Am I the only one that does this?
by adustyframe ~ December 15th, 2007
Throughout the year, I find items on sale to give as gifts. I usually buy with someone in mind.
Around September or October, I sit down to decide what I’m giving to whom. I decide what I’m making, or buying and rationally plan what I’m going to give.
But when it gets to the few days before Christmas, I feel that it’s not enough.
I was wrapping up some items to mail to my far away family and thinking what I need to send to the other far away family.
I can’t spend much at all this year, and so I really feel like “it’s not enough”.
I know that my family knows our situation and doesn’t expect us to send more than we can afford. I know that no one will say, “That’s ALL she sent us?!” But, it’s hard for me to want to give more and be unable to.
I prayed tonight, that God would help me to be thankful for what I can give. I also asked him to help me remember once again that Christmas is not about the gifts.
We can have a blessed joyous delightful Christmas without breaking the budget to do so.
Sometimes in December, I just have to take a deep breath and let it go.
Does anyone else struggle with the “it’s not enough” syndrome? Why is it “enough” when I rationally plan in the Autumn but it’s not “enough” now?
December 16th, 2007 at 6:01 am
My family has made an agreement, no Christmas presents. While it is very much against the norm, we feel that it overshadows the truth of Christmas. It was hard at first, but now I’m actually kinda thankful I don’t need to spend that much money.
We are thankful for the Christmas decisions we’ve made too. They just seem to come back to haunt me and I have to re-commit to them each year!
December 16th, 2007 at 7:46 am
Yes, I do the same thing … every year. But when we exchange gifts with my husband’s family, I realize that what I had planned for really was enough. Also, we don’t do gifts with my side of the family (we never did growing up either), so sometimes I’m tempted to overload on the other side of the family.
OK! Once again I’m glad I’m not the only one:)
December 16th, 2007 at 12:56 pm
I struggle. I love to be able to give nice things- and don’t like it when I can’t. Maybe though, I am dsisplaying too much about my own personality- do I think it isn’t enough because that is how I would feel if someone gave the same thing to me? A challenging thought.
December 16th, 2007 at 4:59 pm
It’s an odd “sensation” to be in the middle of holiday frenzy without reason to be “frenzy.” Christmas is always more simple here. That works for us.
Excellent description. We’re just not “frenzying”!
December 16th, 2007 at 8:05 pm
There have been times when I have felt that way. Truly didn’t feel that way this year. We talked with our kids this year and have decided to not exchange gifts. We wanted to be able to give to the two grandkids. Both our daughter and son were very happy as they both along with us are totally strapped for money this year. The cost of mailing also has gone up. The long ago gift from God of His son. That wonderful baby who grew to die to be each of our saviours. An eternal gift we all share and hope someday the newest little grand baby will also accept. Love you Lizzie, Lee, & James
Thank you, Beth. The cost of mailing is getting crazy! We will pray for your new grand baby to come to know Jesus too!
December 17th, 2007 at 6:40 am
Yes, I do the same thing. sigh…
Glad it’s not just me! Must be the marketing!
December 17th, 2007 at 7:15 am
Isn’t it an annual tradition? LOL….Every year I call my brother and say “It’s not enough–what else can I buy.” Generosity is good. Sometimes I find in January or February I don’t really mind the “crunch” from Christmas spending. I [nicely] remind my kids that a few more beans/cornbread dinners mean we got to make more people happy at Christmas. We got to put more of the change and small bills in the red kettle and in the collection plate. It’s nice to see people enjoying the holidays. I can enjoy this I guess, because there are no more credit cards in my house! So after about February we’re back on track.
I love being able to give things too. I just know that at this point in my life God has put me in a place where I can’t give what I wish I could. I have had to learn to be content with even that.
December 17th, 2007 at 8:15 am
I often fall into the trap of measuring Christmas by the number of presents I’m able to put under the tree. But you’re right…that is NOT what Christmas is about. Very wise words!
Thanks so much for commenting on my blog! I’m happy to have you as a reader.
No problem, Cindy! Thanks for stopping by.
December 17th, 2007 at 8:55 am
I have felt that way in the past. This year I feel differently about that. We have 6 children (5 with spouses) and 18 grandchildren. I set a limit on the amount I am able to spend on each. This year I feel really good about that as I tried to pick gifts for them that only they would appreciate…..you know, something special just for them. And I found that shopping was actually fun and everything just feel into place. I wish all Christmases were like this. I know Christmas isn’t about the gifts but I do like to give something to each of them. When the time comes that I can no longer afford to do give gifts I’m hoping I will still feel that the best part of Christmas is knowing that each of them is saved and knows the Lord! Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Thank you, Martie. You’re right about the best part!
December 20th, 2007 at 12:44 pm
Hi. I found your blog from Jamin’s link today. I can totally relate to these feelings. This is a lean year for us as well and we are only buying what I call “tokens of our love” for extended family. It is hard when I want to give so much more. Have a blessed Christmas. It sounds like your prayers will be answered.
Jenn
Thank you, Jenn for stopping by! It is hard but then I reminded myself to be content with what I have and that includes what I’m able to give.