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Memorable Moments, Not Prettier Presents

While the last year of my life has taught me to be a little more spontaneous than I used to be, I am a planner at heart. About 15 years ago I put my coordination skills to the test when I orchestrated a Christmas experience for my family instead of giving them traditional gifts. I planned and saved my pennies for a very long time, but that Christmas my family members unwrapped small, inexpensive clues that disclosed our plans to take a trip to the east coast the following summer.

The following July we visited with an aunt, uncle, cousins, grandparents, and other extended family. We got wet at Niagara Falls and ate lunch on Canadian soil. We visited historical sites and had the most awesome tour guide (my brother-in-law). We had a blast! And my children will never forget that experience–we created the BEST memories.

The key word in my story is not “planned”, “saved”, or even “pennies” (i.e. “money”). What you should come away with is this…EXPERIENCE. And if you picked out NEVER FORGET and/or MEMORIES, you get bonus points. Experiences DO NOT have to cost a lot; there are MANY things you can do that cost very little. Kids don’t need more STUFF, but they need experiences that will STAY.

For the next six weeks or so, I will be keeping with this theme of better Christmas presents, and I will be sharing some ideas of how to make this happen on a budget. While budgeting is important and must be considered, it’s important to remember that sometimes value isn’t just about the finances. 

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