A Merry Broke Christmas
When You Are Broke at Christmas
Christmas isn’t all about what you can buy. It’s difficult to remember that when you can afford things, let alone when you can’t. The stress from trying to figure out what to buy for whom can be overwhelming. People will often tell you “well, if you can’t afford it then don’t.” It’s not that simple though when you are someone who just loves to give, it eats away at you and takes you down a rabbit hole of sadness.
What Do You Do?
Have a Movie Night
Plan it with a classic movie that is coming on tv or available to stream. Pop some microwave popcorn, grab some candy from the dollar store and spend time together. People will often forget the gift itself, but they’ll remember how it made them feel. This is true for kids and adults. Never underestimate the value of quality time.
Make Treats
Whether you do it as a family as an activity to make memories, or you are looking for something to give people you love, making treats is a great way to accomplish both. Check out these easy treats for the holidays that are easy to do and even include some non-baking options!
Jar Gifts
Another easy to make, affordable gift are jar gifts. This could be a soup mix in a jar, spices in a jar, or even body/foot scrubs in a jar. They are pretty, thoughtful and will be useful to the recipient!
Craft Gifts
Making a wooden sign, a personalized cup, notebook or pencil holder are also great ideas that allow you to involve the kids and are great ideas for gifts to those you love. Finding a notebook at the dollar store that you take the time to decorate with washi tape is just as meaningful as finding a $20 journal that you would gift but it is worth even more because of the time you put into it.
Another fun thing to do, especially with kids is make Christmas ornaments to give. These are great because each year they come out to remind you of the memories doing them together. They also make great family gifts!
Broke at Christmas with Kids
When you’re broke at Christmas and you have kids it does make it feel even harder. Keep in mind though that many times, it is ourselves putting that pressure on. Make it special by spending time together watching Christmas movies, baking, checking out lights and drinking hot cocoa. Even the act of making presents for people is a great way to spend time together and show your kids the value in thoughtfully creating things.
Remember, you don’t have to have a pile of presents. After all, many times kids have one or two things they actually play with and then the rest gets set aside. Yes, the idea of opening fifteen presents sounds fun but in reality, it means most of it won’t be touched after it’s opened. The important part about any gift giving is making in meaningful. Don’t underestimate a child’s ability of gratitude, they are pretty amazing when it comes down to it. In doing this, you also help set them up for a realistic approach to life and understanding they don’t need everything that is out there.
Crafty gifts are a great idea because it’s not only something cool to open, but also gives them an activity to do!
Check out these creative options:
If you are struggling with putting presents under the tree, there are places to get assistance with Christmas, such as local organizations and churches that do toy drives and can help you. Everybody struggles from time to time, just as you are willing to give a helping hand; understand that sometimes you’ll need that helping hand too and there’s no shame in that.
