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We are cutting back this year, and the adults are exchanging "stocking stuffers" only, and then each of the kids are buying each other $20 worth of books and an ornament. I'm excited, as the kids can choose books for one another based on their interests, and can be funny or serious. The ornaments can be homemade or store-bought, but the $20 limit is what we're striving for.

The adults really like the stocking stuffers the best; you can become more creative that way! A few $5 gift cards, but also extra comfy socks, little trial size soaps and nail polish, a few silly things thrown in, some cookies...and it's a great way to "open" gifts (they are all individually wrapped, LOL!) with the adults, while spending time together and not spending too much money or stress on the perfect gift.

My parents, as well as my husband's parents, help babysit our 3 year old often (they love to spend time with him; gives us some time off!), so every year, I make them either a photo book, a photo calendar or a photo mug that costs about $20-$30 to make. I love to make this gift, as all my pictures are digital, so I get to go back through the year and pick my favorites and reminisce, plus the grandparents get a gift that they love to look at.

We don't actually give our extended family members gifts; we send Christmas cards with a personal note and a few pictures from the year, and a phone call on Xmas day.

Lastly, of our own family, my husband and I have been saving all year for a large household purchase, so that will be our gift to each other. For our son, it is difficult not to splurge on him, and I love what one fellow-mom uses as her rule for four gifts per child:
1- something you want
2- something you need
3- something to wear
4- something to read

Isn't that a great idea?! I have definitely scaled down this year on buying for our son, still probably bought a little too much, but there is still 4 weeks left...I hope I can hold out from going shopping again!

I would also love to hear what others are doing for Christmas this year; thanks for sharing!

November 29, 2009 - 9:22pm

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