Christmas hope.

 So this is my annual Christmas hope post for all those who feel like there's no hope for Christmas magic. For years I did not look forward to Christmas. It was just another expense that would pull me further into debt. It was a time of once again not knowing what to buy my wife and seeing the disappointment behind her smile. I remember very vividly having a conversation with my wife one morning before leaving to work. It was Christmas time and she let me know she had not had a good Christmas in a long time. That was heartbreaking to hear. I promised her that I would try harder and I did. Since then we've had a great Christmas every year regardless of our presents or our budget. It is my belief you can have a great Christmas in any financial situation. Sure it's great to receive and give presents but it's more than just that. It really is a sense of happiness and joy one can receive on the best holliday.

Here is what I have learned over the years that have put my mind at ease and made Christmas an easy more enjoyable holiday.

1st sit down and have a meeting with your spouse and or your family. Discuss what you expect and what your budget is for Christmas. If there is not a lot of money discuss creative ways to get gifts. I am serious when I say this, even if your entire budget can only be spent at a dollar store, it still will be a great Christmas because both or all of you know what your budget is and what you expectations are.

2 Start planning for Christmas EARLY. I would have a plan in place before Halloween. This makes it possible for inexpensive presents from China. China can take up to 3 months to get here! This is again another reason I like to start early.

3. Have a list of what your spouse wants. Ask for clothing sizes colors, pictures. Yes try to make it a surprise but this reduces the chance of a bad gift.

4. Try the 4 gift rule! We did this two years in a row and loved it. My kids even felt more in tune with the holiday spirit. Something you want, need, wear, read.

5. I was going to end of 5 but I realized one more. That is, if you feel like you need help with gifts food or something else, start asking EARLY. The sooner the better. Do not be prideful. There are SO many organization that want and are willing to help. Getting this done sooner than later can reduce a lot of heartache and stress. Every year, last minute, there's a mother out there heartbroken begging for help.

6 Give what you can. If you can financially do so Give. Even if you can't give monetary, give service.

7. Lastly remember to find Jo