We have all heard the saying, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,” but I have a new one for you, and it has nothing to do with weddings. It has to everything to do with simplifying your holiday shopping, going easy on the budget, and avoiding the rat race of the season.
Did you know that Americans are expected to spend over 1 trillion dollars during the holidays this season? And that Americans on average end up with $1,054 of debt during the holidays? While some pay it off right away, others take months to pay it off—not my idea of miraculous, peaceful, or joyful.
My husband and I save away a little nest egg each month leading up to December so that we are not left in a lurch with our credit card bill come January. Because, cash back, people! Who does not want to earn their points or cash back rewards? Use the credit card. Just pay it off right away. (I’ll step off my soapbox now—it’s getting a little sudsy in here.)
So what are the four fail proof and budget-friendly ideas? It’s simply these…
Something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read.
This applies to Grandma Gertrude, Uncle Ernie, sister Sadie, baby Brendan, or husband Harry. When we stick to want, need, wear, and read we are bound to find some beloved treasures while not going out of control.
I grew up in a household where quantity was important. How many presents are under the tree for me? It didn’t matter if it was junk or jewels. I wanted tons of presents and mom never failed to deliver. My husband came from a minimalist approach. (Insert marriage counseling here.) No, it’s not that bad. I really value his simple ways and he has learned to spice up his holiday celebrations a bit more from me. Thankfully, we have come to compliment each other in this area.
If you’re looking for a concrete example, here is what we are planning for our daughter.
Want: piano keyboard (on her list!)
Need: piano lessons
Wear: American Ninja Warrior t-shirt (she’s obsessed!)
Read: Magic Treehouse books (bonus: she wants these too)
I wish I could take the credit for this idea. However, I read it on a blog post years ago from which I cannot remember where it came. But it stuck.
When I get caught up in the hustle and bustle of quantity vs. quality and am tempted to buy this or that because it’s so “cute” or “perfect,” I am grounded by this rhyme.
Something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read.
May the miracle and joy of intentional shopping be yours.
