Christmas Giving

If you watch the news, the buzz word for the week was BLACK FRIDAY. I don't like that term in the first place, but whatever. More importantly, all of us are trying to figure out how much we are going to spend on Christmas. This is not rocket science. How much did you save? How much do you have?

The average family spent just under $1800 last year. I guess we're average. However, it's NEVER wise to use debt as a way to finance gift-giving. I would feel just terrible if I knew you had gone into debt to buy me something I probably don't need in the first place.

You don't have to (and shouldn't) spend alot on gifts. The important thing is the thought in the giving, not giving just to give. Remember the reason for giving. We give as a symbolic gesture because HE gave.

Ideas for Mom and Dad under $20:
Wonderful scented candle (with a lid)
Lotion (scented or unscented)
Ear rings (pierced ears)
itunes card (we might be old, but we're not dead)
a tie
a scarf
stamps
restaurant gift cards
a nice flashlight
umbrella
measuring spoons
DVD/CD
Wii points
a handbag (with a cell phone pocket)
a wallet
pens
assorted greeting cards
magazine subscription