In case you live in a cave, or aren't from around these parts, we are in a recession/depression (depending on who you ask). No one has the money to go out and spend loads for Christmas, but we want to give just the same.
Giving is no longer what it used to be. I have customer's asking for donations to charity instead of their usual gifts. Families are starting to draw names instead of buying for every single aunt, uncle, cousin, niece and nephew.
Even with all of these changes, we still have this strong desire to give to our families, especially our children. We don't want them to see how the economy has affected us on a personal level. We do not want them to worry about money or the future.
Well either get over it, or get real creative about your spending.
I'm doing both. The kids aren't going to get what they are used to getting (although I will say my children don't ever ask for much - only one or two things). And I'm getting creative about my spending. I'm making a list, or two, or three, comparing deals, prices, freebees, (and entering a few Christmas giveaways). So I thought I'd share my knowledge with you - so you can get in on these too!
1. Check out the saver websites: Mommy Savers is a fantastic website that I have been a member of (its free) for a couple years now (and no they did not know I was writing this). There are all kinds of articles about saving money on any and everything. PLUS their forum is constantly being updated by people who have found great freebes or awesome online codes or great in store bargains. Just a sample of what you can find on their site
- 50 free photo cards, including free shipping
- Yankee Candle Coupon - buy 2 get 2 free
- 10 piece Stainless Steel pots and pans for $20.99
Cyber Monday is the Monday after Thanksgiving and it is the day that all us cyber junkies do all of our shopping - lots of deals are done that day also.
3. Make your own gifts. Yes it may require a skill and some time, but there are a lot of terrific ideas out there that don't look like first grader crap and mean more when given. Try these 50 ideas!
4. Win something in Blogosphere: I may be the only blogger not doing a Christmas extravaganza/gift guide/giveaway, but that doesn't stop me from going to see what is out there and trying to win a few of my gifts. You get to meet new people, get some great ideas and hey you just might be able to check someone off your list.
- The Five Fish is doing a Holiday Gift Guide that includes some of the most awesome giveaways I've seen! Like luggage from High Sierra, or a Fountain Jet Soda Lover's Start-Up Kit to make your own soda with.
- My Organized Chaos is also doing a Holiday Gift Guide that includes all kinds of giveaways from Pearl Earrings to Cheeky Umbrellas.
Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.
~Larry Wilde, The Merry Book of Christmas
Great post! Thank you for all of the information!
ReplyDeleteI don't do black friday...no way....but thanks for the ideas for Christmas shopping on a budget! We do our decorating Thanksgiving weekend to keep it more of a family thing!
ReplyDeleteI was meant to find your blog today.
ReplyDeleteHappy SITS Saturday Sharefest.
You have some great info here! Every penny counts, doesn't it! Found you on sits...I have twin boys as well. Makes life a lot of fun, and sometimes down right exhausting!
ReplyDeleteThank you! Perfectly put.
ReplyDeleteI understand how bad the economy is right not. My family understands it, too. Unfortunately Hubs side of the family lives in their own little world. We are expected to meet the expectations of that world every Christmas.
ReplyDeleteGreat post!
ReplyDeleteThis is my second year as a parent. I met a wonderful man with three beautiful kids. Last year we were able to have a decent Christmas, but this year he's out of a job and I'm starting a new one next week after I recover from surgery.
ReplyDeleteThank you for all your ideas. We're stretched to the wire without throwing Christmas into the mix, but this will help us.
Thank you.