A Stressless Christmas

By Jill Krueger Wagner

As a mom of four living on one income, I learned one of the ways to lessen time and money stress was to stretch out preparation for Christmas. My cue to start preparation was the beginning of the school year.

I would start with stockpiling the baking goods I’d need. Each week I’d buy something extra like flour, sugar, raisins, butter, or Crisco.

I would also look for small items for stockings. We had a budget for those and gifts. Setting that amount with your spouse is important. Back in the day we would spend $100 for each child’s gifts and $25 for stockings. It was a small budget but if I started early and bargain shopped, it would be enough.

Although much attention is focused on gifts, I found that gifts aren’t the thing that make Christmas successful to a child. Ask your kids what they love most about Christmas. They probably will say gifts but dig deeper and you’ll see what they love is time together with family or friends playing games, baking, or caroling.

To avoid last minute stress over a gift you forgot to buy, I suggest a list to use yearly. Here is a prompt so you don’t forget anyone written by my friend Cheryl Adams.

 

What are your goals for Christmas? I have mine on a 3x5 card that is at the front of a notebook I use to help with Christmas preparation. They are:

·         To be done shopping by December 10

·         To spread the true message of Christmas

·         To help those around me enjoy the holidays

·         To maintain a Christlike spirit