Thursday, December 4, 2008

Organize Christmas Plans

It is so easy to get out of control with spending around the holidays. This year there are sales everywhere and it looks like we are getting a deal but think about need before you purchase.
Are we buying more because we think we are getting a deal?

Think about focusing on the birth of Christ over the gift giving.
Keep everything simple. Don't get stressed!

Definitely set a budget and stay very close to it.
As far as your children go, think about what grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc will give them. You can cut back from what you give if they are getting a good bit from others.

If you are craft oriented you can make gifts. You can always make cookies or treats and package them in an attractive way.
I often do that and put them on a festive holiday plate. This year I found some really cute and colorful plates at CVS for $2.99. They had a snowman and Santa style. I will put my special bar cookies on them and give as gifts to neighbors, aunts, etc.

Look for fun, free activities in your community where you can take your family. My area just had "Dicken's Downtown."
It is a small, quaint, old fashion downtown and about 10,000 - 15,000 people crowded in there for Christmas activities. It is
really a fun evening.

By all means find some way to get your children involved in doing something for someone less fortunate. Take a toy to Toys for Tots, choose a angel from the salvation army angel tree or just put $1.00 or so in the kettle. Teach your children that it is important to help others.

Make this a year to keep Christ the center of all your activities.

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