Each year, I start my holiday shopping by making a list. I write down all of the people I have to purchase gifts for, as well as any gifts I need for parties or get-togethers we may be attending. I also figure it the cost of food or decorations that I will need for the holiday season. We have three family dinners to attend plus I like to make the house look festive for the season.
I then create a budget, allowing myself a certain amount of money to spend on each gift or other items. When I consider the gift section of my shopping list, I also think about what I’d like to get for each recipient. I strive to by gifts that are beneficial and what the person would actually like to receive.
Take kids for example. I’m sure most would prefer toys, but as a mom myself, I know that most of those in my family have overflowing toy boxes, so I sometimes opt for clothing or other items. If I do choose something fun, I’d opt for something like the educational toys at OO. I love when Sawyer plays with fun toys that he can also learn from, as I like to sneak education into his life as much as possible.
Once my gift list is taken care of, I think about the other things needed for the holidays. I tend to take something to each family dinner, whether it be a dessert or something more simple like plates, napkins, etc. There are so many other cooks in the family that I just take things that complement the meal. Still, I must list and budget for it or else these things won’t get purchased.
I also like to find some new decor each year – even if it’s just one or two pieces to add to our current collection. This year, I think I am going to browse for Christmas decorations online to see if I can spot some good deals. I have already found some pretty things on the internet that I wouldn’t mind sitting up in my home.
The only problem I have this year with decorations: Keeping my VERY mobile 2 year old away from all of them, especially the tree! 
Do you prepare a shopping list for the holiday season? What things do you include?
This post was brought to you by oo.com.au.
Photo credits: freedigitalphotos.net
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