NOW- as in TODAY- is when we can REALLY blow the budget.It's December 17th... so if we are still thinking about what to buy someone on our list, we're in a risky zone- we're at risk of blowing way too much money on Dunkin' Donuts gift cards for everyone, or if we are being budget conscious, of going to The Christmas Tree Shop (or similar bargain store) and buying 25 cheap smiling snowman mugs.... just to finish our shopping.
Let's be honest- these are the little trinkets that we save for last... for teachers of course, but also for Great Aunt Bertha, the dog groomer, and the babysitter. Gifts for people who we truly want to thank because they help us out everyday- or simply gifts of perceived obligation.
DON'T DO IT.
Don't buy stuff out of obligation. There is no need. No one wants useless crap... they want to know they are appreciated.
As a former school guidance counselor, I got my fair share of holiday gifts. My favorites- honestly- were the ones that involved no money, or were not something tangible:
1. A fifth grade boy gave me a thoughtfully drawn still life of a fruit bowl that he carefully framed himself (with a frame I'm pretty sure he sneaked from somewhere in the house).
2. Handwritten, thoughtful notes about how my work had impacted a student
3. Donations to charity or local food pantry
Seriously, go with a combo of #2 and #3.
Every Christmas, we make one donation on behalf of our loved ones and family helpers. When the time comes to give gifts, we write a note and include a print out about the charity. Instead of wasting $100 on ten doofy $10 gifts, we've positively impacted a charity, and have shown ten people in our lives how much we truly appreciate them.
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2 comments:
I am a snowflake mommy. Thank you for re-inspring me to save. The past few months I have spiraled out of control (actually all this economy talk makes me depressed, depression leads to spending....etc.). MY New Year's resolution is to reflect on my weekly spending (it is the incidentals that really get me). I'll def. be referring to this lovely blog.
No kidding! I have more holiday coffee cups than I know what to do with. Plus beanie babies and things with buttons that sing holiday music.
I like Christmas cards. They're beautiful, make a pretty display, and make me smile every time I look at them. They make me feel appreciated because my students sat down to write them for me, and it wasn't a homework assignment ;)
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