I am going to renew my efforts for the frugal Christmas. Things have been getting tighter and tighter around here. Car repairs, unexpected financial boo boo's, just plain ol ignoring things. Steve and I both had surgery in the past 12 months. We do have insurance but when the one bread winner isn't working it is tough. So here we are again with Christmas approaching and a meager budget to work with this year.
I am going to try and get over the guilt of the impending sighing of the children. It will be ok. It really really will. The older boys lists are crazy anyway and even if I had all the money in the world I wouldn't get them smart phones, or $300 ipods or hand held ps3's (I don't even really know what that is?) So who cares what they think. I won't be able ever to get them their dream Christmas. Sorry. (PS. they know I won't get them things like that anyway...but every kid can try right. They aren't the bratty types but boy if we won the lotto they would totally love to have those things)
The smaller kids I will have more of a chance pleasing. After all Curtis asked for an apple peeler for Christmas. The kind that hooks to the counter top. That is a frugal and practical 6 year old if I do say so myself. Maggie would be pleased with books and little trinkets/stuffed animals. ( I hope )
I am going to be doing thrift store searching for cool and unique gifts. I also plan on some homemade gifts this year. I have been searching the internet for ideas and the only criteria is so soo soooo simple, and cheap. I am not a crafty person and I have very little patience for details. Sorry but it is true.
Some ideas I might try:
Journal's covered in material with cool pen
Tea cups for Maggie's dolls
Stationary
Craft supplies (for future fun)
Nail polish kit (obivously for the girl)
Pretty / cool boxes for keepsakes
Soaps with little toys in them.
Lip balm
Sewing simple jammie bottoms or a few skirts for Maggie...
Oh by the way, I have to remember not to let them read this post. Shhhhh don't tell.
I also want to plan more family time. I AM NOT RUSHING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS LIKE A CHICKEN WITH MY HEAD CUT OFF.
I hope to have some quiet bonding time with the kids and invite the Spirit into our home.
I know the Spirit of the Lord will fill in the gaps of the home made gifts, practical gifts and my frugal Christmas. It always does.
