Christmas Planning
It is the middle of October and already you can see Christmas everywhere. I hate how Christmas seems to creep up earlier and earlier each year. I almost did not post this because I don't want to add to it. But I admit I am already thinking about and planning for Christmas. Planning early is smart. It helps you stay within the budget and avoid the stress that comes with last minute shopping.
The other night I sat down and made a list of people we buy Christmas gifts for. I looked through my gift tub to see what I already have. I don't keep a lot of gifts on hand, but I do pick up a few things throughout the year. Some of these things were purchased on sale others were things we received for free. I found several things there that would be *perfect* for some people on my list. In fact, I was able to mark two people as done and three others as partially done from the things in my tub.
For the other people on my list I wrote down ideas for what I might want to get for them. This way I can start to keep an eye out for these items on sale. Even if I don't find them on sale I can start to pick up a couple of things here and there so Christmas gifts don't become such a burden on cash flow or end up purchased on credit.
I am planning on making some gifts this year. I won't mention what I am making because some of you will be receiving these gifts, but if you are looking for some ideas, Frugal Upstate has been sharing some of her ideas. I need to plan ahead to get these done. I was starting to stress over all these "things" I wanted to make. Putting it down on paper helped me to see exactly how many I needed to make and plan the time for it. I realized I don't need to stress, yet!
My list helps me stay on track. If I purchase something I write it down. When I am finished buying for someone I put a check mark next to the name and I do not buy anything else. Be careful of the trap that sometimes comes with starting your Christmas shopping early. If you start early, do not forget to stop. Stick to your plan. You will feel better in January when everyone else is crying about their credit card bills or how tight money is.
Tomorrow look for Four for Christmas. This is the strategy we use for Christmas shopping for our kids.
Labels:
Christmas
3 comments:
I am so with you on the being torn about wanting to plan ahead but not wanting to rush the season!
My big thing is I REFUSE to listen to any Christmas music until after Thanksgiving! I'm also going to make sure I do my advent wreath this year and actually light the candles.
Great idea!! I can subscribe to it. Now I just need to get the rest of the family on the bandwagon. I have been able to get my husband to come round to the idea that it is OK to give the kids a second hand item as a Christmas gift! (Hey - no one would balk at an antique, so why can't other things be gently used!)
I don't think Christmas can creep up too early if it is viewed in the right way. I am thankful for the early sales and decoration chioces so I can stretch my budget. I don't have to wait until after Thanksgiving to buy any decorations or wrapping supplies I need. I am also thankful that the stores leave out (and mark down) the leftover wrapping supplies and decorations. What better way to stock up than at 50% off or more? I love Christmas and start listening to Christmas music on my birthday (September 26th). The kids love to listen and sing along while we drive. There is no better sound than kids singing Chirstmas Carols and laughing.
On the subject of making gifts, I happen to be crafty, so I crochet, sew and stamp a lot of gifts. My Grandmas love to receive handmade birthday cards to give out during the year. I am very big on gifts that can be used up and do not create clutter.
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