2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-07-31 02:08
Hate to do your holiday shopping on December 21, when the malls are packed with parents just as stressed as you are as Christmas approaches? Start now!
Ah, Christmas! If it is synonymous with family gatherings, lazy days in pajamas watching the crackling fire or even the latest animated film with our children, it also comes with its share of constraints: Does I will have time to finish all my preparations for New Year's Eve? Will my tourtière be tasty enough? Will the eldest's little cold be miraculously cured on December 24? Will my wallet hold up/cost? »
Curb overconsumption
At the beginning of adulthood, when I realized that the holiday season was a major stress factor for many adults around me, I took the initiative to propose something new: that small Christmas stocking gifts for adults. A little thought for everyone, that's all! We decorate with a homemade card with a touching word and voila! That's it! It is sure that at that time, we were only adults in my familyimmediate.
Now things have changed. But my desire for Christmas to be pleasant, restful and a source of happiness? Nay.
Here, Chicken is getting some presents from his father and me – I mean, from Santa, uh…um! A gift he wishes to receive (a Lego in particular, for example), a book (author mother-in-law is very happy about that!), a useful thing and a piece of clothing.
Is that all?
Yes! Last I heard, Poulet was still very much alive, very happy and more grateful for what he is receiving.
Memories and Time
For example, last year, for his birthday, we offered him a book and a night in a great ecolodge reminiscent of The Lord of the Rings. Oh! That he looked disappointed as he unwrapped his gift. But since we were going to spend the next night in this dwelling, he didn't have to wait too long for a piece of paper – a certificate – to become more concrete.
And you know what he threw at us before he fell asleep after a game of cards by candlelight? “This is the best day of my life!!! »
Children are satisfied with what they receive. They learn to be more grateful when they don't get EVERYTHING they want when they want it. They learn to be patient, to recognize the value of money, to enjoy precious family moments and on the parents' side, we experience less frustration by telling ourselves that our children are therefore very littlegrateful after all the trouble we've gone through and above all, all the money we've spent to decorate the bottom of the Christmas tree.
After all, time is the best gift you can give your children. Take the time to do the Christmas decorations together, even if it's less harmonious than when you do it alone. Take the time to enjoy the gifts offered, the memories it will create in them and in you (because said gift allows you to spend some time together).
You'll feel a lot less tight on your budget and enjoy the holidays even more!
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