We feel like we’re finally getting to a point in our lives and marriage when we can start our own traditiotions and really start to get into the Christmas swing of things.

Christmas time is here! Tomorrow is the big day, when all of us wake up (sometimes early in the morning – sometimes not so early) and we start opening up all the wrapping and bows which took wayyyy too long to fix.

For kids (and for adults who are young at heart), this is one of the best days of the year. We’ve talked about love languages before, but if you didn’t know, we both LOVE to give gifts to other people. There are few things more exciting than giving a gift to someone you care about. A gift is a simple way to show the person you care and you know about them.

If you’re like us, Christmas time is also a stressful time of the year because of all the cash flowing out. It seems like you’re constantly forking over more money.  

Here is the thing though: IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THIS WAY.

First, you don’t have to spend tons of cash to give someone a good gift. It truly is “the thought that counts.” Yes, it’s a cheesy statement, but your friends and family are going to care more about the meaning behind the gift versus how much you spent on it.

Instead of just buying someone a shiny gift with no thought or putting $20 on a gift card, sit down and take a minute to think about them as a person. Yes, it’s not going to be as quick or easy – but it will mean more and it’s cheaper.

One simple way you can show thought in gifts is to buy something handmade, or even make it yourself. We bought some of our loved ones handmade Christmas ornaments. Not only are the cheaper, but they have much more meaning behind them (as an added bonus, this is a great way to support local businesses). This year, we bought a few ornaments from our friend Morgann (morgannhaley designs).

Next, set limits. We both are bad about trying to buy gifts for anyone and everyone around us, and if we aren’t careful we will get a little money crazy. Sure, Christmas is an excellent time to show love through presents, but it’s not the time to go into debt because of those gifts.

Before you start hitting the stores (or let’s be honest, Amazon), make a list of everyone you want to buy gifts for and then put a limit beside each person. Now, here is the hard part – DON’T GO OVER THOSE LIMITS. There is a reason we put limits on things.

Regardless of the gifts you give, take time to tell the ones around you that you love and appreciate them this Christmas season! And Merry Christmas from our family to yours!