How early is to early to start thinking about Christmas presents? Maybe it is never to early to start thinking about them. I am on a limited budget for presents but I definitely want to maximize my gift giving ability this year and the years to come. So, what can I do to help me along?
I remember being younger and on vacations with my family. During those summer vacations my mother would buy some Christmas presents. She would find things she thought others would like and buy those items. At the time, I did not understand fully why she did that. How odd to be buying Christmas presents in July!! Now, as I have grown older and am working, I completely understand why she has done this!! I try to do this myself when I can. I have started a snowman ornament collection for my sister and every year when they come out, I take my little happy self down to Hallmark and buy the current years ornament. I may do that in September or as soon as I have the money and know it is out. Too early? No way!! I know that is one present I will not have to buy and will be on my way to buying other presents for the family.
Back in 2009 I began to learn to knit. I had surgery and afterwards, would not be able to do a whole lot for several weeks after. What the heck am I going to do sitting at home? I was decades behind on soap operas and would not even recognize the people on them now so i decided to learn to knit. It has worked out great as I have given some knitted items for Christmas - dishclothes, knitted bags, scarves. I am working to complete to larger blankets for at least two family members for next year. Yes, you read that right, I did say next year. I hope that the family members that receive these gifts will keep them, and then use them for many years to come. I can remember receiving some blankets that my grandmother crocheted and have fond memories of her every time I see those blankets. That is what I want with my knitted gifts to do for the family members. Plus, knitting a gift adds a personal touch to things. I hope those who receive these gifts will proudly use them as well.
Buying early and making gifts on a budget allows me to give gifts I can be proud of giving. Not having to rush out and buy gift cards in the hopes that I do not look too thoughtless in giving them as gifts. Do not get me wrong, gift cards can be a nice way for someone to buy a little something for themself at a store they may normally not go to but I like to actually think of what someone might like, buy or make it for them and then give it to them at Christmas.
It is never too early to plan for gifts at Christmas. In fact, you may stress less. You will be in no hurry to get gifts and can take lesiurely strolls in the mall in December to enjoy the mall decorations and know that you have completed your Christmas shopping early and do not have to hurry, hurry, rush, rush to get gifts you hope someone likes.
Good luck!!
Jennifer
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