Chrismas (yay or nay lol) How to minimise costs

It is that time of year again where we start getting ready to celebrate Christmas and we start racking up debts (got to love that credit card or cards).

So before I begin with my money saving Christmas tips and Ideas lets just take a moment to remember what

Christmas is:

v     A time of sharing and coming together.

v     A time of giving not only of gifts but time, love and encouragement to those around you.

v     A time when nothing else matters but the company of your loved ones and most importantly;

v     A time when we celebrate the most important birthday of the year Christ Jesus

(It is also a good excuse to spoil yourself and pack on a few kilos LOL)

Ok now for the important stuff pressies yet… every year people spend up big and rack up huge debts because they feel they must buy the biggest and best presents. Unfortunately they often spend the whole of the next year paying it off…Oops!

So this year I have decided to share a really big secret with you first time parents and grandparents.

You don’t have to spend big to have a great Christmas!!!

Its true and here’s how

1. Only buy Presents for the children (I know this may seam hard but… Christmas is all about the kids enjoyment… We get our pressies on our birthday, anniversary, Mothers or fathers day)
2. Babies and toddlers don’t need expensive and flashy toys- Have you ever noticed they love playing with the box or the wrapping paper more than the toy, so its basically money down the drain! that is why I love second shops they don't knoe the difference (just make sure you wash them first)
3. Make your decorations instead of buying them- kids love arts and craft so instead of tinsel on the tree why not make a popcorn chain, or make paper chains for around the house all you need is colored paper and glue. You could also use al foil and cardboard to make the star on top of your tree, basically get creative.

Remember Christmas is not about what you spend but who you spend it with.

(Hint: If you spend big when they are young they expect you to spend more and more on bigger and better items every year after that so start off conservatively. Also I buy my Christmas card after Christmas when they are realy cheap and I use them the following year)