When I think of Christmas past, I can't really remember any of the gifts I received (sorry, mom). It was the special moments and the family traditions that I recall. I try to keep this in mind when I start to worry that I didn't get so and so very many gifts or I should have gotten this and that in addition to his other presents. People aren't going to remember what I got them, especially my one-year-old. It's the time together and the thought that counts.
Here are some ideas I came up with to make a memorable Christmas without spending much money:
Gifts
- If you have friends that are parents, print out a cute "gift certificate" for free babysitting.
- Gather some family recipes and make small scrapbooks for relatives.
- Look at your coupons. Can you come up with a nice gift basket idea – lotion assortment, candy basket, Febreeze or Swiffer stuff.
Cards
- Estimate the cost per card. Is it cheaper to purchase greeting cards or photo cards? Consider post cards (postage is cheaper)!
- Feelin' crafty? Make your own cards!
- Buy a book of stamps every month or every other week to spread out the cost.
Decorate
- Make a family Christmas tree by hanging pictures instead of ornaments. Find pictures of family members through the years, crop them, and make frames out of paper or get crafty and come up with another great display.
- Deck the halls with pine cones and sprigs. What can you find outside to decorate with?
- Candles are inexpensive. Go wild (but take care, of course)!
Celebrate
- Make a special Christmas breakfast your family won't forget.
- Play "santa" and surprise extended family on Christmas Eve! Drop by with a plate of Christmas cookies.
- Attend a Christmas Eve service, cantata, or musical event with your family.
I hope by now I've gotten your wheels spinning. Christmas will be here before we know it! For more holiday ideas, please check out the 12 Weeks of Christmas carnival at Modern Mommyhood. To submit a post, check out these details. Those who leave comments AND bloggers who submit posts will be entered to win great prizes!
What are your frugal Christmas ideas?
photo source
Rachel writes at Modern Mommyhood - where it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
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