I got this in an e-mail today and really derived some comfort and satisfaction from this message.
I've been doing very well with my budget until just the past payday. I am skimming by until Friday (payday) and still have to get the kids some presents. I know this is not a unique problem as I've seen from reading other journals. I'm refusing to add any more than I have to on my credit cards.
I spent today wracking my brain trying to think of things to get my three that won't push me into debt. Of course, putting $500 into my car has not helped. Then I opened my e-mail and read this.
My children are basically grown and understand the financial situation in our household. They definitely got far too much when there dad and I were together. I went into serious credit card debt to try and keep their lives the same after the separation. I then cut up the credit cards, and we began to live a frugal but comfortable lifestyle.
They get plenty for Christmas. My mother, in-laws and even their dad (surprise, surprise) come through at Christmas which has always taken the pressure off of me. I felt bad at first but kids adapt and can understand. Of course, they weren't babies when we separated.
All in all, I think my three have actually benefitted from not having everything handed to them. They have all had to work for the extras that they want and have learned to save and budget and wait...no instant gratification.
I remember many Easters where I would have to wait until the day after when things were half off to get them their baskets. It actually became quite an exciting thing for them. I would come home from work with a huge shopping bag with plush animals and Easter goodies. They would be waiting anxiously at the door for me. We still joke about that.
So, I am shooting prayers to God right now to lead me to the perfect things for each one.....He will.....and am enjoying the warm glow of mytree.....and thinking of some time and talent that I can donate generously to spread the reason for the season.............chris
11 comments:
Thank you Chris for posting this. I was beginning to feel the stress of the season even though I was trying to keep it simple; with trying to find the time to go out and buy the right gifts. But you hit the nail with the hammer so good with this entry. I'm going to just turn it over to the Lord and know He will open the doors for time I need to finish my shopping and to keep it simple for Him to glorify Him.
thank you!
betty
This is beautiful and so true thank you for sharing
Deb
I love that graphic. So true, so warm, so the spirit of Christmas. I hear ya about skimming by, I am doing that too! ~Brandie
That's beautiful! I love it. GBU, Shelly
Chris, that was just beautiful. My daughter has also learned to save and wait for things. It`s a hard lesson sometimes...one they don`t like learning! But... they will be better adults because of it.
And don`t think I didn`t notice the color of your font matching the tag. :)
Love you!
~Penny
That is so true.. the budget is just to tight this year... As I was hearing in the news that the stores are not making as much money as they did last Year. who would kif the Gas Prices keep on up and down... I hope you find something good for your people.. enjoy the warm glow and continue to stay sweet.. God is w/Us..
Take care Mari
I think alot more people are in this position than some realise. We try to give April what we can but also make her realise nothing in life is free.
Jeff
You are right. I try not to use our cards either. We have one that has nothing on it in case of emergency but try not to use the other one. We both get a Christmas bonus so that really helps a lot but we have stopped buying for all our extended family except the kids.
Chris that graphic was beautiful! It is such a boost to your spirit when you can let go and be OK with not having "things". it is hard because you want to give and share with others, but you are right on when you say you can give of your time, your tallents, and your heart!
Kara :)
Love the graphic....really makes ya think...
We didn't spend as much this year as we usually do...
I have yet to use my credit card on gifts, i am trying to pay with
cash this year...it's hard to stretch those dollars...but it can be done..
and as you said your kids are older now and they understand....in my
eyes family being together to enjoy one anothers company during the
holiday season is far more important than anything money can buy...
Happy Holidays.... Hugss ~Terri~
I haven't even started shopping yet.....I always enjoy your entries and your little pictures. It is amazing that the average american house hold needs 5mts to recover thier finances from the Holidays season...~j~
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