS TO HAVE, not what the kids want.
So we can help them out with shoes (with our awesome discount), school supplies, etc. Whatever is useful. And we don't care whether the kids enjoy opening them or not, because we know we're helping spread joy to their parents, even if it is the practical kind.
We're also careful not to let LC's world get overrun by toys, with one big exception. Books. As long as we have any say in the matter, our kid will have a mountain of books surrounding him. We can't think of a more perfect addiction. And the great thing is, with secondhand bookstores and the really cheap things you can find at dollar stores, you don't have to go broke. It's VERY easy to find books for $2-$5, and I can't imagine any parent NOT wanting their kid to have books.
So if you MUST spend on kids, spend wisely, and choose things that will benefit their lives in the long run.
Happy shopping!
I love that idea!
:)
I alread got my Christmas present...the rest is just gravy!
8lbs 10oz of sweet perfect little baby boy! God is so good!
And yes..I agree..my kids have too much and let's face it...so much of what people give you at Christmas is crap...I mean how much of it really lasts into January...nothing more disappointing than a broken toy! :)
So I say...socks and undies for everyone! LOL
The Maid
I'm planning on making almost half my gifts this year. I can't so much with my Kiddo, but other family members are going to get very special, hand made things that I hope they will treasure. My sister is getting a pillow made from the same vintage fabric I used to make the pillow I blogged about. My mom is getting some other pillows made with another fabric, and my mother-in-law is getting what will be my first attempt at a tassel. We'll see how it all turns out.
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