Some of you have already begun humming the tunes while others are avoiding any sight of snow or holiday cheer for another month or more. I’m typically a December 1st Christmas enthusiast, whereas my husband Michael has already been implanting the famous carols in my mind. I find myself singing them only to realize he was humming the song a few minutes earlier. Either way, the Christmas train is fast upon us. Though you certainly don’t need to rush this beautiful fall away, our guest writer, Jennifer Hare, shares a few excellent tips to get you prepared so you can enjoy this Christmas without emptying your wallet to do so.

Who’s excited for Christmas this year?? I know I am! I can enjoy everything when I give myself more time to plan, rather than scrambling last minute to figure every event out. By doing this, it gives me greater room to be creative with meals and gifts, as well as reduce and/or spread out the expenses.  Plus, it helps extend the fun because I can think of things to do to make the holiday last rather than cramming everything into a few days.

…As I sat and admired the decorations, the wife and I got into a conversation about Christmas traditions. There was one in particular that stuck with me from that conversation that I’d like to pass on to you now.

What do you do when the innocent sparkle of Santa fades as children get older? You have some fun…

Let’s put some excitement back into giving this Christmas. I know there’s so many adorable little babies’ clothes and lots of toys all around the stores. It’s tugging at your heart to want to buy them. You could buy some for your nieces and nephews. Don’t have any? No worries. I’ve got another idea for you.

Are you having trouble thinking about what to get your loved ones this Christmas? Do they have everything they need? Are you tight on a budget? (No, this isn’t an ad for Christmas Comfort Boxes, but by all means, feel free to check them out!)

My parents never let us say that we were bored growing up. We had plenty of toys and things to do to entertain ourselves. We had friends in the neighbourhood. We really didn’t have an excuse. It used to annoy me when they said that, but now I’m so grateful that they did. I had to get creative as a child. I think it helps me now as well. There’s very rarely a moment that I’m lost in what to do. There’s always something.