Year Around Christmas Shopping

Because I like to keep my Christmas a peaceful time of reflection, I shop year around for Christmas presents. I look for sales and clearance items on things I know my family will enjoy. I tend to buy mainly practical items. I like shopping online because it lets me research products and compare prices, but sometimes you can beat those deals in the store. 

As I talk with or visit people on my gift giving list, I send myself a note about things they need or would like. For example, I knew four people on my list need a way to keep documents safe, so safes are what I shopped for last summer. I make notes about what interests they have, like I have a family member who loves whales, so if I find something like a sturdy wall hook in that area on clearance, I will know it will be used and appreciated. 

This practice saves me quite a bit of money and time. The cost is spread out over the entire year which is easier to manage. It also keeps me out of the crowds and away from illnesses during peak cold and flu season. I also get to slow down and enjoy my Christmas and do the things that matter to me.

So, while the rest of the world is done with Christmas, mine is starting all over again!