10/10/2010

Christmas gift-giving poem and simplifying holiday shopping

Something you want,
Something you need,
Something to wear,
Something to read.

I just came across this poem on a message board, and I really like it.  Shayne and I have been discussing (even before we had a child) how to keep Christmas from turning into a toy explosion.  Obviously, the Christmas season is about Christ, but we do believe that giving generously is an expression and celebration of God's gifts to us.  So we're not anti-gift.  We just want to keep it in control for the little guy.  Especially since he's way too young to even know and appreciate what's going on!

This year, I'm determined to avoid the "It's two weeks before Christmas, what on Earth do I get so-and-so!" scramble.  One one hand, I hate thinking about Christmas this early, since it's not even Halloween.  But, on the other, I want to select thoughtful gifts for the people I love.  And I simply cannot do that when I'm pressed for time and caught up in the rest of the holiday rush.  We stay pretty calm about Christmas here, but with work, the baby, and other family commitments, we do get pressed for time.  And unless someone is saving for something large, I REFUSE to get gift cards. The only thing less personal is cash.

So, I got my Grandma's gift over the summer, and I just bought my mom's a few days ago.  I've got a LONG way to go, but at least it's a start!

1 comment:

Donna said...

I think about Christmas all year long. If I find a good gift for someone I will buy it any time in the year. It makes budgeting easier too.