Christmas on a Shoestring

Santa on a diet this year? Can you enjoy the holidays without going into debt? If you're like me, you checked your list, quickly added up the costs, and thought, “I’ll need Fort Knox to manage this!” Groceries keep getting more expensive. Sticker shock persists, no matter where you look. Oh, and then there’s the travel budget. It’s tight.

Tips for Heartfelt Giving

You want to give others something thoughtful. How can you do this while staying on your budget? Here are some tips for Christmas on a shoestring:

• Start shopping early. Stay within your budget. Shop sales and avoid the frenzy. I tend to buy more when I see others filling up their carts. First, think about your recipient. A friend knew I liked loose-leaf tea and found me a charming silver tea ball. When I see it displayed on the bulletin board, it makes me smile.
• Elfster? How about celebrating Christmas with an Elfster tradition? The one in charge makes a list of who will buy for whom and sets a spending limit. Everyone makes a wish list. Then for some creative, out-of-the-box thinking. This year, grandma is asking for a watchband and a portable charger for last year’s watch. Such fun!
• Get together for a board game or cards. One of my favorite memories is when my family had three or four families over for dessert and a game of Old Maid. Ages ranged from five-year-old Kevin to Grandma Collen and Auntie Florrie in their late 80s. I can still hear the laughter when Kevin cornered the Old Maid. His face just lit up!
• Creative décor. String some popcorn and make paper chains to decorate the tree. (Yes, you can find one at a thrift shop.) My daughter-in-law folded origami swans for her wedding. With shiny paper, wouldn’t that be a thoughtful touch for the holidays. An inexpensive centerpiece? A wicker Santa sleigh with ribbons, ornaments, and a few scattered nuts will do well.
• Home-made gifts. Nothing warms the heart like a handcrafted gift. I overheard a woman say she enjoys knitting and crocheting. But for her, everything had to be perfect. Not so! The fact that someone created the gift is what makes it special. Perfection isn’t the goal here. I also browse craft fairs year-round because I can find unique things that are just right for that special someone.
• Wrap everything… Really? Unwrapping gifts is a special thrill. Watching your little ones delight in tearing off that colorful paper, knowing it's theirs, is delightful. I gave a 3-year-old a book that lit up when she answered correctly. It was a hit for her, teaching her new skills in silence. And her parents were happy.
• Local events. Many towns host events, such as Christmas tree lighting and cruising through festive lights. Our symphony orchestra performs a concert every year. The conductor is quite creative and added an electric guitarist to the mix. Then, a surprise guest made a grand entrance, running across the stage and sounding a whip. Not to be missed.

Christmas can be meaningful, even on a tight budget. Consider who will receive your gift, and let your creativity shine. You (and they) won’t be disappointed.

Wishing a very Merry Christmas to you and yours!