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15+ Things You Should Not Buy On Christmas

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Christmas is a time of joy, giving, and sharing. It's a season where we show our love and appreciation to our family and friends by exchanging gifts. However, amidst the excitement, it's important to be mindful of the gifts we give.

Not all presents are created equal, and there are certain things that you should avoid buying during Christmas. In this article, we will explore why it's important to be mindful of the gifts we give during Christmas and provide some tips on what to avoid.

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Why it's important to be mindful of the gifts we give during Christmas

The gifts we give during Christmas are a reflection of our care and thoughtfulness. Choosing presents that will bring joy and happiness without causing harm is important. Here are some reasons why it's important to be mindful of the gifts we give during Christmas:

  1. Sustainability: Christmas is a season of excess, with excessive consumption and waste. By choosing sustainable gifts, such as reusable and eco-friendly products, you can contribute to a greener Christmas and help protect the environment.
  2. Quality over Quantity: Instead of purchasing cheap and disposable items, focus on gifts of higher quality. These gifts are more likely to be cherished and used for a longer time. Choosing quality over quantity shows that you value the recipient and have taken the time to select a meaningful gift.
  3. Avoiding Unwanted Gifts: Being mindful of the gifts we give can help us avoid giving presents that the receiver might not appreciate or need. It's important to consider the recipient's tastes, preferences and needs when selecting a gift. This way, we can ensure that the gift will be well-received and enjoyed.
  4. Avoiding Offensive Gifts: Some gifts may be culturally or personally insensitive, and it's essential to avoid giving anything that could be offensive. Take the time to research and understand the customs and traditions of the recipient's culture to ensure that your gift is appropriate and respectful.
  5. Budget Considerations: Being mindful of the gifts we give also means considering our budget. Overspending during the holiday season can lead to financial stress and debt. Set a budget and choose gifts that fit within your means. Remember, the thought and effort counts, not the price tag.

By being mindful of the gifts we give during Christmas, we can ensure that our presents bring joy and happiness without causing harm or discomfort. Remember, the gesture and sentiment behind the gift truly matter.

So, take the time to select gifts that the receiver will cherish and appreciate. 

Gifts to Avoid

Regarding gift-giving during Christmas, it's important to be mindful of the presents we choose. Not all gifts are created equal, and there are certain things that you should avoid buying. Here are some gifts to steer clear of to ensure a truly joyful and memorable holiday season.

1. DVDs, CDs, and other obsolete formats

In this digital age, physical media formats such as DVDs and CDs are becoming increasingly obsolete. With the rise of online streaming services and digital downloads, people are shifting towards more convenient and accessible ways of enjoying movies, music, and other forms of entertainment.

Giving someone a DVD or CD may come across as outdated and unnecessary. Instead, consider giving subscriptions to streaming platforms or online music services that can provide a wide range of content at their fingertips.

2. Workout equipment

While the intention behind giving workout equipment may be good – to promote a healthier lifestyle – it's important to consider the recipient's personal preferences and fitness goals. Not everyone may be interested in or have the space for bulky exercise machines or weights.

Furthermore, giving such a gift without the recipient expressing a specific desire for it may send the message that you think they need to improve their fitness. Instead, consider alternatives like fitness class gift cards or fitness-themed experiences that allow them to choose the activity that suits them best.

3. Size-specific clothing

Buying clothing for someone can be a tricky task, especially when it comes to sizing. Giving size-specific clothing runs the risk of either being too big or too small, resulting in potential discomfort or disappointment.

Unless you are absolutely certain of their size and preferred style, it's best to avoid giving clothing as a gift. Instead, opt for more versatile options like accessories or gift cards to their favorite clothing stores.

4. Generic gift sets

Generic gift sets, such as bath products or grooming kits, may seem safe and easy. However, they often lack personalization and can come across as impersonal or generic. Instead, consider customized gift sets that reflect the individual's preferences or interests. This could include items related to their hobbies, favorite brands, or unique experiences they would appreciate.

5. Offensive or insensitive gifts

It's crucial to be aware of cultural sensitivities and avoid giving anything that could be offensive or inappropriate. Take the time to research and understand the customs and traditions of the recipient's culture to ensure that your gift is respectful. Avoid items that may perpetuate stereotypes or misunderstandings. Instead, choose gifts that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity.

In summary, when choosing gifts for Christmas, it's important to consider the recipient's preferences, avoid generic options, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities. By selecting thoughtful and personalized gifts, you can create a memorable and joyous holiday season for everyone involved.

Woman holding a wrapped Christmas gift

Presents That Fall Short

When it comes to gift-giving during the Christmas season, it's important to choose presents that will truly bring joy and delight to the recipients. However, there are certain gifts that you should steer clear of to avoid disappointment. Here are a few things you should not buy on Christmas.

1. Anti-aging cream

While the intention behind giving anti-aging cream may be well-meaning, it can send the wrong message to the recipient. It might imply that you think they need to improve their appearance, which can be hurtful and offensive.

Plus, skincare products are personal and depend on individual preferences and skin types. Instead, consider treating them to a spa day or a luxurious skincare package where they can choose the products and treatments that suit them best.

2. Cleaning supplies

While cleaning supplies may be practical and useful, they may not be Christmas's most exciting or thoughtful gifts. Giving someone cleaning supplies can imply that you think their house is not clean enough, which can be offensive.

Instead, think of gifts that promote relaxation, such as scented candles or bath products, which can provide a well-deserved break from cleaning responsibilities.

3. Cheap and generic items

Gifts that appear cheap or generic can come across as thoughtless and impersonal. It's important to show that you put effort into selecting a meaningful gift tailored to the recipient. Instead of generic items, consider personalized gifts that reflect their interests, hobbies, or favorite things. This can create a more memorable and enjoyable experience for them.

4. Re-gifted items

Re-gifting, or giving someone a gift that you received and didn't like, is generally frowned upon. It can give the impression that you didn't put much thought into the gift or didn't value it enough to keep it for yourself. It's always better to choose a new gift specifically suited to the recipient's tastes and preferences.

5. Food or drinks they don't like

While food and drinks can be popular gifts during the holiday season, it's important to consider the recipient's individual preferences and dietary restrictions. Giving someone food or drinks they don't enjoy or cannot consume can be wasteful and disappointing.

Instead, opt for treats or beverages you know they love, or consider giving them a gift card to their favorite restaurant or food delivery service.

In summary, when selecting gifts for Christmas, it's important to consider the feelings and preferences of the recipients. Avoid gifts that may be offensive, generic, or thoughtless. Instead, choose personal, thoughtful presents and tailored to their tastes and interests. Doing so can ensure that your gifts will be cherished and bring joy during the holiday season. 

People wearing ugly swearter in a Christmas party.

Questionable Choices

During the Christmas season, choosing gifts that will bring joy and delight to the recipients is important. However, there are certain gifts that you should avoid to prevent disappointment. Here are a few things you should not buy on Christmas.

1. Ugly Christmas sweaters

While these sweaters have become popular as a humorous holiday tradition, it's best to avoid them as gifts. Not everyone finds them amusing, and they may end up being stuffed in the back of a closet or donated to a thrift store. Instead, opt for stylish and comfortable clothing options that the recipient will actually enjoy wearing.

2. Pets

While surprising someone with a cute puppy or kitten may seem heartwarming, it's crucial to consider the responsibility and commitment of owning a pet. Buying a pet as a gift can put undue pressure on the recipient and may lead to unforeseen challenges if they are not prepared for the responsibility.

Instead, consider giving a pet-related gift, such as a toy or accessory, and discuss getting a pet together.

3. Re-gifted items

Giving someone a gift that you received and didn't like is generally considered poor etiquette. As mentioned above,  It may convey that you didn't put much thought or effort into selecting a gift specifically for them. It's always better to choose a new gift that is tailored to the recipient's tastes and preferences.

4. Taste-specific items

When giving food or drinks as gifts, it's important to consider the recipient's preferences and dietary restrictions. Opting for items that fit their tastes and align with their dietary needs can ensure the gift is well-appreciated. For example, if someone is allergic to nuts, it would be best to avoid gifting them a box of mixed nuts.

5. Overly practical items

While useful gifts can be appreciated, it's important to strike the right balance between practicality and thoughtfulness. Unless specifically requested, avoid gifting overly practical items such as cleaning supplies or household appliances. Instead, consider gifts that bring joy and relaxation, such as a spa voucher or a book by their favorite author.

In summary, when selecting gifts for Christmas, it's essential to consider the feelings and preferences of the recipients. Avoid gifts that may be offensive, impractical, or thoughtless, and instead choose presents that are personal, thoughtful, and tailored to their tastes and interests. Doing so can ensure that your gifts will be cherished and bring joy during the holiday season.

packaging gift box with handmade natural bar soaps.

Ethical Considerations

As the holiday season approaches, it's important to consider ethical considerations when selecting gifts for your loved ones. Here are a few things you should avoid buying on Christmas to ensure you make thoughtful and conscientious choices.

1. Cosmetics tested on animals

One of the most important ethical considerations when purchasing gifts is to avoid products that have been tested on animals. Animal testing is widely regarded as cruel and unnecessary, and many consumers are actively seeking out cruelty-free alternatives.

By avoiding cosmetics that have been tested on animals, you can align your gift choices with your values and support companies that prioritize ethical practices.

2. Cash

While giving cash might seem like a convenient gift, it may not always be the most thoughtful choice. Cash gifts can come across as impersonal and lacking in effort or consideration. Instead, consider giving a gift card to a store or restaurant that the recipient enjoys.

This way, you can still provide them with the freedom to choose something they like while adding a personal touch by selecting a specific location or experience.

3. Generic or thoughtless gifts

Avoid the temptation of buying generic or thoughtless gifts. These types of presents lack personalization and often end up in the back of a closet or left unused. Take the time to consider the recipient's interests, hobbies, and preferences.

Please choose a gift that reflects their unique personality and shows that you have put thought and effort into selecting something special for them.

4. Harmful or offensive products

When choosing gifts, it's important to consider their potential impact on the recipient. Avoid products that could be harmful or offensive, such as items promoting violence, discriminatory messages, or unhealthy habits.

Instead, opt for gifts that promote positivity, inclusivity, and well-being. Consider eco-friendly products, fair-trade items, or handmade goods that support small businesses and sustainable practices.

5. Excessive packaging or single-use items

Another ethical consideration when selecting gifts is to avoid excessive packaging or single-use items. The holiday season often generates a significant amount of waste, and opting for gifts packaged in eco-friendly materials or choosing items with minimal packaging can help reduce our environmental impact.

Additionally, selecting gifts that can be reused or have a longer lifespan, such as quality, durable products or experiences, can contribute to a more sustainable holiday season.

We must consider the ethical implications of our choices regarding gift-giving during the Christmas season. By avoiding cosmetics tested on animals, being mindful of cash gifts, selecting thoughtful and personalized presents, avoiding harmful or offensive products, and considering the environmental impact of our gifts, we can make conscious decisions that align with our values and positively impact the world.

Remember, the joy of giving lies not only in the act itself but also in knowing that our choices reflect our values and contribute to a more ethical and sustainable future. 

Woman holding Christmas pressent infront of a whilte door. text 15+ Things You Should Not Buy On Christmas

During the holiday season, it is important to make thoughtful and conscientious choices when selecting gifts for your loved ones. By considering ethical considerations, you can ensure that your gift choices align with your values and contribute to a more ethical and sustainable world.

The art of giving: choosing thoughtful and appropriate gifts during the holiday season.

  1. Cosmetics tested on animals: One of the most important ethical considerations is to avoid purchasing products that have been tested on animals. Animal testing is widely regarded as cruel and unnecessary, and by choosing cruelty-free alternatives, you can support companies that prioritize ethical practices.
  2. Cash: While giving cash may seem convenient, it may not always be the most thoughtful choice. Cash gifts can come across as impersonal and lacking in effort or consideration. Instead, consider giving a gift card to a store or restaurant that the recipient enjoys. This allows them to choose something they like while adding a personal touch.
  3. Generic or thoughtless gifts: Avoid the temptation of buying generic or thoughtless gifts. These types of presents lack personalization and often end up unused. Take the time to consider the recipient's interests, hobbies, and preferences. Choose a gift that reflects their unique personality and shows that you have put thought and effort into selecting something special for them.
  4. Harmful or offensive products: It is important to consider the potential impact of your chosen gifts. Avoid products that could be harmful or offensive, such as items promoting violence, discriminatory messages, or unhealthy habits. Instead, opt for gifts that promote positivity, inclusivity, and well-being.
  5. Excessive packaging or single-use items: Another ethical consideration is to avoid excessive packaging or single-use items. The holiday season generates a significant amount of waste, so opting for gifts that are packaged in eco-friendly materials or choosing items with minimal packaging can help reduce our environmental impact. Selecting gifts that can be reused or have a longer lifespan also contributes to a more sustainable holiday season.

By considering these ethical considerations, you can choose gifts that align with your values and positively impact the world. The joy of giving lies not only in the act itself but also in knowing that your choices reflect your values and contribute to a more ethical and sustainable future. 

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38 Comments

  1. Great list!

    We stick by a very tight Christmas budget. I most of our Christmas decorations/wrapping paper are purchased after Christmas when it is 70% off. I don’t crazy either. Each person gets a “theme.” For example, my daughter has the pink wrapping paper with snowmen. My son has the green paper with large candy canes on it. That way I don’t have a bazallion rolls of wrapping paper. I also Christmas shop EARLY. For 2015 all of my gifts have been purchased and wrapped and stocking stuffers bought. I try to purchase things that I know we will use rather than those itty bitty throw aways. For example, I found Frozen UNO cards on clearance for a buck or a 100 pc dinosaur puzzle pack for a dollar. I also started shopping back in March and track every last penny to make sure we don’t go over budget.

    1. These are great tips Sarah! I love shopping the day after Christmas and I haven’t bought Christmas wrapping paper in years because one year I got lucky and found a few rolls left! Thank you for Sarah for sharing your tips.

    2. I do the same thing! I’ve been Christmas shopping all year since I was in high school. Clearance is the best!

  2. I completely agree with your thoughts on Christmas cards. I actually get annoyed when I get a card from cousins with just their signature. You don’t talk to me all year and you send a card with just your name and that’s it? It just doesn’t make sense. I stopped sending the cards the year we had to put our dog down. It just wasn’t the same getting a picture without him, and it was the perfect time to stop an expensive holiday tradition.

    1. I sent Christmas cards with hand written notes and a photo of my kids. I think one person sent me a text thanking us and appreciating the gesture and the photo. Lesson learned.

  3. What about making Christmas Decorations? And I don’t mean spending a bunch on craft materials. Use what you have. Make snowflakes from coffee filters or white paper. Make a chain from construction paper, or a garland from popcorn, peanuts or cranberries. Get creative and get the kids involved. Check out pinterest (but don’t get sucked into the crafts that are going to cost money) As for Christmas outfits, if you were in the habit of buying on a size up on clearance after Christmas every year, then the following year you have a nice outfit waiting to be worn for a fraction of the cost of buying a new one. Obviously this wouldn’t be a good tradition to start the year you are struggling, but start it when times are good.

    1. Thank you Beth! Thank you sharing your tips! I love your tips to be honest and I think simple crafts to do with the kids to create memories is so wonderful.

    2. Beth, I couldn’t agree more 🙂 This is such an opportunity to make lemons into lemonade! I mean, hey, where did decorations come form in the first place? They were home made. I have been incorporating this into our holiday traditions (not just Christmas) and also, it’s nice to toss them when taking them down and festivities are over and make new ones the next year and not have boxes full of fake floral and made in China this and that to store away and take up space. I will do more each year until I am out of kids to do activities with..maybe by then I will have money for a few keepsake Christmas decorations. Also though for now, I do buy lights after season (when needed) very affordable 🙂 That’s how I got my tree and I won’t need another for many years, plus no pine pollen to breathe 😛

  4. LOVE this, and BECAUSE of this blog post Ive rethought a lot. I ALWAYS buy new wrapping paper (when i have 8 rolls in the garage) and I always get Christmas party dresses, a new ugly sweater, and new Christmas Eve PJS. The PJS are a tradition, so we may hang on to that one, but the rest? Not neccessary.

    1. We do the Christmas Eve PJS!!! We started it when our first son was born. The ugly sweater I have started since I worked retailed and it was either donated to me from friends and family ( I won’t say names haha). Last year I bought a kit and I’m planning on using and redesigning my ugly sweater for this year. The point is that the PJs brings is a tradition for us and your family and my family always enjoy it. For our PJ tradition I just budget the pjs into our Christmas account. Thank you for taking the time to commenting, Mandi!

  5. I feel like there could be better alternatives to this blog. There are some traditions that keep the holidays what they are. And those traditions should not be forgotten because of lack of funds.
    We send out mass family Christmas cards. We use plain white computer paper, type up a letter filling everyone in on the happenings of the year, add some clip art to make it festive and print at office depot. It is really cheap and easy.
    Wrapping paper makes sense. If you have old paper from birthdays or something use that and put the white side out. And paint, color, or write a message to make it festive. We used to make paper snowflakes from scrap paper at the library. Paint them and put them over white paper and it is really cute. Same with decorations. Also goodwill has a ton of Christmas decor. Doesn’t cost much at all, and you can still get excited and festive.
    Please don’t make your kids miss out on Santa. These are magical years. Find a church or a daycare that has a Santa come in. Use your phone to get the picture if you need one. But let your kid have the magic of Santa for a few more years even if you have a more traditional approach.

    When my parents were struggling for money they came up with some traditions that my sister and I still want to follow now. Making cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning. We started with the bread dough and rolled it out, brushing the butter, and sprinkling the sugar and cinnamon. It was more about making it as a family then just cracking the tube and eating breakfast. Even if you aren’t religious this season not about what you get to open, it’s about spending time as a family and loved ones. Your kids will remember these years and want to pass the tradition to their kids.

    1. Hi Katie! I will assure you that my kids are fine and thriving and I can assure you that if you read my blog you will know that we are blessed and content. I also write tips to help others with ideas on how to save money. I also mention that the road to financial freedom is different from person to person and no one is alike!
      I mentioned about organizations and retail stores that have Santa for free! (I’m a former retail manager.) Money doesn’t make memories and it seems like you are assuming that my children are lacking happiness because they don’t take photos with Santa, which they do. Sadly they are scare of him. 🙂
      A little bit of my background – I grew up with Christmas being about Jesus, not Santa. We celebrated with gifts in January 6th. We came to know about Santa as the year passed just like the Easter Bunny. It’s all commercialize and not what it is about to me and my family.

      I think you misunderstood or read too much into this post to pass judgement and think my kids are deprived because we don’t spent money on certain things. We have traditions, we are a bi-racial family and we get to celebrate all!

      Christmas is not about money but about family. When I lost my home to a house fire the best Christmas ever was that year when we had barely nothing but we had it all! If you read my responds in the comment section I give more personal information about traditions we have in our home such Christmas PJs, we also have cookie exchanges and we go all out to make sure Santa has cookies and milk. Our home will be full with extended family that sleep over to celebrate Christmas eve and Christmas day with us. The adults have a wonderful time trying to hide gifts from one another. We are also blessed to give more every year thanks to our financial planning. I appreciate your concern and your ideas but please know that Christmas is a happy time for all of in our family. Thank you.

  6. You’ve offered some great tips, Joyce. I’m not sure why some people feel like kids need to be lavished with gifts or need to have Santa to have a magical, meaningful Christmas. When I was a kid, my family was very poor. We went into the woods behind our house to get our Christmas tree each year. We received ONE gift from Santa/our parents, and our stockings were filled with fruits, nuts and inexpensive candy. It was such a special holiday even though my parents had to be very frugal. We never, ever took pictures with Santa, though.

    Tip on the wrapping paper: Buy only solid colors that you can use all year long. Red, silver, gold, white… They work for just about anything. 🙂

    Also, I create our Christmas cards using Picmonkey’s collage tool. That way, I only have to pay to print a picture rather than printing a “card” at the photo kiosk, and they still give me free envelopes to use for them. I’ve gotten them for around 10-20 cents each most years, so it saves quite a bit of money. We only spend money on postage for those who live far away, though. For everyone we’ll see during the holiday season, we just hand deliver.

    1. Thank you Donella for your very helpful tips. When we were growing up it was only 1 gifts for each one of us and we never thought anything of it.I think the best memories we had do not involves toys nor Santa, it involves having such a good time with the family.

    2. That’s a really good idea! I wanted to do a “Christmas Card” of sorts since we just had a baby but I really cannot afford fancy professional photos or nice Christmas cards. I think I’m going to hop over to pic monkey and do this now actually.

  7. I agree, I am definitely cutting back this year. I have been putting something aside for Christmas, but only have $100.00 saved. The more I think of it the more I think that should be enough.

  8. Not sure if anyone has suggested this yet but if there’s anything on this list you feel you need then check with your local thrift store first. You can get some really wonderful things there for super cheap. And spray paint is my best friend! Get a few cheap decorations from the thrift store and spray paint them all a solid color(for example this year I’m using gold). Makes them look very modern and pricey when in reality I usually spend less then $1 per piece 🙂

    1. Toxic this is a great idea and a great way to turn something old into something new. Thank you for sharing this tip.

    2. Yes! Also, I live near family, so I like to swipe decorations before they end up at the thrift store. My mom loves it when I offer to take an old set of lights when she buys new ones…she doesn’t even want to bother to untangle them. My grandmother gave me a plastic tree a few years ago because she wanted to get something smaller. Now I guess all I need are some mismatched ornaments from my mom’s basement and some metallic spray paint 🙂

      1. I love this! Our decorations, um, majority of them don’t match. 🙂 If a decoration has a meaning, for example a dear friend gave it to us am ornament and frame personalized with a special message years ago. That goes up! I never thought about metallic spray paint… hhmmm Thanks!

  9. These are super great ideas, all of them! I definitely have been much more frugal this year (we just had a baby 6 months ago and she’s EXPENSIVE) in general, though I never spend too much anyway! I never really thought about what an utter waste wrapping paper is…I started to use other things (tissue paper I had, brown paper bags, etc.) that I had around the house this year and that was better. While professional pictures are nice, I’ve never been a fan of spending my money on that…it’s just WAY out of my budget now when I like the way candid / at home shots look anyway (more natural!). These are great ideas and awesome tips.

    1. My husband feels the same way about home shots. He feels that the natural the photo the better and I agree. What shocked me was the price the malls were charging for a photo with Santa. We went to see Santa this weekend at Home Depot and like I predicted, boys were scare and it was free .. LOL

  10. Hi Joyce, Thank you for this…these are all great ideas. As a military family, funds were tight a few years back. So I spoke with my brother and sister and we decide not to exchange gifts, but to spend time together and maybe exchange a personal ornament. In lieu of store bought gifts, my children and I make homemade goodies, like cookies, Chex mix and Chex mix with white chocolate. It’s very inexpensive and the kiddies look forward to helping in the kitchen. My niece has already called and asked if I was making “white trash” Chex mix with white chocolate. I also reuse my bags and boxes until they fall apart. They’re just going to get torn up anyway. They are stored in a tote with the decorations. I also have been using the same decorations since I started my own home 25 years ago. Our tree is decorated in only memory ornaments. One of our traditions that I have carried from my childhood is, we make an ornament every year. I have purchased some new lights here and there, but I love memories. Our tree has grown over the years and we delight in reminiscing when decorating. The angel on the top is 25 years old. She is from my dad who passed 13 yeas ago. The holidays are what you make of it with friends and family. My children still enjoy gifts, but this year, we bought tickets to a concert and game for our son and daughter. Not only is this a gift, but we are going together and making a memory at the same time. Another tradition is Christmas Eve, they receive Christmas pjs and a Christmas book. However, at 15 & 9yo, finding books for their ages is getting more difficult. So we’re changing it up…this year is pjs and a movie. Just as I did, my children will forget the gifts that were under the tree, but they won’t forget the time spent and memories made with family. May you and your have a blessed Christmas and New Year!

    1. I am so happy that you shared this with us. I love it! You nailed it when you said, “The holidays are what you make of it with friends and family.” We do the PJs the night before and just decorate cookies and enjoy anything Christmas. Let me share a fond memory I had when I was a little kid in Puerto Rico in the 80’s. We celebrated 3 Wise Men Day Jan 6th. The night before we will go with our shoe boxes and get the best tall grass for the camels so they will find our home and bring us 1 gift. The gifts weren’t all that but the idea of how happy and competitive we were to find the BEST grass with my parents and cousin was such a great fond memory I will always has.I don’t remember the gift I just remember that because it was so much fun. Merry Christmas to you and your family!!

      1. What a fun memory! That shows, that gifts aren’t what makes the event….it’s the memory! I have a specific memory also. It brings tears to my eyes though. I was older, 20 yo. I live on my own in NC going to nursing school. I was planning on going home for Christmas, but my mom said that she decided since us kids were older (I’m the oldest) that she wasn’t putting up a tree. She didn’t think we wanted the hassle. (We probably acted like we didn’t appreciate it) I was selfish and told her, “if there wasn’t a tree, then I was staying at my apartment in NC.” (I had put up my own tree already) Didn’t have much on it, but it was mine! Apparently she told my dad that I wasn’t coming home, so he called me. He said, “baby girl, come home, you and I will go get a tree.” And that’s what we did…we found the fattest Frazier fir I’d ever saw. LOL! On that same outing, he took me to get the cherished angel that is on my tree today. And guess what, the only gift I remember from that year, is the Angel.

        1. This is so beautiful and it I teared up reading it. I think we need this to remind us what this is all about. Thank you for sharing this. I really appreciate it. I think we need to hear more honest and beautiful things in the world right now.

    1. I love it!! I do!! Your family Christmas tree is full of memories. I love it! This is how I personally feel Christmas should be about it. Thank you for sharing this. I will post ours (we are still working on ornaments) Christmas tree too! Thank you.

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  19. I really love your comment about making memories not payments. It’s easy to get carried away in buying gifts/planning parties and charging it, only to spend the next 6 months paying it off.

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