I get picked on because I start my major Christmas planning in September. It isn’t even snowing yet and I am planning and buying gifts.
I don’t think it is strange at all. As most everyone knows, we live in a very tight budget. To be able to have a great Christmas, I have to plan ahead. Yes, I know that Christmas is about Jesus’ birth not yummy food and gifts. But that yummy food and finding someone the perfect gift are fun and a big part of Christmas for me.
This year, with the baby, Christmas will both cost more and less. I know, I know, how is that possible? Because of the baby, there is a possibility that I can do some crafts or find some deals on photo type stuff that will make some gifts cheaper. But I also know that Matt and I will probably go a bit overboard with gifts for the baby. I know she will only be 9 months and won’t remember but it will still be her first Christmas. I love buying her things. I think I enjoy buying her clothes more than I enjoy buying myself clothes. 🙂
To keep the costs at a minimum, I am starting now to find consignment store/thrift store clothing, toys, etc. Most items are perfectly fine with a good cleaning. One of the best resources I have found this year is Facebook buy/swap/sell groups. I am a member of many. A couple are for my area but some of my favorites are specifically for kid/baby items.
Buy early and look for gently used items. Those are my two biggest tips, especially when shopping for children. What tips do you have for Christmas shopping?
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