We have a BIG Christmas at our house. There have been times people have tried to make me feel guilty for doing Christmas big for my kids, but I won't apologize for doing Christmas BIG for my kids anymore and here is why!
Why I Won't Apologize for Doing Christmas Big for My Kids
It is Part of My Childhood
My parents made Christmas magical for my brother and I every year. Every single memory I have of Christmas morning is just plain magic. I treasure those memories now…and am very, very thankful for all the hard work my parents put it to make it happen.
From the first thoughts I had about parenting…long before I had children…I knew that I wanted to do the same thing for my kids.
We Work Hard to Do Christmas Big for Our Kids
We work really hard to have the money set aside to do Christmas big for our kids. It isn't easy and there have been years it was tight. My husband and I have done without so we could make Christmas magical for our kids. We are okay with that and welcome the sacrifice as parents.
We diligently put money aside all year so that it isn't a strain on our budget. We plan ahead. I watch sales very closely and typically do Christmas shopping year round so save extra money.
We Don't Buy a Lot for Our Kids During the Year
When I was growing up we didn't get new toys during the year. We didn't just go shopping every weekend. We had nice birthdays and amazing Christmas's. We didn't get spoiled year round.
That is how I have tried to maintain my parenting as well. My kids know that I am not going to be out buying them toys for no reason. We buy clothes when things are outgrown or there is a specific need. We teach our kids to save their money and if they want a special treat they can buy it! We aren't spoiling our kids throughout the year….Christmas is special.
It Isn't Only About the Gifts
Our kids do get a lot of gifts for Christmas, but doing Christmas BIG for our kids isn't only about gifts. I love the traditions that we have established. From special Christmas pajamas, going out to look at Christmas lights, a visit from Santa on Christmas Eve….we have lots of Christmas traditions that involve being together as a family.
I know that my kids will look back and KNOW how much thought and love went into the gifts they receive and the family traditions we established. Yes…sometimes they get their hearts desire. They also get very thoughtful and personal gifts that I know they cherish for years to come.
It is My Family and My Prerogative
There seems to be controversy about every single topic anymore. Last year I read an article about how parents shouldn't buy their children expensive gifts for Christmas because it makes kids who don't get many gifts feel bad. I started to feel really guilty because I would never want other kids to feel sad. Later I was talking it over with my husband and he put it to me bluntly! It is OUR life and we can give our kids a big Christmas if we want.
Basically….each family has to decide what works for them. No judgement here if you do small or HUGE! BUT…I would love to hear what your traditions are..I may get some new ideas to use, LOL! So leave me a line and let me know how you handle Christmas at your place.
Be sure to read about My Best Day Ever…I think you will love this story from my childhood!!
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