What if there is not much money for gifts?

Given our financial climate lately, not many of you will have everything you want for Christmas. That’s because there isn’t much money for gifts. All of your parents’ expendable income goes to the basics of life.

Instead of feeling bad about this state of affairs, maybe you’d better help your parents have the best Christmas without spending a lot of money. Perhaps you could be one of the central forces in creating a wonderful and magical holiday without many gifts.

Here are some tips on how to do just that. Not only will you be happy, but your parents will also be very proud of you.

1. Try and make some of your gifts. If you crochet, make a scarf for a brother and a candle for mom. You may want to knit a scarf for dad. Or you can invite your mom or dad over for breakfast in bed.

2. Taste and bake some of your Christmas gifts. Make some cookies or muffins. You may even want to make some fudge or butter and wrap them up as Christmas gifts. Your siblings will love them. And your mom will be happy to help you make them, if you ask her.

3. Don’t expect too much or demand anything for Christmas. You can put a price cap on how you will spend for each of you. Be grateful instead of feeling miserable about the situation.

4. Practice gratitude instead of greed. It will go a long way to making you feel better on vacation. You can have fun without receiving many gifts.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the holidays without expecting too much or giving too much. You could enjoy the small and meaningful things in life, and you could learn to appreciate them instead of the big gifts that only mask the true meaning of the holidays.

So, take the time to give your parents a break. These financial times are tough for everyone. Be appreciative, grateful, and helpful. You can make this the best Christmas ever, with or without lots of presents.