I am also often overwhelmed by all we have.
We operate on a very very tight budget so making, baking, thrifting n gathering clearance priced gifts has long been a part of how we manage giving.
Within a week of Christmas, my daughter and mother celebrate birthdays.
The Farmer/builder and I also have clients we like to remember at this time of year.
We also like to give to charities.
It's time for the Holidaze to begin if I'm not careful...
I found an answer that works for us.
Besides Freecycle and donating the gently used, I keep the unused new w/tag items separate...
Some stuff was given to my kids that they can't use at that time (extra pencils, stickers, party favors, gifts received for the wrong age or interest).
All through the year I also gather up extra items for stockings, birthday parties, rewards etc etc
Mostly clearance from the dollar bins, crafts aisles, back to school etc.
And at this time of year I liquidate the leftovers!
Toys for Tots gets a big bag.
We also pack items and bake for the troops overseas.
Stockings are stuffed, baskets are filled and now I found another awesome idea ~Operation Christmas Child over at Meg Duerksen's awe inspiring blog.
Maybe you Dave Ramsey folks already knew?
click here if video below's not working or click black box
I have already filled three shoeboxes without shopping at all!
Tonight the kids can make cards, then I'll deliver locally.
There are easy drop off locations EVERYWHERE! (just click)
And check this out too - craft QUICKLY or shop for a wonderful cause; Water for Africa
Even I am making something simple and will shop for family.
I Love it.
(Yet another steal from Meg's)
I hope to be finished w/most of our giving long before Christmas so that I might enjoy this special time at a slower pace.
I've already started w/baked treats n pretty tags saying "we are grateful for you" to get an early head start on teachers, mailmen, bus driver, neighbors and clients...
Cards are next...
I am so grateful for all those we have to give to!
I hope to be finished w/most of our giving long before Christmas so that I might enjoy this special time at a slower pace.
I've already started w/baked treats n pretty tags saying "we are grateful for you" to get an early head start on teachers, mailmen, bus driver, neighbors and clients...
Cards are next...
I am so grateful for all those we have to give to!
11 comments:
So nice! I will check out your links! This truly is what the holidays should be about. Thank you for sharing :) -Tammy
What a precious post...so heart felt and reminds me of the true blessings in the seasons...thanks for sharing!
What a great great idea. I love David Ramsey! I love thrifting! In fact, every article of clothing I have on now is from the thrift store. I like to regift too. I'm wanting a quieter, simpler Christmas this year. It's always a challenge.
Wish I could give you a great big hug, what a wonderful lady you are! I'm so happy Kellie brought us together :) I have a lot to learn form you, I can tell. We did Operation Christmas Child for the first time this year and I have troops of my own still serving overseas I'll be sending care packages to, but you gave me a few ideas I hadn't heard of before and after spending some time in Africa on several humanitarian missions, the land and its people will always hold a special place in my heart.
Such great ideas. I always have a basket where I buy things to put away for gifts later and I add things that I find good deals on through the year. It helps for that last minute birthday party or for Christmas.
Looks like you have a great Christmas plan!
Honey, You've got it all prioritized just right!
Joys,
Sharon Lovejoy Writes from Sunflower House and a Little Green Island
More and more we are gifting from our pantry. I can't say that what we can and dehydrate is any cheaper than what's in the store, but it's organic and all that. Even better, as we put things up from spring through fall, we're thinking of our loved ones all year long, not just between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Most of all, these gifts are USEFUL, not mass-produced bits 'n' bobs that will sit on a shelf or be tossed on a pile of junk.
What a great post. :)
Hoping your Thanksgiving was great. Stop by my blog -- would love for you to join in my Have a Holly Jolly Christmas Recipe Swap. :)
I am truly Thankful for you Every Day!! SO very grateful God brought you into my life.
: )
Such a great idea. Love your plans and follow through!
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